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Discover the Best of Charleston with City Paper's 2021 Awards Guide

Discover the Best of Charleston with City Paper's 2021 Awards Guide

Discover the best of Charleston in 2021 with City Paper's annual Best of Charleston awards! From food to nightlife, find out what's hot in the Holy City.

The Charleston City Paper's Best of 2021 list is here, and it's packed with exciting recommendations for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a foodie, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for something new to explore, this year's list has got you covered. From the best restaurants to the coolest boutiques, the City Paper's annual roundup highlights the top spots that make Charleston such a vibrant and diverse city.

One of the standout categories in this year's Best of list is Food & Drink, which features some of the most mouth-watering options in the Lowcountry. Whether you're craving classic Southern fare or something more adventurous, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. From the crispy fried chicken at Leon's Oyster Shop to the inventive cocktails at The Belmont, this year's list will leave you feeling inspired to try something new.

If you're looking to explore Charleston's thriving art scene, the Arts & Entertainment category is a must-read. From the stunning exhibitions at the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art to the eclectic performances at the Woolfe Street Playhouse, there's no shortage of cultural experiences to be had in Charleston. And if you're a music lover, don't miss the Best Local Band category, which features some of the most talented musicians in the area.

But it's not just about food and culture – the Best of 2021 list also highlights the top places to shop, stay, and play in Charleston. Whether you're in the market for some new clothes or looking for the perfect place to stay during your visit, this year's list has got you covered. And if you're in need of some outdoor adventure, don't miss the Best Parks & Recreation category, which features some of the most beautiful natural areas in the region.

One of the things that makes the Best of 2021 list so special is its focus on the local businesses that make Charleston such a unique and vibrant city. From the family-owned shops to the innovative startups, this year's list celebrates the entrepreneurs and creatives who are shaping the future of the Lowcountry. And with categories like Best Local Nonprofit and Best Local Instagram Account, the City Paper's annual roundup offers a comprehensive look at all the things that make Charleston so special.

Overall, the Charleston City Paper's Best of 2021 list is a must-read for anyone who loves this beautiful city. With its diverse range of recommendations and its focus on the local businesses that make Charleston so special, this year's list is a true celebration of all the things that make the Lowcountry such a wonderful place to live and visit.

Introduction

The Charleston City Paper is a weekly newspaper based in Charleston, South Carolina. It covers local news, events, arts, and culture. Every year, the paper conducts a survey to determine the best of Charleston, where readers vote for their favorite places, people, and things. The results are compiled into a list of winners that represents the best of what the city has to offer. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the winners of the Best of Charleston 2021.

Best New Restaurant

The winner of the Best New Restaurant category is Sorghum & Salt. Located on the Upper Peninsula, this restaurant features a seasonal menu that showcases local ingredients. Chef Tres Jackson creates dishes inspired by Southern cuisine, but with a modern twist. Some of the standout dishes include the smoked duck breast and the red snapper crudo.

The Story Behind Sorghum & Salt

Sorghum & Salt is the brainchild of Chef Tres Jackson, who spent years working in some of the best restaurants in the country before opening his own place. He wanted to create a restaurant that celebrated the flavors of the South, but in a way that was fresh and innovative. The name Sorghum & Salt comes from two key ingredients in Southern cooking: sorghum syrup and salt.

Best Local Brewery

The winner of the Best Local Brewery category is Holy City Brewing. This brewery has been a staple in Charleston since it opened in 2011. They offer a range of beers, from IPAs to stouts, and they also have a taproom where you can try their latest creations. Some of their most popular beers include the Pluff Mud Porter and the Washout Wheat.

What Makes Holy City Brewing Stand Out?

One of the things that sets Holy City Brewing apart from other breweries in Charleston is their commitment to sustainability. They use solar power to help run their brewery, and they also have a recycling program in place. They also support local organizations, such as the Charleston Waterkeeper and the Lowcountry Food Bank.

Best Local Artist

The winner of the Best Local Artist category is Jonathan Green. He is a painter who is known for his vibrant depictions of Gullah culture. His work has been featured in galleries around the world, and he has received numerous awards for his contributions to the arts community.

The Importance of Jonathan Green's Work

Jonathan Green's paintings celebrate the rich history and traditions of Gullah culture, which is an important part of South Carolina's heritage. His work has helped to raise awareness of this unique culture and has inspired others to explore it further. Through his art, Green has created a visual representation of the stories and traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Best Outdoor Event

The winner of the Best Outdoor Event category is the Charleston Wine + Food Festival. This annual event brings together some of the best chefs, winemakers, and foodies from around the world. It features tastings, demonstrations, and seminars, as well as live music and other entertainment.

Why the Charleston Wine + Food Festival is a Must-Attend Event

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival is not just a chance to eat and drink some of the best food and wine in the world. It's also an opportunity to learn from some of the most talented chefs and winemakers in the industry. The festival offers a range of educational experiences, from talks on sustainable farming to classes on how to make your own cheese.

Best Boutique Hotel

The winner of the Best Boutique Hotel category is The Dewberry. This stylish hotel is located in the heart of downtown Charleston and features mid-century modern decor. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the hotel also has a restaurant and bar on site.

What Makes The Dewberry Stand Out?

The Dewberry is more than just a place to stay - it's an experience. The hotel's attention to detail is evident in every aspect of its design, from the custom-made furnishings to the carefully curated art collection. The hotel also offers a range of amenities, including a spa and rooftop pool, that make it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Best Museum

The winner of the Best Museum category is the Charleston Museum. Founded in 1773, this museum is one of the oldest in the country. It features exhibits on Charleston's history, as well as natural history displays and decorative arts.

Why the Charleston Museum is Worth a Visit

The Charleston Museum offers a glimpse into the city's past, from its colonial days to the Civil War and beyond. It also has a range of exhibits that showcase the natural beauty of the Lowcountry, from its flora and fauna to its geological formations. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the world around you, the Charleston Museum is a must-see attraction.

Best Brunch Spot

The winner of the Best Brunch Spot category is The Park Cafe. Located in the Wagener Terrace neighborhood, this cafe offers a range of brunch dishes, from classic eggs Benedict to more creative options, like the shrimp and grits bowl.

What Makes The Park Cafe a Favorite Among Locals?

The Park Cafe is more than just a place to grab a bite to eat - it's a community hub. The cafe has a laid-back vibe that makes it the perfect place to catch up with friends or meet new people. The food is also top-notch, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Best Hair Salon

The winner of the Best Hair Salon category is Stella Nova. With several locations around Charleston, this salon offers a range of services, from haircuts and color to makeup and skincare.

Why Stella Nova Stands Out Among Other Salons

Stella Nova has built a reputation for its exceptional customer service and talented stylists. The salon takes a personalized approach to each client, working with them to create a look that suits their individual style and needs. They also offer a range of high-quality products that help clients maintain their look between visits.

Conclusion

Charleston is a city that is rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. The Best of Charleston 2021 list showcases some of the best that the city has to offer, from its top-notch restaurants and breweries to its world-class museums and artists. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, these winners are a great place to start when exploring all that Charleston has to offer.Charleston City Paper Best of 2021: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top Spots in the CityWhen it comes to discovering the best of Charleston, locals and visitors alike turn to the Charleston City Paper. The annual Best of Charleston awards highlight the top restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions in the city, as voted by the readers. With so many amazing spots to explore, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to the top spots in Charleston, based on the 2021 Best of Charleston awards.Best Seafood Restaurant in Charleston: A Guide to the Top SpotsCharleston is known for its incredible seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants in the city that specialize in fresh, locally caught fish and shellfish. The winner of the Best Seafood Restaurant award this year was The Ordinary, a chic oyster bar and seafood restaurant located in an old bank building downtown. Other top spots for seafood include FIG, which focuses on sustainable, seasonal ingredients, and Leon's Oyster Shop, which serves up classic Lowcountry seafood dishes with a modern twist.The Coolest Bars and Nightlife Destinations in CharlestonCharleston is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to suit every taste. The winner of the Best Bar award this year was The Belmont, a cozy cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe. Other top spots for drinks include The Rooftop at The Vendue, which offers stunning views of the city and harbor, and The Royal American, a laid-back bar and live music venue that serves up craft beers and creative cocktails.Discover the Most Unique Boutiques and Shops in the CityCharleston is a shopper's paradise, with plenty of unique boutiques and shops to explore. The winner of the Best Boutique award this year was Cannonborough Collective, a charming shop that features handmade jewelry, ceramics, and other crafts from local artisans. Other top spots for shopping include Moon & Lola, which sells personalized jewelry and accessories, and Blue Bicycle Books, a beloved independent bookstore that specializes in Southern literature.Best Outdoor Activities in Charleston: A Guide to Exploring the Great OutdoorsCharleston is blessed with beautiful weather and stunning natural scenery, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The winner of the Best Park award this year was Hampton Park, a sprawling green space located in the heart of the city. Other top outdoor activities include exploring the beaches on Sullivan's Island and Isle of Palms, hiking in the Francis Marion National Forest, and kayaking through the salt marshes of the ACE Basin.The Most Instagram-Worthy Spots in CharlestonCharleston is one of the most photogenic cities in the world, with plenty of picturesque spots to capture on camera. The winner of the Best Instagram Spot award this year was Rainbow Row, a row of colorful historic houses that dates back to the 18th century. Other top spots for Instagram-worthy photos include the Angel Oak Tree, which is over 400 years old, and the Battery, a scenic promenade that offers stunning views of the harbor and Fort Sumter.Top Art Galleries in the City: A Tour of Charleston's Art SceneCharleston is home to a thriving arts community, with plenty of galleries and museums to explore. The winner of the Best Art Gallery award this year was the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, which showcases cutting-edge art from around the world. Other top galleries include the Gibbes Museum of Art, which features a collection of Southern art and decorative arts, and the Corrigan Gallery, a contemporary art space that focuses on local and regional artists.Where to Find the Best Brunch in Charleston: Our Top PicksBrunch is a beloved tradition in Charleston, with plenty of restaurants serving up creative takes on classic brunch dishes. The winner of the Best Brunch award this year was The Park Cafe, a cozy cafe that serves up farm-to-table fare in a relaxed setting. Other top spots for brunch include Hominy Grill, which is known for its shrimp and grits, and The Obstinate Daughter, which offers a Mediterranean-inspired brunch menu with a Lowcountry twist.Best Dessert Spots in Charleston: Indulge Your Sweet ToothCharleston has no shortage of delicious desserts, from classic Southern pies to innovative ice cream flavors. The winner of the Best Dessert award this year was Kaminsky's, a charming dessert bar that offers a wide range of cakes, pies, and other sweet treats. Other top spots for dessert include Sugar Bakeshop, which specializes in artisanal baked goods, and Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, which features creative flavors like Darkest Chocolate and Salty Caramel.The Best Historical Attractions in Charleston: A Tour of the City's Rich LegacyCharleston is steeped in history, with plenty of landmarks and attractions that offer a glimpse into the city's past. The winner of the Best Historic Site award this year was Fort Sumter National Monument, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Other top historical attractions include the Nathaniel Russell House, a beautifully preserved Federal-style mansion, and the Charleston Museum, which features exhibits on the city's history and culture.Best Live Music Venues in Charleston: Where to Catch the Best ShowsCharleston has a thriving music scene, with plenty of venues that feature local and national acts. The winner of the Best Music Venue award this year was The Music Farm, a spacious concert hall that hosts a wide range of acts, from indie rock to hip-hop. Other top spots for live music include The Pour House, a laid-back venue that features nightly shows, and The Charleston Music Hall, a beautifully restored theater that hosts concerts and other events.In conclusion, Charleston is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a lover of the arts, you'll find plenty to explore in this beautiful and vibrant city. So why not start planning your next trip to Charleston today?

My Point of View on Charleston City Paper Best of 2021

Pros of Charleston City Paper Best of 2021

Charleston City Paper Best of 2021 is an annual publication that highlights the best restaurants, bars, shops, and services in the Charleston area. There are several pros to this publication:

  1. It provides a comprehensive list of the best places to go in Charleston, making it a valuable resource for locals and tourists alike.
  2. The categories are diverse, covering everything from food and drink to health and wellness.
  3. The winners are chosen by popular vote, so the results reflect the opinions of the community.
  4. The publication includes descriptions of each winner, which can be helpful for people who are unfamiliar with the area.

Cons of Charleston City Paper Best of 2021

While there are many positives to Charleston City Paper Best of 2021, there are also some cons to consider:

  • Some people may disagree with the winners, as the voting is subjective and based on personal preferences.
  • The publication only lists winners in certain categories, so some businesses may feel left out.
  • The publication is only released once a year, so the information may not be completely up-to-date.

Table Comparison: Charleston City Paper Best of 2021 vs. Other Local Publications

There are several other local publications in the Charleston area that publish similar lists of the best places to go. Here is a comparison table:

Charleston City Paper Best of 2021 Charleston Magazine Best of 2021 Charleston Visitor Guide Best of 2021
Categories Food, Drink, Shops, Services Food, Drink, Shops, Services, Arts & Culture Food, Drink, Attractions, Tours, Events
Voting Method Popular Vote Editorial Selection Editorial Selection
Release Frequency Annual Annual Biannual

Overall, Charleston City Paper Best of 2021 is a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore the best of Charleston. While there are some cons to consider, the pros outweigh them and make this publication a must-read for locals and tourists alike.

Closing Message for Charleston City Paper Best of 2021

Thank you for taking the time to read our comprehensive guide to the best of Charleston in 2021. We hope that our recommendations have inspired you to explore all that this incredible city has to offer. From the vibrant food scene and stunning beaches to the rich history and culture, Charleston truly has something for everyone.

As you venture out to try some of the best restaurants, bars, and attractions that Charleston has to offer, we encourage you to prioritize supporting local businesses. Now more than ever, it is essential to uplift the small businesses that make Charleston such a unique and exciting place to live and visit. By choosing to shop and dine locally, you are not only supporting the local economy but also helping to preserve the city's character and charm.

We understand that there are countless other incredible businesses and attractions in Charleston that we may have missed in this article. However, we hope that our guide has given you a solid starting point for exploring the city and discovering new favorites along the way.

Whether you are a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, we believe that Charleston's best is yet to come. With so much to see, do, and experience, we encourage you to keep exploring and discovering all the hidden gems that this city has to offer.

Thank you for trusting us as your guide to the best of Charleston in 2021. We hope that you have found this article informative and inspiring, and we look forward to hearing about your own adventures in this beautiful city.

Lastly, we want to extend a special thank you to all of the incredible businesses and individuals who make Charleston such an amazing place to live and visit. Your hard work, dedication, and passion for this city are what make it truly exceptional, and we are grateful for all that you do.

So go out, explore, and enjoy all that Charleston has to offer! We can't wait to see what the future holds for this incredible city.

People Also Ask About Charleston City Paper Best of 2021

What is Charleston City Paper?

Charleston City Paper is a weekly newspaper that covers news, arts, entertainment, and culture in Charleston, South Carolina. It was founded in 1997 and has since become an important source of information for locals and visitors alike.

What is the Best of Charleston City Paper?

The Best of Charleston City Paper is an annual reader poll that highlights the best restaurants, bars, shops, and other businesses in Charleston. It is a popular feature that attracts thousands of votes each year.

How are winners chosen in the Best of Charleston City Paper?

Winners in the Best of Charleston City Paper are chosen based on reader votes. Readers can nominate their favorite businesses in various categories, and the ones with the most votes are declared the winners.

What are some of the categories in the Best of Charleston City Paper?

The Best of Charleston City Paper features dozens of categories, including Best Restaurant, Best Bar, Best Retail Shop, Best Museum, Best Live Music Venue, and many more. The categories change each year to reflect the changing landscape of Charleston's businesses.

Why is the Best of Charleston City Paper important?

The Best of Charleston City Paper is important because it provides recognition for the businesses that make Charleston unique. It also serves as a guide for locals and visitors who want to know the best places to eat, drink, shop, and explore in the city.

Where can I find the Best of Charleston City Paper?

The Best of Charleston City Paper is published annually in the Charleston City Paper newspaper and is also available online at the paper's website. It is a highly anticipated feature that is eagerly awaited by many in the Charleston community.

How can businesses get nominated for the Best of Charleston City Paper?

Businesses can get nominated for the Best of Charleston City Paper by encouraging their customers to vote for them. The Charleston City Paper provides promotional materials and social media graphics to help businesses spread the word about the poll. Businesses can also reach out to the Charleston City Paper directly to request inclusion in the poll.

  • Overall, the Best of Charleston City Paper is an important annual event that highlights the best businesses in Charleston, South Carolina.
  • Winners are chosen based on reader votes, making it a true reflection of the community's opinions.
  • The Best of Charleston City Paper features dozens of categories, ranging from restaurants and bars to museums and live music venues.
  • Businesses can get nominated for the poll by encouraging their customers to vote, or by reaching out to the Charleston City Paper directly.
  • Ultimately, the Best of Charleston City Paper serves as a guide for locals and visitors who want to experience the best of what the city has to offer.