The Drawing Room at The Vendue
In keeping with The Vendue’s new art-hotel concept, everything here—from the rotating works that grace the dining room walls to the elegantly plated dishes—feels museum-worthy (and not in a stuffy way). Executive chef Jon Cropf, formerly of Folly Beach’s Blu Restaurant & Bar, has curated a bill of fare that’s seasonal and light, but still feels decadent. On a recent trip, we swooned over sea scallops pan-roasted to tender perfection and served over a Fresno chili-spiked veggie puree, all topped with edible flowers for a gorgeous presentation. The roasted chicken with modern heirloom tomato consommé was also a highlight. Next visit, we’re sticking around for dessert: rumor has it the red-wine ice cream is to die for. www.thevendue.com
Roadside Seafood
Birthed from a popular food truck of the same name, this seafood joint found comfortable and casual permanent digs at the former Jasmine Thai restaurant on Folly Road last March. So although not necessarily new, it’s most definitely notable for its fried- and grilled-to-order fish and shellfish, included in tacos (Bam-Bam Shrimp with signature, spicy Sriracha-infused sauce), sandwiches (The Big Easy with fried shrimp and green tomatoes spilling out of a hoagie), and generous baskets (everything from flounder to oysters to calamari), not to mention the perfectly delicious she-crab soup. We’ll be back to try the lauded mahi tacos and mac ’n’ cheese and, of course, devour another bowl of the amazing she-crab soup. Find Roadside Seafood on Facebook
