SULLIVAN'S ISLAND. Exceptional cuisine is the hallmark of this relaxed Sullivan's Island restaurant, and awards rain constantly upon its chef and kitchen. Regional dishes are fashioned from premium, local ingredients ­ for example, sesame-seared tuna over jasmine rice or cider-brined pork chops over sweet potato mash and collards. Sunday brunch features such dandies as corned beef and sweet potato hash, fried green tomato and lump crab benedict, and grilled salmon scrambler. A great wine list, impeccable service, and a gracious interior solidify the restaurant's reputation.

DOWNTOWN. Deli by day, high end dining room by night, Blend offers a contemporary addition to the Charleston dining scene. The kitchen staff draws sophisticated dinnertime crowds with sumptuous New American dishes such as jumbo shrimp and crab tossed with spicy marinara sauce and served over fussilli pasta. Meanwhile, the downstairs operation delivers savory specialty sandwiches and coffee drinks throughout the day.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. Sister restaurant to Magnolia's, located just next door. House specialties include homemade bread, pizzas, pastas and risottos. If the weather permits, try and dine al fresco on the beautifully landscaped patio. Sunday brunch is popular, with options such as crawfish and shrimp etouffee, honey-pumpkin stuffed French toast, a grilled salmon-fried egg sandwich, pulled pork hash, and a sausage and shrimp omelette. Great food in a pleasant atmosphere.

DOWNTOWN. One of Charleston's best-kept secrets, Circa 1886 prepares some of the best cuisine in town. Named for the year that the neighboring Wentworth Mansion was built, Circa boasts a wine list that provides diners with well over 200 selections. With starters such as confits of quail or duck with hazelnut-blackberry vinaigrette, or morel mushroom and Brie strudel on warmed asparagus cream, the experience is not to be forgotten. For entrées, choose from an exceptional selection of wild game, beef and seafood. Top your night off with pan-fried angel food cake for dessert.

DOWNTOWN. Tucked in quaint storefront on Market Street, this trendy kitchen rivals some of the city's most reputable dining rooms. Visually stunning and packed with flavor, their distinctive menu items range from striped seabass with ratatoille to truffle-infused tenderloin. Dishes may be ordered a la carte, or diners may opt to for a 3-5 course dinner for $45-65.