FIG

Where Charleston's culinary renaissance began, FIG + Charleston stands as the city's most influential fine dining destination, transforming simple Lowcountry ingredients into extraordinary seasonal masterpieces. Since 2003, this intimate bistro has redefined Southern cuisine through Chef Mike Lata's unwavering commitment to locality and seasonality.

Founded on the philosophy that "Food Is Good," FIG emerged from Chef Mike Lata and partner Adam Nemirow's vision to honor classic Southern and European farmhouse traditions with modern refinement. Lata, a self-taught culinary artist who earned the James Beard Award for Best Chef Southeast in 2009, built his reputation on relationships with Lowcountry farmers and purveyors. Executive Chef Jason Stanhope, who claimed the same prestigious award in 2015, continues this legacy of excellence. Their combined expertise has earned FIG multiple James Beard Outstanding Restaurant nominations, cementing its status among Charleston's best restaurants.

The cuisine at FIG celebrates the pure essence of seasonal ingredients through a daily-changing menu that showcases the finest Lowcountry produce. Signature dishes like the ethereal Ricotta Gnocchi alla Bolognese and the legendary Chicken Liver Pâté demonstrate the kitchen's mastery of technique and flavor. The restaurant's acclaimed Fish Stew Provençal and expertly prepared local seafood reflect Charleston's coastal heritage, while seasonal offerings like Suckling Pig Confit highlight the chef's European influences. Each dish represents a thoughtful balance of simplicity and sophistication, allowing premium ingredients to shine without unnecessary complexity.

The dining experience unfolds in an elegantly understated space where white granite bar tops and mahogany seating create an atmosphere of refined comfort. The main dining room, adorned with crisp white linens and soft lighting, provides an intimate setting for FIG's professional service team to guide guests through their culinary journey. The restaurant's James Beard Award-winning beverage program features a meticulously curated wine list emphasizing Old World selections from Burgundy, Loire Valley, and Champagne, alongside thoughtful New World choices. The full bar crafts both classic cocktails and seasonal creations, complementing the kitchen's artistry.

Reservations at this Charleston fine dining institution release 28 days in advance and disappear quickly, though limited bar seating accommodates walk-in diners seeking the same exceptional experience. FIG's enduring popularity stems from its authentic commitment to seasonal cooking and genuine hospitality, making every meal a celebration of Charleston's abundant culinary landscape. For discerning diners seeking the pinnacle of Lowcountry cuisine, FIG reservations represent an essential Charleston experience.