Charleston: Upper King Street Food Tour with Tastings

Summary

Modern Lowcountry flavors & creative bites in Charleston’s lively Upper King Street

You’ll walk through Charleston’s Upper King Street with a local guide, sampling creative dishes at four standout restaurants. Expect lively stories, warm bites fresh from the kitchen, and real insight into how Lowcountry cuisine is evolving right now. You’ll leave full — both from good food and genuine moments shared around the table.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what Charleston tastes like now, not just in the old stories? That’s what I kept asking myself as we wandered up Upper King Street, following our guide (her name was Jamie, sharp sense of humor). The street felt alive — clatter from open kitchens, a whiff of something smoky and sweet, people laughing at sidewalk tables. We ducked into the first spot and I swear, the hush puppies were still steaming when they hit our table. Jamie told us about how this part of town used to be mostly furniture shops — now it’s all energy and food you can’t really pin down to one style.

I didn’t expect to actually get full on a food tour, but by stop three (I think it was the place with the pickled shrimp?), I had to loosen my belt a notch. Each restaurant had its own vibe — one chef came out to chat about why he uses benne seeds instead of sesame, which led to a whole tangent about Gullah traditions. There was this moment where everyone at our table just went quiet for a second, tasting something new together. It was raining outside for maybe ten minutes and somehow that made everything smell even richer — fried chicken and fresh herbs mixing with wet pavement.

The last stop was more experimental — I won’t spoil it but let’s just say I never thought pimento cheese could taste like that. Someone asked Jamie if locals actually eat at these places or if it’s all tourists; she just grinned and pointed out two regulars waving from the bar. I left with new favorites and honestly, a better sense of how Charleston keeps changing without losing its roots. Still thinking about that benne seed crunch days later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Upper King Street food scene

• Begin 2.5-hour food tour
• Visit Upper King Street historic district
• Discover four culinary innovators
• Experience modern Lowcountry cuisine
• Learn about Charleston's culinary evolution

Top questions

How long does the Charleston Upper King Street food tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated on this food tour?

Some dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice; vegan, dairy/lactose, and soy restrictions cannot be accommodated.

Is public transportation available near the starting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Is this food tour suitable for children?

The tour is not recommended for children under 8 years old.

What is included in the price of the Upper King Street food tour?

The price includes all pre-selected food tastings and a city-certified guide.

Do I need to arrive early for the tour?

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?

Tours operate rain or shine except in cases of extreme weather like hurricanes.

What’s included

Your day includes all pre-selected tastings (enough for most as a meal), guided walking through historic Upper King Street with a city-certified guide sharing stories along the way. Dietary needs can sometimes be accommodated if communicated well in advance; please note vegan, dairy/lactose or soy restrictions cannot be met. No hotel pickup is provided but public transport is nearby.