Husk Restaurant on Queen Street: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Southern Charm
Husk Restaurant on Queen Street in Charleston, South Carolina, has been a staple of the city’s culinary scene since its opening in 2010. Known for its focus on using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, the restaurant has gained national recognition and numerous accolades, including a James Beard Foundation award for “Best New Restaurant” in 2011.
The restaurant’s commitment to using ingredients that are grown and produced in the South is at the heart of its menu. Husk’s Executive Chef, Travis Grimes, has described the restaurant’s philosophy as “celebrating the bounty of the South and showcasing its unique flavors.” Grimes, who has been with Husk since its inception, is known for his innovative approach to traditional Southern cuisine, creating dishes that are both familiar and unexpected.
The restaurant’s interior is a testament to its commitment to showcasing the best of the South. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian-era home, Husk’s décor blends classic Southern charm with modern sophistication. Exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood floors, and custom-made light fixtures give the space a warm, inviting feel, while large windows flood the dining room with natural light.
The menu at Husk changes frequently to reflect the availability of seasonal ingredients, but some dishes have become permanent fixtures on the menu. One of the restaurant’s most popular dishes is the Husk Cheeseburger, made with a beef patty that’s ground in-house and topped with American cheese, pickles, and a special sauce. The burger is served on a soft brioche bun, and is so popular that it’s also available at Husk’s bar next door.
Another standout dish is the Fried Chicken Skins, which are crispy and flavorful, and served with hot sauce and honey. The dish is a nod to Chef Grimes’ Southern roots, and is a perfect example of how Husk combines traditional ingredients with a modern twist.
Husk’s commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients extends to its bar program, which features a carefully curated selection of Southern beers, wines, and spirits. The restaurant also offers a rotating selection of creative cocktails that incorporate seasonal ingredients, such as the popular “Charleston Rickey,” which is made with gin, lime, and Charleston-made Jack Rudy tonic syrup.
One of the things that sets Husk apart from other restaurants is its commitment to using heirloom varieties of ingredients that are native to the South. For example, the restaurant’s cornbread is made with a type of heirloom corn called “Jimmy Red,” which is grown exclusively for Husk by a local farmer. The cornbread is served with house-made butter that’s churned daily, and is so popular that customers can buy a bag of the cornmeal to take home.
Husk’s dedication to using locally-sourced ingredients also extends to the restaurant’s wine program. The wine list features a selection of bottles from small, family-owned vineyards in the South, as well as a variety of natural wines from around the world. The restaurant’s sommelier, Ashley Broshious, has curated the wine list to reflect Husk’s commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing.
In addition to its commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients, Husk is also known for its dedication to sustainability. The restaurant uses compostable to-go containers and straws made from cornstarch, and also recycles its cooking oil to be used as biofuel. Husk’s commitment to sustainability has earned it recognition from organizations such as the Green Restaurant Association and the Charleston Green Business Challenge.
Husk has become one of the most popular dining destinations in Charleston, and for good reason. The restaurant’s commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients, its innovative approach to traditional Southern cuisine, and its dedication to sustainability make it a unique and beloved part of the city’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a meal at Husk is a must-try experience.
The restaurant’s popularity does mean that getting a reservation can be a challenge, especially during peak tourist season. However, Husk does offer a limited number of walk-in seats at the bar, and the restaurant’s adjacent bar, The Bar at Husk, also serves a smaller menu of dishes from the restaurant.
If you do manage to snag a reservation at Husk, be prepared for an unforgettable dining experience. The service is impeccable, and the attention to detail in every dish is evident. From the perfectly cooked proteins to the inventive use of seasonal vegetables and fruits, each dish is a work of art on the plate.
One of the most unique aspects of dining at Husk is the restaurant’s use of hyper-local ingredients. Many of the vegetables and herbs used in the dishes are grown in the restaurant’s own garden, located just a few blocks away from the restaurant. The garden is tended by Husk’s own gardener, who works closely with Chef Grimes to ensure that the restaurant is using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients possible.
Overall, Husk Restaurant on Queen Street is a true gem in Charleston’s culinary scene. Its commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients, dedication to sustainability, and innovative approach to traditional Southern cuisine make it a one-of-a-kind dining experience. If you’re visiting Charleston, be sure to add Husk to your must-visit list – and if you’re lucky enough to live in the area, make it a regular stop on your dining rotation.