Nestled about 20 minutes of driving outside Charleston, SC, Bowens Island Restaurant stands as a beacon of unapologetic authenticity, embracing its unique charm with graffiti-covered tables and a dining area perched on a large porch overlooking the marsh and ocean. This iconic establishment boasts a covered deck at the back, providing unparalleled sunset views that paint the sky with hues of orange and pink.
Authentic Ambiance: Graffiti and Porch Dining
Bowens Island Restaurant proudly wears its authenticity on its sleeve, or rather, on its tables. Graffiti-covered surfaces tell the tales of countless visitors who have relished the restaurant's distinctive character. The dining area, situated on a second-floor porch, offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The central bar serves as a focal point, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among patrons. I recommend trying anything from Southern Pines Brewing Company which they had on tap when I was there. A great first pick it the Man-of-law, a nice IPA.
Oyster Harvest: Mud-Clinging Clusters and Blanching Brilliance
Bowens Island's claim to fame lies in its oysters, harvested in a manner that sets them apart from the rest of the world. Unlike oysters elsewhere that typically cling to hard surfaces, the clusters here grow from the mud, creating a unique flavor profile. When ordered the cashier asks for how you want them it was recommend to have them blanche. At first I was unsure of this, due to the fact that oysters are incredible, without boiling required. I went with the locals recommendation as I had no idea how to proceed. After ordering, you go downstairs to an oyster eating room complete with oyster shell buckets under a hole in the center of the table. There is an oyster cooking master who tends to two huge pots of boiling water and a fire. He asks if you want them slightly open, to which I said yes. He expertly watched them being cooked the result being perfection.
The decision to blanch these oysters is a culinary stroke of genius, preserving the essence of their taste. This method enhances the natural flavors of the oysters, delivering a seafood experience that is unparalleled.
The author broke his former records of oysters eaten in one sitting to a respectable 79, which was only one tray of oysters ($30). It should be noted though that in this area, 79 is a rookie number. Did the author get sick? Nope. Admittedly not one who is very good at an eating competition, it felt as if I ate a huge streak more than anything nefarious.
Culinary Delights: Fried Green Tomatoes and Fresh Seafood
The fried green tomatoes at Bowens Island Restaurant are not just a dish; they are a revelation. Acclaimed by visitors as the best anywhere in the world, these crispy delights provide a perfect balance of tanginess and crunch, leaving taste buds in awe.
The fried seafood at Bowens Island is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality. Sourced locally, the seafood menu showcases the region's bounty with a burst of flavors in every bite. From golden-brown shrimp to perfectly fried fish, each dish attests to the restaurant's dedication to providing an unforgettable culinary experience. Normal fried food that people are used to is nothing close to the quality served here. Everything is just so damn fresh and so perfectly breaded and fried it’s like nothing you have ever eaten before.
Sunset Serenity: Marsh Views and Ocean Horizons
As the day winds down, patrons on the covered deck are treated to a spectacle of nature. The sun sets over the marsh, casting a warm glow that reflects on the ocean horizon. This breathtaking panorama, combined with the sounds of the marsh and the sea, creates a serene backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
In conclusion, Bowens Island Restaurant is a culinary haven that transcends the ordinary. With an unapologetically authentic ambiance, a commitment to preserving the essence of local flavors, and a setting that captures the beauty of the Lowcountry, it stands as a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience just outside the vibrant city of Charleston, SC. It is even worth a trip to the area just to go to this restaurant.