The best countertops make a statement in your home that other features cannot. You've worked hard to incorporate unique designs and flavors throughout your home, so why should your countertops be any different?
At Real Deal Countertops, we aspire to combine the beauty and durability of natural stone with unrivaled, personalized attention to all customers. With the highest quality materials and the most helpful customer service, we give our clients the opportunity to make informed decisions that they feel good about for years. Our story in the countertop fabrication and manufacturing industry began more than 19 years ago, when Rafael Quedevez started out as a sales representative in Massachusetts. Working his way up through the ranks, Rafael soon made his way to South Carolina to open and manage his own companies. In 2013, we created real Deal Countertops. Since that time, we are proud to have served more than 5,000 customers in South Carolina and beyond.
Our leadership team combines more than 40 years of experience in the home remodeling service industry. Always striving to create a better product for our customers, we use the latest in robotics technologies and the sharpest minds in the business to craft countertops of unparalleled quality. Unlike other countertop companies in James Island, SC, we only source the finest stone slabs in the world.
At Real Deal Countertops, we offer a wide range of styles and materials to choose from, including:

Quartzite

Caesarstone

Silestone

Marble

Sensa

Pollar White

Vicostone

Quartz
We are committed to ensuring that granite, marble, and other unique, exotic stones are attainable to all who desire them. If you're in search of a trustworthy counter company with a team of knowledgeable, helpful experts, you have come to the right place!
Most Popular Countertops in James Island, SC
Choosing the best countertops for your kitchen is an important decision, but it doesn't have to be a hard one. One of the best ways to narrow down your search is to find out what kind of countertop material you'd like to use. While it's true that material and style trends change over time, there are several counters that have always been top sellers.
Some of the most popular countertops we sell include:
Marble Countertops in James Island, SC

There's no way around it - marble adds jaw-dropping beauty to just about any room and is known for its good looks. It is a dense stone that comes in many different hues like greens, browns, pinks, greys, whites, and more. While marble countertops often have otherworldly beauty, they can be susceptible to stains and cracks. Marble is also considered one of the most expensive counters to choose from, though the truth is marble comes in a wide range of qualities and prices.
- Pros: Stunning beauty, plenty of beautiful choices.
- Cons: Not always used in kitchens due to chance of staining.
- Popular Colors: Portinari, Shadow Storm, Super White, Lumen, Calacatta Linconni, Nobulato Honned, Shadow, Grey Imperiale Honed.


Granite Countertops in James Island, SC

When it comes to popularity, granite countertops take the cake. Granite countertops usually contain a blend of quartz, feldspar, mica, and other minerals. Granite can add an edge of elegance and even a country-chic feel to your kitchen, making it a well-rounded stone. Granite is durable and scratch-resistant, though it can require sealing and DIY chip repair.
- Pros: Luxurious, rich look featuring natural stone that is durable, heat resistant, and scratch-resistant.
- Cons: Hard material that may require DIY chip repair and sealing.
- Popular Colors: Blue Jeans, Creama Pearl, Alure, Galaxy White, Luna Pear, Steel Grey, Ubatuba, Oro Brazil.
Quartz Countertops in James Island, SC

Quartz is a manufactured material that represents one of our favorite four-letter words: easy! If you're looking to add a high-end feel to your kitchen or bathroom, quartz is an excellent material to consider. Like granite, quartz countertops can add a decadent vibe to any room. Unlike granite, you may not have to seal quartz quite as often (if ever).
- Pros: Quartz countertops come in plenty of colors to choose from and are easy to clean. They are also strong, scratch-resistant, and don't require sealing.
- Cons: Quartz is not as heat resistant as other materials like granite counters. Sharp corners tend to crack, but that can be remedied with rounded corners.
- Popular Colors: Noble Grey, Raw Concrete, Frosty Carrina, Shitake, Pebble, Pietra Grey, Sierra Madre, Arctic.


Silestone Countertops in James Island, SC

A manufactured material made from quartz crystals, Silestone countertops are equal parts gorgeous and practical. Known for being a durable, non-porous choice, Silestone is resistant to stains, scratches, and even some forms of bacteria. Homeowners who choose Silestone do so because they can get a high-end look without having to worry too much about maintenance. Silestone counters look great in many different homes, from contemporary abodes with modern accents to vintage-looking kitchens.
- Pros: Silestone countertops are non-porous, meaning germs and bacteria can't lodge themselves inside this material. This makes Silestone counters great for kitchens and bathrooms alike. This material also comes in a wide variety of colors and resists scratches and chips. Overall, Silestone is an excellent choice if you want to make a solid long-term investment without much upkeep.
- Cons: While Silestone is great if you're looking for a low-maintenance counter option, it can be sensitive to harsh chemicals like bleach and ammonia. Silestone is also not recommended for outdoor use since the resins used to make the material do not do well with UV light.
- Popular Colors: Daria, Gray Expo, Lagoon, Calacatta Gold, Arctic, Blanco City, Gris Expo, Desert Silver
Quartzite Countertops in James Island, SC

Not to be confused with quartz countertops, which are manmade, quartzite is a naturally occurring stone that is quarried much in the same way that granite is. If you're a fan of marble counters, quartzite mimics its looks without as much upkeep. Like granite, it is a very durable choice and adds an upscale feeling to almost any room you choose.
- Pros: Since it doesn't require any special cleaners, quartzite looks great without much maintenance. When it gets dirty, soap and water should be all you need to clean. Quartzite is also a great long-term option since it doesn't wear down quickly at all.
- Cons: Heat is required to form quartzite. However, you should avoid putting hot pots and pans on your quartzite countertops. Because quartzite comes in many different varieties, some forms of quartzite need to be sealed more often than others.
- Popular Colors: Maya, Fusion, Locomotion, Callacata, Airy Concrete, Cocada White

Which Countertop is Right for You?
If you're just beginning your search for new countertops, it can be a little overwhelming trying to whittle down your options. We've got good news - with over 19 years in the industry, our team of experts has learned a thing or two about countertops. When you come to the Real Deal Countertops showroom, one of our goals is to educate you about our products and your countertop options, so you can make an educated purchasing decision.

How Will You Use Your Countertops in James Island?

The first and perhaps most crucial part of your countertop choice should stem from how you and your family use your countertops. For example, if you have kids, your counters will probably see a lot of activity. Between standard eating times and "in-between" meals that teens are known for, your counters might double as food prep stations. As such, you might need a countertop material that is resistant to most food and beverage stains. If you own a rental property that sees a lot of foot traffic from strangers, you might want to consider an economical material that is also durable.
- Do you cook a lot?
- Do you host a lot of parties?
- How long will you be living in your home?
- How long will you be living in your home?
Once you figure out exactly how you'll be using your countertops, you can begin to narrow down your choices.

How Much Upkeep Is Too Much?
Be realistic and honest with yourself about this question. Before you fall in love with how a countertop material looks, be sure you understand how much upkeep is needed. Some materials require more care, while others don't need much at all.
Keep these points in mind:
- Materials like quartz only need to be wiped down occasionally.
- Materials like granite, marble, and limestone will need to be sealed at least once a year.
- Some materials may be durable but aren't stain resistant.
The bottom line is this: Assess the maintenance demands that come along with the materials you're looking at. Marble countertops in James Island, SC are elegant, but if you'e unwilling to keep them looking their best, why bother buying the material?
You should be aware that most countertop materials will require some form of upkeep, even if it' minimal. To help keep your counters in pristine condition, consider these care and precaution tips:
- Many common foods contain acids that will dull or even damage the surface of stone countertops.Use coasters to protect your counters, especially if you'e drinking something with citrus juices or alcohol.
- Do not place scalding hot pots or pans directly on your countertops.
- Use mats or trivets to place under hot dishes.
- If you spill liquid on your countertops, blot the spill with a paper towel ASAP. Wiping the spill will cause it to spread.
- Use mild soap and plain water to clean up stains.
Which Colors and Materials Match Your Home's Aesthetics?
For many homeowners, this question is almost always top-of-mind. After all, you want to choose colors and materials that fit well with other features in your home. When selecting your countertop materials, try to choose a tone that contrasts with your other amenities, like your cabinets. Don't go for a perfect match. As an example, black granite is a beautiful contrast to white cabinets.
Consider these questions when choosing your countertop materials:
- Are there one or two colors that you love more than others?
- Does your choice go well with the color of your kitchen's walls?
- Do you want to switch up your kitchen's style or keep it the same?
- Will you be painting your kitchen a different color in the future?
- Will you be replacing your appliances soon?


Real Deal Countertops Pro Tip:
Because your home's accessories and paint job may change with time, your countertops should have a versatile color. That way, you won't have problems matching them with new paint colors or appliances.


Countertop Remodeling Done Right
At Real Deal Countertops, our #1 priority is your satisfaction. Unlike some countertop companies in James Island, we make it a point to exceed our customer's expectations. We strive for excellence with every transaction we complete and pledge to faithfully implement innovative techniques to ensure that our products remain affordable. With the help of Real Deal Countertops, remodeling your kitchen and bath will be painless and easy.
The appearance of a kitchen or bath depends on the right countertop selection, proper fabrication, and expert installation. Are you interested in granite countertops in James Island, SC? Maybe quartzite is a better choice for your family. Whatever you choose, know that our skilled installers and fabricators will make a template so that all custom pieces fit perfectly in your home.
Ready to get started? Have questions about our inventory?
We're here to help answer all your questions. Please feel free to give our office a call today at 866-707-1414 Before you know it, you will be ready for your new set of Real Deal Countertops!
Contact UsLatest News in James Island, SC
MUSC wellness initiative tackles growing mental health concerns in schools
WCBD News 2https://www.counton2.com/news/musc-wellness-initiative-tackles-growing-mental-health-concerns-in-schools/
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) — An impact report from the Medical University of South Carolina’s (MUSC) Boeing Center for Children’s Wellness is revealing new details about how the center’s school-based initiative has evolved to meet a growing need for mental health care in schools.According to the 2021-2022 impact report, the initiative reached 19 districts, 204 schools and 126,000 K-12 students.“We’re partners with the school. We ask the school what is needed, and then we go out and find evidence...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) — An impact report from the Medical University of South Carolina’s (MUSC) Boeing Center for Children’s Wellness is revealing new details about how the center’s school-based initiative has evolved to meet a growing need for mental health care in schools.
According to the 2021-2022 impact report, the initiative reached 19 districts, 204 schools and 126,000 K-12 students.
“We’re partners with the school. We ask the school what is needed, and then we go out and find evidence based, proven programs to address those needs, fill the gaps, synergize with what’s already there,” said Dr. Janice Key, pediatrician and director of the MUSC Boeing Center for Children’s Wellness.
Since it began 12 years ago, in participating schools, the initiative has been proven to significantly reduce the average student body mass index, while raising rates of attendance and high school graduation.
“I’m like the pediatrician for 150,000 kids, and I love that,” Dr. Key said.
Dr. Key said the initiative has adapted to meet new needs with a school-centered framework of wellness, prevention and treatment — shifting its focus from obesity to mental health since the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response to the rise in depression and anxiety, Dr. Key’s team at MUSC designed and implemented activities like art therapy, high school walking groups, taste-testing of fruits and vegetables, and trauma therapy to benefit both students and staff in schools across South Carolina.
“By doing that resiliency work, we hope that we will be upstream, and prevent so many kids from becoming depressed,” Dr. Key said.
Meredith Barnette, a school nurse at James Island Elementary, said she has witnessed this growing trend first hand.
“We’re seeing a lot more anxiety, a lot more depression, a lot more social issues with the kids,” Barnette said.
After trading 20 years in the operating room for a new role in the classroom, the school nurse has implemented a walking path for students, a wellness room for teachers and motivating for challenges for all, even winning an award for her wellness efforts in 2021.
The mom of four winning big — and losing big, too.
“After that first year, which is the year that we won, that summer I made a commitment to get more healthy, and in turn lost 55 pounds,” she said.
Barnette credits the wellness initiative for expanding counseling resources in schools.
In the year ahead, Barnette said she looks forward to continuing her wellness work, along with expanding nutrition education and working on the school’s garden.
“Seeing all of the hard work come to fruition with the children and the staff…it’s just so rewarding, you want to keep doing it,” Barnette said.
For more information on MUSC’s Boeing Center for Children’s Wellness, click here.
Lowcountry Cajun Festival scheduled for April 22 at James Island County Park
Matthew Sockolhttps://abcnews4.com/news/local/lowcountry-cajun-festival-scheduled-for-april-22-at-james-island-county-park-wciv
JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCIV) — The Lowcountry Cajun Festival will return at James Island County Park on April 22 from noon to 6 p.m.New for 2023, festival admission will be charged per vehicle, and tickets are available for advance purchase, according to a Feb. 23 press release. A limited number of vehicles will be admitted. Tickets will be $35 per standard vehicle of up to 15 people in advance. If available, tickets at the gate will be $40 per vehicle. For additional details and to purchase tickets, visit ...
JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCIV) — The Lowcountry Cajun Festival will return at James Island County Park on April 22 from noon to 6 p.m.
New for 2023, festival admission will be charged per vehicle, and tickets are available for advance purchase, according to a Feb. 23 press release. A limited number of vehicles will be admitted. Tickets will be $35 per standard vehicle of up to 15 people in advance. If available, tickets at the gate will be $40 per vehicle. For additional details and to purchase tickets, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Gold Passes will be valid for vehicle admission; the pass must be presented at the gate for entry. Gold Passes will not be sold on site the day of the festival, but may be purchased in advance online. Receipt of purchase will not be accepted, according to the press release.
Read more: Lowcountry Cajun Festival returns to James Island County Park on Saturday
According to the press release, the 2023 Lowcountry Cajun Festival entertainment lineup is Shrimp City Slim Swamp All-Stars from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Les Freres Michot from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., and Corey Arceneaux & The Zydeco Hot Peppers from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The festival's small stage will host Friends of Coastal South Carolina for a program called “Who Calls the Swamp Home?” at 1 p.m. and the annual Crawfish Eating Contest will take place at 2:30 p.m., according to the press release. Other festivities include a crafters' market, souvenirs for sale and a kids' area.
Read more: Lowcountry Cajun Festival
Children can enjoy access to the inflatables and climbing wall in the kids' area all day with the purchase of a $10 hand stamp. Credit cards will be accepted at select locations, but attendees are encouraged to bring cash for convenience purposes, according to the press release.
No coolers or outside food or alcohol permitted, according to the press release. Carpooling is highly encouraged. Pets are not permitted to this event. James Island County Park will be closed to regular park guests on April 22 in order to host the festival.
The press release says Lowcountry Cajun Festival is presented by Charleston Animal Society, Coca-Cola and Charleston County Parks. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386.
14 Most Anticipated Restaurants Across the Carolinas for Spring 2023
Erin Perkinshttps://carolinas.eater.com/2023/3/8/23627772/new-restaurants-north-south-carolina-spring-2023
Chefs, restaurateurs, and investors in North and South Carolina continue to open restaurants and bars at an increasing pace. As always, Eater is obsessively tracking the progression of all the premiers — from menu releases to newly installed signage, come here for the latest updates. This list encapsulates the places garnering excitement this spring.ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINALocation: 697 Haywood Road Key Players: Chef/restaurateur Meherwan IraniProjected Opening: JuneAf...
Chefs, restaurateurs, and investors in North and South Carolina continue to open restaurants and bars at an increasing pace. As always, Eater is obsessively tracking the progression of all the premiers — from menu releases to newly installed signage, come here for the latest updates. This list encapsulates the places garnering excitement this spring.
ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
Location: 697 Haywood Road Key Players: Chef/restaurateur Meherwan IraniProjected Opening: JuneAfter successful stints in Atlanta and Charlotte, Indian restaurant Botiwalla expands to West Asheville in the former BimBeriBon space. Botiwalla comes from Chai Pani owner Meherwan Irani and focuses on late-night foods of India, like chicken tikka skewers, lamb burgers, chaat,
Location: 56 Patton Avenue in the S&W Market Key Players: Katie Grabach and Peyton Barrell Projected Opening: SoonThe newest addition to Asheville food hall the S&W Market, Gourmand will be a spot for cheese, charcuterie, wine, oysters, and baguette sandwiches from New Orleans couple Katie Grabach and Peyton Barrell. Look for plenty of rillettes, terrines, and pickled eggs too.
Location: 1400 Patton Avenue Key Players: Pitmaster Elliott Moss Projected Opening: Late springFollowing the surprise opening of Little Louie’s in March, former Buxton Hall Barbecue chef Elliott Moss will open another comfort food spot named Regina’s. The restaurant will be an homage to greasy spoon diners of the past with plenty of classics on the menu.
Also, keep an eye on:• Areta’s (Mission Hospital Area)• Good Hot Fish (Unknown)
CARY, NORTH CAROLINA
Location: Mixed-use development FentonKey Players: Chef/owner Scott CrawfordProjected Opening: SoonChef Scott Crawford (Crawford and Son, Jolie, and Crawford Cookshop) continues the expansion of his empire with the forthcoming opening of Crawford Brothers Steakhouse. The latest addition will be Crawford’s playground for American steakhouse classics, specializing in dry-aged beef.
Also, keep an eye on:• Doc B’s Restaurant (Fenton)• Saap (Downtown)
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Location: 128 Columbus StreetKey Players: David and Tina SchuttenbergProjected Opening: JuneThe owners of James Island Sichuan restaurant Kwei Fei, David and Tina Schuttenberg, will soon bring Cantonese cuisine to downtown development the Guild. Beautiful South will offer dishes from the couple’s popular Lady Xian pop-up, like golden fried rice, char sui lo mein, General Tso chicken, and more. The menu will evolve from there to offer a range of items from southern China (hence the name) and dim sum.
Location: 1640 Meeting Street RoadKey Players: Nick Dowling and Jeremiah SchenzelProjected Opening: SpringFrom the team behind popular breakfast spot Dap’s, Cleats will be a restaurant featuring sports and sandwiches, which sounds commonplace, but co-owners Nick Dowling and Jeremiah Schenzel don’t do boring. They’re calling it a “sporty sammy public house.”
Location: 15 Beaufain StreetKey Players: Chef Michael ToscanoProjected Opening: SpringLe Farfalle chef Michael Toscano will bring his cult-favorite porchetta sandwich to the West Side, along with other breakfast and lunch items, all on the shop’s housemade focaccia. “The whole place is based around our focaccia — there’s no other bread,” says Toscano, “Imagine having a crusty, warm piece of focaccia with ricotta and a seasonal marmellata for breakfast.”
Location: 251 Meeting StreetKey Players: Chef/owner Maryam Ghaznavi and husband Raheel GaubaProjected Opening: SoonPakistani restaurant Ma’am Saab started as a pop-up, went into a food stall at Workshop, and will now set up residence in the former Jestine’s Kitchen space on Meeting Street. Ma’am Saab serves comfort food from Pakistan, like kababs, pakoras, and more.
Location: 2366 Ashley River RoadKey Players: Pitmaster Hector GarateProjected Opening: March 2023Pitmaster Hector Garate wanted to join the new wave of smoked meat aficionados putting their unique cultural spin on what is typically considered American barbecue. What started as a hobby, smoking brisket for his family, became pop-up Palmira Barbecue and is now set to be a brick-and-mortar establishment. Garate pulls the best bits of flavors and techniques from Texas, North Carolina, and his native home Puerto Rico to create his menu of juicy beef cheeks, smoky pulled pork, and rich barbacoa.
Also, keep an eye on:• Chameleon Club (Downtown)• Clarence Foster’s Cookery & Saloon (Downtown)• Colectivo (Johns Island)• Costa (Downtown)• Da Toscano Porchetta Shop (Downtown)• King BBQ (North Charleston)• Matador (Downtown)• Mix (Mount Pleasant)• The Pickle Bar (Summerville)• Sugey’s (Downtown)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA
Location: 1220 South Tryon StreetKey Players: Restaurateurs Greg and Subrina CollierProjected Opening: SpringBeloved breakfast eatery Uptown Yolk will reopen in a bigger space in South End. Look for chicken and waffles, cheesy grits, French toast, breakfast sandwiches, and more.
Also, keep an eye on:• Chapter 6 (South End)• Maíz, Agua, Sal (West Charlotte)• Pizza Baby (Wesley Heights)• Rosemont Market and Wine Bar (Elizabeth)• State of Confusion (LoSo)• The Club House Kitchen & Cocktails (Plaza Midwood)
DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA
Location: 300 Blackwell Street, in the American Tobacco CampusKey Players: Restaurateurs Zweli and Leonardo WilliamsProjected Opening: SoonRestaurateurs Zweli and Leonardo Williams opened Zimbabwean restaurant Zweli’s in 2018, and now they will expand with a second establishment named Ekhaya. Located in Durham’s American Tobacco Campus, in the former Saladelia space, Ekhaya will focus on cuisine from Bantu communities from across Africa, served tapas-style, in a high-end setting.
Location: 810 North Mangum StreetKey Players: Chef Oscar DiazProjected Opening: Early AprilThe chef behind lauded Raleigh restaurant Cortez Seafood + Cocktail, Oscar Diaz, branches out to Durham with the opening of Little Bull this spring. Diaz wants to redefine American comfort food through his view as a first-generation Mexican-American who grew up in Chicago and ended up in the South. Look for items like dumplings stuffed with birria and served with giardiniera chimi churri and confit papas.
Location: 806 West Main StreetKey Players: Chef Matt KellyProjected Opening: SpringDurham darling Nana’s opened in 1992, under chef Scott Howell, as a fine dining restaurant and quickly rose to acclaim. The menu was seasonal new Southern cuisine with heavy French and Italian influences. After the restaurant closed, chef Matt Kelly (Mateo, Mother & Sons, and Vin Rouge) took an interest and decided he wanted to keep the tradition going. “Nana’s has always been a great neighborhood restaurant in the American South,” says Kelly, “and that’s what I want to do.”
Also, keep an eye on:• Emmy Squared (Downtown)• Max Jr.’s (Brightleaf District)
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
Location: Boxyard RTPKey Players: Pitmaster Jake WoodProjected Opening: Early 2023Pitmaster Jake Wood (Lawrence BBQ and Lagoon) created a frenzy in Raleigh when he introduced a birria taco special utilizing his smoked brisket. This sparked the idea for Leroy’s Tacos n Beers, which will serve birria, Tajin wings, micheladas, and more — all with a side of ‘90s nostalgia in the vibes and decor.
Also, keep an eye on:• Brodeto (Raleigh Iron Works)• The Mill (Olde Raleigh Village Shopping Center)• The Preserve (Unknown)• Village Tavern (North Hills)
Charleston leaders address flooding in James Island neighborhood
Jordan Cioppahttps://www.counton2.com/news/local-news/charleston-leaders-address-flooding-in-james-island-neighborhood/
JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD) – Charleston City leaders provided some insight on a flood-prone neighborhood on James Island that saw an excess of water after Hurricane Ian.News 2 first introduced viewers to Michael Miller and his wife on Friday when Hurricane Ian flooded their home and others on Shoreham Road. James Island couple r...
JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD) – Charleston City leaders provided some insight on a flood-prone neighborhood on James Island that saw an excess of water after Hurricane Ian.
News 2 first introduced viewers to Michael Miller and his wife on Friday when Hurricane Ian flooded their home and others on Shoreham Road.
According to Miller, it took about five to six hours for the water to drain on the street and about three hours for it to recede inside his home.
“We just started getting as much of the water and as much of the dirt out as we could. Putting up fans, scrubbing down everything. Trying to assess the damage,” said Miller.
According to Charleston City leaders, Shoreham Road is known to flood because it sits in a low-lying area.
“It’s a neighborhood where when that water falls on the streets and on the roofs and on the properties it’s hard to move it out very quickly especially if we get higher tides,” explained Matthew Fountain, the Director of Stormwater Management for the City of Charleston.
There are a few projects in the works to help prevent flooding in the neighborhood. Fountain said one includes a rain garden that is set to be built at the site of a former flood-prone home the city acquired through federal grants.
He said the other small project consists of constructing a drainage swale system to help store more water in the neighborhood. While these projects can help with a typical thunderstorm/rain event, Fountain said it will take more to prevent flooding in a major storm like Ian.
“That neighborhood is going to experience flooding. That’s part of the reason we’ve looked at home acquisitions and demolition in that location giving people the opportunity if they have a heavily flooded home to have the city work with the federal government and eventually buy their homes,” explained Fountain.
Meanwhile, drainage projects on other parts of James Island seem to be showing signs of improvement. News 2 met with Charleston County Councilwoman Jenny Costa Honeycutt at the Charleston Municipal Golf Course where drainage improvements are underway.
She said Hurricane Ian was one of the first big storms to hit the area since rolling out the projects. Because of the work that was done over the last few years, Honeycutt said the water in the system was able to drain within one tide cycle, as opposed to sitting for days as it has in the past.
“One of the parts of the improvements that really helped was cleaning out the Stono River outfall and then back up the ditch system to the entire watershed, so that water could drain out faster. In conjunction, we also enhanced these ponds you see on the golf course to allow more water to stay in the system as the tides change,” explained Honeycutt.
According to city leaders, they monitor streets like Shoreham Road ahead of big storms, making sure the pipes aren’t clogged.
The Best Things To Do In Charleston, According To A Local
Betsy Cribbhttps://www.southernliving.com/editors-favorite-charleston-shops-restaurants-7096617
I don’t have to work hard to convince my fiancé to join me for a weekend trip to visit my parents in my South Carolina hometown. For starters (and this admittedly is a biased opinion), my mom and dad are a delight to be around—but they also live in Charleston, which Southern Living readers have named The South’s Best City seve...
I don’t have to work hard to convince my fiancé to join me for a weekend trip to visit my parents in my South Carolina hometown. For starters (and this admittedly is a biased opinion), my mom and dad are a delight to be around—but they also live in Charleston, which Southern Living readers have named The South’s Best City several years running. At this point, the Holy City requires no introduction or persuasive arguments in its favor: The booming food scene, colorful historic homes, and waterfront views make the case for themselves. It’s easy to fill a weekend itinerary there, and I’m never able to hit all my favorite spots in just one trip. Here are the places that land on my Charleston bucket list whenever I’m home, from the lauded, well-known destinations to the ones that fly a bit further under the radar.
Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop
The worst kept secret in the city is hands-down my favorite restaurant to take visitors, especially first-timers. For me, no other place in town captures so well the relaxed ease that seems woven into Charleston’s very DNA. Housed in an old garage and outfitted with warm wooden tables and an art collection that feels like it was passed down from generation to generation until it landed here, Leon’s is the kind of place that feels like it’s always been part of the Charleston dining landscape—a triumph considering it’s a relative newcomer, opened in 2014. Fried chicken and oysters may be the main draws on the menu, but don’t miss the scalloped potatoes either.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
The two-and-a-half mile cable-stayed crossing between downtown Charleston and the suburb of Mount Pleasant is a scenic place to break a sweat. Climb the hilly spans on the protected pedestrian path, and stop at the top to catch your breath and score a bird’s-eye view of the sparkling Cooper River and downtown Charleston, including the many steeples that earned my hometown its Holy City moniker.
Marina Variety Store & Restaurant
In a destination filled with Instagram-worthy diners and boutique-y brunch spots, this casual, teetering-on-unbothered, harborfront joint isn’t appearing in the curated pages of luxury travel magazines. But at breakfast time, its familiar siren call beckons locals in droves. Here, you can count on a well-poached egg, plenty of salt in your grits, and silver dollar pancakes that’ll please even the pickiest tiny eater.
Croghan’s Jewel Box
When there’s a special occasion to be celebrated in my family, our go-to spot for finding meaningful, heirloom-worthy gifts is this century-old shop on King Street that’s helmed by the third and fourth generations of the same family. Beyond curating an incredible assortment of new and estate jewelry and silver, they also carry the Goldbug Collection, a cheeky, more approachable line of pieces designed in-house and inspired by the city.
Cru Café
Just steps off the beaten path in an old Single House, this Charleston institution (it celebrated 20 years in 2022) serves up a thoughtful medley of flavors in homey surrounds. For a true Holy City experience, snag a table on the porch, and start with an order of the fried green tomatoes, which come topped with sheep’s milk feta, smoked tomato caramel, and pork belly croutons so good that my dad’s been known to order a side dish of just those.
Melton Peter Demetre Park
Only a few miles from downtown, James Island is largely residential without much draw for tourists. It’s where I grew up, and we spent many a low-tide afternoon hunting for sharks’ teeth on the little beach at a place we called Sunset Park. (I’ve since learned that many other locals refer to it as Sunrise Park. Tomato, to-mah-to, I suppose.) For a true locals-only experience, head to the city-owned waterfront spot, where you can picnic with panoramic views of downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant or cast a line off the 190-foot fishing pier.
Sullivan’s Island
For a quintessential Lowcountry beach day, there’s no stretch of sand more alluring than the pristine shore of Sullivan’s Island, a small barrier island ten miles from downtown Charleston. There’s not a trace of touristy kitsch in this bitty beach town, where historic homes line oak-shaded streets and storybook cottages invite passersby to stop and smell rose-wrapped trellises.
Chez Nous
Tucked in an historic house on a hidden away street, you likely wouldn’t just happen upon this neighborhood eatery that feels like a mini escape to Europe, and that’s half the charm. The cozy surrounds are elevated but inviting, and the handwritten menu of seasonally driven dishes changes daily. It’s fortunate, too, that the menu is so tiny (two appetizers, two mains, two desserts), as it provides a good excuse to order one of each.
Bowens Island Restaurant
Even after nearly eight years in Birmingham, Alabama, there's one thing I still can't stomach: Gulf shrimp. I'll take South Carolina's small crustaceans any day over the rubbery monstrosities they've tried to talk me into eating here. So when I'm home, there's only one place to load up on the good stuff, and that's Bowens Island, a nearly 80-year-old family-owned restaurant perched in a few ramshackle structures on the river. Order a fried shrimp platter with hushpuppies and slaw, or go for the Frogmore Stew (for the uninitiated, that's a shrimp boil), a drool-worthy combination of boiled shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage.
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