Soft Shell Crabs in Mount Pleasant, SC
Mount Pleasant’s Best Comfort Foods to Keep You Cozy and Warm
Mount Pleasant's Best Comfort Foods to Keep You Cozy & Warm
Hearty Biscuit and Hot Coffee
Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and we are starting out with a southern staple. Nothing says “good morning” like a big fluffy biscuit with all the fixings and a fresh hot cup of coffee to wash it down. Never begin your day on an empty stomach again! Hunt down this fluffy and flakey goodness at local favorites such as Vicious Biscuit, Flying Biscuit Cafe, Maple Street Biscuit Company, and others.
Savory Shrimp & Grits
We would be remiss if this Lowcountry favorite was not on our list. The number one way to elevate your dining experience in Mount Pleasant is to grab a warm bowl of shrimp and grits. This dish is so popular, that you could probably walk outside, open your mouth, and shrimp and grits will land on your tongue without any effort at all. While we wish this was true, unique variations of shrimp and grits can be sought out at Page’s Okra Grill, Grace & Grit, Tavern & Table, and many more.
The World Is Your Oyster
From raw to Rockefeller, there are so many ways you can enjoy these salty crustaceans. Although, in the colder months that end with the letter ‘R’, a freshly roasted bushel of oysters on a brisk day is pure nirvana. Mount Pleasant is home to the world’s largest oyster festival, the Lowcountry Oyster Festival. If you are not here for the festival, you can still have a shucking good time at Art’s Bar and Grill, Red’s Ice House, NICO Oysters + Seafood, and others.
Fried and Gone To Heaven
Put some south in your mouth with fried… everything! Fried chicken, fried seafood platters, fried potatoes, chicken-fried steak, fried pork chops, and more all lined up like grandma’s onions. Topped with or without gravy, the satisfying golden crunch in Mount Pleasant will wear you slap out. Get your fill at gems like Coleman Public House, Graze, H&R Sweetshop, and more.
Save Room For Dessert
Remember when we said that breakfast was the most important meal of the day? We might have to change our minds now that dessert is on the table. With a variety of family-owned bakeries and dessert shops in town, you can be sure to get your just desserts after an adventurous day. From freshly baked pies to from-scratch cupcakes and turnovers, your sweet tooth will be ringing. Answer the call at spots like Cupcake Down South, Kudzu Bakery, Fractured Prune, and the list goes on.
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Soft Shell Crabs in Mount Pleasant
Softies 101
What is a soft shell crab? Is it different from a normal crab? How do you eat them? If you are asking these questions, you have come to the right place. Soft shell crabs, or “softies” as they are called in the Lowcountry, are Atlantic blue crabs that have recently molted their normally hard shell. These crabs are consistently growing and will naturally shed their old shells. After molting, the crab will be nearly a third larger than it was before.
Why All The Hype?
A recently molted Atlantic blue crab is very soft to the touch. This means the entire delicious crab can be prepared to eat… and you can toss the shell crackers! The soft tissue of the “new” shell is safe to eat along with the entire crab. Although, the Atlantic blue crab’s molting season only lasts from around Easter (when the water temperature is near 50 degrees) through summer. Mount Pleasant is the right place at the right time for softie season!
How and Where
This limited-time sought after delicacy is prepared several different ways in Mount Pleasant. Pulled from local waters and put on plates, you can find them deep fried, pan seared, and frequently in a sandwich. Local seafood markets also offer live soft shell crabs to prepare at home. Many restaurants and markets have softies during the season, just make sure to call ahead to ask if they are available… they can go fast!
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Lowcountry Strawberry Festival at Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
Lowcountry Strawberry Festival Returns!
Bring Back the Fun in 2021!
Welcome Back!
The Lowcountry Strawberry Festival is returning to Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens for the first time since April 2019. The 2020 festival was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s event will take place from April 29 through May 2. The Lowcountry Strawberry Festival is back by popular demand but is still taking precautions to keep guests safe.
Included with Admission
Access to the Family Festival side of the event which features a petting zoo, acrobatic dog shows, pig races, a three-story slide tower, two giant jump pillows, playground area, contests, live entertainment, vendor exhibits, access to the festival ride side of the event, free parking, and more. Tractor rides to the u-pick strawberry fields also included during designated u-pick hours as long as berries are available.
Tickets for Festival Rides must be purchased separately from admission.
U-Pick Strawberries
U-Pick strawberries will only be available a limited number of hours during the time the festival is open. U-Pick strawberries will be $2.49 lb. and for health and safety reasons, purchase of a one gallon bucket for $2.00 will be required for picking berries.
Festival Schedule
THURSDAY APRIL 29: 6 PM – 10 PM
THIS NIGHT ONLY – Free admission with three canned goods per person that will be collected and donated to local food banks.
FRIDAY APRIL 30: 12 PM – 10 PM
SATURDAY MAY 1: 10 AM – 10 PM
SUNDAY MAY 2: 12 PM – 8PM
PLEASE NOTE, sale of admission tickets to the event will end one hour before closing each day.
Life is different in Mount Pleasant. Here, you can watch the sunrise on the dock while sipping your morning coffee with your feet dangling in the water. In the afternoon, sneak away to the beach or go on a shopping expedition where you'll find one-of-a-kind treasures. For the evening, kayak or paddleboard to dinner. On the creek, you will find nationally-recognized cuisines and unforgettable views. Discover the magic of Mount Pleasant today!
Come by Land or by Sea
Visit Mount Pleasant!
Around The Town: February 3 – 9, 2021
February 3 - 9, 2021
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Featured Events This Week:
Name That Tune Trivia
Where: Dog and Duck Locations
When: February 4 at 7:00 p.m.
What: Test your music skills. Play to win gift cards, in-house cash and more!
'Friday Nite' at Moonlite
Where: Moonlite Theaters
When: February 5 at 6:00 p.m.
What: Catch a flick and a live music set. The music starts at 6:00 and the movie begins at 7:00.
V-Day Flower Heart Workshop
Where: Out of Hand
When: February 6 at 1:00 p.m.
What: A great activity for some me-time or with someone you love!
Scanlonville: A History, The Land and The Community
Where: Black History Month Virtual Event
When: February 6 at 6:30 p.m.
What: Presentation by Barbara Fordham Collier, a longtime Scanlonville resident.
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Local Restaurant Nominated for Hospitality Awards
Local Restaurant Nominated for Hospitality Awards
Stars of The Industry Awards 2021
NICO Oysters + Seafood
Nico Romo and Sarah Tomlinson of NICO Oysters + Seafood are nominated as finalists to be awarded in the The Stars of South Carolina Hospitality Awards.
The Stars of South Carolina Hospitality Awards celebrate the exceptional professionalism and outstanding service of top individuals in the hospitality industry.
NICO ROMO
Finalist: Restaurant Chef of the Year
Born in Lyon, France, Chef Nico Romo is the youngest-ever US member of The French Culinary Academy (l’Académie Culinaire de France) and Master Chefs of France (Maîtres Cuisiniers de France), one of just 66 French Master Chefs in the country, and the only recipient in South Carolina. Both elite organizations represent and comprise the most highly skilled chefs in the techniques and traditions of the French culinary art.
SARAH TOMLINSON
Finalist: Outstanding Certified Sommelier
Sarah holds over a decade of experience in F&B where she honed her love for beverage, more specifically, wine. Before joining the NICO family, Sarah worked as the beverage manager at Slightly North of Broad and as assistant manager at Zero George. Sarah has an infinite love for travel, food and wine and believes that wine has become her vehicle to communicate, connect and challenge people in everyday life.
The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (SCRLA) will announce winners at the 68th Annual Stars of South Carolina Hospitality Awards on Monday, February 1 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia. Chip Rogers, President, and CEO of the American Hotel and Lodging Association, will keynote the event.
About the SCRLA
For more than 75 years, the SCRLA’s mission has been to promote, protect and educate the foodservice and lodging industries of our state and to ensure positive business growth for our members. The SCRLA strives to represent the best interests of its members on small business issues, hospitality and tourism concerns and towards the protection of South Carolina’s quality of life.
About NICO Oysters + Seafood
NICO is an upbeat oyster bar serving French cuisine carefully prepared in a wood-fired oven. With ingredients sourced from the waters of the Lowcountry and a curated selection of the country’s most coveted raw oysters, French Master Chef Nico Romo offers a fresh take on seafood for Charleston's iconic Shem Creek.
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Local Events Making a Comeback
Local Events Making a Comeback
Come by Land or by Sea
ArtFEst
March 13, 2021
Mount Pleasant Towne Centre
This annual festival at brings families and cultural enthusiasts together with budding and professional artists for an event that showcases a diverse array of local and regional artistic talent. Local music, dance and visual arts studios offer stunning performances by some of the area’s most talented individuals and groups.
Creative aspirations are ignited in children who are given opportunities to explore many art forms and create their own masterpieces.
All activities and performances are free of charge. The event is for residents and visitors of all ages, from young parents and children through seniors.
Food and snacks will be available for purchase
Free admission!
Free parking!
Blessing of the fleet
April 25, 2021
Memorial Waterfront Park
The Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year! The festival pays tribute to Mount Pleasant’s local shrimping and fishing industry, offering a boat parade, live music, craft show and lots of free activities with the picturesque Ravenel Bridge and Charleston Harbor for a backdrop!
#JustAsk where your seafood came from before you buy! Support local and wild caught to support your fishermen…nothing beats Wild American Shrimp!
Participants are treated to a boat parade and ceremonial blessing of the shrimp/fishing fleet, savory seafood samplings sold by some of Mount Pleasant’s best restaurants, live music, a craft show, Mount Pleasant Artists Guild art exhibition, Shag and shrimp-eating contests, and family-friendly activities.
Admission and activities are free!
Life is different in Mount Pleasant. Here, you can watch the sunrise on the dock while sipping your morning coffee with your feet dangling in the water. In the afternoon, sneak away to the beach or go on a shopping expedition where you'll find one-of-a-kind treasures. For the evening, kayak or paddleboard to dinner. On the creek, you will find nationally-recognized cuisines and unforgettable views. Discover the magic of Mount Pleasant today!
Come by Land or by Sea
Visit Mount Pleasant!
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Around The Town: January 13 – 19, 2021
January 13 - 19, 2021
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Dine local in the final days of Restaurant Week 2021 and find events in Mount Pleasant in this week's Around The Town!
Featured Events This Week:
(Check for Updated Operations due to COVID-19 Guidelines)
Bingo Pub Run
Where: Fleet Feet
When: January 13 at 6:30 p.m.
What: Going back to Cantina 76 for a 3-mile run. Then play a game of BINGO with giveaways, food, and beer!
Name That Tune Trivia
Where: Dog and Duck Locations
When: January 14 at 7:00 p.m.
What: Test your music skills. Play to win gift cards, in-house cash, and more!
Chunky Knit Blanket Workshop
Where: AR Workshop
When: January 16 at 10:00 a.m.
What: A step-by-step guide for hand knitting a super cozy, one-of-a-kind blanket.
Forge Your Own
Where: Two Blokes Brewing
When: January 17 at 12:00 p.m.
What: Forge your own bottle opener, oyster shucker, steak turner, or fire poker.
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Around The Town: January 6 – 12, 2021
January 6 - January 12, 2021
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Find deals from local restaurants during Restaurant Week 2021 in Mount Pleasant, see fun events at local businesses & more in this week's Around The Town!
Featured Events This Week:
So You Want To Train For An Ultra
Where: Blue Sky Endurance
When: January 7 at 6:00 p.m.
What: An evening of “how to’s” and “what to’s” when you talk about all things ultra-marathon.
Live Music: Fowl Play Trio
Where: Hotel Indigo
When: January 9 at 6:00 p.m.
What: Live music at a resort-like venue. It has indoor and outdoor (with heaters) seating.
Beats, Brews and Bingos
Team Trivia
Where: Cantina 76
When: January 12 at 7:00 p.m.
What: Tell your friend and come on out to show your smarts to win fabulous prizes.
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Around The Town: November 25 – December 1, 2020
November 25 - December 1
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A Town Proud Thanksgiving
Give thanks by making your Turkey Day plans with Town Proud Certified Local Businesses in Mount Pleasant!
Events This Week:
(Check For Updated Operations due to COVID-19 Guidelines)
Miracle Event
Where: Handcraft Kitchen & Cocktails
When: November 23 – December 30
What: Toast the season with a festive menu of signature cocktails and over the top holiday décor, from classic to contemporary and everything in between.
Black Wednesday Toys for Tots Festive Toy Drive
Where: The Shelter Kitchen + Bar
When: November 25 at 11:00 a.m.
What: Bring a new unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots drive and you’ll receive a $5 gift certificate and an entry to win a New Belgium bicycle. Show up with your toy in a festive costume and your gift certificate becomes $10.
Showing of National Lampoons Christmas Vacation
Where: Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum
When: November 27 at 6:15 p.m.
What: Sunset views and blockbuster movies with the Charleston Harbor in sight!
Wreath Making Workshop
Where: Ooh! Events and Out Of Hand
When: November 28 at 11:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m.
What: Create your very own holiday wreath! Lead florist Susanne Davis will lead a wreath-making workshop.
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Around The Town: November 18 – November 24, 2020
November 18 - 24, 2020
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Events This Week:
Final Live Under The Oaks Concert
Where: Mount Pleasant Towne Centre
When: November 19 at 6:00 p.m.
What: All concerts are free to attend. Beer, wine & nibbles will be available. Grab your chair or blanket and join in for the last show in the fall outdoor concert series.
Showing of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt. 1
Where: Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum
When: November 21 at 6:15 p.m.
What: Sunset views and blockbuster movies with the Charleston Harbor in sight!
Log on and Lights Up
Where: Online Event for Mount Pleasant Towne Centre
When: November 21 at 7:00 p.m.
What: Towne Centre is bringing LIGHTS UP to you virtually. There will be holiday trivia and chances to win great prizes from Towne Centre stores and restaurants.
