Monday, May 28, 2018

Charming Charleston



One of my favorite southern towns to visit would be Charleston. It is one of those places that you can take in the historical sites, walk up and down the streets of this town and it's like taking a step back into time. The city of Charleston is filled with old historic homes with massive colonial charm and appeal. The city was founded originally in 1670 by British colonist. The town was originally named Charles Town in honor of King Charles II. One of the things I find so charming about Charleston is how most of the homes have little court yards tucked away in their alleyways.





On this past visit my first stop was Poogan's Porch a farm to Table Breakfast and Brunch restaurant located just off Queen Street. Poogan's is said to be haunted by the dog that once lived there. Poogan's did not disappoint, unfortunately I forgot to take pictures when we got our Pimento BLT, but I did remember to get my camera out for dessert, I had the banana cheesecake it was devine and of course I couldn't come to Charleston without sampling their "Southern Sweet Tea", it was good but too sweet for this native northerner to have more than just one glass.





One of my favorite places to visit while in Charleston is the huge city market place, also know as the Centre Market spans 4 city blocks, was established in 1760. You may notice a few of the elderly women hand weavng Gullah sweetgrass baskets on the corner or in some of the stalls of the market.
Sweet Grassbaskets were introduced to Charleston in the 17th century by West Africans.




Many different vendors come to the market with their homemade items each day. Everything from local apiary honey, to hand pulled barbeque, snacks and treats all fill the air of this huge market place.




Step outside the market place and you are likely to spot one of the Horse Drawn Carriages, hope on board and let the take you on a historical tour of the city!


I ended my recent visit with appetizers and drinks at Pearlz and dinner on at The Rooftop, a bar and grill located on top of the Vendue, which I highly recommned. Pearlz is a eclectic yet cozy little oyster bar serving up great little tapas and libations. I tried the signature Royal Victoria which pared nicely with my Tuna Poke my traveling companion tried the strawberry gazpacho she said it was delicious and refreshing. The Rooftop offered some local farm to table fare and signature drinks as well as some of the best bird's eye views that the city had to offer.



 I saved the best for last, before sunset we walked around the city taking as many snap shots as we could of all the shops, bed and breakfasts, restaurants and beautiful homes and yes even Rainbow Row, we walked all the way down to Oyster Point before the sunset.