North Charleston, July 26, 2025
News Summary
North Charleston is experiencing a surge in its restaurant industry, appealing to food lovers with a rich variety of dining options. New establishments like Dashi, Jackrabbit Filly, and Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles are emerging, driven by population growth and lower rental costs. This shift is enhancing the community’s dining experience, allowing local chefs to craft unique culinary offerings, while revitalizing the city’s food identity and providing more choices for residents and visitors alike.
North Charleston’s Culinary Scene Flourishes with New Eateries and Local Favorites
North Charleston is witnessing a significant growth in its restaurant industry, drawing in food enthusiasts with a diverse array of culinary offerings. As the city’s population swells, the increase in dining options is becoming a key feature of North Charleston’s revitalization efforts.
Among the newcomers is Dashi, an Asian fusion establishment located on Remount Road. Originally a food truck, Dashi became a brick-and-mortar restaurant in 2019. Its location situates it in a predominantly residential and commercial area that previously had limited dining alternatives. This unique positioning has made Dashi a go-to spot for locals seeking a vibrant dining atmosphere.
The restaurant is marked by a mural painted outside, promoting its summer lemonade collaboration with Natalie’s Juice. Dashi offers a variety of dishes, with the Thai chicken wings remaining popular since its food truck days. Diner reviews highlight the home-cooked meal experience that Dashi provides, reinforcing its status as a community favorite.
North Charleston has seen a population increase from approximately 98,000 in 2010 to an estimated 121,469 in 2023. This growth is mirrored by the rise of new restaurants in the area, driven largely by lower rental costs compared to downtown Charleston. Local chefs are seizing the opportunity to establish their own eateries, focusing on creating welcoming neighborhood dining experiences.
Other notable establishments include Jackrabbit Filly, owned by chef Shuai Wang, which serves Asian cuisine. After relocating to East Montague Avenue in Park Circle in late 2024, it has become a central part of the culinary landscape. Wang also operates King BBQ nearby, further enriching the local food scene. Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles, opened by Kitwanda “Kiki” Cyrus in early 2025, has gained recognition for its soul food and was named a semifinalist for the 2024 James Beard Awards.
Restaurants throughout North Charleston such as Bertha’s Kitchen, a James Beard America’s Classic Award winner, complement the burgeoning scene. The city’s dining identity is evolving, differentiating itself from the established downtown Charleston atmosphere. This shift highlights the desire for unique and locally-sourced dining experiences within the community.
Future developments hold promise for even more culinary options, with the owner of Dashi planning to open a wine bar in the vicinity. Developers are also considering redevelopment plans for the former Navy Base area, which once buzzed with local shops and restaurants. The synthesis of economic growth and new dining opportunities continues to redefine North Charleston’s culinary identity.
As restaurateurs move into the area, they are encouraged to participate in the development of North Charleston’s diverse dining scene. The city’s ongoing transformation is paving the way for a variety of food experiences accessible to all residents and visitors.
FAQ
What are some of the new restaurants in North Charleston?
New restaurants include Dashi, Jackrabbit Filly, and Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles. Dashi offers Asian fusion cuisine and is known for its Thai chicken wings, while Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles has gained acclaim for its soul food.
What is driving the growth of restaurants in North Charleston?
The growth in North Charleston’s restaurant scene is primarily attributed to the rising population, which has increased from about 98,000 in 2010 to an estimated 121,469 in 2023, along with lower rental costs compared to downtown Charleston.
Key Features of North Charleston’s Culinary Growth
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Population Growth | Increased from approximately 98,000 in 2010 to an estimated 121,469 in 2023. |
| New Restaurants | Dashi, Jackrabbit Filly, and Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles are among new establishments drawing attention. |
| Cost of Living | Lower rental costs in North Charleston compared to downtown Charleston encourage new restaurant owners. |
| Community Focus | Local chefs aim to create neighborhood dining experiences, enhancing community engagement. |
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: North Charleston Restaurants
- Wikipedia: North Charleston, South Carolina
- Count On 2: SC Restaurant Week
- Google Search: Charleston Restaurants
- Live 5 News: Restaurant Owner Arrested
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston
- Eater Carolinas: Chef Shuai Wang
- Google News: North Charleston Restaurants
- Mashed: Kardea Brown’s Restaurants
- WYFF 4: Restaurant Owner Arrest News
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
