my favorite and least favorite restaurants in CHS

Anybody who is familiar with Charleston restaurant scene knows which are the top-10 restaurants so I'm going to skip those unless I really like them. Here are the restaurants I like and why (in no specific order):

Samos - I love everything about it, especially the lounge.

Rue de Jean - great pommes frites and mashed potatoes, nice atmosphere (lively)

Santi's - solid Mexican food, really nice staff, easy parking

Pane e Vino - cozy (food is nothing special but it's not expensive either)

Mistral (x3): good french onion soup and a GREAT brass band on Fridays (the musicians sitting on the piano look like the old guys from the muppets). BUT their other food really varies in quality depending on who's cooking that night (I won't name names, but let me put it this way - I call first to check). But the band makes it worth it.

McCrady's - yes, everyone likes McCrady's, but it's just so good I have to mention it.

Trattoria Lucca - people complain about the noise but when I was there (seated at one of the tables with cushions), I didn't notice it. The family dinner is tasty, though they do rush you (or at least they did when it was brand new).

Moe's Crosstown - skip the burger and go straight for the "Extraordinary BLT." I just wish the TVs were better for football-watching, but it's not a sports bar, so that's not their problem.

Daily Dose - burritos are amazing, people are very nice, quick to get to from MUSC for lunch


My least favorite restaurants (that other people seem to like):

Fleet Landing - great view but food is pretty poor. I only go for drinks when I have guests in town (nice view of Cooper river).

Poe's - I just don't get it. It's too busy, it's too noisy and yet people love it...

The circular restaurant on the top floor of the Holiday Inn (West Ashley) - I've been there for brunch several times because of the view. They are exceptionally rude (and clearly I'm a glutton for punishment).

Chai's - is it me, or does everyone look like a jackass in that place? I don't even remember the food, it might be good.

Tea at the Thoroughbred Club - what happened to mounds of watercress sandwiches at tea? Is providing three sandwiches and a lot of sweets a new trend (this poor showing happened at the Ritz in Boston as well)? I say ditch the scones, folks, and bring on the de-crusted triangles! Yes, the sandwiches may be dainty but I still want to stuff my face with them!