No eggs, no cheese, no butter, no seafood, no meat—no problem? Then you’re probably a vegan.
Across the country, the lean toward a plant-based diet is a growing trend. Whether chosen as a matter of health, conscience or both, it’s a lifestyle that requires a modicum of research and inquiry to ensure a truly vegan experience when patronizing South Carolina’s restaurants.
After all, you’re in the land of barbecue, macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits, which can pose more than a few dining challenges.
The menus at South Carolina’s vegan operations shine with fresh flavors. While you’ll be wowed by the creativity that goes into these dishes, the most surprising revelation of all is that you likely won’t feel meat deprived.
If you think Charleston is a mere hotbed of shrimp and grits, think again. Restaurants here reflect a kaleidoscope of eating styles and tastes executed with the same dedication you’d expect from our most notable establishments.
While known for its historical appeal and traditions, Charleston is a progressive city that caters to modern tastes. Here are some restaurants where the vegan offerings are designed to wow.
Annie O Love's Cookie Cafe
What started as a farmers market cookie operation has evolved into a full-blown cafe. Annie O Love's claim to fame is a menu that is totally vegan and gluten-free.
Much attention goes into sourcing ingredients for the delicious foods served at this cafe of sweet abundance. Sandwiches made with fresh, grainy breads and tasty fillings are a crowd favorite as are inventive granolas, savory spreads, waffles and desserts, which include, of course, cookie creations. If a cookie gelato sandwich has your sweet tooth throbbing, this is your place.
Vegan raves: Spicy Avocado Chik’n Sammich, Chik’n and Waffles, Peanut Butter Apocalypse Cheesecake and Jars of Abundance filled with indulgent combos of cake, fruit, nuts, chocolate and more
Huriyali Gardens
Big flavor issues from this diminutive but charming blue building shaded by a weeping willow.
Health-conscious, locally sourced vegan dishes and fresh juices are Huriyali's calling card along with a hip vibe and pleasant patio seating.
Vegan raves: Vegan barbecue sandwiches, acai bowls, buddha bowl, goddess salad
Sorghum and Salt
Fresh seafood is a draw at Charleston fave, Sorghum and Salt, but the vegan dishes have garnered plenty of admirers, too.
The seasonal, rotating menu of small plates has a dedicated vegan component filled with dishes bursting with local goodness. Ingredients like Carolina Gold rice, local butterbeans and, aptly, sorghum, deliver Lowcountry flair and demonstrate a commitment to showcasing the best of South Carolina. For a memorable treat, gather your vegan friends to enjoy a chef’s tasting menu.
Vegan rave examples: Charred acorn squash with Carolina Gold rice, persimmon jam and pickled peppers, butterbean panzanella, coffee-roasted carrots with winter squash vinaigrette, jalapeño and granola
