We already knew Chef Mike Lata of FIG Restaurant was the epitome of Charleston inspiration, but now his message is resonating across the country. In a recent issue of Southern Living magazine, he talks about the importance of eating locally, and the fact that when he moved here ten years ago, almost no one was buying from local growers. Now, with the huge help of the Slow Food Movement making its way into Charleston, that has drastically changed.

Lata says, “Now I see it as part of the fabric of our cuisine here in Charleston. My peers inspire me daily with how they are buying locally and cooking locally.”

How can you get on board? Eat locally, frequent your farmer’s market, and get involved in your community!

See the entire article here!

Ever need a reminder of how great the food is in the Lowcountry? Look no further than the recent article from San Francisco Chronicle. The author does a good job of highlighting several area restaurants and makes recommendations for places to eat everything from butter beans to shrimp and grits.

Check it out!

I read this really cool article today about the importance of Gullah traditions, history and — probably most importantly — contributions to the Charleston community and lifestyle. From the art of sweetgrass basketmaking (which has been passed down from generation to generation) to its impact on southern cuisine with Gullah rice.

Tourists and researchers frequently visit Charleston to learn more about Gullah heritage through interactive tours. Personally, I am in awe of the beautiful iron gates that were made by blacksmith Philip Simmons, who grew up in the rice-growing culture of Daniel Island. The intricacies and shapes of his work are admired from artisans nationwide, including the likes of the Smithsonian Institute.

Now Mount Pleasant officials are taking steps to protect the town’s Gullah history by celebrating the culture through festivals and educational camps and educating members of the community — including developers — of the importance of preserving our heritage.

Read the full article in StarNewsOnline.com

CBS’s Early Show teamed up with Food & Wine Magazine for their summer tour, Food & Wine Across America. Several culinary hot spots made their “48 Hour Cheat Sheet”, which highlights some of the best cuisine our area has to offer. So, the next time you’re looking for inspiration from local restaurants, shops and other food destinations, make sure you check out these fine establishments…

48 Hour Cheat Sheet : Charleston, SC

Jack’s Cosmic Dogs in Mount Pleasant and Ted’s Butcherblock in downtown Charleston were voted as “Top Insider Spots” for South Carolina in Travelocity’s 2007 edition of Local Secrets, Big Finds.

So if you’re thinking about stopping by either place, get in line… these favorite local spots are about to be discovered! Eat up!

Charleston was recently named a favorite gourmet destination by Travelocity.Ca. According to a recent Travel Industry Association of America (TIA) study, 58 percent of all U.S. leisure travellers say they are somewhat/very interested in taking a trip to engage in culinary or wine-related activities in the next year. And, it looks like they may be heading our way for some tasty treats!

Travelocity’s editors went around the world looking for new and old destinations that had something yummy to offer their taste buds. Chosen for its “soul food”, Charleston was one of ten cities worldwide to carry this year’s honor. Here’s what the judges had to say about our grub:

“Some may call it soul food, but in Charleston they call it Low Country cuisine. Prevailing as the undisputed local favourite, this culinary specialty infuses restaurant menus with dishes such as Frogmore Stew, She-Crab Soup and Hoppin’ John. Rice, grits and fresh, local produce play an integral role in the creation of these truly Southern meals, and the waters that surround South Carolina’s Low Country inspire local cooks more often than not with seafood dishes found on just about every menu”