Best Healthy & Vegetarian Restaurants in Charleston, SC
We know, we know, when you think of Charleston and its culinary scene, the first thing that comes to mind is not healthy food. With dishes like shrimp and grits and she crab soup at the center of Southern cuisine, we don’t blame you, but we’re here to tell you there are some great spots for a healthier, lighter bite in the Holy City.
Our Picks
The Daily
Just off of upper King St., this spot is a mainstay on our rotation. They're certainly on a mission to bring quality and fresh food to the Lowcountry and do so with a more than just a coffee shop concept. You’ll find delicious smoothies, avocado toasts, pastries baked in house or by the best in town, and delicious breakfast bowls. Oh, and yes you will find coffee, and a dedication to the very best, as they work with roasters who take pride in their craft and curate the best around.
Verde
Who doesn’t love a quick to-go option that is healthy and fresh? That’s why Verde is a go-to pick when we need something fast. Their focus is on veggies and proteins chopped or wrapped, and we promise you’ll love their homemade dressings. They have multiple locations in and around Charleston, and don’t forget what your mama told you: “Eat your veggies!”
Caviar & Bananas
Just off of the C of C & MUSC’s campus this market is more than just your typical corner store. Here you’ll find a commitment to fine foods and fresh, local ingredients. Whether it’s a made-to-order salad or a grab and go option, the menu changes daily and always inspires us to eat healthy. Also, as a bonus there are a variety of retail options that are the perfect accoutrements for a charcuterie board or picnic.
Basic Kitchen
Always a favorite amongst the vegetarian crowd, this spot by the lovely duo behind Basic Projects offers a seasonal and rotating menu that includes local ingredients and an emphasis on whole foods. You’ll find a whole host of veggie options, cue the Cauliflower wings, and lovely veggie harvest bowls with the option of clean protein add-ons. And located in the heart of Downtown Charleston with a quaint patio makes this a great date nite or lunch spot.
Bon Banh Mi
A Southeast Asian Kitchen with a focus on “simple, bold, and fresh” ingredients with multiple locations in the Charleston area. You’ll find hearty rice bowls with healthy protein options, salads, and of course the namesake, Banh Mi sandwich. A simple concept, but with delicious food that speaks for itself.
Tres Palmas Acai
Our top pick for an Acai bowl, this cute as a pie shop offers the best Acai wild-harvested and organic directly from Brazil. We go wild for the OG bowl and sometimes like to add Nutella, because balance right? They also have a full menu of smoothies, which are perfect at their Ethos Athletic Club outpost after a workout, and we love their Tuna Poke for a more savory choice.
Huriyali
In the sweetest little green house off of Huger Street and Serving nourishing treats for the mind, body, and soul, you’ll find this stand out on the healthy eating scene. With a full menu of salad, smoothie, and healthy bowl options you can’t go wrong. Our favorites include the Goddess Salad, Purple Rain Smoothie, and the Healthiest Nachos in Town with ground turkey. There’s also plenty of vegetarian and vegan options and delicious sweet treats for dessert. Head to their courtyard on a spring day in the city, it’s a local favorite.
Atlyss Food Collective
Originally a healthy meal delivery service (which they still offer by the way), you can now find them downtown on Meeting in a cute little tucked away spot. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options dominate the heavy salad, wrap, and smoothie menu. Enjoy there or grab a take-home option. We go crazy for their Dark Chocolate Energy Bites.
Hustle Smoothie Bar & Bomb Bar
Described as a “blender bomb experience store and plant based cafe”, not only can you try out their nearly famous blender bombs, but there’s a healthy menu of smoothies, wellness shots, toasts, and acai bowls. We love that they also offer boosters which are add-ons good for the skin, gut, and immunity. Also, try out their newest outpost in West Ashley next to Hylo Fitness offering smoothies, toasts, and coffee. You won’t miss the blender bomb which is the centerpiece of this concept as well, and it’s known to turn your smoothie into a nutritious and satisfying meal. We can attest to that!
Kid Cashew
With a mediterranean focused menu, that offers vegan and vegetarian options, we love this option in the heart of Mount Pleasant. Also, most don’t know that they are a wood fire grill “inspired by farmers, butchers, and that means they don’t have a freezer, fryer, or heat lamp.” You know what that means? The freshest foods with real flavors and good for you nutrition. Oh, and did we mention you gotta try the hummus? It’s simply the best we’ve had and we’re always trying our darnedest to recreate it…
So just in time for those 2024 resolutions, here’s to health and happy bellies!