The Pineapple Fountain represents the true meaning of the crowned fruit, Welcome, Friendship and Hospitality, the very essence of this fantastic city. There is a reason why Charleston is voted #1 in North America and #2 in the world by Conde' Nast Traveler and Travel & Leisure, it's rich history, natural beauty, amazing culinary and southern hospitality, make it not just a world class summer vacation destination, but a fantastic getaway any time of year!

Charleston is much more than cobblestone streets and classical architecture, it has become the culinary capital of the southeast, in this city, "History Reigns, Food Rules!"

There are over 200 restaurants in this beautiful city, offering everything from slow cooked traditional southern food and barbecue, to farm to table and fine dining, including several James Beard award winners.

Award winning Sean Brock's Husk and it's sister restaurant, McCrady's, members of the Neighborhood Restaurant Group and two of my favorites. Husk, Bon Appetit's 2011 Best New Restaurant in America, features a modern take on farm to table southern food whose menu changes daily based on the fresh ingredients of the day. McCrady's set in a 4-story Georgian House, circa 1778, home of Edward McGrady, which he opened as McCrady's Tavern, has been many things since his death in 1802, but today stands as both a tavern and adjacent haute cuisine multi-course tasting room. Another favorite is the Hall Family's Hall's Chophouse. Jeannie and Bill Hall opening Hall's in 2009 joined by sons, Tommy and Billy, this family has spent all of their lives in the hospitality industry.

A true neighborhood hot spot offering a well rounded menu for all palette's, live music and the best Gospel Sunday Brunch in town! In fact, Jeff and I went for brunch once and stayed through dinner enjoying gospel and jazz all afternoon long! And, by the way, we were among several other tables who did the same thing!

Did I mention shopping? A day on King Street is a shopping extravaganza! From fine art and antiques to designer boutiques, book stores, home decor, chocolates, cosmetics and coffee shops, King Street is Charleston at it's best.

Hotels range from Belmond's Charleston Place, to lovely and quaint B&B's and guest houses. There is truly something for everyone in Charleston. Whether you are a foodie, shopper or history buff, Charleston has it all. Check out Jeff's historic walking audio tour of the city at historicwalkingtour.com! I hope you can add Charleston to your summer travel planning! You will be glad you did! Send me your photos and favorite places! Happy July!

the dish blog

Summer Travel Series - Charleston, America's #1