Written by Sydney Gallimore on behalf of ABC News 4.

It’s been a while since I tried out O-Ku, so a friend and I decided to go back and check out their dinner menu for the purposes of a review (my previous review only covered their lunch selections). We had a veritable sushi feast, which I would happily repeat anytime, if anyone would like to go with me (and pay, of course).

The first thing they brought out was the Poké (diced salmon, tuna, Hamachi, Asian pear, mango, seaweed salad, dandash, $14). It was really refreshing and the kind of thing that is perfect for snacking on in the summer.

Part I - Thomas Heyward

We get a double portion of Founding Fathers with the Heyward-Washington House at 87 Church Street, as this building is associated with both Thomas Heyward, one of South Carolina's four signers of the Declaration of Independence, and George Washington, General of the American forces during the Revolutionary War and the first President of the United States. In 1770, the rice planter Daniel Heyward bought the property at 87 Church Street and later sold it to his son Thomas...

I found it by accident. Usually, nothing can distract me when I'm in the market in downtown Charleston.

"What do you mean, a MoonPie store?" I said. I felt the blood drain from my face.

"Like...a store that sells MoonPies," my friend says way too casually.

I shook my head. Cars and pedestrians angrily swerved around me.

"It can't be," I whispered.

This enticing barrier island has played a prominent role in the region's history. Today, those who live on it or who frequent it rightfully consider it a gem.

1. O'well... Sullivan's Island was named after Captain Florence O'Sullivan who "was charged by the government of Carolina to protect the city [of Charleston] by placing a gun in the best place possible for such a task" in 1674.

My last post addressed the John Rutledge House; I return to the Rutledge family in this post, highlighting the house across the street which John’s younger brother, Edward Rutledge, owned and lived in.

117 Broad Street was built around 1760 by James Laurens. This land was once part of an orange grove (which is why the next street over is called “Orange Street”). Even though the house is pre-revolutionary, Edward Rutledge did not live there before or during the American Revolution.

Written by Sydney Gallimore on behalf of ABC News 4.

When the weather outside is nice and warm, there are few things more enjoyable and rewarding than al fresco dining. No matter where you live in the Holy City, there are plenty of delicious restaurants that offer al fresco dining at its best.


Here’s your guide to the best outdoor dining spots in Charleston.

 

Each year, readers of Travel + Leisure vote for their favorite city in the United States based on the quality of that city’s friendliness, culture, cuisine, sights and landmarks, shopping, and overall value. To be recognized alongside Chicago, Boston, New York and other landmark US cities is truly an honor. We’d like to thank Travel + Leisure and, of course, all those who voted. It warms us to know that Charleston is...

Happiness comes in all forms here in Greater Charleston, especially when you add H2O to the equation. And getting to partake in all 10 activities highlighted below equals a great Lowcountry summer! Set your sights high and prepare to get wet…naturally. (We’ll leave the pool activities for another day. And of course, Lowcountry fishing deserves its own Top 10!)

1. Swim…Alright; no excuses. Sunscreen, a towel, a buddy and a little common sense…that’s all you need.  Head to your favorite beach and perform your favorite stroke. Ours is Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island. And remember, there’s no better exercise!

The month of July is associated with the founding of our nation, and my next several diary posts will highlight the Charleston homes of some of our founding fathers. I start with John Rutledge and his home at 116 Broad Street. Built around 1763 for his bride, you have to imagine it without (1) the top floor and (2) all the cast ironwork, both of which were additions by later owners to the structure. In 1763 it would have been recognizable as a fine Georgian-style house, embodying the principles of balance and harmony as essential to that period.

116 Broad Street was built for John’s bride, Elizabeth Grimke, and it speaks of his love and high regard for her. They had ten children and were married for approximately 30 years until Elizabeth’s death in 1792.

Written by Brandt Prince on behalf of ABC News 4.

At first thought many people would associate oysters with restaurants or family gatherings and nights around a fire with bottles of hot sauce everywhere. But to see the journey oysters take to get to your mouth is something that will change your perspective on them entirely.

The South Carolina Aquarium recently invited me to join them in a project which required me to wear boots, sunscreen, and "protective clothes" so of course, I accepted the invitation. I listened closely to the weather forecast and assumed the event would be canceled...