On the Road: South Carolina, Part Two

We’re back from a summer vacation Down South. During our long road trip, we spotted a good number of Jersey license plates in each of our destinations. Along the way, we ate in a number of local restaurants and discovered some great gluten-free meals that were delicious, unique and convenient.

This is the second of a three-part post highlighting our favorite gluten-free finds. Perhaps you’ll have an opportunity to try them too.

Photo/Gluten-Free Garden State

Charleston, SC

Sometimes, you have to pound the pavement to find a good meal, and that's how we discovered Mad River Bar & Grill on North Market Street. Housed in the former Old Seaman's Chapel, this restaurant was within walking distance to the carriage company where we had a tour booked.


Settled on a salad for my meal, I was drawn to the shrimp and grits entree. Although there was no gluten-free menu, our server was knowledgeable and assured me it was safe. This specialty dish was homemade cheese grits, topped with small shrimp, mushrooms, bacon and scallions. The portion was more than enough for a single meal, and allowed me to share with my dining companions. All reviews were positive.

I paired my entree with a peach sangria. 

After returning home, a little research revealed Mad River to be a small chain. Although somewhat disappointed it wasn't unique to Charleston, we are happy that two of the five locations are just a short drive from the Garden State: New York City and Manayunk, Pa.(The others are Baltimore and Chicago.) You'll have to visit Charleston, however, for the shrimp and grits.

Walking around the city's historic district, we found dessert at Kilwin's Chocolate & Ice Cream on South Market Street. I noshed on the coconut ice cream. My fellow travelers had other flavors, both gluten-free and not gluten-free. All received rave reviews.

As its name indicates, the shop also sells chocolate treats, which are handmade on site. Common sense should be applied when choosing a gluten-free dessert, but ask the staff if unsure.

Follow #GFGStravels on Twitter and Facebook to follow this road trip and other destinations. The final part of this post series will be posted Wednesday.