When you come to visit Charleston and stay in one of our Isle of Palms vacation rentals, you may opt to fly here. And chances are you’ll want to try some of the gourmet cuisine the Holy City is famous for, while you’re here.
Well, there’s good news on both counts.
First up, dining well in Charleston is a no-brainer, especially if you enlist the help of professional tasters.
Michelin knows food.
Last year, the esteemed folks at Michelin Guide finally turned their attention to the American South. For the first time ever, they began awarding their coveted stars to restaurants in the region - namely, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. Read all about the inaugural Michelin Guide American South in this blog.
The attention was long overdue, especially considering the rich tradition and very high bar of Charlestonian cuisine, and the South in general.
Well, Michelin scouts have been out and about, secretly dining again this year, and they’ve just released a new edition of updated accolades.
Charleston’s Michelin-starred restaurants
Getting a Michelin star is a HUGE deal, and it’s also extremely hard to maintain one.
Last year, three Charleston restaurants were given stars. And I’m glad to report, all three have kept them this year. They are:
- Malagón Mercado y Taperia (Spanish cuisine)
- Vern's (American)
- Wild Common (Contemporary)
You can read more about all three here.
More tiers of Michelin kudos
The Michelin Guide also singles out restaurants which, though they might not achieve a star, stand out among their peers.
The distinction of Bib Gourmand recognizes eating establishments who offer “great food at a great value.” These Charleston hot spots won the honor, including two new additions this year:
- Leon's Oyster Shop
- New in 2026: Palmira (Barbecue)
- New in 2026: Rivayat Creative Indian
The Michelin Guide also recognizes restaurants that excel in creativity, consistency, and how they contribute to the culinary landscape of the Lowcountry. 2026’s list also sees two new names.
The honorees, in alphabetical order, are:
- New in 2026: Cane Pazzo in Hanahan
- Chubby Fish
- FIG
- Husk
- Lewis Barbecue
- Lowland
- New in 2026: Merci
- Sorelle
- The Establishment
- The Obstinate Daughter
- The Restaurant at Zero George
If you’re here staying in one of our Isle of Palms luxury rentals, you can’t go wrong with any of these options. It just depends on what you’re in the mood for, and if you can snag a reservation for your preferred date.
Now, on to the flying news…
Charleston (CHS) getting even more direct flights
Nonstop flights are a godsend. They make traveling to your destination faster, less stressful, more relaxing, and your luggage is much more likely to arrive with you.
As I wrote about this summer, Charleston is getting a growing number of direct flights to and from popular destinations.
Well, that number is flying higher than ever.
United adding new direct cross-country flights!
United Airlines made an exciting announcement that they’ll soon be adding direct service between Charleston (CHS) and San Francisco (SFO).
Charleston International Airport’s President & CEO Elliott Summey had this to say in announcing the news:
“Nonstop service to San Francisco is an exciting addition for Charleston International Airport and the entire Lowcountry,” said Elliott Summey, President and CEO of Charleston International Airport. “As our region continues to grow, so does the demand for convenient access to major markets across the country and around the world. This new transcontinental route strengthens our connection to the West Coast, supports our business and tourism communities, and gives travelers more choices when flying from their hometown airport.”
United’s nonstop service between CHS and SFO will begin March 28, 2027. Flights will operate Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. Customers will fly aboard Boeing 737-800 / MAX 8 aircraft.
This marks just the second direct flight between Charleston and California. Breeze operates seasonal nonstop service to LAX (Los Angeles).
Breeze to the Garden State
Speaking of Breeze, they’re the king of nonstop flights in and out of Charleston.
Breeze recently launched their nonstop service to Trenton, New Jersey. The destination is Trenton-Mercer Airport, officially known as TTN. Flights take place on Thursdays and Sundays. And get this - fares start at just $89 one way.
Check out all the nonstop flights to and from Charleston International Airport.
Fly to the beach, stay for the food
Charleston’s easier than ever to get to quickly, with a growing number of nonstop flights. And staying in a Charleston beach house here on the Isle of Palms allows rest, relaxation, AND easy access to all these Michelin-approved places to eat.
Just give us a shout here at Exclusive Properties, and we’ll get you on the books.
All best,
Lowcountry Lisa
your Isle of Palms vacation blogger