Exciting Culinary News from Charleston, S.C.
If you’ve been around North Charleston lately, you’ve probably heard the buzz about a new restaurant that’s been making waves since it opened in the fall of 2023. King BBQ is stealing the show and has just been recognized in a big way: it’s been named one of the 20 Best New Restaurants of 2024 by a renowned food magazine! This is a huge honor that speaks volumes about what the restaurant has to offer.
A Dream Come True
For those who are a little unfamiliar, King BBQ was started by the talented duo Shuai and Corrie Wang. They might already be familiar to locals as the founders of the beloved Lowcountry Chinese-American joint, Jackrabbit Filly. The culinary brains behind the grill is none other than Brandon Olson, who hails from Lexington, North Carolina. Together, this team has truly redefined what it means to enjoy Southern comfort food.
Front-of-house manager Haley Chapman was over the moon about the recognition. “It’s very exciting,” she said with a glimmer in her eye. “We knew that a food magazine was doing an article on us but we did not know we would be making the list, so that was very exciting to find out.” The thrill didn’t stop there; Haley added, “This one is definitely the biggest recognition we’ve gotten. It really kind of put it into perspective how much hard work and dedication we’ve put into this. The recognition is very rewarding.”
A Menu Full of Surprises
One stroll through their menu and it’s easy to see why King BBQ has caught the attention of food lovers far and wide. The dishes showcase a delightful blend of Chinese and Southeastern cuisine, giving traditional Southern flavors a twist that is both unexpected and delicious. How about trying hot pot collards or chili crisp corn pudding? These standout items perfectly embody the restaurant’s creative approach to cooking.
It doesn’t stop there! You can also dive into their hushpuppy krab rangoons, which are a must-try! Additionally, their chopped pork, cha shao ribs, lo mein soup bowl, and Hong Kong milk tea were all specifically highlighted in the feature as favorites. You can really see how King BBQ is putting their own spin on various dishes while staying true to their roots. It’s a culinary experience that’s definitely not to be missed!
The Community’s New Favorite
Since opening its doors, King BBQ has quickly become a community darling. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the vibe of the place too. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner with friends and family. Whether you’re a Charleston native or just passing through, you won’t want to overlook this exceptional restaurant.
Looking Forward
With this kind of recognition, it seems that King BBQ is just getting started. The team there is excited about the future and can’t wait for more diners to come in and experience their take on Southern comfort food. If you haven’t had the chance to try it yet, now is the perfect time. You might just discover your new favorite dish!
So, the next time you’re in North Charleston, make sure to stop by King BBQ. There’s a world of flavor waiting for you, and with the accolades they’ve received so far, we can only imagine the culinary wonders they’ll come up with next!