Guys, for my Charleston Christmas I've already booked Magnolia's and Peninsula Grill (any thoughts on P.G. versus High Cotton or S.N.O.B?) for special dinners. Magnolia's is my fave, and I really enjoyed S.N.O.B. as well. Now ... for the other two days, I thought I'd step down a level, not spend quite as much, but still eat well. What restaurants would you suggest? We like everything, will be staying in the historic district and walking to everything we can. Thanks for any help you can give ...

I'm guessing it's okay if "gals" respond too
I loved Peninsula Grill. Our dinner was spectacular and the coconut cake dessert divine. I haven't been to High Cotton. I don't think you can compare SNOB and PG. SNOB is very good, and a more relaxed, fun atmosphere. PG food is exceptional but in a more refined, formal setting.
Some other restaurants I like and ideas for your "step down" dinners are Tristan, Fish, and Fig. Tristan is a modern setting, but they have fantastic lamb ribs on the app menu. They are delicious. And I'm not a rib fan. I don't usually like them. But these were awesome. Tristan is still a bit $$$.
Fish is higher up on King Street. I think they serve excellent dishes and it's a little less expensive. Also, not as crowded.
FIG is another that I like. Not a fancy restaurant, a bit retro in fact, but modern food. They support local farms, etc. They serve an excellent duck confit.
I hope this helps. Have a wonderful holiday!!

tamjan, old GAL p), Magnolia's has been my favorite in Charleston for ages, to the exclusion of trying many other places. Last time, we also ate twice at SNOB, and the food was yummy but it is pretty casual and crowded (our table was so close to another that I almost became friends with the people before lunch was over!) I wanted to try somewhere different, and I've heard so much about Peninsula Grill, so will probably stick with that for Christmas Eve.

I will consider the others you mention, and I think I'll have brunch at Poogan's Porch one day.

Thanks for your good wishes. Never seen Charleston at Christmas so I am excited! Have a great holiday yourself!

ttt

Charleston at Christmas - how lovely!
I don't know if this qualifies for "second tier" but I've enjoyed Hanks and Coast during previous trips...here are their websites:
www.coastbarandgrill.com
www.hanksseafoodrestaurant.com
Have a great trip!

Thanks so much, away! The problem with Charleston is that there's so many good restaurants, I'm sure, and only four days to enjoy a variety of them. I'll make a note of those you like. Happy Christmas to you ...

I second Hanks seafood. You may want to look into McCrady's. It was good when i was here a few years ago. Make sure you check out the menu at Peninsula Grill before you go.

You could always buy a pound of fresh pralines at Market Street Sweets for dinner
mmmm...pralines

Five Loaves

away, you don't even have to remind me about *THOSE pralines.* I love to stand and eat those warm samples right off the glass!

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions. Feel free to keep 'em coming!

Gotta have the bread pudding at Poogan's Porch--oh, my! Shrimp and grits were great too.

Thank you, texasjo! I love Bread Pudding ... does it have a sauce on it? I'll have to try that!

Try going over to Sullivans Island and eating at Station 22 or Sullivans. Station 22 has great steaks but my favorite is Crispy Whole Flounder. Sullivans has great specials and a wonderful Sunday Brunch.

How about Hominy Grill. Great breakfasts.
Have a lovely trip. Charleston anytime is fabulous, Charleston at Christmas has to be ultrafabulous!

Thank you, guys! I may have to extend my stay to eat at more places, huh?

cmcfong, Hominy Grill sounds good for brunch. Since I go to Charleston whenever I can, if I don't visit some of these places during these four days, I will do so later. I think you're right ... Charleston will have to be amazing at Christmas!

Happy holidays to all of you, and thanks again for your recommendations!