I'm a Food Writer, and I Spent 3 Weeks Exploring the Best Places to Eat in the Carolinas--Here Are My Favorite Spots

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  Food and Wine on Mon, Nov 03rd, 2025 by Travel + Leisure

Road Trip Through South and North Carolina: A Culinary Trail to Remember

Travel + Leisure’s latest guide takes readers on a deliciously curated journey that winds from the historic streets of Charleston, South Carolina, all the way to the mountain‑high plateaus of Asheville, North Carolina. The article, titled “Road trip South North Carolina restaurants,” stitches together a map of scenic highways with a menu of standout eateries that capture the essence of the two states’ food cultures. From lowcountry seafood to mountain‑air smoked meats, the route offers a feast for the senses, and the guide gives detailed recommendations on where to stop, what to order, and how to navigate the driving terrain.

Starting Point: Charleston, SC

The trip begins in Charleston, a city that’s as famous for its history as it is for its cuisine. The guide kicks off with a nod to Mandy’s Kitchen, a beloved neighborhood spot that offers a modern twist on Southern classics. A quick drive to The Charleston Coffee Shop on King Street provides a quintessential breakfast of buttermilk biscuits and fresh‑made coffee. For a taste of the region’s famed lowcountry boil, the article directs travelers to The Po’ Boy Shack, where seasoned shrimp, crab, and sausage are piled high on hearty rolls.

The article links to the restaurant’s website, which includes a virtual tour of the bustling kitchen and a menu highlighting the daily specials. Readers can also click through to a nearby travel blog that reviews the best sunset spots along the Charleston Harbor.

The Columbia Transition

Leaving Charleston, the guide recommends taking US‑17 south before hopping onto I‑26 west toward Columbia. In Columbia, the culinary scene shifts to farm‑to‑table fare. The article highlights The Greenhouse, a community garden‑infused restaurant that serves dishes such as heirloom tomato soup and grilled peach salad. A linked profile of the Greenhouse explains its partnership with local farms and the seasonal menu that keeps the experience fresh year after year.

Next on the list is The River and Rail, an atmospheric dining hall in the former rail yard that pairs Southern comfort food with an extensive local craft beer selection. The article’s embedded link leads to the venue’s tasting menu, showcasing a signature shrimp and grits that earned rave reviews in a previous Food & Wine article.

Mid‑Journey: Charlotte, NC

The next major stop is Charlotte, a city that offers a blend of Southern heritage and contemporary culinary flair. The guide points to Mile 0, a quirky bistro known for its brunch‑to‑dinner menu that rotates weekly. The restaurant’s link directs readers to a photo gallery of their famous “Mile 0 Burger” and the local ingredients sourced from the Charlotte Food Hub.

For a hearty lunch before heading north, Burrito Blanco offers a unique twist on Mexican‑American fusion. The article includes a brief interview with the chef, who explains how the restaurant incorporates North Carolina farm‑fresh produce into classic Mexican dishes.

Asheville: The Culinary Summit

After passing through the foothills, the final leg of the road trip arrives in Asheville, a city renowned for its vibrant food scene. The article’s centerpiece in Asheville is Puckett’s Dining Room, a Southern comfort‑food staple that has become a local institution. A link to Puckett’s online reservation system shows a menu full of items such as chicken and waffles, collard greens, and the legendary “Puckett’s Chicken” served on a griddle.

The guide also mentions The Blue Marlin, a coastal‑inspired seafood spot located near the Blue Ridge Mountains. The restaurant’s website provides a virtual map of their daily catch, allowing travelers to see the freshness of their offerings before they even arrive.

Finally, the guide recommends a stop at The Biltmore Estate’s Dining Hall, where the historic setting and contemporary dishes come together. A link to a behind‑the‑scenes video of the kitchen showcases the chef’s technique in creating dishes that reflect both the estate’s heritage and modern culinary trends.

Route Highlights & Travel Tips

Throughout the article, the author emphasizes the scenic value of the drive itself. The recommended route—US‑17 from Charleston, I‑26 through Columbia, I‑77 to Charlotte, and US‑23 to Asheville—offers panoramic views of the Lowcountry marshes, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the lush valleys of the Carolinas. The guide points out rest stops, such as the picturesque Winyah Bay State Park where diners can stretch their legs and grab a quick bite from the park’s snack bar.

The article also includes practical driving tips: suggested mileage per day, best times to avoid rush hour, and the importance of planning ahead during the peak summer tourist season. For those traveling with families or friends, the guide recommends pre‑booking tables at popular restaurants like Puckett’s and The Blue Marlin to avoid wait times.

Conclusion

Travel + Leisure’s “Road trip South North Carolina restaurants” article provides a well‑balanced fusion of practical travel logistics and culinary adventures. By linking directly to restaurant websites, interviews, and supplemental travel blogs, the guide offers a comprehensive roadmap that invites readers to taste the flavors of the Carolinas while enjoying a scenic drive. Whether you’re a foodie looking for the next great Southern dish or a traveler seeking a leisurely road trip, this guide lays out a path that is both delicious and unforgettable.