RESTAURANT REVIEW: Bowen's Island

Getting your pretty new truck dirty driving the mile long, one lane, dirt road leading to the shack that is Bowen's Island Restaurant is an experience everyone should take part in, as the food you receive is arguably some of the best seafood in the state of South Carolina.

Driving up and parking on the oyster shell driveway, you're greeted with, for lack of better description, an old and moderately decrepit shack who's winding staircase holds the line of people waiting to order and dine at this establishment.

After waiting out in this line for what might seem like an eternity filled with southern hospitality and meeting anyone who may just be standing near, you are met with a building filled ceiling to floor with graffiti and friendly staff ready to take your order at the main counter.

“I kinda felt like my legs were going to fall off by the end of it,” says Abbey B., “but it was well worth it when we reached the counter."

If you're lucky enough you may get a spot out on the deck which has a beautiful view of the Carolina marshes leading to the Atlantic.

Bailey C, Airport senior, did get the chance to eat on the deck saying, “The sunset was absolutely gorgeous. I couldn't have asked for a more peaceful fun dinner,”.

While waiting for your meal which could be comprised of fried seafood of almost any variety, hearty frogmore stew, or a snow shovel full of their world renowned steamed oysters, you're encouraged to find your own spot on the walls, floors, doors, chairs, tables, or Windows to make your mark on the restaurant to enrich it's over 60 year history even more.

A down to earth and friendly atmosphere truly encompasses the term southern hospitality with the extremely friendly wait staff and presentation of the food. Your half pound plate of shrimp comes out on the same disposable flatware you'd find in your own kitchen with news papers taking the place of a tablecloth.

When it comes to pricing, at first glance there may be confusion as to why there is almost nothing under $15.00, but you receive enough food to feed yourself for the next two nights as well. One half pound of fresh local Charleston shrimp (either fried or boiled) cost just $17.00 compared to $15.00 for a much smaller portion at a local seafood restaurant like the Blue Marlin downtown.

There isn't much else to say about this restaurant other than it truly is more of an experience. If the atmosphere was any different, the food may seem more predictable than what it is now; the seemingly dirty exterior encapsulates the true treasure that lies within. If given the chance anyone should travel down that road less traveled to the oyster shell drive of a Bowen's Island Restaurant.

https://bowensisland.com