🇺🇸 Scottish Guy Tries Fancy Southern Food in Charleston SC

Trying Shrimp n Grits in Charleston South Carolina.
Join me on Patreon: / shaun

[@jenfine]

A good rule of thumb for any American city is to ignore the fancy places and find out where the locals eat for authentic food. You’ll get a better meal for less money.

[@shaunvlog]

Hi Jen! Thanks for the advice. It's so true, the best spots are often where the locals flock. We'll definitely keep that in mind for our next stops. Appreciate your insights and thanks for watching! 🍽🏙 -Shaun

[@Gamecocks4life70]

Yes sir, get out of the tourist territory and hit the outskirts. The outer islands and some inland spots are much more reasonable, down to earth and not a SNOB (Slightly North of Broad) wanna impress spot. Better food and better people!

[@ericsteel173]

My father was a world traveller, he always told me, in his experience, the best restaurants aren’t the big, expensive 5 star restaurants, the best restaurants were the small hole in the wall, mom and pop shops with the line out the door. He worked for 7 US Presidents, so he got to experience 5 star dining.

[@doratiscareno5856]

​@@shaunvlog Dude You don't even know what yr doing. Get off the camera 👎 You were suppose to make a video about San Francisco...BUT YOU NEVER SHOWED SAN FRANCISCO YOU SHOW YR FACE ALOT AND YOU SHOWED HOTEL HALLWAYS 👎👎👎

[@shaunvlog]

@@doratiscareno5856 hundreds of thousands of people disagree with you. Cry more

[@jasonremy1627]

Shaun cleaning the steam off the camera to reveal his sweaty face is the most Charleston thing ever.

[@Allaneddie1]

July and August in Charleston define what humidity is

[@shaunvlog]

Hey Jason! Haha, I'm glad you caught that moment. Embracing the Charleston vibes to the fullest! Thanks for tuning in. 😅🌴📸 -Shaun

[@spaceshiplewis]

Southern food is best done by small hole in the wall restaurants. The fancy stuff is fine for the more delicate high class people, but that's definitely not where you find the deep full flavors. Don't worry if you don't like Shrimp and Grits, it's not the only defining Southern food. There is plenty other Southern dishes that can make you feel at home in The South.

[@shaunvlog]

Lewis, I couldn't agree more. There's something special about those hole-in-the-wall spots that capture the essence of a place. We're on the hunt for those deep, full flavors you mentioned. And yep, there's a whole array of Southern dishes we're eager to try! Thanks for the encouragement. 🍖🥘 -Shaun

[@nedhill1242]

That's a minority view if you survey people in and around Charleston. It's a serious food culture. Charleston was a great food town long before it became trendy. The top restaurants in town are all very popular with locals.

[@debbiel.1655]

I would never stop watching ya'll just because you don't like a food item. Food is very subjective. I love watching ya'll because I love your content and personalities. Keep 'em coming:)

[@LindaC616]

Agreed!

[@shaunvlog]

Debbie, your support means the world to me! Glad to know you're sticking around no matter my food preferences. 😂 Every place and dish is a new experience. Thanks for loving our content and personalities. Big love! ❤ -Shaun

[@tammyjones8102]

I'm a Native Texan and 64. I don't like grits not ashamed to say it. Covid robbed me of my love of shrimp. Louisiana isn't pretentious place, it's more of I show u love with my food. No worries we still love u. A new viewer

[@MarySpain1958]

I'm a southetner born in Va. I hate grits.i Tried them different ways even w cheese but nope.

[@patriotjon8535]

I feel you Shaun. I am from Louisiana. Lived in the south all my life. We eat grits, But ONLY as a breakfast food. When I first saw them using Shrimp with grits, in fancy restaurants, I didn't "Get it" I thought it was pretty silly. My advice, Is to find out where locals go for their "Cheap eats" Those places live and die on the reputation of their food, And Prices. And are usually the safest bet for an awesome meal. Love your videos!!!

[@LilliLamour]

The Gullah Geechee people invented the dish shrimp and grits. It's been around longer than people know and was made to be eaten any time of day.

[@CindyBoyle]

Shrimp and grits is stupid

[@skcocemag]

​@@CindyBoylewrong.

[@Lynn-kh5rs]

Unfortunately one of the best "cheap eats" places didn't survive the Covid shutdown. Jestine's Kitchen was a great, simple Southern restaurant on Meeting St. They'd been in Charleston for 24 years.

[@WardDorrity]

I'm an old (72) Loosiana boy. Growing up, grits were always a breakfast deal. Two eggs, sunny side up, white toast, bacon or sausage and grits. Butter on the grits and toast. Tabasco on the eggs - always.

[@-EchoesIntoEternity-]

that wasnt really a good representation of shrimp n grits, looked too froofroo fancy. shrimp n grits is a humble southern comfort dish.

[@jeffhampton2767]

It's gross

[@lairdcummings9092]

Shrimp & Grits is working class food. Sure, you can fancy it up, but that's really unnecessary.

[@ninetteburns3258]

The best shrimp and grits are across the Ravenel bridge in Mount Pleasant - Page’s Okra Grill! Yum!

[@debk5427]

Those grits looked too dry. Good grits are not dry and clumpy.

[@LilliLamour]

Yes a good soul food dish.

[@xnonsuchx]

I’ve never had shrimp & grits where the sauce/‘gravy’ was sweet, so that seemed odd. The grits also looked kinda dry. Gumbo looked decent, though. Grits/polenta can be rather hit or miss, if not made well. Sometimes they’re not cooked enough and sometimes they’re very bland. I wasn’t fond of them myself the first few times I tried because they were bland, but then I had some dishes with them that were really good.

[@alfredray5608]

The sauce is sweet because it is made with shrimp broth. Grits are cooked a bit dry to hold up under the sauce.

[@jamessloanofficial]

Poogan’s Porch is named for a neighborhood dog that hung about the restaurant porch for years. Although he passed away in the late 70’s, many say that his spirit can still be felt, and occasionally seen, in his favorite spot on the porch.

[@JPMJPM]

Yes! There is even a little statue of the dog in the front garden!

[@annemack174]

I'm in SC. I LOVE LOVE LOVE grits. BUT, I agree, I don't care for 82 Queens Shrimp & Grits either. I doubt you'll get there, but the Old Edisto Post Office Restaurant (barrier island about an hour South of Charleston) has the best Shrimp & Grits I've ever had. No tomatoes. It's grits from corn grown on the island and shrimp caught there as well all with a mousseline sauce. It's outstanding. Recipe is available online if your interested.

[@sherryarflin726]

Not everyone loves grits. Even southerners! I’m just glad you gave them a chance. My children and grandchildren hate them. We were all in born and raised in South Carolina and I have a granddaughter who lives in Charleston and she still hates them….I love them especially Shrimp and Grits.

[@lairdcummings9092]

My take on it is: "If you don't like grits, you've never had good grits " Either that, or you're weird. I didn't learn about grits until I was 12 or 13; first had them on a camping trip, and oatmeal suddenly took a backseat.

[@shaunvlog]

Hi Sherry! It's always fascinating to see how even within families and local regions, food preferences can vary. Glad to know I'm not the only one who's on the fence about grits. 😅 I did give them a shot, and that's what traveling is all about: trying new things! Thanks for sharing about your family's diverse tastes! 🍤🍚 -Shaun

[@Lynn-kh5rs]

If you ever make it back to Charleston in cooler weather, say Spring or Fall, you really need to take a foodie walking tour. You'll go to several different places to sample different foods and be stuffed by the end of it. It's a great way to sample the area's food. You might also want to take a guided tour to learn about some of Charleston's fascinating history, the architecture, Palmetto trees and some of the other suggested meanings of the pineapple in Colonial times.

[@shaunvlog]

Lynn, that foodie walking tour sounds like an amazing experience! If we find ourselves back in Charleston during a cooler season, I'll definitely consider it. Love the idea of sampling a variety of local foods. And a guided tour to learn about Charleston's history and culture would be the cherry on top. Thanks for the recommendations! 🍲🚶‍♂ -Shaun

[@tad22560]

Personally, I think that the fact that you said you didn't like the food adds authenticity to your video. I see to many visiting vloggers who (claim to) absolutely love everything they try. That makes me wonder if they're being truthful. Looking forward to seeing more of your travels.

[@bobbysc6348]

82 Queen sucks. He made the right call for sure.

[@RSPDiver]

Glad you went to 82 Queen! Amazing she crab soup, though super rich. This place is a staple for solid fancy date night dining. The back porch is wonderful in cooler weather. Poogan’s is also amazing, with a great story. There’s more authentic food for sure, but 82 is more about the ambiance.

[@user-ce3ud8ci1x]

We love 82 Queen. But I 've never had a bad meal in Charleston, it's a foodie town.

[@msp9810]

Did you send him there? That food looked horrible honesty and I am from the low country, not Charleston but Williamsburg county.

[@rosemadder5547]

Nice thick Grits with just butter and salt yum yum yum lol Great Episode!

[@randalmayeux8880]

Glad you mentioned " thick"! That's how grits should be. I hate runny grits. Also, plenty of fresh ground black pepper, butter and salt to taste.

[@mariejustme]

Enjoying your Southern journey. I’m a born and bred Georgian and can’t wait to see what you get up to in Savannah, one of my favorite places. I sympathize with you about your headache-I suffer from migraines myself and the heat only makes it worse. You might want to supplement your water intake with something to replenish your electrolytes, like Gatorade, or Biolyte since it has much less sugar.

[@hoperemsen6335]

Amen to it all! And Go Dawgs!!

[@shaunvlog]

Marie, thanks for following along on our Southern journey! So excited to share our adventures in Savannah. And thank you for the advice on electrolytes - I'll definitely keep that in mind, especially with the heat. Migraines are no fun, so I appreciate the tip! Stay well and hydrated! 💧🌞 -Shaun

[@buddystewart2020]

I'm from the South. I love grits. I love shrimp and grits, but it doesn't bother me one bit if you don't. You liking it or not liking it won't change it's appeal to me so, eat what you like dude.

[@tejida815]

It’s terrible about that over salted soup. Many people I know would have sent it back. Props for eating hot food during a heat wave even in an air conditioned restaurant.

[@shaunvlog]

Hey there! Yes, that soup was a bit of a challenge. 😅 Sometimes you just have to roll with it, right? We definitely strive for authentic experiences, and that includes the occasional meal that's not quite up to par. Thanks for the support! 🍲🔥 -Shaun

[@shellm8303]

When I went to Scotland 23 yr ago, I brought grits with me. Lol not the packets either. I did cook them, and they were actually liked. The ones in this video reminded me more of polenta. Not what this Ga. Girl would make. They looked like they needed to be creamier for my liking. Ya need home cooked grits. 😉

[@shaunvlog]

That's a fun story! Bringing grits to Scotland must've been quite the cultural exchange. It's all about finding that perfect consistency, right? I'll definitely keep an eye out for those creamier, home-cooked grits that you mentioned. Thanks for the tip and sharing your experience! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🍚 -Shaun

[@starthomasYoung]

A lot of people don’t love grits. So we will put down the pitchforks and torches and still welcome y’all in. But you may get a bless his heart or two. Love your videos!

[@mcgee227]

Don't ever go to Charleston in August. Go late October or early April.

[@pamelascott5702]

The Hyman's restaurant is on Meeting Street or Road. It's a seafood restaurant. It has started names at different tables, and it is said that that star actually sat at that setting. They have photos of stars all along the restaurant walls. The food is delicious.

[@MsLamotta]

Omg! NO! The worst food! Inedible. Tourist trap. Please. None of us go there! How could u even suggest that to him?

[@pamelascott5702]

@@MsLamotta everything I have tried from there is delicious. And it wasn't expensive like the place he went to.

[@seashells616]

You won't get canceled over not liking grits :) Plenty of people born and raised in the south don't like them (my husband was one of them). I, like your lovely wife, love them. Glad you guys are enjoying your time in "Chuck-town".

[@shaunvlog]

Hey there! I'm relieved to hear I won't be canceled for my grit preferences. 😂 It's great to know that food tastes vary widely, even in places known for specific dishes. "Chuck-town" has been a blast so far. Thanks for the love and for tuning in! 🏙❤ -Shaun

[@Ekkis25]

Poogans that you walked past is great for Shrimp and grits and their fried chicken is fantastic! I live here in SC and I have never been to Husk, getting a table is tough. But there are plenty of good places to eat. I always just called it the Battery and that body of water I have always just called it the Atlantic Ocean, but then again, I am just a provincial!

[@evadoubleu]

We need food to be salty because of the heat and humidity. We lose fluids easily here in the South.🧂

[@NewYawkahBroad]

My father in law is from Cool Springs SC. His people hail from Scotland. Quite a few from the UK settled in that area. I wish I could remember where my husband said he got the best fried oysters he's ever tasted there...FYI, The Yorktown II across the way was my dad's ship in WW II. Like boiled peanuts, you either love or hate grits. I love grits two eggs over easy, breakfast sausage and cheese. If you're still there you HAVE to have Robert's onion rings just outside of Charleston.

[@jackhogston6119]

Lived in the South for 17 years, tried grits numerous different ways, never loved it. So I know where you're coming from.

[@tompinnef6331]

I always look for places that the locals eat at. Cheaper and ton's better at times then the tourist places. If to cops are eating there - it's good and cheap. lol. Thank you for the video.

[@annfrost3323]

Remember, you can always reject any dish you really dislike or it turns to be bad. They will not get mad and they will not charge for it. I took my sister to an IHOP and ordered just crepes for me. She ordered an entree. My instinct is to not ask for things that are not their specialty. Anyway my sister didn't like the food at all and the waitress took it away and dropped it in a trash bin. My sister only had some of my crepes and they, of course, didn't charge for her dish.

[@andie22311]

That was my thought. Order what that place is known for. I would have chosen a southern food while there- gumbo in Louisiana.

[@1CathyHendrix]

Looks like ya'll are enjoying your time in Charleston. It is a beautiful city. Can't wait for your next video. I always enjoy them. Tell Teka hello! Hope ya'll have a great week ahead and God bless!

[@johnsettin7234]

Grit in the South is Polenta in Italy. Same stuff. Slightly different preparation.

[@jeanniewofford8726]

I agree with you!! Never had grits until moving to US south Like them but not in love with them. The best shrimp and grits I've ever had was in Savanah. Georgia. They made their grits with heavy cream and butter. Yum! Charleston fantastic but very pricey. Love watching you two !!

We grew up on grits down here. From the time we are small children, grits are a staple breakfast food we eat with eggs and bacon. Some like it with cheese and butter, some like it with hominey gravy. Shrimp and grits is a coastal thing we enjoy quite often as well.

[@LilliLamour]

Shaun, the reason why you probably don't like grits is because the places you've eaten them at... Try them at a soul food restaurant. Especially, since you're in the Carolinas. The dish shrimp and grits were created by the Gullah Geechee people who are mainly from the Carolinas. I'm sure they'll make it authentically.

[@jeffhampton2767]

Grits are like Farina or porridge. Many people just don't like the texture or the idea of them. Are you suggesting that he's an unexperienced eater and that you came along to educate him and to save the day? He said he doesn't like grits. Case closed. Soul food sucks. He likes sea scallops he should have went to a normal seafood restaurant and got a plate of sea scallops.

[@sharonc1858]

I like grits ok with butter and a little milk or cream and sugar, I like cream of wheat better made the same way. Actually I like rice made the same way too. lol

[@Whatlander]

Welcome to the south, which is like living on the sun, but moist. Can't wait for you to hit up Savannah! You can grade Molly MacPherson's pub on its authenticity (or lack thereof) and experience Fancy Parker's. Or just go to The Pirate House. It's corny but fun, with good food. My favorite spot to get a bite and a pint is Moon River Brewing Company. The Crab Shack is a very unique place to experience, as well. It's largely an outdoor restaurant, but also has rescue cats and birds as well as a gator enclosure and a games room. It is not boring, for sure.

[@Allaneddie1]

Savanna is like Charleston’s younger brother. Great to visit both but much more in Charleston.

[@kellyc2425]

Bruv, its totally ok to not like grits. Personally, I love em'. And shrimp n grits is one of my very favorite dishes. But i love them just buttered (and cheddar), salt n pepper with bacon, sausage, and eggs. OMG now I gotta get my butt in that kitchen NOW, and whip me up a batch. I have 5 different kinds on hand... orange colored, yellow, white, regular ground, course ground. Course stone milled are my fave. Ok folks... im off to the kitchen now!!

[@jcalohio]

Court of Two Sisters in NOLA in the past was fantastic.

[@pamela2211]

I ate at a place there in Charleston called RB's around 20 years ago. It was wonderful. The She crab soup was fantastic. They brought out Sherry to put in your soup and it gave it a great flavor.

[@sherribanks1856]

So many Southers especially in South Carolina, have Scottish heritage, me included. My father's people came from Scotland. We also, have many Scottish festivals in SC. We do all those highland games and such. Probably where we learned all of our hospitality from.

[@marysanford7040]

I’m sure you’ve heard of Hyman’s seafood restaurant. It’s kitschy but I like their charitable attitude and that they give out food when the wait is long. Not crowded too badly in off-season. ❤ Magnolia Gardens and Audubon bird sanctuary too. I enjoy your vlogs!

[@kellyhinson4221]

I always tell people to check their calendar since they close on all the Jewish high holidays. My husband and I always seem to visit during Rosh Hoshanah😂

[@bobbysc6348]

Being born in Charleston I know to never set foot in Hymans lol.

[@marysanford7040]

@@bobbysc6348 I guess we had a hard time finding a reasonably priced local restaurant that we could get seated in. In tourist clothes. They even gave out hush puppies once when the wait was 30 minutes.

[@Ralphoneforthegipper]

The 2nd floor Women's restroom at Poogan's Porch is supposedly haunted. I had fish and chips, it was great.

[@TripleBerg]

South Carolina is famous for grits, but like haggis (which I usually love), it’s kind of an acquired taste. She crab soup is a must try in Charleston.

[@ttjohns4821]

We do she crab here in virginia too and it's not supposed to be noticeably salty.

[@TripleBerg]

@@ttjohns4821 That made me wonder too. Don’t remember it being salty.

[@valerierogers3836]

SHAUN be aware Bless your heart is almost always a back handed insult LOL

[@gloriaalex11]

So glad y'all enjoyed your time here. When I first moved to the South, it took several tries to get used to grits, but now I love them. Been to 82 Queen once for a "fancy" dinner date over 20 years ago so I don't remember what we ate, but it was very nice.

[@gwilson87]

Hey Shaun, glad you got to experience Charleston! I grew up near there in the SC Low Country, lots of family and friends there. Love that place, and your channel as well!

[@MichaelW969]

We really appreciate your.honest review. Don't ever change

[@shadowwitch4796]

LOL like many things in the South grits can be an acquired taste.

[@dmbalsam]

We came back from visiting your country, 3 week driving tour including 5 islands. We had wonderful food in the smallest and remote Inns.

[@janetedens]

I have lived in SC for quite a few years and have never heard the name Chucktown. lol. Mercy. Thank you for sharing your video.

[@saywhat2651]

So glad you’re enjoying Charleston, it’s one of my favorite places in the world.❤

[@liselottnelson5479]

I live about an hour away from Charleston and have eaten at Husk many times. It’s amazing ❤

[@marjoriewolcott2481]

fleet landing restaurant has really good food and beautiful views

[@jodyharnish9104]

I grew up in Kansas, in the center of the US. My mom used to make me eat grits for breakfast sometimes, and I hated them. The texture made me want to gag. I have never eaten them again.

[@johnsmith-tn8rn]

I live in downtown Charleston, raised my n the South and there is no way you’ll get me to eat grits so you’re in good company. So glad y’all love Charleston! Btw, “y’all” can be one person or more than one. “All y’all” is always more than one. 😂 Note: come back at Christmas and walk the streets and alleys in the Historic District, South of Broad. Start around 7p. Dark, silent y’all will be the joy ones walking and the houses are lit up for Christmas. Wonderful.

[@cookielady7662]

If I remember correctly, I think you once said you didn't love corn. Grits are a corn product, so maybe that's why they're not your thing. Enjoying watching your travel vlogs. TFS.

[@ayrplanes]

I grew up in the southern US. We never ate grits. My father did buy them though to sprinkle on his workshop floor and slide heavy things around on them to make them easy to move.

[@rogerparks2373]

My Scottish ancestors came over in the mid 1700`s. The Scottish heritage here is very pronounced, and i`m sure it`s a large part of the southern hospitality.

[@ShawtyzBack777]

Speaking of pineapples. Many use to leave them on their dining tables when they had guests as a welcome, however when you wore out your welcome the family would remove them, letting you know it was time to go.

[@LindaC616]

I live in Newport, Rhode Island, and since we are a tourist town, it is a symbol of hospitality here. Many, many years ago, British sailors used to put them on the gate posts out front when their sons returned from overseas and brought them back. They were no good for consumption, so they served as a message to people that the son was back and visitors could come calling.

[@jennifery5353]

To get good cuisine of any culture, you have to go to the locals and not to a fancy restaurant where most of the people learned how to cook it in culinarily school. It’s different. The shrimp on that plate definitely wasn’t locally sourced. My family is from Charleston. If you ever visit again, let me know so that I can hook you up! I work outside in the south and the heat will try to kill you 😅. Take in plenty of electrolytes, like liquid IV.

[@becb7936]

Born and raised Georgian here. To me the best grits are cooked more slowly with enough water added to make them softer and creamier, not dry and stiff. Add some salt and butter or margarine and if desired, top with a slice of cheese and let it melt or add grated cheese and stir it into the grits. Either for breakfast (stir in your scrambled cheese eggs), or for supper with fried salmon patties. Mmmm!

[@randalmayeux8880]

To me the consistency of grits should be about that of mashed potatoes.

[@jlyo1991]

DUDE! That’s so awesome you came to Charleston! I love it here. Moved here from Alabama.

[@dmbalsam]

Shrimp and grits a can vary so much across the south. It is one of my go to dishes to try.

[@Dak36]

Where you were walking along the water is the Cooper River which flows together with Ashley River at end of Battery to form Charleston Harbor. You have to be out past Fort Sumter to be in the Atlantic. Charleston had very few restaurants 40 years ago. New Orleans is the food capital. It took them awhile to recover after Hurricane Katrina. Most chiefs in Charleston are not from here. They like to put their own spin on any of our local foods. Soul food restaurants and bbq joints are less expensive and closer to what we eat. Recently you have to be a prince to eat in most of the high brow restaurants. The camera cleared up because the glass adjusted to the temperature/ humidity. No one should visit the Deep South in Summer. Back in the day almost everyone left the City to go stay at a beach or the small mountains on other side of state. Thank you for your kind words about the city.

[@fluffymoonflower]

Best Creole food is at The Court of Two Sisters

[@patriciasmith5849]

I love grits. I live in the North, so I only get them when I visit the South. I still dream of the shrimp and grits I had at a cafe in New Orleans.

[@MarlaofTheNorth]

Shrimp and grits would be the last thing I ever dream of. Sauteed shrimp with tons of garlic over pasta would be delicious.

[@bearpawz_]

Patricia.. I'm in Anchorage, Alaska and a couple of restaurants here serve grits.. but the best I had up here was up in Fairbanks several years ago. I came up here from the south, so was shocked to see grits not only at the 1st place I ate at when I was in Fairbanks.. but the grocery stores have a large sections of grits here. I always hear people on KZbin also say .."If you're in the south, you might know what Dukes mayo is". Hey, they sell Dukes Mayo way up here too!! 😆 I've only located one grocery store that sells White Lily flour (another southern staple) but that's good enough! Making shrimp n grits at home is soooo easy! I'll bet anything if you looked hard enough, you'd find grits (not instant... uck), in one of your stores.. but if not, they're easy to order online! 🤗 xo 🍤

[@patriciasmith5849]

@bearpawz_ Wow, I can't believe they have your southern staples in Alaska. I will have to order online. Most stores near me only have instant. I think even the Cracker Barrel uses instant where I am in Pennsylvania.

[@bearpawz_]

@@patriciasmith5849 I visited Pennsylvania when I was working on genealogy stuff a couple years ago. I was in Centre, Blair, Huntingdon & Clearfield Counties & right at the peak of autumn colors! So beautiful there! 🍂🍃🍁🥬🍁🌿🥨 (p.s..I threw in a pretzel b'cas they're so good there!)😋

[@straycat3041]

Nah Shawn. I am a born and bred southern girl and no one in my family save one person likes grits at all. You are good.

[@espartaco2028]

Welcome to my city! I was voted Mr. Hospitality in Charleston South Carolina 1984, although my home was in Summerville, South Carolina. Over the decades, I’ve shared Southern Cuisine with many, many people, including the EXCELLENT work of the Blanche S. Rhett, Lettie Gay, and many others in Two hundred Years of Charleston Cooking, a great cookbook still available on Amazon. Charleston has truly only one other city on Earth in competition and that is San Sebastián Spain. They are, hands up, the two greatest culinary delight locations on planet Earth. Looks like you truly got into everything to see and do in the city of Charleston and surrounding, like Magnolia Gardens. Édisto Beach is one of the finest in the world for it’s amazing sea life in tidal pools and great Atlantic beaches. Charlestons greatest restaurants are 82 Queen, Magnolia's, Henry's and the Colony House. I´m moving to Killarney in 2028. Going to teach them some Charleston dining!

[@pennysilvey8868]

It’s ok that you don’t like grits! You can’t like everything. When you go to Savannah, you should check out Sweet Potatoes. Jolly did a video there. They’re famous for their Banana pudding. They’ve got a menu full of southern dishes you can try.

[@candyerwin5828]

Charleston is my very favorite place. I’m in love with Charleston! I’ve wanted to go to 82 Queen St restaurant but didn’t want to spend that kind of money. Thank you for going there. Now I know I probably wouldn’t like it either.

[@cathywood6153]

I'm right there with you regarding shrimp and grits.

[@bothellkenmore]

I like my shrimp on pasta for my starch (scampi) but you could use rice or even mashed tater as a sub for the grits starch component if you don't like grits.

[@lesterstone8595]

Sean announces his dislike for grits while I'm enjoying a bowl of menudo whose main ingredient is pozole/hominy, which is what grits are made of. Of course, his wife would like grits; she's South American, the spicy type of American. 😝

[@lauraellen189]

I love pozole!!!

[@teesiemom]

Born and raised in Mississippi, my mom always said ,"grits ain't groceries". 😅

[@lex6819]

I only like grits from the Cracker Barrel breakfast menu, and I like adding blackberry preserves to my grits, stir until blended and then eat. They are just better with a spoonful of jam or jelly.

[@nekoti.8-2]

Since you are in Charleston @Shaun, you should go across the Savannah River to Savannah Georgia. It is just south of Charleston. Tybee Beach is nearby and a good place to just relax and enjoy the beach . Also to the West and North are the Blue Ridge Mountains. Asheville has become a bit if a hipster city. The drive up the parkway is a life changing drive.

[@artboymoy]

I dig me some shrimp amd grits any time im down south. In SC right now and am bringing a bunch home to try making my own.

[@southrngungirl9904]

My grandma used to work downtown at Poogans Porch when she was young 😊 it’s named after a puppy dog. I wouldn’t recommend many downtown places for actual shrimp n grits. It’s all too fancy southern food, doing too much. Y’all were brave to visit in August. I was born here downtown, and I hibernate during August lol

[@RandomJane104]

I'm so glad you took our advice to visit Charleston and are loving it despite the weather. July - August is THE hottest time to go. I love good grits and ok grits because they are just a vehicle for tons of butter but I understand why they might be an acquired taste. I didn't like haggis. I can eat it but I didn't enjoy it except the appetizer ones we had with a cherry cola sauce. The black pudding though, I wish I had tried more of that. I think I could it that daily.

[@CindyBoyle]

He took my advice to visit Charleston not yours

[@RandomJane104]

@@CindyBoyle I'm having trouble interpreting the tone here. Is this in jest? I meet him a few years ago in Charlotte and suggested a visit to Charleston. He said several people had suggested it. I was saying that I'm glad he took the collective advice ("our" as in multiple suggestions from the US). I was not intending to take any personal credit.

[@LindaC616]

​@CindyBoyle seriously!?

[@randalmayeux8880]

Hi Shaun! Charleston is my favorite town in SC and Savannah my favorite in Georgia. I'm from Louisiana, and the food in south Louisiana is hard to beat. I never have had, in my 67 years of living, had shrimp and grits. I grew up eating both, but never put the two together. We always had grits as a breakfast food served with butter, salt and pepper. I never, ever put sugar on grits! And I would never waste shrimp by mixing them with grits. I mean, grits are just a utilitarian, bland carb. Be sure to try some S.Carolina barbeque while you're there. It's a lot different than the Texas or Kansas City types.

[@janetd8198]

In Louisiana the food is Creole and in South Carolina its Gullah, but very similar in heritage.

[@ryanwalters6184]

As a local the hot place is bbq place called swig & swine right now. They are so popular my neighborhood even gets their foodtruck for every event and there is alway a huge line. My favorite restaurant downtown Charleston is the variety store at the Charleston marina. It a hole in a wall place at the one of the best views in Charleston and one of the best breakfasts. Fresh shrimp right off the dock too. We would sometime on Saturdays drive the boat down the ashley for lunch there. Another poplar local spot is shem creek with with Paige okra grill as the top restaurant over there. Ton of bars with live music with great view and is the perfect place to watch the sunset over Charleston. We are really spoiled here in Charleston as is one of the top tourist destinations in America. So many good restaurants in Charleston that most weekends we try to go to a new place.

[@d.aletadrawdy7584]

I do hope you get a chance to go up to the foothills of South Carolina to Walhalla and see the beautiful lakes and waterfalls; enjoy your stay in South Carolina ❣️🌴

[@dlw3516]

Thanks for the heads up on the haggis thing!! That might've been a major "oops!"

[@scarter8137]

Husband loves Shrimp & grits, me not so much! Court of two Sisters has great food, Creole & Cajun, their courtyard has history attached. We tend to check reviews before visiting a restaurant. Our go to in Charleston is Magnolia’s & Fleet Landing, love the AmberJack w/apricot glaze. Hope you two had a great visit!

[@Luv2tickt]

For the most part, people in the south are still raised to say, "please and thank you," 'yes, Sir/ Ma'am," "no, Sir/ Ma'am." One is to show respect for elders and visitors; generally raised with manners. Not to say that's not a thing elsewhere as it is. I grew up in the Midwest and that's the way my parents raised me, and the priests and nuns drove it home! It just seems more prevalent in the south. Good that you've enjoyed your time and appreciate the honesty regarding whether or not you and Teca like the local cuisine.

[@cannon12pdr]

Most four poster bed in the south were topped with pine apple finials. When you overstayed your welcome your host or hostess would remove them as a hint to move on.

[@bearpawz_]

No way.... really? 😆🍍 That's pretty funny!

[@morgan97475]

I need to try the shrimp-n-grits in Charleston. The best version of it that I've had was in Savannah. But that gumbo you had looked pretty nice.

[@juliestott5496]

Try Acme Seafood on the Isle of Palms (just outside Charleston). BEST shrimp and grits ever! Well, best I've had anyway and I try it everywhere I can. :)

[@sherrydickens6635]

❤ love Grits! A little salt/pepper and top with a little real butter. So delicious ❤️🇺🇸 Kentucky Grits ❤

[@alariepoet8015]

One of my favorite cities, too.

[@LasersGoPewPew69]

Don't worry. I have roots in SC and I am hit or miss on shrimp and grits. Some are tomato based and some are more cream based. I am not a fan of the tomato based ones. I have grown up with grits so I like them, but they are kind of like poi in Hawaii, kind of tasteless on their owns and inherits the flavors of the foods you eat with it. Other things to try are perlo (chicken bog) which is rice, chicken and/or smoked sausage and Scott's BBQ. There is one in Charleston (Rodeny Scott's) or the original Scott's BBQ in Hemingway SC about an hour north if you want to drive for it. Many vids on YT on Scott's. It is the vinegar based low country BBQ.

[@LindaC616]

Exactly why I don't like them

[@bw4306]

I strongly recommend the restaurant called Sweat Potatoes. Good comfort food that is reasonably priced, as many others have said find out where the locals eat and that's your place to go. Glad you have enjoyed your time in SC though.

[@lizetteolsen3218]

Very much a foodie town, I found. Visited when a friend was living there--that is all we did was visited different areas of Charleston--and try food for every meal of the day. We visited in October--heat and humidity was brutal. One of my friends got 2nd degree burns. Enjoyed the visit--but, boy howdy, the weather was next level.

[@sharonblankcanvas7173]

Been living in Georgia almost 20 years, I have yet to find grits I like. Some people love it, some hate it, and it tends to be hard for non-Southerners to wrap their taste buds around. 😅

[@WhatDayIsItTrumpDay]

Don't worry about not liking Grits too much, Shaun. I'm from Southern Illinois, and while you wouldn't think that's southern, we're like between 20 and 50 miles from Kentucky. 20 miles west or 50 miles north. And there's restaurants around here that served Grits, and honestly, they're not for me either. My dad liked them, but I never could stand them, to be honest. I don't really care how you dress them up with cheese, butter, or whatever else, the textute was just off putting to me. I just prefer Biscuits & Gravy myself. You can't hardly go wrong that. Only time you can screw that up is if the gravy has got way too much Sausage grease in it. Or if it's burnt. Had some of that one time, and it was nasty. But 99 times out of 100, they're very good. And I'll tell you what...the best Fast Food version is from Hardees/Carl's Jr. in my opinion. Better than McDonald's even. Hardee's makes their Biscuits fresh and from scratch, while I think McDonalds gets their's shipped from the factory. And Hardee's gravy is better too. It's got actual chunks of Sausage in it, while McDonalds has these little preformed Sausage pellets in theirs, which tells me that all of their food is pre-made at the factory. If you ever have Biscuits and Gravy, Shaun, be sure to halve your Biscuits before pouring the gravy over them. The soft inside of the biscuit let's the gravy soak in a bit better than the toasted outside.

[@JPMJPM]

I agree about Hardee’s biscuits. I’m from the South, and I’ve never had a better biscuit anywhere else.

[@TripleBerg]

Southern Illinois is where you start getting into Southern culture. Same with Southern Missouri, my home state.

[@keithglisson2244]

We only eat grits for breakfast. That is usually butter , salt and pepper and maybe some cheedar cheese. Keep it simple and you will love them

[@pamelascott5702]

I am about 2 & a half hours north of Charleston. I ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ Charleston. The humidity here is absolutely something you.have to "not mind". My son was stationed at Fort Bluss in El Paso, TX. He said they have a dry heat there and he missed our humidity here.

[@jecrpalier]

Same in Philly the roach coaches. Those silver mobile places make the best hands down for local food

[@dipaknadkarni62]

Nothing better than good shrimp and grits. Lived in Charleston. Best ever.

[@brookemiley4927]

As a southerner don’t worry you won’t get canceled! It may be something you have to grow up with to love. I lived in Scotland for nearly 10 years and I actually like veggie haggis but couldn’t bring myself to try the actual thing.