In with the New: Charleston Food Trends for 2023
As we approach the new year, it’s time to take a look at the upcoming food trends that will dominate Charleston in 2023. While some trends may seem contradictory, it’s important to remember that they can coexist and contribute to the vibrant food scene in the city. Let’s dive into these exciting culinary developments:
The Return of the $10 Cocktail
Good news for cocktail enthusiasts – the $10 cocktail is making a comeback! But don’t worry, the $20 cocktail isn’t going away either. Charleston’s bars and restaurants are embracing a variety of price points to cater to all budgets and preferences.
Reservation-Free Venues
Gone are the days of exclusively booking restaurants through reservation apps like Resy. While the rise of walk-in-friendly establishments is a welcome change, it doesn’t diminish the popularity of reservation-based dining experiences. Charleston’s dining scene is diverse enough to accommodate both concepts.
A Glimpse into Restaurant Criticism
This year saw the revival of restaurant critics, signaling a positive shift in the industry. While it’s debatable whether criticism is necessary or fair, its resurgence suggests that restaurants are thriving enough to handle constructive feedback. Let’s remember to support these businesses in any way we can.
The Rise of TikTok Reviews
While Yelp has long been a platform for both scathing and praising restaurant reviews, TikTok has added a new dimension to this trend. Laymen and women have taken to the video-sharing app to share their thoughts on dining experiences, often with aesthetically pleasing clips. While this trend tends to go viral on a national scale, local restaurants like Brown Dog Deli have reaped the benefits of positive exposure.
Online Supportive Communities
Alongside negative reviewers, many individuals use online platforms, particularly Facebook groups, to support and uplift local restaurants. Lowcountry Eat Out!, a group created during the pandemic to support struggling restaurants, now boasts over 100,000 followers. It’s heartwarming to see the community rallying behind new culinary ventures and hidden gems.
Expanding International Cuisine
Charleston’s dining scene is embracing international flavors with the opening of establishments like Bintü Atelier, Kultura, and Ma’am Saab. While these hotspots are downtown attractions, more highly anticipated restaurants are popping up in the suburbs. Expect neighborhoods like North Mount Pleasant and Park Circle to become the go-to destinations for big-name dining experiences.
The Love for Seafood
Seafood, especially in its raw form, continues to be celebrated by bars, restaurants, and breweries in the area. Raw bars like The Quinte, The Harlowe, and upcoming additions in Holy City Brewing Co. and Fleet Landing offer locals and visitors an abundance of freshly shucked oysters and more.
Low and No-Alcohol Options
For those seeking alcohol-free alternatives, Charleston now provides an array of choices. The national trend of low and no-alcohol beverages has gained significant momentum locally, with Sechey, an alternative spirit shop on King Street, partnering with Target to offer a curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages. Local company High Rise Bev has also introduced a hemp-infused drink concept with the opening of High Rise Dry Bar on James Island.
Something for Everyone
Charleston’s thriving food scene ensures there’s something for everyone, regardless of dietary preferences or preferences for spirited or spirit-free options. Whether you choose to indulge in a craft cocktail from The Den or savor a mocktail at High Rise Dry Bar, you’ll find an enticing culinary experience throughout the city.
As we embark on a new year filled with exciting food trends, let’s remember to support our local restaurants and hospitality workers. Together, we can continue to make Charleston a vibrant culinary destination.