By Chef Justin Pfau
Chef Justin Pfau is the executive chef of Harold's Cabin in Charleston. His menu includes dishes like flounder fried in chestnut flour with lavender-roasted pears; quail with squashes, sunflower risotto and grapefruit; and roasted beet red velvet cake with parsnip cream cheese frosting. Originally from the midwest, Pfau first started cooking Southern cuisine at La Residence in Chapel Hill, NC. "I enjoy the focus on the garden and seasonality with layering flavors. At Harold's Cabin we are creating a casual and comfortable atmosphere for everyone and exclusive to no one. But even in such a space, interesting and exciting food can still (and should) exist. I really enjoy the idea of providing a menu that is a little adventurous, maybe even risky to some, in a warm and inviting space such as a cabin. I think it's an interesting juxtaposition."
HAROLD'S CABIN
247 Congress Street, Charleston, SC 29403
T: 843.793.4440 | www.haroldscabin.com
Here is Justin Pfau's guide for exploring the Charleston area beyond downtown.
JAMES ISLAND
Photograph courtesy of Zia Taqueria
Zia Taqueria
Their Nachos Pastor, Queso Con Chorizo, and Enchiladas Rojos Con Carnitas combined with MUCHO margaritas makes for the perfect spot.
1956 Maybank Highway
Charleston, SC 29412
T: 843.406.8877
www.ziataco.com
WEST ASHLEY
Photograph courtesy of Swig & Swine
Swig & Swine
This is some of my favorite BBQ. I highly recommend the brisket, smoked chicken wings with some BBQ beans, slaw, and of course, bourbon and beer.
1217 Savannah Highway
Charleston, SC 29407
T: 843.225.3805
www.swigandswinebbq.com
Zen Asian Fusion
The people are really cool here. A standard day off for me includes eating their entire appetizer section (not kidding), a few of their Traditional Chinese entrees and miso soup.
Quadrangle
2037 Sam Rittenberg Boulevard
Charleston, SC 29407
T: 843.766.6331
www.zenasianrestaurant.com
Johns Island | Photo Credit: Doug Hickok for Charleston CVB
JOHNS ISLAND
Photographs courtesy of The Southern General
The Southern General
This is a great spot on Johns Island. I order the Holy City Hog special almost every time!
3157 Maybank Highway
Johns Island, SC 29455
T: 843.640.3778
thesoutherngeneral.com
CANNONBOROUGH
Photographs courtesy of Chez Nous
Chez Nous
I always recommend Chez Nous for tourists in Charleston – it's such a gem. This is, hands down, the best swanky date night spot. The menu changes daily and it's one you can always be confident of.
6 Payne Court
Charleston, SC 29403
T: 843.579.3060
www.cheznouschs.com
BOWENS ISLAND
Photograph courtesy of Bowens Island
Photograph courtesy of Bowens Island
Bowens Island Restaurant
This is my favorite spot for a casual dinner when I have the day off. You can't go wrong with anything here if you're a seafood lover like me, especially shellfish.
1870 Bowens Island Road
Charleston, SC 29412
T: 843.795.2757
bowensisland.biz
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