The Boathouse on East Bay

Frommer's Review

Briny delights await you at this bustling restaurant at the corner of Chapel and East Bay. It is a curious blend of family friendliness and two-fisted machismo, appealing to a wide range of denizens from Charleston plus visitors who are just discovering the place. The setting is in a turn-of-the-20th-century warehouse where boats were once repaired. Massive antique timbers on the heavily trussed ceiling remain. On the northern perimeter of the historic core, the restaurant has a raw bar open daily from 4pm to midnight. Shellfish platters are the chef's specialty, including the "J Boat," which can be shared. On it are some of the city's best oysters, littleneck clams, smoked mussels, king crab legs, and fresh shrimp. Every night four different types of fish, ranging from mahimahi to black grouper, are grilled and served with a range of sauces, from mustard glaze to hoisin ginger.

Familiar Charleston specialties include spicy shrimp and grits, and crab cakes with green Tabasco sauce, the latter one of our favorites. For those who don't want fish, a selection of pasta, beef, and chicken dishes is also served. For dessert, opt for the strawberry cobbler or Key lime pie.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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