Thanks to all of your suggestions we had an amazing and delicious trip to Charleston.

Charleston embraced us with bacon-y kisses at a late dinner at Husk. Heath Ceramics and Wine Punt glasses on the table were a chic California touch but the food was delightfully Southern. Drew’s parent’s surprised us by picking up the bill all the way from Georgia as a Valentine’s Day treat! It was a perfect night.

the next day I headed out on a riverfront jog

the pineapple is a symbol of welcome, thanks Charleston I feel right at home

 

pink and purple houses, my 8-year old dream come true

now days I’m more into this turquoise palette

one of the beautiful rivers, I almost feel Pat Conroy whispering in my ear.

 

famous side gardens did not disappoint

 

I think I’ll just paint my door bright coral for spring. Drew got back from groomsmen practice and we hit the town together.

ancient protections in Battery Park

 

but even older oak trees

 

bundles of vintage cookbooks shopping on King St.

and bedazzled Marker’s Mark bottle of course.

Lunch at Gaulart & Maliclet French Cafe was so fun! At the long communal table I heard a 7-year old boy tell his father is was the best French food he has had outside of Paris. Also they brought out a Dijon mustard trio with our lunch, enough said.

Sightseeing via beach cruisers courtesy of our hotel The Vendue Inn

 

Valentine’s Day decor on a fancy mansion in the Battery

 

It’s not only Colonial architecture in the air folks (Gadsden Flag)

 

Truly this coconut cake was one of the best things I ever ate, don’t miss it. The Peninsula Grill.

 

I saw lots of red chard and other winter garden greens growing in pretty flower boxes and public parks!

 

A late night snack at Cypress was a highlight. Mini crab rolls topped with celery leaves on homemade buns.

 

Drew had the Pimento Cheese Burger a Cypress (sans bun of course but he did try a few bites of coconut cake #sorrygluten).

 

Miss you Charleston. I’m reading South of Broad to keep the dream alive.

xo,

Lydia