summerville

In the past year, SUMMERVILLE has seen a surge of dining options as successful local establishments open satellite spots and new concepts look to meet the dining desires of a booming residential market. The charming downtown still maintains its small-town vibe and one of the best farmers markets in the area, and the Nexton development adds value with a range from fast-casual concepts to fine dining. But what we love most about the town known as the birth place of sweet tea remains the same: the gorgeous azaleas that inspire the Flowertown Festival each spring.

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EAT + DRINK
NEW & NOTEWORTHY

THE AZALEA BAR & GARDEN

This new craft cocktail space has a large bar area, a more intimate library, and a gorgeous urban garden. Whether you prefer a whiskey flight, the traditional absinthe drip, or a chocolate mezcal old fashioned, be sure to order the Southern Platter with spiral ham, pepper jelly, and housemade cheese cookies. theazaleabarandgarden.com

BEXLEY FISH & RAW BAR

This menu from Charleston native and former NICO and Kiawah Sanctuary chef Jeremy Holst sources locally for creative small and large seasonal plates, as well as iterations of classics like kimchi grits and South Carolina fried quail with yuzu buttermilk, plus an impressive raw bar selection. bexleysummerville.com

DAY DRINK BRUNCH LOUNGE

Charleston has always had an "any day is a weekend" vibe, and Summerville is no exception. The playful cocktail menu includes Hennywhere But Here -a Hennessy-based mojito riff and the Vacay-Gin, a gin and tonic refreshed with mixed berries. As for food, the menu of small plates means you can try everything. 843.285.5572

LA CUISINE DU CHEVALIER

Tucked into a Knightsville strip mall, this hidden gem offers elegant Lowcountry-French fusion, like the French onion mac and cheese and the Lowcountry bouillabaisse, with a chic wine menu. 843.376.7062

LA RUSTICA ON MAGNOLIA

The menu here from lead chef Hector Arroyo features dishes inspired by the founding Pellegrini family's roots in Patricia, Italy. The calamari in a spicy tomato broth with anchovies and capers is surprising, delicious, and evocative of the entire menu. larusticamagnolia.com

LAURA