Charleston already has a reputation as one of the best places to eat in the United States. The beauty in this, for most outdoor enthusiasts, is that a delicious recovery meal or a tasty pre-workout snack is never far away. RootsRated presents our favorite outdoor combos—a collection of places to play outside and gather with friends after to tell tall tales.
1. Wannamaker North Trail & Two Boroughs Larder. This single-track trail is highly regarded as the best one in Charleston. Tight curves, jumps, drops, and climbs always leave mountain bike riders feeling a little sore, not to mention famished. Two Boroughs Larder is always there to help refuel with the best seasonal meals in town. The quiet ambiance, fresh local ingredients, as well as a huge selection of local beers is the best way to banter about which one of your friends rode the best line.
2. Coastal Climbing & The Grocery. After you’ve spent all day in the gym with friends, and finally conquered that one problem you’ve been thinking about day and night, treat yourself to the grocery. Located about a quarter mile away from each other, there’s no excuse to go check out the Grocery. Everything on the menu is exceptional. Can’t lift your arms after 6 hours at the climbing gym? Pick up a fork at The Grocery, and feel the adrenaline coursing through you at the thought of their Wagyu Bistro Steak.
3. Surfing Isle of Palms & The Co-Op. Beachgoers tend to stay from dawn to dark. The fact that you can walk into the Co-Op three times a day and get a breakfast sandwich in the morning, a made to order deli sandwich in the afternoon, and one of their incredible house made take and go dinners in the evening, means you can walk out of the ocean whenever you’re hungry and grab a quick bite. That is some important information to the everyday beach bum. No more forcing down that PB&J you made the night before that’s been marinating in the heat of the beach all day, The Co-Op has something for everyone.
4. Trail Running the Palmetto Trail & The Shelter. You’re going to need some energy after hitting the trail, and The Shelter is there to feed you. Sit back on the porch and enjoy a cold beer with your friends and debate which is the best burger on the menu. The Shelter is a favorite place to relax as the sun goes down.
5. Paddling Folly Beach & Rita’s. If you plan on spending day on the water with your paddleboard or kayak, you are going to need to refuel. Rita’s will hook you up with some of Folly’s best brunch, as well as a margarita if you feel like taking a quick break in between paddle sessions. Either way, don’t find yourself stuck in the pluff mud without having some fish tacos first.