Charleston, South Carolina, is a shrimp lover’s paradise. Whether you’re craving classic Shrimp and Grits, fiery Camarones a la Diabla, or simply the freshest seafood imaginable, Charleston’s culinary scene has you covered. This guide dives deep into the world of camarones in the Lowcountry, offering insights into where to find the best, how to cook it to perfection, and the rich traditions that make Charleston shrimp so special.
Finding Your Fresh Catch: Charleston’s Best Shrimp Markets
The aroma of saltwater and the sight of glistening shrimp piled high—Charleston’s seafood markets are an experience in themselves. Here’s where to find the freshest camarones in town:
- Crosby’s Fish & Shrimp Co. (Folly Beach): Crosby’s is a Charleston institution, offering fresh-off-the-boat shrimp and a lively atmosphere. Check their website or call for the most up-to-date hours.
- 167 Raw (Charleston): This renowned oyster bar also boasts a fantastic fresh seafood market. Check online or call for their current hours. Their dedication to sustainable seafood practices makes them a favorite for environmentally conscious diners.
- Tarvin Seafood (Wadmalaw Island): A hidden gem offering incredibly fresh, straight-from-the-boat shrimp at excellent prices. Call for directions and hours; a cooler is recommended for transporting your bounty.
- Welch’s Seafood (Mount Pleasant): Your one-stop shop for all things seafood, Welch’s also offers fresh local produce. Check their website for current hours.
- Independent Seafood Market (Georgetown): A bit of a drive from Charleston, but well worth it for the quality and selection. Local reviews suggest their shrimp is incredibly fresh.
- Blue Boat Seafood Market: This market is a bit of an enigma. While known for fantastic seafood, its exact location is a bit of a mystery. It may be a smaller, hidden gem worth seeking out.
Beyond the Markets: Look for local fishermen selling their daily catches. Buying directly from the source guarantees freshness and supports local businesses.
Charleston’s Shrimp Scene: Dining Delights
From elegant, upscale dining rooms to casual, waterfront eateries, Charleston’s restaurants offer a shrimp dish for every palate.
Upscale Dining
- Anson (Downtown Charleston): Known for its elegant ambiance and skillfully prepared dishes, Anson’s shrimp offerings are lauded for their delicate flavors and beautiful presentation.
- Husk (Charleston): A true farm-to-table experience, Husk’s innovative menu showcases the versatility of shrimp with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Casual Dining
- 167 Raw (Charleston): Enjoy fresh, simply prepared shrimp in a lively oyster bar setting.
- Fleet Landing (Charleston): Savor delectable shrimp dishes with breathtaking waterfront views.
- The Ordinary (Charleston): This oyster bar and seafood hall offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying a variety of shrimp preparations.
- FIG (Charleston): Experience farm-to-table dining with shrimp dishes highlighting seasonal ingredients.
- Acme Lowcountry Kitchen (Isle of Palms): Experience Southern charm and legendary Shrimp and Grits in a relaxed setting.
- Bexley Fish & Raw Bar (Summerville): Enjoy fresh, high-quality seafood, including innovative shrimp dishes in a modern, trendy atmosphere.
- Chive Blossom (Pawley’s Island): Explore innovative seafood creations and artistic shrimp dishes featuring fresh ingredients.
- The Beach Club (Kiawah Island): Indulge in a luxurious dining experience with ocean views and elegantly prepared shrimp dishes.
Local Favorites
- Poogan’s Porch (Charleston): A historic Charleston restaurant serving classic Southern comfort food, including Shrimp Creole.
- Hannibal’s Kitchen (Charleston): A local favorite known for authentic low-country flavors and generous portions of shrimp.
- Hyman’s Seafood (Charleston): Known for their distinctive take on the classic Shrimp and Grits.
Shrimp and Grits: A Charleston Icon
No trip to Charleston is complete without trying this quintessential Lowcountry dish. Creamy stone-ground grits topped with succulent shrimp and often bacon, sausage, or other flavorful additions—it’s a culinary experience not to be missed. Each restaurant offers its unique spin on this classic, so explore and find your favorite.
Shrimp Selection & Storage: Tips for Success
Choosing the right shrimp and storing it correctly ensures optimal flavor and quality.
Selecting Your Shrimp
- Sight: Look for firm, translucent shrimp with a slight shimmer. Avoid dull, discolored, or milky-looking shrimp.
- Smell: Fresh shrimp should have a mild, salty aroma of the sea. A strong fishy odor suggests they are not fresh.
- Touch: Shrimp should be firm and springy to the touch. Avoid mushy or slimy shrimp.
Storing Your Shrimp
Refrigerate fresh shrimp immediately upon arriving home and use within one to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Shrimp: From Simple to Sublime
Shrimp’s versatility makes it a kitchen favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, there are countless ways to prepare this delicious crustacean.
Shrimp Scampi Simplified
- Prepare: Peel, devein, and pat dry your fresh shrimp.
- Sauté: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque (2-3 minutes per side).
- Make Sauce: Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmer for 1-2 minutes, and stir in a knob of butter until melted and glossy.
- Serve: Toss with pasta, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp)
- Sauté Garlic: Sauté minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook until pink and opaque.
- Deglaze: Deglaze the pan with dry sherry or white wine and a splash of lemon juice.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread.
Camarones a la Diabla (Deviled Shrimp)
This spicy dish features shrimp cooked in a rich, chile-based sauce. Numerous online resources provide detailed recipes. Adjust the amount of chiles to control the heat level. Serve with rice and tortillas.
Cooking Tip: Avoid overcooking shrimp, which can make them tough. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
Sustainable Seafood: Protecting Charleston’s Waters
Many Charleston shrimpers and restaurants are embracing sustainable fishing practices. Supporting these efforts helps preserve our oceans and ensures future generations can enjoy fresh, local shrimp. Look for certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label and ask your fishmonger about their sourcing practices. Ongoing research suggests that sustainable aquaculture and fishing methods are continually evolving, promising a future where delicious flavor and environmental responsibility go hand-in-hand.
Shrimp Delivery: Bringing Charleston to Your Door
Can’t make it to Charleston? CharlestonSeafood.com ships fresh, locally sourced seafood nationwide.
Exploring the World of Camarones: Types and Nutrition
Charleston offers a variety of shrimp, including white, pink, and brown shrimp. Each has unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Shrimp is also a healthy protein source packed with nutrients.
This guide provides a starting point for your camarones adventure in Charleston. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Charleston’s vibrant shrimp scene is a culinary journey you won’t soon forget.
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