Big Nasty

Day 3: Indulge in the city's culinary delights (and, perhaps, debauchery).

This morning I enjoyed a truly divine breakfast with my son and husband. Hominy Grill, infamous Charleston eatery that's always visited by camera crews and travel writers. The outdoor courtyard became the spot for our indulgent behavior. First up: The "Big Nasty" (no need to explain this one- envision carbs (homemade biscuit) stuffed with fried (chicken, that is), smothered in gravy(packed with sausage and spices and love). Remorsefully gobbled up within seconds... Next to the table: the best Shrimp n' Grits in the lowcountry for our merry consumption. A tad tangier than others I've tried, but they always talk about the shrimp n' grits when Hominy Grill is featured, so we feel obligated to drool over it, too. Final course: Pulled straight from the special board, Braised Gold Shoulder Tamale with Coconut Hoppin' John...(insert sigh and bloated expression)

Oh, it was a breakfast to remember. I'll note that there's also delicious little folk-esque pottery on each table with delicious fruit jams...the locals are appreciative and never surprised, the tourists stand silently in line as they wait for their table and leave silently, stuffed.

Ideally, the August heat would have been weakened by the winds of Hurricane Bill's ascent on the northern coast...we needed at least a jaunt 'round the block to knock ourselves back into consciousness. No luck would find us, though, so we took our drowsy trip back home and went straight to bed for a glorious mid-morning nap.

Dinner (preceded by celebratory champagne in honor of a young and deliberate bride-to-be): Charleston Grill - an institution, a haven for foodies and jazz enthusiasts and culinary thrill-seekers. The menu is life-changing, the wine list is nothing short of bliss (and can be overwhelming without the help of sommelier Rick Rubin), the company I enjoyed was the perfect accompaniment. I'll encourage you to visit them soon for the "Dinner at Dusk" special...call Mickey for more info...you'll get more than you asked for (and it's worth it).

(Didn't make the cut: Charleston Pedicabs - Envision Cute C of C boys sporting Vans and thrift-shore tees and pulsating calves...could have been quite the thrill-ride for our girls-night out, although we opted for the less casual, roomier luxury SUV parked and waiting just past the bell stand. Nate, thank you for being the best driver I've had in Charleston, for entertaining us with brilliant trivia, and for taking our shenanigans with patience and grace.)

Late Night: Shine - new to the scene and outfitted for the modern-design-aroused Xers, this stylish spot offering "internaltional street fare" (complete will frilly bar menu) became our late-night locale. Flirting, loose tongue, affectionate banter...all taking place in a once-"ghetto" address waaaay down Upper King. Almost felt as if we'd turn the corner and be in Soho...but really, no. It's Charleston... and it's come a long way from it's colonial roots and rules.

Get out and enjoy yourself...there's much fun to be had in this holy city!

Goals accomplished:
1 - Chew Slowly as to enjoy every morsel
2 - Look my fellow diners in the eye and enjoy their conversation
3 - Take notes like any other travel/food writer would