Grace and beauty, two terms that have been overworked into clichés, get a fresh lease of life at the 82 Queen Restaurant in Charleston, where a combination of the remarkable garden and charming interior will delight your senses. The historic restaurant, whose elegantly decorated dining rooms date to the 17th century, has a wonderful courtyard surrounding a huge magnolia tree. The cuisine is authentic Southern Lowcountry, an enticing combination of different cultures where local ingredients and herbs infuse an unmistakable flavor.

Amongst the appetizers, you could choose the award winning she crab soup with roe, cream and sherry or barbequed shrimp and grits with melted cheddar cheese. Pastas and salads are other interesting options, but do try not to miss the specialities such as Lowcountry jambalaya, sautéed shrimp and crawfish with tasso ham and sweet bell peppers. Try the peach praline cobbler for dessert and the fine wines from their selection includes many old favorites and new additions.