City: Charleston, SC

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (843) 849-0050

Address: 1036 Chuck Dawley Blvd.

Insider Pick:

Description: This simple, yet sophisticated, eatery is a big hit with the vegetarian crowd—although the Mustard Seed offers pork and seafood, too. Clearly, not everyone who frequents “the Seed” has abandoned beef; they simply enjoy the varied and creative menu offered here. In addition to a regular menu, there’s a blackboard with daily specials that shows why there’s sometimes a waiting line out the door. The artichoke, spinach, and Parmesan fritters are one example. The huge and authentic Greek salad is another. Desserts are very special, too. The coconut cream cake and chocolate cream pie are superb. A conservative but adequate wine list keeps customers amused if, in fact, a short wait is necessary. Be patient; it’s worth it, and the food is a good value, too. Lunch is Mon through Sat 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner is served from 5 to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and to 10 p.m. on weekends. Additional locations are at 1970 Maybank Hwy. (843-762-0072) and 101 North Main St., Summerville (843-821-7101) .