FIG

Short for “Food Is Good,” this buzzing restaurant is a favorite among locals, and for good reason. The pioneering restaurant features ingredients from the greater Charleston area, served in exciting and thoughtful ways.

Meals at FIG undoubtedly begin for most with a cocktail from the inventive bar. The make-your-own Manhattans, where guests can chose their bourbon, bitters and vermouth from an extensive menu, are particularly fun.

Culinary specialties include the soft-shell crab and an extraordinary coddled egg dish, which includes English peas, blue lump crab, chives and scallions and uses the egg whites to make a rich soup, all the while keeping the yolk intact. Other options include smoked salmon tartar with fried quail egg, homemade potato chips and watercress. A recent visit delivered a melt-in-your-mouth appetizer of lemony leeks with mustard vinaigrette. It comes as no surprise that chef Mike Lata won a James Beard award.

The wait staff is cool and passionate about the menu, adding to the dining room’s exciting vibe.