Architecture has long been a primary gateway to experiencing Charleston, but appetite is now equally the entrée, so to speak, to the Holy City’s sacristy of delights. At Zero George, we consider the culinary arts to be as equally refined as hospitality. In fact, they’re inseparable.
Also, we assume that if you’re in any way, shape or form a “foodie” you’ve already made a reservation to experience dinner at Zero Restaurant + Bar, so this guide steers you to some of our favorites beyond those at your 0´ doorstep.
Day 1
A little of this, a little of that
Get schooled
Zero George Cooking Class
Zero George
Enjoy an intimate chef ’s table-style cooking class hosted by Executive Chef Vinson Petrillo. Located inside our c.1804 kitchen carriage house, gather ‘round our Heston cooktop and get an up-close and personal demonstration of Chef ’s expert techniques featuring local and seasonally-driven fare.
Field trip
Charleston Tea Garden
6617 Maybank Hwy. Wadmalaw Island
Hello neighbor! After a stop at Charleston Tea Garden in Wadmalaw Island, check out Deep Water Vineyard right next door.
Dinnertime
Wild Common
103 Spring St.
See the Zero concierge to get those coveted dinner times at our sister restaurant Wild Common - we promise it’s a delightfully uncommon dining experience. Book your reservation.
Shop + taste
Charleston Farmer’s Market
Marion Square
Live like a local every Saturday at the Charleston Farmers Market in Marion Square.
Day 2
In which we cut to the chase with three good meals, but who’s counting
Breakfast
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit
476 1/2 King St.
There’s nothing more southern, and more decadent, than a fresh-baked, fluffy, perfectly golden biscuit. And no one makes them more perfectly than the crew at Callie’s. Plus, it’s the cutest teeny storefront AND the best deal in town: ~$6 for a sampler three-pack. Though we’re betting you’ll want more.
Pro-Tip: Order the famous biscuits online, frozen or refrigerated, to ship directly to you (or to your lucky gift recipients).
Field trip
Brewery Tour
Downtown Charleston
Enjoy “hopping” around on a brewery tour featuring a selection of the area’s best breweries on the upper peninsula. Grab a bike taxi so you don’t have to worry about a designated driver!
Lunch
167 Raw
193 King St.
The world is your oyster at 167 Raw, a local favorite seafood joint a short walk away on lower King Street.
Pro-Tip: They don’t take reservations, so aim for an early or late lunch to avoid the line (it typically moves fast).
Dinnertime
FIG
232 Meeting St.
Founded by James Beard Award-winning chef, FIG’s ever-changing menu always delights. Food Is Good!
Pro-Tip: Reservations open four weeks in advance, so book as soon as you make your travel plans!
Day 3
In which we digest (just a bit) and explore Charleston’s soul
Lunch
Xiao Bao Biscuit
224 Rutledge Ave.
For all its culinary gusto, Charleston was lacking on the ethnic food front, until Xiao Bao shook things up and converted an old gas station into the go-to spot for all things spicy, intriguing and robustly flavorful. Asian street food on a sweet Charleston street corner.
Pro-Tip: Try the cabbage pancake!
Field trip
Down Home Charleston
Downtown Charleston
You missed brunch? Don’t panic. Visit Martha Lou’s or Bertha’s Kitchen for authentic, lip-smacking Soul Food.
Dinnertime
Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop
698 King St.
A local favorite, Leon’s serves up fresh local seafood, oysters and the best fried chicken in town - trust us. Did someone say Frosé?
