Whispers circulated when King Street eatery Union Provisions declared its plans to reopen as an oyster house. The same owners (plus culinary advisor Nathan Thurston) would be driving the overhaul—could a new concept cure what ailed the previous space? Well, skeptics be darned: The Darling is off and running, and diners are digging it and its seafaring menu, crafted by executive chef Joe DiMaio. After a half-dozen bivalves, try the Creole shrimp starter with Anson Mills rice cakes (pictured). Bring a date to the bar (raw, or the one with booze); the island-themed cocktails are a perfect start to a rollicking night out, and the seafoam-accented interiors add to the joint’s trendy yet low-key vibe.

Charleston Mag