Gnome Café
Not everyone would associate the word “yum” with vegan cuisine. But for those who’ve experienced the fresh ingredients and hearty portions at fledgling vegan spot Gnome Café, it’s clear that an entirely plant-based meal can be delicious—and completely satisfying. Established by Saramel Evans and Sara Grimshaw and located on the corner of Cannon and President, Gnome boasts a wide-ranging menu, from a taco salad (pictured) to pad Thai to a veggie burger with a vegan-ized comeback sauce. Breakfast is also served all day; options including a Geechie Boy grits bowl as well as a hemp “sausage” biscuit. Gnome’s interior—clean, airy, and sprinkled with greenery—is ideal for quiet conversation or an afternoon study session. Just don’t leave without sampling the cinnamon bun with its creamy maple glaze. You’ll find yourself checking the kitchen for dairy. www.gnomecafe.com
Cove Oyster Bar & Grille
If you’re looking for good, local seafood that won’t deplete your bank account, drive to Cove Oyster Bar & Grille in North Charleston. An operation from Charleston Hospitality Group (which owns Eli’s Table, among other eateries), Cove offers the perfect night out for families: kids will love the tropical fish tanks; parents will love the Bloody Mary oyster shooters. Better yet? The bar is cleverly tucked behind sea-life decor, leaving a cavernous room for diners who wish to eat without the glow of a TV. Go for buckets of steamed crab legs, chargrilled oysters, and the raw bar; non-seafood lovers should try the “Romano Bruschetta”—the Cajun-tomato-alfredo sauce is pure gold. www.eatatcove.com
