Here are 7 of the best rated new SC restaurants in the Lowcountry for 2024, Yelp says
Whether you’re craving something exotic or want to indulge in classic comfort food, 2024 has delivered a fresh batch of must-try spots. For visitors and locals alike, the Lowcountry dining scene always has something new to discover.
From mouthwatering dim sum to tantalizing Egyptian pies, Hilton Head and Charleston’s newest restaurants are turning up the flavor.
Here are seven of Yelp’s top new restaurants of 2024:
Chef Loong Dim Sum & Soup Dumplings: 1662 Savannah Highway, Unit 105
For a casual and relaxing atmosphere full of traditional and new Chinese dishes, visit Chef Loongs for lunch or dinner (or maybe both).
Their extensive menu includes classic dumplings, crab rangoons, soups, fried rice and even purple rice buns. Chef Loong blends traditional dishes and flavors with modern cuisine to create a unique dining experience. Popular dishes include their pork soup dumplings, Chef Loong beef and the Three Cup Chicken.
Even though there is often a wait, customers note that the food is flavorful and tasty, with many sharing it’s now their go-to spot for lunch.
“Chef Loong is fully deserving of both praise and accolades. The vibe is comfortable and relaxed while servers busily bus on by. They have a wide selection of Dim Sum as well as many Asian favorites!,” said Christian B in a satisfied customer review on Yelp.
Visit Chef Loong 4-8 p.m. on Monday or 12-2 p.m., 4-8:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.
Legami: 492 King Street
If you’re on the hunt for something more trendy, then Legami is the place for you. With Italian cuisine and an upstairs bar, Legami is a perfect spot for a night out.
The chef has a Michelin star from his prior restaurant in Rome and the menu includes entrees, appetizers, desserts and drinks. Fan favorites include lobster risotto, duck breast, scallops and grouper.
Although on the pricier side, customers enjoy the atmosphere and variety of the menu, elevating the dining experience in the downtown area.
“This has been where I have been taking all my friends and family that I want to impress,” said Rachel M in a satisfied review.
Visit Legami Wednesday to Friday, from 5 p.m. to close or Saturday and Sunday 4 p.m. to close. Reservations are encouraged.
Egy Dough: 2578 Ashley River Road
For a taste of Egypt, visit Egy Dough to experience the authentic flavors of both savory and sweet Egyptian Pies.
With their twist on pizza, popular dishes include the Four Season pie, Mixed Shawarma pie and classic desserts like baklava.
Their menu has a variety of options to choose from and includes traditional pizzas, pies, desserts and signature juices.
One of the most exciting parts about this restaurant is that you can watch the staff roll out the dough and prepare the dishes.
“The star is definitely the dough. The dough was thin, layered, crunchy and chewy. That in itself is perfect with any filling or topping,” said Dawn H in a review.
Perfect for a late-night snack, visit Egy Dough Sunday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
E-Tang: 811 William Hilton Parkway, Suite A
Another great new spot for Chinese cuisine is E-Tang, offering traditional Chinese dishes.
Their menu has just about everything you can think of with dishes like their fried pork egg rolls, pan-fried dumplings and chicken lo mein being their most popular.
“I can’t remember the last time that I was this excited about a restaurant. All I can say is ‘Wow’ even the atmosphere was beautifully decorated and the seating was comfortable,” said Clarissa K in a satisfied review.
Visit E-Tang any day of the week from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Cafe Al Dente: 1 N Forest Beach Unit A-5
Indulge in some classic Italian dishes with Cafe Al Dente. With hearty pasta, appetizers and drinks, this is the ideal spot for a casual dinner or celebration.
Popular menu items include the lasagna rollatini, shrimp scampi and rigatoni.
Customers enjoy the atmosphere and flavorful dishes, as well as the outdoor seating.
“Trust me on this one, you can’t miss out or you’ll regret your life choices! Compliments to the magnificent chef who even came out and introduced himself after we couldn’t get enough of the delicious food at this hot spot!,” said Ivy T in a Yelp review.
Visit Cafe Al Dente Monday through Saturday 4-9 p.m.
Zunzibar: 8 Executive Park Road
Need a new hangout spot? Look no further than Zunzibar. With a full bar, sandwiches and wings, this is the best place to sit back and relax.
Zunzibar offers signature cocktails, frozen drinks, local beverages and a full menu with favorites such as chili, a Conquistador sandwich and The Godfather sandwich.
“Super friendly and attentive staff, live music and DAILY happy hour specials! Indoor and outdoor seating, fairly priced, alligator sightings in the lake post-meal, great drinks, tasty eats - would definitely return!,” said Steph G in a review.
Visit Zunzibar every day from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. with Happy Hour hosted from 4-7 p.m. and 10-11 p.m.
Okan: 71 Calhoun Street
Take a trip to the other side of the globe with Okan. Nationally recognized chef Bernard Bennett aims to cultivate relationships and honor the history of the African-American heritage with his dishes.
Located in Old Town Bluffton, Okan uses the vast resources of local farmers and fishermen to let locals and visitors explore underrepresented cuisine.
Popular menu items include cashew curry, pastelon, jerk goat and roasted okra.
“When our group of six friends decided to celebrate a birthday at Okan, we had no idea we were about to embark on a culinary safari through the flavors of Africa. Trust me, this was no ordinary night out — it was an adventure with delicious twists and turns at every course!” said Kelly K in a satisfied review.
Visit Okan 5-9 p.m. on Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.