
Basic Kitchen
Casual, health-conscious dining with a farm-to-fork approach, serving nourishing dishes from local produce and whole grains.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Basic Kitchen

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Casual, health-conscious dining with a farm-to-fork approach, serving nourishing dishes from local produce and whole grains.
"A must-visit for healthy, flavorful meals in a chic, comfortable space with exceptional service!"
Reservations Recommended
It can get busy, especially during lunch. Consider visiting off-peak or making reservations.
Unique Flavor Combinations
Try the buffalo cauliflower wings, pistachio beet dip, corn ribs, and beet margarita.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Health-Conscious & Flavorful
Nourishing dishes made with local produce and whole grains, offering vibrant vegan options.

Signature Cauliflower Wings
Crispy and flavorful cauliflower wings, a must-try appetizer that delights vegans and carnivores alike.

Attentive Service & Dietary Needs
Friendly and accommodating staff cater to dietary needs, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reservations Recommended
It can get busy, especially during lunch. Consider visiting off-peak or making reservations.
Unique Flavor Combinations
Try the buffalo cauliflower wings, pistachio beet dip, corn ribs, and beet margarita.
Popular Starter & Entree
Start with cauli wings, then try Ms. Paula's Shrimp or the curry bowl for an exceptional meal.
Ask About Specials
Inquire about daily specials or seasonal items for unique and delightful dining experiences.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reservations Recommended
It can get busy, especially during lunch. Consider visiting off-peak or making reservations.
Unique Flavor Combinations
Try the buffalo cauliflower wings, pistachio beet dip, corn ribs, and beet margarita.
Popular Starter & Entree
Start with cauli wings, then try Ms. Paula's Shrimp or the curry bowl for an exceptional meal.
Ask About Specials
Inquire about daily specials or seasonal items for unique and delightful dining experiences.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Basic Kitchen is praised for its healthy and flavorful dishes, particularly its vegan options, and its warm, accommodating atmosphere. While many enjoy the fresh ingredients and attentive service, some find the food to be under-seasoned or overpriced for the value. However, its location and commitment to dietary needs make it a highly recommended spot for many.
"My Fiance and I are from Indiana, and this was our first time visiting this restaurant.
I have never been to a vegan restaurant. I never believed there were any decent options for someone like me. I was sooooo wrong.
For a starter, we had the “Corn Ribs.” Afterwards I had the “Spinach & Feta Pita” with “sweet potato fries.” My Fiance had the “Chicken Dinner Bowl,” and the “Raspberry Basque Cheesecake” to finish it all off. I also had a very yummy glass of local kombucha.
Every single food item we ordered was amazing!
The atmosphere was very Hip and laid back and the service was excellent! I did not catch the name of the bartender that helped us, but he was perfect! (He had black hair and glasses.) He made some very tasty recommendations and was extremely friendly the entire time we were there.
I am now very interested to see where their creativity takes their food, and we will be coming back to visit!"
Ben Graves
"Came here post gym and liked the selections they had when looking online. This is right off king street and it has a really cute hipster vibe. Although the food was fresh and healthy, I wasn’t particularly impressed with anything. I did enjoy the appetizers more than mine and my husband’s entrees. His was pretty straightforward- chicken, rice and beets. And this is just my personal opinion on the spinach and feta pita- wayyyy too much cheese. I could only eat one half before it was so rich and overpowering.
The burger was done well and I do love some sweet potato fries. Our server was amazing, she asked about allergies and was super accommodating to my husband being celiac. She made the overall experience pleasant!"
Nina Cash
"Vegan friendly food with some meat options. Worked well. We had a plant based person and two carnivores in our party. Service was really good! Everyone was very friendly! We called just a few minutes in advance they were able to accommodate us. The farmhouse platter was an excellent appetizer to have after walking downtown. We all enjoyed our food fine. The staff was very nice and polite"
Kristen greazel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Basic Kitchen serves American cuisine with a focus on healthy, farm-to-fork dishes made with local produce and whole grains.
Yes, Basic Kitchen is highly regarded for its delicious and satisfying vegan options, including dishes like Ms. Paula's Shrimp and curry bowl.
Yes, Basic Kitchen is very accommodating to dietary needs, including gluten-free and celiac requirements, making it a comfortable dining choice.
The buffalo cauliflower wings, pistachio beet dip, corn ribs, and the curry bowl are frequently recommended for their unique flavors.
Basic Kitchen serves brunch on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays and is a popular spot for its healthy and delicious brunch offerings.
While walk-ins are accepted, it's recommended to make reservations, especially during peak lunch hours, as the restaurant can get busy.
Yes, Basic Kitchen is noted as being very kid-friendly, with staff who are sweet and accommodating to babies and families.
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Best Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina
Two blocks shy of King Street in Downtown Charleston, Basic Kitchen is beloved by locals for its convivial atmosphere and consistently clean eats. The veggie-forward menu features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, all of which can accommodate gluten-free and celiac diners. Don’t miss the buffalo cauliflower wings, pistachio beet dip, and corn ribs, along with a beet margarita to wash it all down.
Our Favorite Healthy Food in Charleston, SC
If the hunt for mouth-watering vegan and vegetarian options has you feeling bowled over, romaine calm and make a reservation at Basic Kitchen. You’ll love Ms. Paula’s Shrimp and their curry bowl, but be sure to start with a big plate of the cauli wings: they’re the stuff dreams are made of. The chic, comfortable space and welcoming bar make this a charming spot to spend an evening, and the well-rounded cocktail offerings are complemented by fresh juices, kombucha, and a rotating weekly wellness shot.
Farm-to-Table Restaurants in Charleston
What it's known for: Farm-to-fork is serious business at Basic Kitchen, where seasonal, local, high-quality ingredients are used to create dishes that are as nourishing as they are delicious. Peek into their larder, and you’ll find it is always stocked with local produce, whole grains and legumes as well as wild-caught seafood and sustainably raised meat. Style: Casual, health-conscious dining for lunch, dinner or brunch; rotating daily menu with simple, seasonal dishes and seasonal cocktail program
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Not so at Basic Kitchen — according to co-owner Ben Towill, that has been exactly the goal since opening the restaurant with his wife Kate in 2017. “We want to provide massive flavor and a meal that’s hearty but still feels light.” Since taking over as Basic Kitchen executive chef in July 2019, Robin Hollis has homed in on this mission by creating more wholesome dishes that highlight vegetables from local purveyors. BK’s lunch menu is divided into small plates, bowls, salads, sandwiches and sweets.
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Basic Kitchen uses a bounty of local produce and a rainbow of ingredients to create food that’s nourishing, healthful and delicious. They offer a rotating daily menu featuring simple, seasonal and delightful dishes like their signature Basic Bowl that is a satisfying balance of colorful veggies, curried chickpeas, herbaceous chimichurri and hearty grains. They also serve a variety of plant-based small plates like their cauliflower wings, corn ribs and sweet potato fries served with cashew ranch.
Where to Eat as a Vegetarian in Charleston, SC
Basic Kitchen (@basic_kitchen) is known for using local, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and good for you… plus some vegetarian takes on less healthy favorites. Sure, you can order a delicious salad or grain bowl, but make sure to pair it with the cauliflower wings and sweet potato fries!. Despite being vegetarian and gluten-free focused, they do it all well- my husband maintains that “the naughty burger” is one of his favorite burgers in all of Charleston.
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Big into diverse flavors and using inspiration from other dishes around the world, Basic Kitchen uses local ingredients, whole grains, legumes, a “rainbow” of spices, healthy and nutritious oils, and sustainably raised meat!. Now all of that would peak anyone's interest, Basic Kitchen has a healthy and beneficial impact on the environment!. Basic Kitchen wants you to enjoy their food in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere that will have you remembering every moment you were there.
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Every nook and cranny has been thoughtfully considered by the brains at Basic Project, a hospitality and design agency run by the hotel's owners, whose Charleston restaurant, Basic Kitchen, has become a staple in the city. At check in, we were greeted warmly at the front desk, gracious smiles practically beaming through the standard issue COVID masks. We were handed a neat stack of papers, our big brass room key, and two drink vouchers for the bar.
The 10 Best Rated Brunch Spots in Charleston
This light-drenched restaurant serves brunch from Friday through Sunday and attracts quite a crowd. Expect veggie-forward dishes such as the Surfer’s Delight bowl with scrambled eggs, citrus kale, sweet potatoes, avocado, and toast, or if you’re hungry, order the Naughty Burger with Brasstown farm grass-fed beef and sweet potato fries. Pair with a Brain Booster wellness shot or a beetroot and orange margarita — or both, it’s all about balance.
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Pet-friendly | Child-friendly | Outdoor/patio seating | Seating for large parties (6+). Bunch hours: Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Must-try menu items: The Surfer’s Delight with farm eggs, citrus kale, sweet potatoes, avocado, and toast; the Conscious Cowboy with curried chicken sausage, cauliflower grits, potato-veggie hash and eggs; and the Breakfast Sammie with mung bean falafel patty, harissa tehina and farm egg on an English muffin.
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View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Longboard – Sullivan’s (@longboardsullivans) Basic Kitchen Looking for a good healthy spot downtown to bring the family?. Basic Kitchen is my favorite spot for clean eats, vegan eats, and a chic healthy lunch patio in downtown Charleston. This patio is good for kids, and I crave their buffalo cauliflower and cesar salad all the time!.
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We love everything Basic Projects does, especially Basic Kitchen—their non-fussy, health-conscious spot that focuses on seasonal & local produce. They incorporate whole grains, healthy oils, wild-caught seafood and sustainably raised meat to create nourishing and delicious food. Designed and run by husband and wife team, Ben and Kate Towill who moved to Charleston from New York City in 2013.
Celiac-Safe Restaurants Around Charleston
Several places downtown were also mentioned such as Basic Kitchen, Taco Boy, Rancho Lewis, Lewis BBQ, and Republic Ice Cream. From personal experience, I know that Lewis BBQ knows exactly what is in all of their food items and can tell you which ones are safe and which ones are not. Check out the Facebook group page mentioned above, and ask around for places you may be interested in trying.
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Looking for a place to get a healthy meal without sacrificing taste?. Basic Kitchen in Charleston offers a menu that focuses on seasonal, wholesome ingredients that are good for your body and your taste buds. Their relaxed, plant-filled atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for enjoying fresh seafood, sustainably-raised meats, and creative cocktails made with fresh herbs and fruits.
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📍 Address: 82 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401 ⭐ Why We Love It: Healthy and fresh brunch with a focus on sustainability. For those looking for a lighter, health-conscious brunch, Basic Kitchen offers plant-based and locally sourced dishes like avocado toast, turmeric lattes, and smoothie bowls. Their bright and airy space makes it a relaxing spot for brunch with friends.
Best Outdoor Dining in Charleston!
Basic Kitchen: For those of you who prefer a healthy option, Basic Kitchen is for you!. Basic Kitchen offers vegan, gluten free, and allergen sensitive options, hoping to embody their vision “cleaner fuel, longer adventures.” The outdoor area doubles as the restaurant’s garden, and the fun an trendy atmosphere offers as a great backdrop to your meal.
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If you are vegan, Basic Kitchen is the best place to cater to that, but it is by no means vegan only. They focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients so you’ll find lots of great vegetables, but also a pretty tasty burger!. For a few of my favorites: the basic bowl is so good with quinoa, sweet potato and chickpeas and the cauliflower “wings” are amazing!
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The South can be a tough place for vegans and vegetarians, but that’s where BASIC KITCHEN comes to the rescue. The majority of the menu is vegan or vegetarian-friendly, and anything that’s not is still thoughtfully sourced. Featuring seasonal, local produce and diverse flavors, you’ll end your meal feeling nourished and ready to keep exploring.
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82 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401843-789-4568 Visit Website. As I have previously expressed, I have a weak spot for anything smoked salmon, which means my go-to dish at Basic Kitchen is the Smoked Salmon Toast. You’ll love the house-smoked salmon, mixed with the herby cream cheese, pickled onion, and dill on top of sourdough toast.
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Basic Kitchen is a more healthy/vegan-based restaurant that is AWESOME for people with gluten or dairy allergies, like myself. They have GF banana bread, the most DELICIOUS sweet potatoes (with cashew ranch) and incredible bowl options that are DELICIOUS and light at the same time!. (but seriously…get those sweet potatoes).
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Recently opened, the Basic Kitchen builds their menu around the principles of the clean eating movement, offering fresh and nutritious food to fuel & energize the body. Brunch favorites include their fresh take on Breakfast Tacos, avocado toast, oatmeal bowls and their signature Basic rice Bowl. Saturday & Sunday 9:00 a.m.
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Located a few blocks from the College of Charleston in the historic downtown, Basic Kitchen is the perfect date night dinner spot!. When it’s not sweltering outside, their covered outdoor dining area in the back is beautiful and peaceful. Basic Kitchen focuses on healthy, simple dishes and quality ingredients.
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With a rotating seasonal menu focused on simplicity, Basic Kitchen creates dishes from around the world using local ingredients that positively impact its diners and community. Substitutions are available, though unlisted on menus. Speak with your hosts when dining for a safe and elevated experience.
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Basic Kitchen is one of the best casual restaurants in downtown Charleston SC. It’s located in a historic building with floor-to-ceiling windows, making for a more upscale-casual atmosphere. Their daily menu rotates with seasonal dishes. They offer both small and big plates, salads, and bowls.
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Basic Kitchen is a lovely, casual cafe in downtown Charleston that offers a myriad of vegan options. There are vegan nachos, cauliflower wings, a rice and veggie bowl and a Rainbow bowl with Thai peanut sauce. Many other items on the menu are already vegan or can easily be made vegan.
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Basic Kitchen was conveniently located right across the street from our hotel so we ended up eating there for breakfast on both Saturday and Sunday during our stay. What can I say, I'm basic and I know it!. We arrived early (before 9am) both mornings and were seated right away.
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At Basic Kitchen, you can’t help but feel rejuvenated as you step into a bright and cheerful atmosphere. It’s like stumbling upon a hidden paradise for health-conscious food lovers. The plant-forward menu is the star of the show, and boy, does it know how to shine!
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- Rating: 4.4/5 (531 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 82 Wentworth St. Charleston, South Carolina - Categories: New American, Bars- Read more on Yelp. You may also like:Highest-rated Italian restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina by diners
Highest-rated fine dining restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina by diners
– Rating: 4.4/5 (531 reviews)– Price level: $$– Address: 82 Wentworth St. Charleston, South Carolina– Categories: New American, Bars– Read more on Yelp. You may also like:Highest-rated Italian restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina by diners
Caroline’s Charleston Favorites
Basic Kitchen (recommend getting a reservation!) is downtown off of King and is a great restaurant for lunch or dinner. A clean take on American classics, Basic is also one of my favorites. Try their sweet potato fries and the beet margarita.
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Their ingredients are super clean and locally sourced and the staff is well educated on dietary restrictions and allergies. They also can do modifications!. The sweet potato fries are the best and I love the Basic Bowl with chicken!
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Basic Kitchen, located in the heart of Downtown Charleston, offers flavorful and seasonal brunch options like the surfer’s delight made up of two scrambled eggs, citrus kale, sweet potatoes, avocado, and toast.
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Neighborhood: Downtown (Wentworth St.) More Info: BasicKitchen.com. Contrary to its name, Basic Kitchen is anything but. It’s got a groovy retro interior and a menu filled with fresh flavors and healthy dishes.
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The rush of energy you receive from Basic Kitchen’s menu applies to the chic palette of their décor as well. Mint barstools, leather sofas, fun pendant lights, and big windows create a fun diner to photograph!
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Basic Kitchen: I came here for lunch on my birthday and sat alone at the bar with my book. It’s a bright and airy space with a focus on vegetables. I had the basic bowl and added salmon.
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I go to Basic Kitchen for a healthy meal—simple stuff like chickpeas, rice, salmon. Nothing against biscuits and grits, but it’s not good for my tennis game to eat a bunch of hot links.
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Basic Kitchen has become quite the staple for conscious eaters. While the menu has gone through some changes through the years, it still has some delicious healthy vegan options.
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Basic Kitchen: Relish on wholesome and natural dishes with a vegan twist at Basic Kitchen. Head over to experience mindfully crafted food that nourishes your body and soul.
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Basic Kitchen uses tons of local produce and a rainbow of ingredients to create food that’s nourishing, healthful and delicious. Open for lunch + dinner M-Sat and Sun.
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· Basic Kitchen:Airy interiors and baristas with serious espresso chops. Cute spot for a healthy breakfast. I based Gracie’s Holy City Roasters on this shop!
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Basic Kitchen is a bright, relaxed restaurant serving a rotating menu of seasonal and area-sourced dishes, coffee drinks, cold beer, and classic cocktails.
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Basic Kitchen: Known for its plant-based and health-conscious menu, Basic Kitchen offers a range of salads filled with seasonal produce and fresh flavors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit