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If you’ve ever tasted a dish that felt like history, warmth, and comfort all in one bite, chances are it was made with Carolina Gold Rice . More than just a grain, this heirloom variety is the foundation of Lowcountry cooking — a symbol of resilience, cultural fusion, and regional pride. But what makes it so special, and why does it continue to capture the hearts (and taste buds) of Southern chefs and home cooks alike? Let’s dive into the roots, the revival, and the reason Carolina Gold Rice deserves a spotlight on your plate. What Is Carolina Gold Rice? Carolina Gold Rice is a long-grain variety known for its rich, buttery flavor and tender texture. It strikes a beautiful balance between fluffy and creamy and brings subtle nutty notes to the surface when prepared well. But Carolina Gold is more than just flavorful — it’s a heritage grain , deeply rooted in the cultural and culinary traditions of the South Carolina Lowcountry. A Grain with a Complex Past Carolina Gold’s story begins in the late 1600s, when it was first cultivated in the marshy coastal plains of the Carolinas. Enslaved Africans, brought to the region for their expertise in rice farming, were instrumental in adapting and maintaining this crop in the challenging Lowcountry environment. By the 18th and 19th centuries, Carolina Gold had become a cornerstone of the region’s economy, transforming Charleston into one of the wealthiest cities in early America. That wealth, however, came at a tremendous and painful cost — built on the backs of those whose contributions were too long left out of the narrative. To honor the grain is to recognize the people behind it — and to carry their culinary knowledge forward with respect. The Disappearance and Revival By the early 1900s, Carolina Gold vanished from production, overtaken by industrial agriculture, shifting labor markets, and environmental challenges. For decades, it was largely forgotten outside of historical archives. But the story didn’t end there. In the 1990s, small groups of farmers, seed savers, and food historians worked to bring Carolina Gold back. Thanks to the efforts of organizations like Rollen's Rawgrains , this once-lost treasure was reintroduced into the food landscape. Today, it’s grown on small farms along the Southern coast and prized by chefs and food lovers for its texture, taste, and story. Why It’s a Favorite in Lowcountry Kitchens Carolina Gold isn’t just nostalgic — it’s functional and delicious. Its versatility allows it to shine in both humble and elevated dishes. From Sunday supper at Grandma’s to upscale catering menus, this rice adapts beautifully to whatever it’s paired with. You’ll find it in: Red rice Hoppin’ John Seafood and sausage dishes Chicken bog/purloo Gullah-inspired dishes passed down for generations The texture holds up well, the flavor deepens with each bite, and the history adds a richness no seasoning can replicate. More Than a Grain — A Cultural Anchor What makes Carolina Gold truly special is its legacy. Every grain carries stories of survival, adaptation, and celebration. It’s a culinary thread connecting generations of cooks, farmers, and families throughout the Lowcountry and beyond. That legacy lives on thanks to producers like Rollen’s Raw Grains , who are preserving Carolina Gold Rice the right way—through careful cultivation, traditional methods, and a deep respect for the culture behind the grain. Their dedication ensures that this heirloom rice continues to nourish both our plates and our history. Ready to Taste the Tradition? Whether you're exploring heirloom recipes or putting a fresh spin on Southern classics, Rollen’s Raw Grains offers not only the rice itself but a true connection to the history behind it and other historic grains. Their website features delicious recipes and insight into how this iconic grain continues to nourish both body and soul. 👉 Explore their story, shop Carolina Gold Rice, and check out their recipes at: www.rollensrawgrains.com Let the tradition live on—one grain at a time.

When it comes to impressing your team, clients, or business partners, lunch matters more than you think. In fact, the right corporate lunch can turn a regular meeting into a memorable event, boost morale, and even close deals faster. That’s where Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine comes in — Charleston’s trusted choice for fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable corporate lunches. If you’re ready to upgrade from the usual tired sandwich trays and bland buffets, read on. Carolima’s is here to bring real Southern flavor and hospitality straight to your conference room. What Sets Carolima’s Corporate Lunches Apart? 🌟 At Carolima’s, we believe a corporate lunch should feel like a reward, not an afterthought. Our menus are handcrafted to satisfy all kinds of palates — from traditional tastes to adventurous eaters. Here's why Charleston companies love working with us: Authentic Lowcountry Cuisine : Shrimp and grits, crab cakes, southern fried chicken, and seasonal sides — every dish tells a story of Southern hospitality. Customizable Menus : We tailor every menu to fit your group’s size, dietary preferences, and event style. Made from Scratch Dishes : Our commitment to quality means your team gets the very best — every single time. Professional Service : Punctual, polished, and passionate about presentation, our catering team helps your event run smoothly from start to finish. We don’t just deliver lunch. We deliver an experience. Perfect for Every Occasion 🗓️ Carolima’s corporate lunches are ideal for: Staff appreciation days Board meetings and presentations Client luncheons Employee onboarding sessions Company milestones and celebrations Networking events Whether you need individually boxed lunches for an all-day training or a full buffet spread to impress VIPs, we’ll create a setup that fits your vision — and your budget. Menu Highlights Your Team Will Love 🍴 We’re known for our bold flavors and signature Lowcountry dishes, but our menus also offer lighter and modern options, too. Here’s a sneak peek: Signature Entrées: Southern Fried or Rosemary Garlic Roasted Chicken, Pan-Seared Salmon, and made from scratch lunch boxes Savory Sides: Charleston Red Rice, Macaroni & Cheese, Braised Collard Greens Fresh Salads: Carolima's Signature Salad, Garden Salad, Caesar Salad (add grilled chicken to either) Desserts: Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies, Charleston Chewies, Peach Cobbler Need vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free options? No problem — just let us know when you book. Why Corporate Clients Choose Carolima’s Time After Time ✅ We know Charleston businesses have options when it comes to catering — but here’s why Carolima’s stands out: Reliability : No last-minute surprises. We show up prepared and on time. Ease : We make the process simple, from menu planning to delivery and setup. Flavor : Our food doesn’t just look good — it tastes amazing and leaves a lasting impression. Community Focus : As a local, family-run business, we care about Charleston just as much as you do. In a world full of cookie-cutter catering, Carolima’s brings real heart and flavor to the table. What Clients Are Saying ⭐ Carolima's was able to provide catering for an event where I work. There were very professional and very helpful throughout all steps of the process. I will highly recommend them to anyone who needs catering service. --Kale M., Costco "Carolima's Lowcountry Cuisine has hosted our Momentum Mentor/Mentee Program for two events in a row with remarkably priced meals consisting of delicious, individually wrapped sandwich meals followed by a scrumptious, hot meal on the second day! What a huge hit!! Please support this minority, woman-owned establishment by booking them for your next corporate event. You will not be disappointed!"— Sandy S., Avery Institute Your company deserves the same — and we’re ready to make it happen! Ready to Upgrade Your Office Lunch Game? 📞 When it comes to corporate catering in Charleston, Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine is the name to remember. Let us help you transform your next business lunch into an experience your guests will talk about long after the last bite. 👉 Contact Carolima’s today to book your next corporate lunch! 📅 Availability fills up fast, so reserve your spot now! Be sure to follow us on Instagram [@carolimasc] and Facebook [@carolimas] to see more mouthwatering moments and behind-the-scenes goodness!

When people think of Lowcountry cuisine, their minds usually jump to shrimp and grits—and for good reason. It’s a dish that perfectly captures the spirit of Charleston: rich, comforting, and full of soul. But there’s so much more to the Lowcountry table than just that iconic bowl. The real magic of this region’s food is found in the diversity of its ingredients and the stories behind them. Rooted in Gullah Geechee traditions and shaped by generations of African, Caribbean, and Southern influence, Lowcountry cuisine is a celebration of culture through flavor. You’ll find rice at the heart of it all—carried across the Atlantic and cultivated in the marshy fields of South Carolina, it’s the base for dishes like red rice, purloo, and okra stew. Each one tells a story of resilience, creativity, and deep connection to the land and waterways that define the region. Okra, tomatoes, and fresh seafood play starring roles too. From fried whiting plates to Oyster Stew and she-crab soup, these aren’t just ingredients—they’re markers of tradition passed from one kitchen to the next. Even a simple pot of greens or a side of stewed tomatoes becomes something special in Charleston, seasoned not just with spice but with memory. At Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine, we take pride in honoring those traditions while adding our own flair. Whether we’re catering a backyard gathering or a formal celebration, our menu goes well beyond shrimp and grits. We want every bite to reflect the full spectrum of what Lowcountry food has to offer: warmth, history, and a whole lot of flavor. So the next time someone says they know Lowcountry cuisine, ask them if they’ve had okra soup with shrimp, or red rice with smoked sausage. Trust us—shrimp and grits is just the beginning. Explore our full menu and let Carolima’s bring the true taste of the Lowcountry to your next event. #LuvCarolimas #LowcountryCuisine #GullahGeecheeFlavor #CharlestonCaterer

Every caterer has their tricks, but at Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine, our secret weapon isn’t stashed in a toolkit or packed into a supply bin—it’s our van. This isn’t just transportation; it’s a fully loaded mobile kitchen that rolls up ready for anything. From extra guests to missing utensils to surprise last-minute prep, our van is stocked to handle it all without breaking a sweat. Inside, you’ll find the obvious stuff—cups, plates, napkins—but also the behind-the-scenes heroes: sterno fuel, bungee cords, first aid supplies, sheet pans, cutting boards, foil, serving spoons, gloves, and just about every tool you didn’t realize you needed until something shifts at an event. We’ve been in this game long enough to know that things change fast, and we don’t believe in showing up halfway ready. It’s saved us more times than we can count. Like when we pulled up and the guest count had somehow grown by twenty. Or when someone forgot a serving spoon and we had three ready to go. Or the time we suddenly needed to slice up garnishes onsite—we reached for the cutting board and kept it moving, no panic necessary. That’s the level of prepared we stay on. Being ready is part of who we are. Because when you hire Carolima’s, you’re not just getting amazing food—you’re getting a team that stays ten steps ahead. Our van? She’s the real MVP. Got an event coming up? Let the MVP roll up for you. Contact us today to book your next catering experience with Carolima’s—where the food is unforgettable, and the prep game is unmatched.

April is here, and with it comes a sense of focused intention. This month, we’re shifting gears—not into overdrive just yet, but into alignment. It’s the calm before catering season really ramps up, and we’re using this window of time to organize, reconnect, and lay the groundwork for a strong and seamless spring.  We kicked off the month with something special: the Sysco Food Expo. It was the perfect opportunity to regroup as a team, explore new flavors, and find inspiration in what’s next. From tasting innovative dishes to seeing creative presentation ideas, the experience helped bring us all back together after a busy start to the year. It reminded us how important it is to pause and be present—not just in the kitchen, but with each other. Back at home base, we’ve turned our attention to the little details that keep everything running smoothly. One of our big wins this month? Revamping our catering van. We reorganized the layout, added smarter storage, and stocked it with tools to help streamline service on the go. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference when we’re out in the field—and it’s just one of the ways we’re preparing to show up stronger this season. This month, we’re also taking time to elevate the client experience in new ways. We’ve been reviewing our internal systems, refining how we communicate, and thinking through every step of the customer journey. From first inquiry to final bite, we want each client to feel taken care of, heard, and wowed. It’s quiet growth, but powerful—and it’s happening now, before things get too busy to pause. April might be a moment of calm, but it’s not a standstill. It’s a season of intention. A time to prep with purpose, pour into our team, and fine-tune the details that make every event feel like magic. We’re excited for what’s ahead—and we’re making sure we’re ready for it. And if you’re craving something sweet in the meantime, come see us at the Mount Pleasant Farmers Market every Tuesday this month from 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM at 639 Coleman Blvd . We’ll be out there sharing our Southern dessert favorites—from Charleston Chewies to our personal 14 Karat Cakes. Stop by and treat yourself! Got an event coming up? Now is the perfect time to reach out. Whether you’re planning a spring wedding, corporate luncheon, or intimate gathering, our team is ready to bring the flavor and the finesse. Let’s make something unforgettable—together. Contact us today!

At Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine, we take pride in catering events that nourish both the body and the soul. Recently, we had the honor of catering an intimate lunch ahead of Women of the Diaspora, a powerful conversation featuring Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Kenya Dunn. This small, private meal set the tone for an afternoon filled with wisdom, reflection, and meaningful dialogue. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is a history-maker and an influential leader. She is the Interim General Secretary/President of the National Council of Churches, overseeing 37 Christian denominations, and was the first woman elected to episcopal office in the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME). Her leadership has shaped institutions, strengthened communities, and paved the way for women in ministry. The speaking engagement brought together attendees eager to gain insight from two dynamic women. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie and Kenya Dunn shared thought-provoking perspectives, encouraging women to step boldly into their purpose. 'Emma’s biggest takeaway was the idea of “courageous curiosity”—the importance of pushing forward, even in moments of discomfort. It was a reminder that true growth often happens outside of our comfort zones. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie also had a phrase that resonated with Sameka because she too loves this phrase: “Look at God.” It was a powerful affirmation of those moments when things align just as they should, often in unexpected ways—something we at Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine know all too well when executing seamless events. The afternoon was a reminder that impactful conversations don’t require large crowds—sometimes, the most meaningful moments happen in intimate settings over a well-prepared meal. At Carolima's, we understand the power of food to bring people together, from grand celebrations to small gatherings that spark lasting change. We are proud to have been part of this incredible event and look forward to continuing to serve gatherings that celebrate culture, empowerment, and legacy.

March is a time to celebrate the women who are making a lasting impact across all industries—including hospitality. From catering and event planning to restaurant management and beverage innovation, women continue to shape the food and beverage world with their creativity, leadership, and resilience. At Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine , we’re proud to highlight these trailblazers and encourage our community to support women-led businesses not just this month, but all year long. As part of our celebration, we hosted a Women in Hospitality Round Table on March 24th , bringing together a powerhouse panel of local women to discuss the realities of being a woman in the industry. The conversation covered everything from the challenges of entrepreneurship to how they are incorporating AI in their businesses. Meet Our Round Table Panelists: ✨ Kym Freeman – Owner of Party Thyme Catering ✨ Courtney Scipio – Owner of IBA Rentals and Venue ✨ Christine England – Hospitality professional with extensive Food & Beverage experience ✨ Rashaunda Grant – Owner of Carolina Cookery ✨ Monique Weathers – Owner of Firefly Weddings and Events ✨ Johnny Caldwell – Co-owner of Cocktail Bandits , mixologist, and beverage entrepreneur Each of these women shared invaluable insights on leadership, resilience, and innovation in hospitality. Their experiences span full-service catering, mobile bartending, wedding planning, and event rentals, all contributing to the industry in unique and impactful ways. From curating unforgettable events to ensuring seamless execution behind the scenes, they painted a powerful picture of what it means to thrive in this field. A key takeaway from the discussion was the importance of community and collaboration, reinforcing that success in hospitality is built on strong relationships and shared knowledge. Women-led establishments bring unique perspectives and expertise to our communities. Supporting them means investing in the future of this industry and ensuring that more women have the opportunity to lead and innovate. As we wrap up Women’s History Month, we encourage you to continue championing the women making waves in our field. Whether it’s booking a women-owned hospitality services, attending events organized by female entrepreneurs, or simply spreading the word about their work, your support makes a difference. Let’s continue to uplift the women shaping the future of hospitality—one meal, one event, and one business at a time.

Creating the perfect catering experience isn’t just about serving great food—it’s about setting the right tone for the event. Imagine walking into a sleek corporate gala and being handed a plate of BBQ ribs. Sure, they’re delicious, but is that really the move in a room full of suits? That’s where the art of food and vibe matching comes in. It’s about pairing the right menu items with the right atmosphere, ensuring your event feels seamless and intentional from start to finish. At Carolima’s, we understand that the menu should reflect the essence of the gathering. A vibrant Lowcountry brunch calls for creamy shrimp and grits, petite sweet potato biscuits, and fresh fruit displays. A lively networking event? Grazing tables with deviled eggs three ways, collard green egg rolls, and seafood pasta salad set the tone for easy conversation. Celebrating love at a wedding? Herb-encrusted beef tenderloin, roasted broccolini, and our famous macaroni & cheese bring an elevated yet comforting feel to the reception. Knowing the menu before reaching out for a consultation can help tailor the experience. Think about what you want guests to feel—warmth, nostalgia, sophistication? Our team guides you through options like a Lowcountry shrimp and grits bar for a Southern comfort vibe, or herb-encrusted beef tenderloin with creamy mashed potatoes and broccolini for an intimate dinner party. Each dish we craft holds a story, rooted in the traditions of Gullah Geechee cuisine, creating an experience that extends beyond the plate. Whether it’s a corporate affair, family reunion, or milestone celebration, Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine ensures every bite complements the occasion. We’re not just feeding guests; we’re curating moments. Let’s match your event’s vibe with flavors that leave a lasting impression. Contact us today!!

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival never fails to bring the city’s best flavors to the forefront, and this past week was no exception. From the excitement of Opening Night to the vibrant energy of the Culinary Village, Charleston was alive with the aroma of incredible dishes, the clinking of wine glasses, and the buzz of food lovers from near and far. Over the course of the week, the festival welcomed over 10,000 attendees, and Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine was thrilled to be part of the excitement, serving up some of our most beloved dishes to enthusiastic crowds. We kicked things off with Opening Night at the North Charleston Coliseum, where we treated guests to our warm, creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip with crabmeat, paired with our Signature Carolima’s Punch. The evening set the tone for the rest of the festival, with an electric atmosphere, live entertainment, and a gathering of some of Charleston’s finest chefs, artisans, and food enthusiasts. From there, the real fun moved to the Culinary Village at Johnson Hagood Stadium, where our booth became a hotspot for festival-goers craving something both soulful and satisfying. Lines wrapped around our booth as guests devoured over 3,000 Collard Green Egg Rolls and Charleston Chewies. The response was overwhelming—our dishes were a hit, with guests eager to savor every bite. Adding to the fun, our custom festival T-shirts became a hit, sparking conversations and turning heads throughout the event. (Anyone else thinking we should add them to our website for purchase? Because we’re totally considering it!) Between the delicious bites and the stylish threads, Carolima’s left a lasting impression at the festival. This year’s festival showcased an incredible mix of tasting tents, wine-pairing workshops, and live cooking demonstrations. Attendees got to sip, sample, and savor flavors from around the world while also celebrating Charleston’s deep-rooted culinary traditions. We couldn’t have done it without our amazing team, who worked tirelessly to make sure every guest got a taste of what Carolima’s is all about. A huge shout-out to everyone who supported us throughout the week—you made this event unforgettable! The Charleston Wine + Food Festival continues to be one of the city’s most exciting events, and we’re already counting down to next year. If you missed us at the festival, don’t worry—you can still enjoy Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine at your next catered event. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and let Carolima’s Lowcountry Cuisine be a part of your next special event!