Falling for Flavors: Southern Sweets and Seasonal Treats

There’s something special about a Saturday morning at the farmers market — the smell of freshly popped kettle corn in the air, the sound of live music and tables overflowing with vibrant fall produce. Pumpkins, collard greens, sweet potatoes, okra, and apples — all grown by local farmers right here in the Lowcountry. Fall is one of the best times to explore your local market. The weather is crisp, the colors are bold, and every basket tells a story of hard work, heritage, and heart. When you shop local, you’re doing more than filling your bag — you’re helping to sustain family farms, support small businesses, and keep Southern traditions alive. At Carolima’s, we know firsthand that fresh, local produce makes all the difference. There’s just no substitute for the flavor that comes from food grown close to home. From vine-ripened tomatoes to just-dug sweet potatoes, that freshness deepens every dish — it’s what brings out that "made from scratch" flavor we’re known for. We love visiting farmers markets not just to source ingredients, but to connect with the people behind the produce. The farmers who know the soil, the bakers who know the craft, the artisans who keep our culture alive — they’re the heartbeat of our community. Supporting them means investing in better flavor, better health, and a better future for the Lowcountry. So this fall, grab your tote bag, bring a friend, and spend the morning wandering your local farmers market. Ask questions, taste samples, and get inspired to cook something new. You’ll leave with more than just groceries — you’ll take home a story, a smile, and a little piece of the Carolinas’ soul. Because at the end of the day, good food starts with good ingredients — and great flavor starts right here at home.  Here are a few of the Farmer's Markets in the Charleston area: Charleston Farmers Market Marion Square: 329 Meeting Street (29403) Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM April 12 – November 22, 2025 West Ashley Farmers Market Ackerman Park: 55 Sycamore Ave (29407) Wednesdays, 3:00 – 7:00 PM April 23 – October 29, 2025 Summerville- Farmers Market 218 South Main Street behind Summerville Town Hall Every Saturday: April – Mid-November 8:00am- 1:00pm Historic Downtown Summerville

There’s a chill in the air, and that can only mean one thing—oyster season has arrived in the Lowcountry! From the marsh to the city, you can almost smell the smoky aroma of oyster roasts filling the air as friends and families gather to celebrate one of Charleston’s favorite traditions. Oyster season isn’t just about food—it’s about fellowship, storytelling, and honoring the flavors that define our coast. At Carolima’s, we love to honor this time of year with dishes that highlight the rich, briny taste of fresh local oysters. Picture a platter of crispy fried oysters served over creamy grits, a Lowcountry oyster stew with butter, cream, and a touch of spice, or a classic oyster po’boy stacked high with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of remoulade. Whether you like them steamed, roasted, or raw on the half shell with lemon and hot sauce, there’s no wrong way to enjoy them. Hosting an oyster roast of your own? We’ve got you covered. Pair those steaming clusters with red rice, chili, and homemade cornbread for a true Lowcountry spread. Add a pot of seafood gumbo and you’ve got yourself a feast that celebrates everything we love about our coastal roots. At Carolima's we add a little Texas Pete hot sauce—it adds just the right kick! Oyster season runs from September through April, and every roast feels like a love letter to our heritage. It’s the perfect time to gather with family, friends, and neighbors—under the stars, near the water, or right in your own backyard—and taste the magic that makes the Lowcountry special. So grab your gloves, stoke the fire, and follow the smoke—oyster season is here, and we’re ready to celebrate every shuck of it.

At Carolima’s, when we talk about Gullah cooking, we’re not just talking about food — we’re talking about heritage. It’s the taste of the Lowcountry — the marshlands, the sea islands, and the family tables that connect generations. Rooted in West African traditions and shaped by the resources of the Carolina and Georgia coasts, Gullah cuisine tells the story of resilience, creativity, and love through every bite. Gullah cooking is all about making the most out of what’s fresh, local, and full of flavor. Think shrimp and grits made with stone-ground corn, okra soup slow-simmered to perfection, red rice cooked in rich tomato gravy, and crab rice seasoned with just the right touch of spice. These dishes came to life in kitchens that relied on seasonal ingredients, simple tools, and a whole lot of ingenuity — and they’ve stood the test of time because they speak to something deeper than taste: home. What makes Gullah food special is how it bridges the gap between past and present. The techniques — stewing, smoking, one-pot meals — all reflect West African cooking methods that enslaved Africans brought to the Lowcountry. Over time, those traditions blended with Native American and European influences, creating a cuisine that’s distinct, soulful, and uniquely Southern. Every dish carries a piece of history — not written in textbooks, but shared at dinner tables and Sunday suppers. Today, Gullah cooking continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. You’ll find it in Charleston restaurants, family reunions, and festivals celebrating the Gullah Geechee culture — but for us, it lives in the moments when people gather, pass plates, and say, “This tastes just like my grandma used to make.” That’s when we know the story is still being told.  At Carolima’s, we’re proud to share that story through every plate we serve. Whether it’s our red rice, collard greens, or Charleston Chewies, you’re getting a taste of tradition — seasoned with history, culture, and a whole lot of love. Because Gullah cooking isn’t just about what’s on the menu. It’s about connection — to the land, the people, and the stories that make the Lowcountry home.

Here in the Lowcountry, food isn’t just nourishment—it’s storytelling, heritage, and family. At Carolima’s, we know that two dishes often spark conversation at the table: okra soup and gumbo. Both are rich with history and flavor, both are rooted in African traditions, and both remind us why Southern food is truly soulful. But they each carry their own place in the culture of the South, especially right here where Gullah Geechee traditions run deep. Okra soup has always been close to home for us. In many Lowcountry households, it’s simmered with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and the star—okra—until it becomes a flavorful, hearty broth. Sometimes we add shrimp or crab for that taste of the coast, or even smoked meats to deepen the flavor. It’s lighter than gumbo, yet just as comforting, and pairs beautifully with red or white rice or a side of cornbread. It’s a dish that lets the okra shine, just as our ancestors intended. Gumbo, by contrast, feels more like a cousin than a sibling. Born in Louisiana, gumbo brings together a roux base, layers of spices, meats like sausage or chicken, and of course, okra and filé powder to thicken it up. It’s hearty, complex, and meant to be shared, usually served over white rice. While gumbo isn’t native to the Lowcountry, it’s a dish we respect for its bold flavors and the way it reflects the same blending of cultures we see here. The beauty of Southern cooking is that it gives us room for both. Just like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, or collard greens with smoked meats, okra soup and gumbo show how food carries history from one generation to the next. Each dish tells a story of survival, celebration, and community. At Carolima’s, we see okra soup as part of our Gullah Geechee roots and gumbo as a flavorful neighbor from down the way—both welcome at the table, both worth savoring. So whether you’re spooning into a bright, tomato-based okra soup or diving into a dark, rich gumbo, you’re not just tasting a meal—you’re tasting tradition. And here in the Lowcountry, tradition is what keeps us gathered, keeps us grounded, and keeps us grateful.

Wedding season is here, and while flowers, décor, and the perfect playlist play their part, the one thing guests talk about long after the last dance is the food. At Carolima’s, we know that good food isn’t just a detail—it’s the heartbeat of your celebration. A thoughtful, flavorful menu has the power to bring people together, spark laughter around the table, and create memories your guests will carry with them for years. Why Food Steals the Spotlight! Think about the last wedding you attended. You may not remember the color of the napkins, but you definitely remember whether the shrimp and grits had people going back for seconds or if the late-night snacks fueled the dance floor. Food sets the tone for your big day—it tells your story, reflects your heritage, and ensures your guests feel welcomed and celebrated. Menu Ideas to Wow Your Guests When it comes to wedding menus, we love curating dishes that feel like a celebration in every bite. For couples who want Southern comfort at its finest, imagine southern fried chicken served alongside mac and cheese, braised collard greens, and made from scratch cornbread muffins. If you’re leaning toward Lowcountry elegance, you can’t go wrong with shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and red rice paired with fresh, seasonal vegetables straight from local farms. And of course, for those late-night cravings, there’s nothing like mini burgers, chicken-and-waffle bites, or loaded fries to give your guests a second wind on the dance floor. 3 Tips for Finding & Booking a Great Caterer Taste Before You Book: A caterer’s tasting isn’t just about flavor—it’s about presentation, attentiveness, and making sure the service matches the experience you want to give your guests. Check the Reviews (and References): Couples love to share their wedding wins, so pay attention to caterers with glowing reviews that highlight both the food and the professionalism. Check out what are clients are saying about Carolima's Book Early: Wedding season fills up quickly! Lock in your caterer at least 6–12 months ahead of time to secure your date and your dream menu. At Carolima’s, we believe food is more than a meal—it’s a love language. Whether you’re saying ‘I do’ with a spread of Lowcountry classics or adding your own personal twist, we’re here to help you create a menu that reflects your story and leaves your guests raving long after the cake is cut.

We are so excited to share a fresh perspective on one of the most practical and rewarding parts of everyday cooking—meal prep. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to enjoy delicious, homemade meals can be a challenge. That’s why meal prep has become a go-to strategy for families, professionals, and food lovers alike. It’s more than just cooking in advance—it’s about planning, creativity, and making food an intentional part of your lifestyle. Meal prep has grown into a movement that celebrates not only efficiency but also wellness and balance. By dedicating just a few hours each week to preparing meals, you can cut down on stress, save money, and ensure that your family enjoys nourishing dishes made with care. A great place to start is setting aside a Sunday afternoon to roast a sheet pan of vegetables, grill a few proteins like chicken or salmon, and cook a pot of rice or quinoa. These simple building blocks can be mixed and matched into countless combinations throughout the week. The beauty of meal prep lies in its flexibility. Whether you’re packing hearty lunches for work, organizing dinners for the week, or stocking your freezer with comfort favorites, the process can be customized to fit your schedule and taste. For example, portioning meals into containers ahead of time helps with grab-and-go convenience, while prepping fresh salad jars ensures you’ll always have something light and refreshing at hand. Incorporating seasonal produce—like sweet potatoes in the fall or fresh okra in the summer—keeps your menus interesting while celebrating the flavors of the Lowcountry and beyond. We encourage you to embrace meal prep not as a chore but as a way to bring more joy and ease to your week. Start with a few of your family’s favorite dishes, rotate in new recipes over time, and don’t forget to store sauces and dressings separately to keep meals fresh. Before long, meal prep becomes second nature, turning weeknight dinners into stress-free gatherings and lunches into little moments of comfort. Just like gathering around the table, meal prep is about more than food—it’s about creating moments, reducing stress, and celebrating the flavors that nourish both body and soul. Quick Steps for Successful Meal Prep Want to give meal prep a try? Here are three easy steps to get started: 1.) Pick Your Base Ingredients – Choose 2 proteins (like chicken or shrimp), 2 starches (such as rice or potatoes), and 2–3 vegetables. This gives you plenty of mix-and-match options. 2.) Batch Cook & Store – Cook everything at once (sheet pans are your best friend!) and portion into airtight containers. Keep dressings and sauces separate until serving. 3.) Add Flavor & Variety – Rotate herbs, spices, and condiments throughout the week—think BBQ sauce one night and lemon-garlic seasoning the next.

We are so excited to announce our participation in the upcoming Food + Wine Classic in Charleston, happening this November right here in Charleston, South Carolina. This premier event, presented in collaboration with Explore Charleston and Food & Wine Magazine, is one of the Lowcountry’s most celebrated culinary festivals—drawing chefs, winemakers, artisans, and food lovers from around the country. The Food + Wine Classic in Charleston has become a staple in the culinary calendar, spotlighting the city’s rich traditions and diverse flavors while also giving a platform to innovative voices shaping the future of food. Over the years, the festival has grown into more than just a gathering—it’s a cultural celebration of the people, stories, and foodways that define Charleston and the greater South. The opening night's theme, “Rhythm and Roots,” pays tribute to the artistry, resilience, and beauty of Gullah Geechee culture and foodways. Guests will experience an evening filled with flavors, stories, and traditions that have shaped the Lowcountry for generations and continue to inspire chefs and communities across the globe. We are honored to have been personally invited by Chef Amethyst Ganaway, a celebrated Charleston-based chef, along with the Lee Brothers, to participate in the opening night event on Thursday, November 13, 2025. For this special occasion, we knew we had to bring something truly meaningful to the table. Our dessert will feature our famous Charleston Chewie crust, topped with a cheesecake and sweet potato filling served with chantilly cream and a benne wafer—a sweet reflection of our heritage and the flavors that speak to our roots. We look forward to sharing this dish with festival guests and to being part of a celebration that uplifts Gullah Geechee traditions, honors our history, and continues to tell our story through food. Purchase tickets to attend HERE!

Blue plates specials have been around for generations. Starting in 1915, on a railway running between Florida and Washington, DC workers were served a daily special of either meat or fish with two vegetables on a blue patterned plate. Over time, more items got added to the plate: a starch and a side of bread. The simplicity of the meal was highly favored by the U.S government, especially during World War 1 with all the cutbacks. Even after the war ended, blue plate specials remained popular in restaurants and diners because it allowed workers in fast-paced societies a light and satisfying meal. Restaurants benefited because it attracted more customers with its quick service, reduced food waste. The restaurant would make everything before the lunch and dinner rushed and left on steam tables to stay warm for easy service. The plates offered a sense of comfort. Over the years, blue plate specials have become more than just a quick meal. It’s become a family tradition for some and created that nostalgic feeling for others. Today, the blue plate special has evolved into a diverse culinary classic, while holding true to its humble roots. If you’ve ever dined at a classic Southern diner, you’ve likely seen a Blue Plate Special on the menu—a hearty meal made up of a meat and three sides, served hot, fresh, and affordable. It’s comfort food at its finest and a tradition that has stood the test of time. At Carolima’s, we love honoring tradition while adding our own twist. That’s why this September, we’re bringing you our Green Plate Special all month long! The Green Plate Special is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to slow down, savor authentic flavors, and connect with the Carolima’s family. Whether you’re grabbing lunch on your break or picking up dinner for the family, our Green Plate makes midweek feel special.

Charleston’s Fall Festivals: Music, Culture, and Celebration As the Lowcountry air turns crisp and the days shorten, Charleston comes alive with a season of celebration. Fall is one of the best times to explore the Holy City—not just for the weather, but for the lineup of unforgettable events that blend music, art, food, and culture. This year, three standout occasions promise to make the season sparkle: the Lowcountry Jazz Festival, Dîner en Blanc, and the MOJA Arts Festival. The Lowcountry Jazz Festival Every Labor Day weekend, the Charleston Gaillard Center transforms into the stage for one of the South’s most anticipated music gatherings—the Lowcountry Jazz Festival. Jazz enthusiasts from across the country come together to enjoy an electrifying weekend of smooth sounds, featuring national headliners and local talent. The festival isn’t just about music; it’s about community. Attendees dress up, gather with friends, and create memories over world-class performances. If you’re looking for a soulful kickoff to the season, this festival is the perfect way to start. Le Dîner en Blanc Charleston’s social calendar wouldn’t be complete without the magic of Dîner en Blanc. Originating in Paris, this chic pop-up dinner party has become a global phenomenon, and Charleston’s edition captures the spirit with Southern charm. Guests dressed entirely in white gather at a secret location revealed just moments before the event begins. Imagine twinkling lights, elegantly set tables, and hundreds of people raising glasses under the stars. It’s more than a dinner—it’s an experience of community, creativity, and surprise. The MOJA Arts Festival Closing out the season is Charleston’s beloved MOJA Arts Festival, a celebration of African-American and Caribbean arts and culture. For more than 40 years, MOJA has honored the richness of African diasporic traditions through music, dance, theater, visual arts, and storytelling. The word moja means “one” in Swahili, symbolizing unity—a theme you’ll feel in every performance, gallery opening, and community event. From gospel concerts to artisan markets, MOJA is a reminder of Charleston’s cultural heartbeat and its ties to the broader African diaspora. Why Fall in Charleston Matters Together, these three events paint a picture of Charleston at its finest: vibrant, diverse, and full of soul. Whether you’re a lover of smooth jazz, a seeker of magical evenings under the stars, or someone who treasures cultural storytelling, the fall season offers something that connects us all. Charleston in the fall isn’t just about cooler breezes and golden leaves—it’s about gathering, celebrating, and honoring the traditions and creativity that make the Lowcountry unique. Planning Your Visit? We’ve Got You Covered If you’re coming to Charleston for any of these fall festivals, let us take care of your dining needs. From intimate personal chef services to convenient drop-off catering, Carolima’s brings authentic Lowcountry flavor straight to your table. Whether it’s a private dinner, a family gathering, or a festive weekend with friends, we’ll make sure your Charleston experience is as delicious as it is unforgettable.