The Obstinate Daughter
After a gorgeous renovation spearheaded by architect Reggie Gibson, this Sullivan’s Island spot offers subtle nautical touches and an airy feel aided by an open kitchen and hand-crank windows. Helmed by the folks behind Wild Olive, its menu slants local and Italian; we recently savored polenta fries with salsa rosa and a heap of cavatappi studded with trigger fish. The pizzas—such as Old Danger, featuring pancetta, white sauce, and an egg—would be even better atop crispier crusts, but are delicious nonetheless. www.theobstinatedaughter.com
The Palace Hotel
The lack of a sign on the door (at least at press time) seems fitting given the undercover-cool vibe you’ll find inside this Hanover Street dive. Sit at one of the mismatched tables or the bar lit by Edison-style bulbs for a simple menu of brews, wine, and food (Eva Keilty was the consulting chef; former FIG butcher Blake Joyal is the permanent chef). Piled with ingredients like seasonal kimchi and Thai curry mayo, the hot dogs are good—whether they’re worth $7 is for you to decide. Paninis (try the One Phine Swine), seasonal salads, and more round out the menu. Find Palace Hotel on Facebook.
The Islander
Despite its location near a corporate campus on Daniel Island, Holy City Hospitality’s newest venture offers chic coastal ambiance with its indoor-outdoor bar and palm tree–dotted patio. On a recent visit, we ordered a spicy tuna roll expecting big things, as chef John Whisenant was once Rue de Jean’s sushi chef; alas, it came drowned in syrupy chili sauce. Stick with tropical fusion such as the excellent jerk chicken, which Whisenant prepares over 48 hours with a process that involves brine, bacon jus, and jerk seasoning. www.holycityhospitality.com
