During such trying times, comfort food is what we need right now. Most importantly, we need something that will bring us together. We eat when we're sad, celebrating, mourning, getting married, and more. Everything we do, there is always food involved. Especially now, there is nothing better than bonding over a good meal filled with full hearts and stuffed bellies.
Below you will find a few of Charleston's finest breakfast spots. If you live for breakfast as I do, this list is right up your alley. After all, "human rights begin with breakfast." - John Madeley.
1. Caviar and Bananas
51 George Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Located off of King Street, Caviar and Banana’s should be one of your first stops. As they like to say, there’s “gourmet for your every day.” Not only are there delicious sandwiches that can be ordered on the spot, but there is a grocery store too. Pick up a quick snack and a coffee while stocking up on necessities. They do the work; you get the credit. It’s one-stop shopping you’ll never forget.
2. Daps Breakfast and Imbibe
280 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29403 http://dapsbreakfast.com
Daps Breakfast and Imbibe is a newer restaurant on the Charleston Peninsula, and they are here to stay. You will never want to leave after trying their fruity pebble pancakes, decadent sticky bun, and life-changing cheese sauce. Most importantly, if you are a fry lover, your life will never be the same. Their “hashbrowns” are thinly cut fries from heaven. They are so delicious; they have their own side of the menu with four different adaptions. Remember that cheese sauce I mentioned? Do yourself a favor and order The Standard.
Daps was created in hopes of filling a missing food element in the west side of Charleston. They have beyond exceeded their goals, turning well-known dishes into unforgettable gourmet comfort food. Being easily accessible, customers can grab food to go during the hustle and bustle of every day. At night, Daps turns into a comfortable lounge where spirits and fine food become a part of the selection. Come for breakfast, stay for dinner. The cherry on top: coffee is served all day.
3. Millers All Day
120 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and Millers gets that. So much so that they serve breakfast all day long. If you’re the type of person who can only start their day with eggs, bacon, and a warm cup of coffee, this is the perfect place for you. There is nowhere else you can find a team of southern chefs, farmers, and a miller of fantastic grains all in one place.
Everything they serve is made from scratch with a focus on “small batch grains, perfectly turned eggs, delicious proteins, craft cocktails, and gentle surprises designed to delight even the most hardboiled diner.”
Millers is so determined to churn out the best quality product possible; they even have their own antique mill operating in the front window. In every bite, Millers strives to bring out timeless flavors and unforgettable memories.
Pro Tip: Try to make it on the second Sunday of the month. This is when King Street closes down, and all of the restaurants set up a stand outside. People and animals (pigs have been known to make an appearance) roam throughout the streets and snack their way through Charleston’s most celebrated eats.
4. Brown’s Court Bakery
199 Saint Philip, Charleston, SC 29403
Featured on Unique Sweets on the Cooking Channel, Brown's Court Bakery is a hit for a reason. This place will instantly transport you to simpler times, blending traditional with a modern flair. The bakery is inside a historic house, built in the 1800s. With such deep roots and rich history, "the bakery strives to preserve Charleston's quality and variety of life." It is one of four "sister" houses and still holds the same name since the beginning.
Being the only house left standing, you can tell Brown's Court is something special. With their flavorful baked goods, mouth-watering breakfast sandwich, delectable coffee options, and history on the side, you won't regret your visit.
5. Babas on Cannon
11 Cannon St, Charleston, SC 29403
Babas on Cannon have coined themselves as an "old-world café," and they are right on the money. Inspired by European neighborhood cafés with a southern flair, people show up for the atmosphere and stay for the Peanut Mocha (Babas' homemade peanut milk, espresso, and chocolate). The more you go, the more hidden gems you find. They specialize in classic espresso and fine apéro.
Coffee and homemade pastries are served in the morning. Sandwiches and salads are served in the afternoon. In the evening, pop in for proper Aperitivo service ranging from heavenly wines, unique cocktails, and unforgettable snacks.
Babas puts a twist in everything they do. Be prepared to experience the element of surprise in every bite. Everything they serve looks like it just came out of a food network photoshoot. Each aspect amplifies the next with their quality organic ingredients and sustainability. What makes it even better is the impeccable customer service and family-owned feel you get when entering. Babas starts to feel like home after the very first visit.
In case you were wondering, all of these restaurants have take-out, and many have delivery options. So when the pandemic gets tough, you can enjoy the simple pleasures in life. In this case, a quality meal made with love and southern charm.
How did I miss these?!! Will try them next time around.
I want to go back to Charleston and try the places I have not been. Miller’s all day, yum!!!!!