Granite Countertops in Downtown Charleston, SC

Traffic relief in sight for Highway 17 and Main Road, pedestrian bridge on hold (WCIV)

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CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCIV) — Limehouse Bridge on Johns Island will soon have bike and pedestrian access.

Charleston County Council approved a multi-million-dollar project Tuesday night to widen the existing bridge and build a nearly three-mile multi-use path.

A proposed standalone bike and pedestrian bridge was removed from the project last year because the county didn’t have the resources to maintain it long term, according to Herbert Nimz, engineering manager with Charleston County.

The nearly 10-foot-wide path for walkers and bikers won’t just get them from Johns Island to West Ashley. Officials said it will easily take people as far as downtown Charleston.

“It will also connect to the existing Glenn McConnell multi-use path, it'll connect to the West Ashley Greenway and ultimately take folks all the way to the planned connections to the Maryville Bikeway and then the Ashley River bicycle and pedestrian bridge,” said Katie Zimmerman, executive director of Charleston Moves.

READ MORE | "Chas. County to vote on alternative bike and pedestrian options for Main Road project."

After six months of brainstorming options, Charleston County engineers say they’re using Wonders Way on the Ravenel Bridge as inspiration.

The path will have eight-foot-tall barriers alongside traffic and the edge of the bridge, and officials say the number of travel lanes for cars will stay the same.

“It was never our intent to reduce vehicular traffic on the bridge. It was only to also accommodate cyclists and pedestrians,” Nimz said.

Funding for the widening of the bridge is coming from the county’s transportation sales tax.

READ MORE | "Traffic relief in sight for Highway 17 and Main Road, pedestrian bridge on hold."

Nimz said the project’s price tag is a fraction of the original cost.

“This option we're looking at is anywhere from $8 to $10 million,” he shared. “The standalone bridge itself was going to cost $40 million.”

Zimmerman said the county and South Carolina Department of Transportation’s move from a stand-alone bridge to the lane widening makes her hopeful about other stalled projects across the area.

“We've been having conversations for a long time around the North Bridge. We're still working with the county and the cities and the state a little bit on that,” she explained.

A construction timeline for Limehouse Bridge is still unknown, but Nimz said crews can likely be seen in the area as soon as this week.

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He said they hope to complete the project in four years.

Chicken wings — that messy appetizer that bar patrons are always after, often debating which destination has the best offering. The Lowcountry is, of course, filled with fried chicken, but it also has its fair share of establishments serving some quality chicken wings. Whether the occasion calls for smoked, fried, charred, dry-rubbed, or lathered in hot sauce, these destinations are the undisputed best stops in Charleston for that essential bar snack.

New to the map this update: Coast Brewing Co., the Tattooed Moose, and Heavy’s Barburger. Selections are listed geographically, from north to south.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Nigel’s Good Food is a North Charleston staple (with multiple locations). Folks travel far and wide for their very popular Geechie Wings. The chicken is battered, fried, and tossed in a homemade sweet-and-sour wing sauce.

The wings at the Tattooed Moose are large and saucy. Pick from Buffalo, Asian-style, Nashville hot, or habenero honey mustard.

Coast Brewing Co. is known for its stellar beers, but the kitchen menu is just as great. What sets the wings apart from all others? The kitchen marinates the bird in kölsch and fries them in beef tallow, lending even more umami flavor to the chicken. Choose from Buffalo, lemon pepper, or clarified butter.

North Charleston’s Holy City Brewery pairs its beers with an extensive bar food menu — including wings. The chicken is smoked and then fried. Customers can choose from nine selections of rubs and sauces, including Nashville hot, Carolina Gold barbecue, honey sambal, and more.

King BBQ co-owner Corrie Wang grew up in Buffalo, New York, so husband Shuai Wang had to put out some real-deal Buffalo wings covered in the distinctive tangy, buttery red sauce. They are only available on Sundays and pairs well with the Bills games on the television. They have also offered Sichuan wings as a special.

When Heavy’s first opened, Charleston was curious about the burgers, but word about the wings (and how good they are) quickly spread. The restaurant offers jumbo drums and flats tossed in Red Ranger sauce, the Wright sauce (a zesty honey garlic), or lemon pepper dry rub.

Home Team BBQ’s smoked chicken wings are dry-rubbed with a touch of sweetness and served with a side of Alabama white sauce. Customers looking for an extra kick can add the Death Relish for good measure. Cool it down with a frozen Gamechanger — the restaurant’s take on a painkiller.

The Royal American on Morrison Drive has a long list of cheap beer and food for guests looking to kick back. The Magic Wings are crispy and best finished with a spritz of lime, best followed by a sip of Miller High Life. The spice comes from Sichuan peppercorns.

Moe’s Crosstown, a cave of a sports bar, takes pride in its pub fare offerings, and the wings reflect, as they come freshly prepared with lots of meat on the bone. Find 15 different sauce options, including the sweet and spicy hot honey mustard and the diabolical Moe Hotter.

Stop by rollicking Vietnamese restaurant Pink Bellies for the garlic “KFC” wings. Despite the moniker, these are far superior to anything the fast food chain puts out. Chef Thai Phi covers the chicken in a sweet soy glaze and tops it with bleu cheese and pickled daikon.

Most regard Prohibition for its nightlife or as a place to have a great cocktail, but the speakeasy-style restaurant also has some of the best wings in the Lowcountry. Chef Greg Garrison uses a Memphis dry rub, and the charred wings sit on top of an irresistible Gorgonzola ranch.

King Street’s Charleston Beer Works is a place to drink beer, watch sports, and consume lots of chicken wings. The sports bar offers 15 different sauces, and patrons can order up to 100 wings at a time.

Sports bar the Brick offers tons of wing flavors to pair with beers and football. There are 18 flavors, including Old Bay, garlic Parmesan, Buffalo ranch, and more.

Barbecue spot Swig & Swine offers smoked wings in a variety of flavors: dry rub, barbecue, peanut butter and jelly, Alabama white, Tabasco honey, hot honey mustard, and white hot.

This renowned dive bar offers multiple sauce options on its chicken wings, most notably its famous “buffiyaki” creation. Make sure to bring an extra dollar bill, as the Griffon’s walls are covered in George Washingtons stapled on by visitors looking to leave their mark.

Customers can order regular or boneless wings at Charleston Sports Pub locations across the Lowcountry. There’s 17 different flavors, and it offers a family wing box with 40 wings and French fries for $59.99.

Nigel’s Good Food is a North Charleston staple (with multiple locations). Folks travel far and wide for their very popular Geechie Wings. The chicken is battered, fried, and tossed in a homemade sweet-and-sour wing sauce.

The wings at the Tattooed Moose are large and saucy. Pick from Buffalo, Asian-style, Nashville hot, or habenero honey mustard.

Coast Brewing Co. is known for its stellar beers, but the kitchen menu is just as great. What sets the wings apart from all others? The kitchen marinates the bird in kölsch and fries them in beef tallow, lending even more umami flavor to the chicken. Choose from Buffalo, lemon pepper, or clarified butter.

North Charleston’s Holy City Brewery pairs its beers with an extensive bar food menu — including wings. The chicken is smoked and then fried. Customers can choose from nine selections of rubs and sauces, including Nashville hot, Carolina Gold barbecue, honey sambal, and more.

King BBQ co-owner Corrie Wang grew up in Buffalo, New York, so husband Shuai Wang had to put out some real-deal Buffalo wings covered in the distinctive tangy, buttery red sauce. They are only available on Sundays and pairs well with the Bills games on the television. They have also offered Sichuan wings as a special.

When Heavy’s first opened, Charleston was curious about the burgers, but word about the wings (and how good they are) quickly spread. The restaurant offers jumbo drums and flats tossed in Red Ranger sauce, the Wright sauce (a zesty honey garlic), or lemon pepper dry rub.

Home Team BBQ’s smoked chicken wings are dry-rubbed with a touch of sweetness and served with a side of Alabama white sauce. Customers looking for an extra kick can add the Death Relish for good measure. Cool it down with a frozen Gamechanger — the restaurant’s take on a painkiller.

The Royal American on Morrison Drive has a long list of cheap beer and food for guests looking to kick back. The Magic Wings are crispy and best finished with a spritz of lime, best followed by a sip of Miller High Life. The spice comes from Sichuan peppercorns.

Moe’s Crosstown, a cave of a sports bar, takes pride in its pub fare offerings, and the wings reflect, as they come freshly prepared with lots of meat on the bone. Find 15 different sauce options, including the sweet and spicy hot honey mustard and the diabolical Moe Hotter.

Stop by rollicking Vietnamese restaurant Pink Bellies for the garlic “KFC” wings. Despite the moniker, these are far superior to anything the fast food chain puts out. Chef Thai Phi covers the chicken in a sweet soy glaze and tops it with bleu cheese and pickled daikon.

Most regard Prohibition for its nightlife or as a place to have a great cocktail, but the speakeasy-style restaurant also has some of the best wings in the Lowcountry. Chef Greg Garrison uses a Memphis dry rub, and the charred wings sit on top of an irresistible Gorgonzola ranch.

King Street’s Charleston Beer Works is a place to drink beer, watch sports, and consume lots of chicken wings. The sports bar offers 15 different sauces, and patrons can order up to 100 wings at a time.

Sports bar the Brick offers tons of wing flavors to pair with beers and football. There are 18 flavors, including Old Bay, garlic Parmesan, Buffalo ranch, and more.

Barbecue spot Swig & Swine offers smoked wings in a variety of flavors: dry rub, barbecue, peanut butter and jelly, Alabama white, Tabasco honey, hot honey mustard, and white hot.

This renowned dive bar offers multiple sauce options on its chicken wings, most notably its famous “buffiyaki” creation. Make sure to bring an extra dollar bill, as the Griffon’s walls are covered in George Washingtons stapled on by visitors looking to leave their mark.

Customers can order regular or boneless wings at Charleston Sports Pub locations across the Lowcountry. There’s 17 different flavors, and it offers a family wing box with 40 wings and French fries for $59.99.

What could be more luxurious than going to a leisurely breakfast during the week? Perhaps you took the day off, need to conduct a morning meeting, or want a great plate of eggs and a cup of coffee. Here are the essential weekday breakfast establishments to know in the Lowcountry. And if it’s the weekend, check out brunch.

New to the map this update: Big Bad Breakfast. Map points are listed geographically from north to south.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.

The Junction Kitchen & Provisions quickly is the go-to for Park Circle inhabitants to find a full breakfast near the neighborhood. The morning menu is served all day, including the doughnut sandwich layered with coffee-rubbed bacon, over easy egg, and served with a coffee dip.

Mercantile is one of the most spacious breakfast options to open on the peninsula, so bring the laptop and get some work done too — plenty of seats. The stylish spot opens early for those looking for coffee, yogurt bowls, breakfast sandwiches, or house-smoked salmon on a bagel. Bonus: free wifi and a large parking lot.

Bodega is the spot to visit if you are in need of a super hearty breakfast sandwich or hair of the dog. The restaurant is an ode to New York City bodegas and even comes complete with walls of chips and candy in its takeout area. Popular items include the smoked salmon toast, chocolate chip pancakes, and the Gropfather, a twist on a chicken parm sandwich, made with pesto and nduja. There’s also plenty of boozy breakfast drinks for those in need.

Bright spot the Daily carries creative coffee drinks, like the black sesame latte, and some of the quickest breakfast items around. Stop by this hip cafe for an avocado toast or breakfast pita before heading to the office.

Vicious Biscuit serves other items than biscuits, but the fluffy carbs are the big draw here. Prepare to feel the need for a nap after indulging in a fried chicken biscuit the size of your head. There’s dozens of biscuit combos to try.

It’s already in the name — Big Bad Breakfast is a reliable spot for fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and eggs, any way you like. If you’re feeling boozy, the bar has plenty of bloody marys and Irish coffees.

Daps Breakfast & Imbibe offer breakfast/brunch every day of the week and all day long. The vibe is chill and the food is filling. The Fruity Pebble pancakes and breakfast burrito with chorizo gravy are solid choices.

Tuck into cozy cafe Little Line for a big Southern breakfast with cheddar grits at the counter or order a bacon, egg, and cheese bagel to go. The chic Westside spot has proven consistent in its delivery of breakfast staples since it first opened. And if you’re running short on time, you can order ahead online.

West Ashley eatery Early Bird Diner is the greasy spoon of contemporary Southern dreams. The waitstaff leans quirky and tattooed, and the food is filling and comforting. Try the chicken and waffles with honey mustard drizzle at least once, and then move on to the traditional sides and other comforting menu items.

Marina Variety Store is Charleston's diner by the sea. With views of the Ashley River, there's no better place to tuck into a bottomless cup of coffee and a bowl of shrimp and grits when the weather is clear.

Thoughtful pastries are the big draw at Harken Cafe, like the apple tahini muffins or brown sugar cake with pumpkin butter. But, if you have a free morning, grab a seat in the Parisian-inspired cafe and order a slice of quiche full of local produce or a fluffy egg sandwich on a ricotta biscuit.

Queen Street Grocery is nestled in the French Quarter, so customers can watch the carriage tours go by as they cut into a crepe or omelette. For those on the go, choose a hot-pressed breakfast sandwich on a croissant or bagel.

As the name states, Millers All Day does indeed serve breakfast all day. Look for big fluffy biscuits, pancakes, grits, and plenty of bacon in a hip, yet comfortable, dining room.

Fast & French serves a no-frills breakfast of croissants, toasts, ham plates, and cream cheese on rye with raisins. There might not be any eggs, but it's hard to resist the European charm of the cafe and the full carafes of French press coffee.

Tucked off of Colonial Lake, Alcove Market offers breakfast, lunch, coffee, craft beer, wines, fresh-pressed juices, and a pantry stocked with goods like Rio Bertolini’s ravioli, cocktail olives, and various gourmet snacks. Offerings include avocado toast on Charleston Gold rice bread, a quinoa bowl with green goddess dressing, and a spectacular breakfast muffin stuffed with a poached egg

Super cute spot Baguette Magic offers carbs on carbs on carbs. Patrons rave about the recovery baguette — a hangover-curing combination of scrambled eggs, bacon, prosciutto, white cheddar, tomato jam, and arugula. For those in search of something sweet, check out the homemade Pop-Tarts or the chocolate croissant.

The Junction Kitchen & Provisions quickly is the go-to for Park Circle inhabitants to find a full breakfast near the neighborhood. The morning menu is served all day, including the doughnut sandwich layered with coffee-rubbed bacon, over easy egg, and served with a coffee dip.

Mercantile is one of the most spacious breakfast options to open on the peninsula, so bring the laptop and get some work done too — plenty of seats. The stylish spot opens early for those looking for coffee, yogurt bowls, breakfast sandwiches, or house-smoked salmon on a bagel. Bonus: free wifi and a large parking lot.

Bodega is the spot to visit if you are in need of a super hearty breakfast sandwich or hair of the dog. The restaurant is an ode to New York City bodegas and even comes complete with walls of chips and candy in its takeout area. Popular items include the smoked salmon toast, chocolate chip pancakes, and the Gropfather, a twist on a chicken parm sandwich, made with pesto and nduja. There’s also plenty of boozy breakfast drinks for those in need.

Bright spot the Daily carries creative coffee drinks, like the black sesame latte, and some of the quickest breakfast items around. Stop by this hip cafe for an avocado toast or breakfast pita before heading to the office.

Vicious Biscuit serves other items than biscuits, but the fluffy carbs are the big draw here. Prepare to feel the need for a nap after indulging in a fried chicken biscuit the size of your head. There’s dozens of biscuit combos to try.

It’s already in the name — Big Bad Breakfast is a reliable spot for fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and eggs, any way you like. If you’re feeling boozy, the bar has plenty of bloody marys and Irish coffees.

Daps Breakfast & Imbibe offer breakfast/brunch every day of the week and all day long. The vibe is chill and the food is filling. The Fruity Pebble pancakes and breakfast burrito with chorizo gravy are solid choices.

Tuck into cozy cafe Little Line for a big Southern breakfast with cheddar grits at the counter or order a bacon, egg, and cheese bagel to go. The chic Westside spot has proven consistent in its delivery of breakfast staples since it first opened. And if you’re running short on time, you can order ahead online.

West Ashley eatery Early Bird Diner is the greasy spoon of contemporary Southern dreams. The waitstaff leans quirky and tattooed, and the food is filling and comforting. Try the chicken and waffles with honey mustard drizzle at least once, and then move on to the traditional sides and other comforting menu items.

Marina Variety Store is Charleston's diner by the sea. With views of the Ashley River, there's no better place to tuck into a bottomless cup of coffee and a bowl of shrimp and grits when the weather is clear.

Thoughtful pastries are the big draw at Harken Cafe, like the apple tahini muffins or brown sugar cake with pumpkin butter. But, if you have a free morning, grab a seat in the Parisian-inspired cafe and order a slice of quiche full of local produce or a fluffy egg sandwich on a ricotta biscuit.

Queen Street Grocery is nestled in the French Quarter, so customers can watch the carriage tours go by as they cut into a crepe or omelette. For those on the go, choose a hot-pressed breakfast sandwich on a croissant or bagel.

As the name states, Millers All Day does indeed serve breakfast all day. Look for big fluffy biscuits, pancakes, grits, and plenty of bacon in a hip, yet comfortable, dining room.

Fast & French serves a no-frills breakfast of croissants, toasts, ham plates, and cream cheese on rye with raisins. There might not be any eggs, but it's hard to resist the European charm of the cafe and the full carafes of French press coffee.

Tucked off of Colonial Lake, Alcove Market offers breakfast, lunch, coffee, craft beer, wines, fresh-pressed juices, and a pantry stocked with goods like Rio Bertolini’s ravioli, cocktail olives, and various gourmet snacks. Offerings include avocado toast on Charleston Gold rice bread, a quinoa bowl with green goddess dressing, and a spectacular breakfast muffin stuffed with a poached egg

Super cute spot Baguette Magic offers carbs on carbs on carbs. Patrons rave about the recovery baguette — a hangover-curing combination of scrambled eggs, bacon, prosciutto, white cheddar, tomato jam, and arugula. For those in search of something sweet, check out the homemade Pop-Tarts or the chocolate croissant.

It's no secret that Holy City sunsets and Charleston waterfronts are some of the most coveted views around (think of the Instagram likes), but where can you relax with a glass of wine or a plate of food while taking in these sights? There are a few rooftop bars or spots nestled on the water, but many offer seafood, and all offer libations.

This newest update includes Folly Beach restaurant Pier 101. The restaurants are listed north to south.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Lowcountry restaurant Momo sits right on the Cooper River. Stroll around Riverfront Park while waiting for a table at brunch or after dinner. Look for seafood towers, pimento cheese plates, and deviled eggs.

The Kingstide is Daniel Island’s only waterfront restaurant with plenty of patio seating looking out to the Wando River. Aside from the views, there’s oysters, lobster rolls, smoked fish dip, plenty of cocktails, and more.

Beachgoers have a new option for seafood and Southern favorites at Islander 71 Fish House and Deck Bar. The outdoor dining area comes with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Dishes include she-crab fries, ceviche, fried fish sandwiches, crab cakes, and more.

Tucked away at the marina on Immigration Street, off of East Bay Street, sits breezy cafe Island Cabana. Utilized by boaters going out for the day, the establishment also welcomes anyone who wants to hang out on the dock with a frosé, fried shrimp, and fish tacos. There’s also a great selection of local beers and bait if you need boat supplies.

Watch the dolphins play from the deck at Shem Creek restaurant Tavern & Table. The patio is a favorite with locals for an after-work cocktail and views of the sunset.

The Stars rooftop features the retro-chic Satellite Bar. It offers skyline views of downtown Charleston and plenty of fun frozen beverages. If it's a nice day, sit in the sun and peer over King Street.

Perched high above the Charleston landscape, Citrus Club is the sophisticated rooftop bar of any tropical drink lover’s dreams. The 360-degree views are the best in town. Take the lobby elevator up to grab a seat and take in the view while sipping a playful libation.

Luxury spot Hotel Bennett has to have a luxury rooftop, and Fiat Lux is it. With expansive views of Marion Square, the sky-high bar serves fancy cocktails, wines, beer, and small bites such as Chablis-poached shrimp cocktail.

Contemporary Italian eatery Coda del Pesce sits right on the beach at Isle of Palms. Watch the ocean while ordering from chef Ken Vedrinski's seafood-filled menu.

The view at Little Palm is a bit lacking (unless you like staring at FIG from across the street), but the bar and sister spot the Backyard have all the atmosphere you need. Chill out in the retro Palm Beach space and sip on a frozen beverage. Order the jerk wings if you get hungry.

The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits opened atop boutique hotel the Restoration on the seventh floor, so it currently claims the title of highest elevation for a public space and carries incredible views of the Lowcountry. Stop by at sunset for a Instagram-breaking photo opportunity.

Fleet Landing is one of the very few options for waterfront views on the Ravenel bridge side of downtown Charleston. The harbor views are best enjoyed at happy hour with a discounted drink and friends on the wraparound porch. The restaurant is popular with visitors looking for fried shrimp platters.

With some of the cheapest drinks and best views downtown, Salty Mike's is a gathering for sailors, locals, and in-the-know tourists. The no-frills watering hole sits on the Marina, so guests can watch boats go by with beer in hand.

Longstanding hotel Mills House added the Terrace Bar to its rooftop this past summer. The pool is only for guests of the hotel, but other customers can head to the second floor to check out the selection of frozen cocktails like the Beachy Chi Chi with tequila, Earl Grey tea, blood orange, and pineapple — it’s like a refined margarita. The bar also serves snacks like “Adult Lunchables,” jumbo shrimp, and a refreshing watermelon salad.

The setting at old-school oyster shack Bowens is perfect for grabbing a fresh bushel of bivalves, and watching a Lowcountry sunset. The interiors at Bowen's are rustic, but customers are there for views of the marshland and water, along with the buckets of oysters.

Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar is the quintessential beach bar with fried shrimp, cold beers, and fruity frozen drinks. Listen to the waves go in and out on Folly Beach while you enjoy a round of margaritas and fried grouper bites.

Lowcountry restaurant Momo sits right on the Cooper River. Stroll around Riverfront Park while waiting for a table at brunch or after dinner. Look for seafood towers, pimento cheese plates, and deviled eggs.

The Kingstide is Daniel Island’s only waterfront restaurant with plenty of patio seating looking out to the Wando River. Aside from the views, there’s oysters, lobster rolls, smoked fish dip, plenty of cocktails, and more.

Beachgoers have a new option for seafood and Southern favorites at Islander 71 Fish House and Deck Bar. The outdoor dining area comes with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Dishes include she-crab fries, ceviche, fried fish sandwiches, crab cakes, and more.

Tucked away at the marina on Immigration Street, off of East Bay Street, sits breezy cafe Island Cabana. Utilized by boaters going out for the day, the establishment also welcomes anyone who wants to hang out on the dock with a frosé, fried shrimp, and fish tacos. There’s also a great selection of local beers and bait if you need boat supplies.

Watch the dolphins play from the deck at Shem Creek restaurant Tavern & Table. The patio is a favorite with locals for an after-work cocktail and views of the sunset.

The Stars rooftop features the retro-chic Satellite Bar. It offers skyline views of downtown Charleston and plenty of fun frozen beverages. If it's a nice day, sit in the sun and peer over King Street.

Perched high above the Charleston landscape, Citrus Club is the sophisticated rooftop bar of any tropical drink lover’s dreams. The 360-degree views are the best in town. Take the lobby elevator up to grab a seat and take in the view while sipping a playful libation.

Luxury spot Hotel Bennett has to have a luxury rooftop, and Fiat Lux is it. With expansive views of Marion Square, the sky-high bar serves fancy cocktails, wines, beer, and small bites such as Chablis-poached shrimp cocktail.

Contemporary Italian eatery Coda del Pesce sits right on the beach at Isle of Palms. Watch the ocean while ordering from chef Ken Vedrinski's seafood-filled menu.

The view at Little Palm is a bit lacking (unless you like staring at FIG from across the street), but the bar and sister spot the Backyard have all the atmosphere you need. Chill out in the retro Palm Beach space and sip on a frozen beverage. Order the jerk wings if you get hungry.

The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits opened atop boutique hotel the Restoration on the seventh floor, so it currently claims the title of highest elevation for a public space and carries incredible views of the Lowcountry. Stop by at sunset for a Instagram-breaking photo opportunity.

Fleet Landing is one of the very few options for waterfront views on the Ravenel bridge side of downtown Charleston. The harbor views are best enjoyed at happy hour with a discounted drink and friends on the wraparound porch. The restaurant is popular with visitors looking for fried shrimp platters.

With some of the cheapest drinks and best views downtown, Salty Mike's is a gathering for sailors, locals, and in-the-know tourists. The no-frills watering hole sits on the Marina, so guests can watch boats go by with beer in hand.

Longstanding hotel Mills House added the Terrace Bar to its rooftop this past summer. The pool is only for guests of the hotel, but other customers can head to the second floor to check out the selection of frozen cocktails like the Beachy Chi Chi with tequila, Earl Grey tea, blood orange, and pineapple — it’s like a refined margarita. The bar also serves snacks like “Adult Lunchables,” jumbo shrimp, and a refreshing watermelon salad.

The setting at old-school oyster shack Bowens is perfect for grabbing a fresh bushel of bivalves, and watching a Lowcountry sunset. The interiors at Bowen's are rustic, but customers are there for views of the marshland and water, along with the buckets of oysters.

Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar is the quintessential beach bar with fried shrimp, cold beers, and fruity frozen drinks. Listen to the waves go in and out on Folly Beach while you enjoy a round of margaritas and fried grouper bites.

More often than not, tipsters, readers, friends, and family of Eater have one question: Where should I eat right now? What are the new restaurants? What's everyone talking about? While the Eater 18 is a crucial resource covering old standbys and neighborhood essentials across the city, it is not a chronicle of the "it" places of the moment. Enter the Eater Heatmap, which will change continually to highlight the spots crowds are flocking to at the moment or generating a big buzz. Folks are asking, "Have you been yet?" Try one of these newbies today.

This month, chef Sean Brock’s Joyland location joins the list.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.

Chinese American restaurant Jackrabbit Filly moved up the street to a bigger dining room and more prominent location. With the move comes a more extensive menu with exciting new options. Karrage, dumplings, and fried rice are still on the menu, but now there’s also a crab rangoon cheese ball, mapo tofu vol au vent, spicy Korean gnocchi, and Sichuan seafood wonton soup.

The couple behind Wagener Terrace hangout Berkeley’s recently opened their second restaurant, the Archer. They want it to have the same neighborhood vibes but raise the stakes with a full bar and fine dining-level comfort plates. Chef Paul Farmer (formerly of Three Sirens), puts out plates like duck frites, baked oysters, beef stroganoff, chicken liver mousse, and chilled crab dip.

Chubby Fish (most recently visited by Martha Stewart) has smartly expanded into the space next door with another cozy nautical space, but this time, the team is focused on world-class cocktails from Christian Favier (formerly of the Ordinary). Rum figures heavily on the list, but there’s also a delicious smoked dirty martini and plenty of fizzy drinks thanks to a fancy Japanese Suntory highball machine. Customers can order snacks from the ever-changing menu, including oysters, crudos, agnolotti, Iberico ham, and more.

Legami is a new Italian restaurant boasting a chef brought in from Rome by a family with roots in Turin, Italy. Washington Street Hospitality, which controls three Pasta Beach restaurants in New England, thought the King Street building would be another location for Pasta Beach, but decided to switch it up once they got into the historic building. Chef Andrea Congiusta cooks modern Italian fare with some influences from France. “We took inspiration from the classic fine dining, but we also want to have something fun, something that looks very fancy, and something you can crave,” says Congiusta. Dishes include king crab tagliolini, beef Wellington, and veal Milanese.

Modern steakhouse Marbled & Fin is giving all the other steakhouses a run for their money. The expansive dining room fills nightly with well-heeled customers ready to see and be seen. On the menu, chef Eucepe “Cepe” Puntriano includes all the steakhouse classics plus an emphasis on seafood dishes for non-meat eaters. Look for seafood towers, wedge salads, wagyu beef, bone marrow with oysters, creamed spinach, and more.

Superstar chef Sean Brock has brought his fast-casual burger/biscuit joint to the Lowcountry. Joyland is Brock’s fun nod to the fast-food joints of yesteryear. Breakfast includes all types of biscuit sandwiches and a breakfast burrito. The lunch and dinner menu includes the Joyburger Deluxe, fried chicken sandwiches, Chicago dogs, Crustburgers, and Joysticks. Most of the menu items can be made gluten-free.

Chef Micheal Toscano recently opened a taco shop next to his Italian restaurant Le Farfalle. Blanca Estrada is Toscano’s ode to his Mexican mother and grandmother, whose cooking was an early influence on his culinary journey. The kitchen offers a selection of tacos, from cochinita pibil to lengua, several specials, like a lamb neck burrito, and several tequila drinks and pineapple vinegar soda.

Ice-cold martinis with a side of caviar set the vibe at By the Way, a new upscale lounge and restaurant in Cannonborough/Elliotborough hoping to draw a slightly more mature clientele away from King Street. It’s from Uptown Hospitality Group, the folks behind hotspots like Uptown Social and Bodega, in partnership with Craig Conover and Austen Kroll, two stars of Bravo TV’s Southern Charm. Fairly intimate with the feel of an old-world tavern, By the Way serves a menu of trendy pub fare like ’nduja deviled eggs, poutine, fried oysters with caviar, and steak frites.

Charming new hotel the Dunlin offers sweeping views of the Kiawah River, abundant hospitality, and coastal Southern fare in its signature restaurant, Linnette’s. Chef Michael DeCicco puts out dishes like a pressed and pickled watermelon salad, wood-fired oysters, cornmeal-crusted flounder, and a sorghum-benne lacquered steak with charred okra.

Chinese American restaurant Jackrabbit Filly moved up the street to a bigger dining room and more prominent location. With the move comes a more extensive menu with exciting new options. Karrage, dumplings, and fried rice are still on the menu, but now there’s also a crab rangoon cheese ball, mapo tofu vol au vent, spicy Korean gnocchi, and Sichuan seafood wonton soup.

The couple behind Wagener Terrace hangout Berkeley’s recently opened their second restaurant, the Archer. They want it to have the same neighborhood vibes but raise the stakes with a full bar and fine dining-level comfort plates. Chef Paul Farmer (formerly of Three Sirens), puts out plates like duck frites, baked oysters, beef stroganoff, chicken liver mousse, and chilled crab dip.

Chubby Fish (most recently visited by Martha Stewart) has smartly expanded into the space next door with another cozy nautical space, but this time, the team is focused on world-class cocktails from Christian Favier (formerly of the Ordinary). Rum figures heavily on the list, but there’s also a delicious smoked dirty martini and plenty of fizzy drinks thanks to a fancy Japanese Suntory highball machine. Customers can order snacks from the ever-changing menu, including oysters, crudos, agnolotti, Iberico ham, and more.

Legami is a new Italian restaurant boasting a chef brought in from Rome by a family with roots in Turin, Italy. Washington Street Hospitality, which controls three Pasta Beach restaurants in New England, thought the King Street building would be another location for Pasta Beach, but decided to switch it up once they got into the historic building. Chef Andrea Congiusta cooks modern Italian fare with some influences from France. “We took inspiration from the classic fine dining, but we also want to have something fun, something that looks very fancy, and something you can crave,” says Congiusta. Dishes include king crab tagliolini, beef Wellington, and veal Milanese.

Modern steakhouse Marbled & Fin is giving all the other steakhouses a run for their money. The expansive dining room fills nightly with well-heeled customers ready to see and be seen. On the menu, chef Eucepe “Cepe” Puntriano includes all the steakhouse classics plus an emphasis on seafood dishes for non-meat eaters. Look for seafood towers, wedge salads, wagyu beef, bone marrow with oysters, creamed spinach, and more.

Superstar chef Sean Brock has brought his fast-casual burger/biscuit joint to the Lowcountry. Joyland is Brock’s fun nod to the fast-food joints of yesteryear. Breakfast includes all types of biscuit sandwiches and a breakfast burrito. The lunch and dinner menu includes the Joyburger Deluxe, fried chicken sandwiches, Chicago dogs, Crustburgers, and Joysticks. Most of the menu items can be made gluten-free.

Chef Micheal Toscano recently opened a taco shop next to his Italian restaurant Le Farfalle. Blanca Estrada is Toscano’s ode to his Mexican mother and grandmother, whose cooking was an early influence on his culinary journey. The kitchen offers a selection of tacos, from cochinita pibil to lengua, several specials, like a lamb neck burrito, and several tequila drinks and pineapple vinegar soda.

Ice-cold martinis with a side of caviar set the vibe at By the Way, a new upscale lounge and restaurant in Cannonborough/Elliotborough hoping to draw a slightly more mature clientele away from King Street. It’s from Uptown Hospitality Group, the folks behind hotspots like Uptown Social and Bodega, in partnership with Craig Conover and Austen Kroll, two stars of Bravo TV’s Southern Charm. Fairly intimate with the feel of an old-world tavern, By the Way serves a menu of trendy pub fare like ’nduja deviled eggs, poutine, fried oysters with caviar, and steak frites.

Charming new hotel the Dunlin offers sweeping views of the Kiawah River, abundant hospitality, and coastal Southern fare in its signature restaurant, Linnette’s. Chef Michael DeCicco puts out dishes like a pressed and pickled watermelon salad, wood-fired oysters, cornmeal-crusted flounder, and a sorghum-benne lacquered steak with charred okra.