Before finishing at College of Charleston, you must try certain restaurants.
Attending school at one of “best food cities” in America, finding a place to eat, at a reasonable price, can be overwhelming for us college students.
Everyone knows the award-winning places like Husk, Halls Chophouse and Poogan’s Porch, but unless your family comes to visit for the weekend, these dining options are off-limits to your wallet.
By living in Charleston for the past three years as a student on a strict budget, I have been able to target some of the best places to eat out, where to steer clear and which places can provide some of the best college memories – as they did for me.
If you like to indulge in good food with a guilt-free check at the end of your meal while dining where the locals go, then this list is for you.
Basic Kitchen
This spot is popular for its “millennial wholesomeness” but for good reasons. The food served is filling, as well as aesthetically pleasing, for prices that won’t break the bank.
The restaurant uses seasonal and local produce that creates an ever-changing menu.
You will leave feeling refreshed and ready to take on the rest of the day, with some pictures to post on your Instagram story.
Barsa Tapas Lounge & Bar
This Spanish-inspired menu has a variety of bites to share in an environment that will make you want to stay for hours.
One of the best spots for a date, or to go out with friends, this place can turn any average night into one you will never forget.
Happy hour is served everyday from 4-7 p.m. with discounted food and $5 cocktails – which makes the price perfect for college students.
Not to mention the complementary glass of champagne you will receive if you come in on your birthday.
Jack’s Cafe
Located on campus at CofC, you can guarantee to find this place slammed with college students on a saturday morning.
The environment is always relaxed and no one judges how you look, so you can roll out of bed in your pajamas or even the clothes from the night before.
The menu has options that will satisfy any craving, and will help heal any headache for meals under $10.
Jack’s is a staple for any CofC student.
Bohemian Bull
Not far from downtown, this relaxed restaurant is loved by college students and families because of the well-priced dining options and the large amount of seating.
You can never go wrong with their $5 Pub Grub & Wings or burgers, and happy hour is served daily.
With the tables outside, you can wait on your food by playing cornhole and wall-hooky.
Locals are always around to escape the tourists on the peninsula, and to have a beer or two.
Lowdown Oven and Bar
Last but certainly not least, this personal favorite has everything a college student could possibly need.
This casual restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, TVs on every wall, and exceptional service.
Be sure to stop in on Wednesday for half-price pizza, and Thursday to get a burger for $4. Lowdown can make any hard day better.
by Arianna Messier
CougarBuzz 