Monday, March 27, 2017

Charleston Eats: Basil

Would y'all believe this time last year I had never tried Thai food?  I had this ridiculous notion that it was filled with spices I wouldn't like and would be too hot.  Well, I could not have been more wrong.  Thai food is amazing; it's some of the most flavorful and delicious Asian food I've ever had.  While I don't have a lot of other Thai favorites to compare it to, from reading reviews online, I know Basil is the real deal.  The food is so authentic, the location (on King Street - just look for the bicycle on top of the glowing green neon sign) is fantastic, and their happy hour is in my top 5 in Charleston.  
Y'all: check out these deals and prices.  What I love about Basil is that everything during happy hour is full size.  The pineapple mojito and mango martini are both delicious, and it's hard not to order one of everything off the appetizer menu.  

Make sure you get there early, because they don't take reservations and the restaurant is on the smaller side.  The traditional cocktail bar only sits about 6 people, but my favorite bar is along the cooking station where you can watch the chefs at work.  All of the staff at Basil are so welcoming and are happy to answer any question for a newbie like me.  I love the whole atmosphere inside, and there's even a row of tables outside, perfect for people watching along King Street. 
Now for my order: I recommend the Fried Wontons, Stuffed Shrimp, and either the Basil Rolls or Chicken Satay.  Okay, just go ahead and order all four... Mix and match with the dipping sauces, too.  Some are spicy, some are sweet, and they're all super flavorful.  If you're still hungry, the Beef Fried Rice and Pad Thai are delicious.  Don't forget dessert!
Basil has become so popular that they now have four locations: a second over the river in Mount Pleasant, another in Columbia, and a fourth just outside Charlotte.
Okay now... is it time for happy hour yet?!?

15 comments:

Kate at Green Fashionista said...

YUM! Up until recently, I hadn't tried Thai food either and now I'm hooked! Check out those happy hour prices! Cheers to a fabulous week gurlie <3
Green Fashionista

Carly said...

I'm not a huge thai food person (I usually get zero spice, haha), but everything you ordered looks delicious and it sounds like a great restaurant.

Ashley Lillis said...

Basil sounds so incredibly delicious! We usually don't eat a lot of Thai, but I always love trying it out because of all the different spices and flavors. It sounds like you really can't beat Basil's happy hour either!

Lauren Honeycutt said...

Omg those pics are making me so hungry!!!

Jen said...

Thai food really is amazing! It's so unique but simple at the same time.

Missy said...

Mmm this looks delicious! I have not had Thai food in ages! What a great happy hour!

Christina Lea Loves said...

I've never done Thai food either but all that you got looks pretty good!

BLovedBoston said...

Oh yum - we love thai food and Basil looks so good! xo, Biana -BlovedBoston

Emily @ Martinis | Bikinis said...

Thai food is my absolute favorite and the good thing is you can tell them how spicy you want your meal. The apps aren't usually spicy. We have a restaurant here called Thai Basil that sounds equally delicious.

Girl Meets Bow said...

I LIVE for a good Pad Thai! ha. I'm so glad you took and chance and tried this restaurant- it's so delish!!

Chesson | Magnolia+Main said...

We've had Basil on our list to try for so long and still haven't made it there yet. But it looks delicious & I'm thinking we're going to have to go this weekend now!

The Girl who Loved to Write said...

This looks so delicious!!

Pamela {Sequins and Sea Breezes} said...

Ugh the food in Charleston is so amazing! I definitely want to come back soon and check this place out! Their happy hour sounds pretty good too! <3, Pamela Sequins & Sea Breezes

Robin said...

I want to go there! We just moved to the low country area.

Unknown said...

Hey Meg! driving to Charleston tomorrow and so excited! I love all your tips! I will be visiting Basil for sure!

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