Leon’s Oyster Shop

As the name implies, head to LEON’s for fried chicken and oysters.

Then prepare to settle in.

It’s a cozy joint in an old garage situated on upper King Street, which used to be off limits for most. But owners Brooks Reitz and Tim Mink started a small restaurant empire up there with LEON’S, Melfi’s (Italian) and Little Jack’s Tavern (burgers) all on the same street.

(Brooks also owns cocktail mixer company Jack Rudy, which you can find in our City Guide here.)

LEON’s isn’t known for its zero-proof offerings, per se… it’s definitely a party spot. But we were happy to see a dedicated non-alcoholic section on the menu (which included local, craft sodas from Cannonborough) and a spirit-free cocktail offering with house-made shrub, soda and honey.

And it’s too good a spot to miss if you visit Charleston.