Few purchases give you a sense of pride and accomplishment like buying a new home. From white picket fences and lush green grass to cookouts with neighbors and holidays with the family, owning a home is magical. Like most great things, though, enduring the home-buying process takes a lot of work. There are many steps to take and difficult decisions to make along the way. One of the most crucial decisions is what type of home loan and mortgage broker to choose. Whether it's your first time buying a home or you're a seasoned owner with multiple properties, you will need a trusted mortgage broker in West Ashley, SC, with your best interests at heart.
If you're like most people, you need a mortgage professional whose top priority is their customers - an expert who can provide accurate advice and guidance so you can make educated decisions. That's where Mija Mortgage comes into the picture.
Whether you want the best interest rates or don't know where to start in the home-buying process, Mija Mortgage can set you up in the right direction. From getting you pre-qualified to buy a home to securing a veteran's loan, Mija Mortgage is the trusted solution you need. As West Ashley natives, we're proud to serve the Lowcountry and all of South Carolina with trusted mortgage brokerage services.
Unlike some mortgage companies in West Ashley, SC, we bring years of high-level experience and insight to the table. Having worked with hundreds of clients during our time in business, we know you're probably going through a range of emotions right now. Buying a new home can be a scary process, especially for first-time buyers. That's why we make every effort to make ourselves accessible and available for clients. Our primary goal is to help you make the right mortgage for your family and your budget.
We know that many home loan officers have horrible reputations. Some brokers only see their clients as transactions, and a means to make quick money. They come off as impatient and pushy, failing to understand that this is a very big decision for you. At Mija Mortgage, we take the opposite approach. We encourage our clients to take as much time as needed to ask us questions and review mortgage documents. We could say that our mission is to exceed your expectations, but we'd rather just show you. From assistance finding FHA, VA, or other loans to refinancing your current mortgage, Mija is the team you can trust.
Here are just a few reasons why home buyers choose Mija Mortgage:
Most people simply don't have access to the hundreds of thousands of dollars needed to purchase a home with cash. Instead, they take out a mortgage loan to buy a home. Unfortunately, many homebuyers are anxious to get the ball rolling and, due to their excitement, fail to shop around for the best mortgage rates. To some degree, avoiding this step makes sense, as it requires a lot of legwork and research to get the job done. For those not wanting to spend hours researching a reasonable mortgage, there's an alternative to consider - working with a mortgage broker.
To understand the benefits of working with a mortgage broker, you must first understand their role in the home-buying process.
Your mortgage broker is a third party that works to connect you with mortgage lenders. Essentially, a mortgage broker works as an intermediary between a person who wants to buy a home and the entities offering loans to buy a home. The mortgage broker works with both the borrower and lender to get the borrower approved. They also verify and collect paperwork from the borrower that the lender needs to finish a home purchase. Typically, mortgage brokers have relationships with several home loan lenders. Mija Mortgage, for example, has access to 50 different lenders, which gives us a wide range of home loans in West Ashley, SC, from which to choose.
In addition to finding a home loan lender, your mortgage broker will help you settle on the best loan options and interest rates for your budget. Ideally, your mortgage broker will take a great deal of stress and legwork off your plate while also potentially saving you money.
If you're ready to buy a home, getting pre-qualified is a great choice that will streamline the entire process. Your mortgage broker makes getting pre-approved easy by obtaining all the documents needed to get you pre-qualified. In taking a look at your application, they will determine if you're ready for the pre-approval process. If your application needs additional items, the mortgage company will help point you in the right direction to ensure your application is as strong as it can be. Your mortgage broker will also walk you through the different types of loans, from Conventional and FHA to VA and USDA.
In order to be pre-approved for a home in South Carolina, you must have the following:
Most people choose to use a mortgage broker because they have access to different lenders and interest rates. But a great mortgage broker brings more to the table than a choice of lenders.
Save You from Unneeded Stress:One of the biggest advantages of hiring a mortgage broker is that they can find and vet loans while managing the mortgage process on your behalf. The best mortgage companies, like Mija Mortgage, hire brokers who are experts at keeping underwriting on track, coordinating with relevant parties, and handling all paperwork involved. At the end of the day, mortgage brokers save you stress and time and often expedite the closing process.
More Access: We touched on this earlier, but it bears repeating: A mortgage broker provides access to a range of loans, rates, and lenders. In fact, many mortgage brokers can get rates lower than what the average person could get from a lender.
Save You Money: There's a chance that your mortgage broker can get your mortgage fees reduced or waived by the lender, which could save you a good deal of money.
Help with Unfavorable Financial Situations: Expert mortgage brokers can often assist in challenging financial situations, like when a buyer has inconsistent income or less-than-perfect credit. Experienced brokers, like those at Mija Mortgage, are often aware of lenders willing to will work with nontraditional borrowers.
Provide Key Insights: Mortgage brokers share important insights, such as your chances for a home loan approval and exactly how much house you can afford. They can also save you from making costly mistakes based on their years of expertise in the mortgage industry.
While settling on the best type of home loan isn't as exciting as searching for the home of your dreams, it's equally important. Yes, your Mija Mortgage loan officer in West Ashley, SC, will be happy to help explain the differences between home loans. But understanding the basics ahead of time will save you stress and time in the long run.
Conventional loans can be used to purchase a new home or refinance your current one. Conventional loans include fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages. Generally, borrowers must put down a 3% down payment for owner-occupants, 10% for a vacation property, and 20% for an investment home. If you are able to pay 20% of the total cost of the home, you can avoid private mortgage insurance, which is otherwise required. Conventional mortgages are often preferred by buyers with good credit or people needing a non-owner-occupied mortgage.
FHA mortgages are issued by the U.S. government and backed by the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). This loan is often preferred by first-time homebuyers because it only requires a 3.5% down payment and offers more flexibility with credit requirements and underwriting standards. FHA loans have several requirements you must meet to qualify. Contact Mija Mortgage today to learn more about FHA loans and whether or not they're best for your financial situation.
Also backed by the government, these loans are insured by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and don't require money down. These loans have lower insurance requirements when compared to FHA loans, offer 100% financing if you qualify, and allow for closing costs to be covered by the seller. In order to qualify for a USDA loan, you must live in a rural area, and your household income must meet certain standards. These loans are often preferred by low-income citizens who live in rural parts of South Carolina.
Also known as VA or Veteran's Affairs loans, these mortgages are reserved for the brave men and women who served in the military. VA loans help provide our military members, veterans, and their families with favorable loan terms and an easy home ownership experience. Often, those who qualify are not required to make a down payment on their home. Additionally, these loans often include less expensive closing costs.
If you are a veteran or the family member of a veteran, contact Mija Mortgage today to speak with our Vetted VA Professional, Debbie Haberny. Debbie helps our military members, veterans, and their family members obtain home loans utilizing veteran benefits and would be happy to help as you search for a home.
Do you have questions about the complexities of mortgages and home loans? As your advocate, Mija Mortgage is here to answer any questions you have about mortgages and the home-buying process. We encourage you to call our office to speak directly with one of our mortgage experts or continue reading below for answers to some frequently asked questions.
Q. I was talking to my spouse about mortgage brokers, and they mentioned the phrase home loan originator. What's the difference between a broker and a loan originator?
A. The mortgage industry is full of confusing jobs and titles, making it easy to confuse roles and responsibilities. Such is the case with mortgage brokers and home loan originators. Though their roles share similarities, a home loan originator in West Ashley, SC, works for a bank or credit union, while a mortgage broker works for a brokerage company. Home loan originators and mortgage brokers are both licensed by the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS).
Q. I've heard from everyone that you must have mortgage insurance to buy a home. What is mortgage insurance?
A. Essentially, mortgage insurance helps protect lenders if a borrower forecloses on the home they bought. One advantage of mortgage insurance is that when borrowers pay it, lenders can often grant loans to buyers when they might not have otherwise. Though not always required to buy a home, mortgage insurance is often needed for down payments of less than 20%.
Q. I have just been pre-approved to buy a beautiful home in South Carolina. Is there anything I shouldn't do now that I'm pre-qualified?
A. Mortgage companies like Mija Mortgage, make getting pre-qualified for a home easy. However, as your loan process continues, your lender is required to run a new credit report before closing on a home. For that reason, it's to avoid any activity that might affect your credit score, such as:
Q. My brother-in-law recently refinanced his home in South Carolina. What is refinancing, and should I consider refinancing my home too?
A. Refinancing your home basically means you're swapping your current mortgage for a new one, most often with a lower interest rate. If you would like to reduce the term of your loan, lower your monthly mortgage payments, or consolidate debt, refinancing may be a smart option. Many homeowners also choose to refinance if they want to switch from adjustable-rate mortgages to fixed-rate mortgages or to get cash back for home renovations. To learn whether refinancing is a viable option for your situation, contact Mija Mortgage ASAP, as loan rates change frequently.
Here at Mija Mortgage, we believe that the best communities begin with the dream of home ownership. Our mission is to make those dreams come true, with personalized service, expert guidance, and good old-fashioned hard work. As one of the most trusted mortgage companies in West Ashley, SC, we have years of experience working with a diverse range of clients, from first-time buyers and investors to self-employed borrowers and non-native English speakers.
Though every mortgage situation is different, one thing never changes: our commitment to clients. Contact our office today to get started on an exceptional home-buying experience.
Lowcountry Eye Care has announced that they now offer Avulux glasses lenses, an innovative lens technology that’s designed to prevent migraines. Avulux utilizes precision filters that let in certain light spectrums, like green, while blocking almost all red, amber, and blue light, which have been proven to induce migraines. Lowcountry Eye Care hopes to use the lenses to provide patients with relief from their migraines and support their mission of providing high-quality care.“We’re thrilled to be offering Avulux lens...
Lowcountry Eye Care has announced that they now offer Avulux glasses lenses, an innovative lens technology that’s designed to prevent migraines. Avulux utilizes precision filters that let in certain light spectrums, like green, while blocking almost all red, amber, and blue light, which have been proven to induce migraines. Lowcountry Eye Care hopes to use the lenses to provide patients with relief from their migraines and support their mission of providing high-quality care.
“We’re thrilled to be offering Avulux lenses,” said Dr. Joe Pitcavage, co-owner and optometrist at Lowcountry Eye Care. “Being able to help people who are suffering from migraines with an advanced solution like this is what our care is all about. We want to help patients with issues they might not realize have anything to do with their vision, and I don’t think patients realize just how much light sensitivity can do to trigger migraines. Avulux is such a seamless migraine remedy, and I know our patients will love it!”
Avulux lenses work by filtering out 97% of red, amber, and blue light, which has been shown in clinical studies to be a trigger for cellular secretion of a photopigment called melanopsin. The photopigment’s increased production is associated with light-triggered pain and a higher incidence of migraines. By regularly wearing Avulux lenses, the majority of this light can be filtered out and migraines can be greatly reduced. And with the use of precision filters, these lenses allow over 70% of visible green light to pass through, which can help ease migraine discomfort.
“I love that Avulux lenses can fit into nearly any new frame. We have such a great selection of eyewear at our practices, so you’ll never have to worry about sacrificing fashion for functionality,” said Dr. Wes Shealy, co-owner and optometrist at Lowcountry Eye Care. “Just like how a migraine doesn’t discriminate based on what you’re doing, neither does this solution. Your Avulux lenses can be prescription or non-prescription, and you can wear them at any time and place. It’s wonderfully convenient for those who suffer from migraines.”
“Other migraine-blocking lenses use grey filters,” added Pitcavage. “Grey filters were less successful in past studies, and they didn’t offer the soothing benefits that Avulux’s precision filters do. By reducing light sensitivity in the first place, we finally have a reliable preventative solution that doesn’t rely on pharmaceuticals. At Lowcountry Eye Care, we aim to be Charleston’s go-to practice for innovative, advanced, and truly comprehensive eye care, which is why I’m proud to offer this lifechanging technology to our patients.”
Lowcountry Eye Care is open and taking appointments for new and existing patients.
About Lowcountry Eye Care
Lowcountry Eye Care is a full-service eye care practice that serves Charleston and the surrounding regions with its several locations. Notable for its high-level of service and dedication to patients, Lowcountry Eye Care offers a wide variety of eye care services for patients of all-ages, including myopia management and pediatric care, eye disease management and treatment, and comprehensive eye exams. With advanced technology and an array of eyewear options, the practice provides all patients with a personalized eye care experience.
For more information, please visit http://charlestoneyedoctor.com/.
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For more information about Lowcountry Eye Care - West Ashley, contact the company here:
Lowcountry Eye Care - West Ashley Dr. Joe Pitcavage 843-890-8037 westashley@charlestoneyedoctor.com 1251 Savannah Hwy Charleston, SC 29407
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — The city of Charleston and regional partners are hosting their third free workshop for residents to learn about composting today, March 4.The March 4 workshop will be at the Daniel Island Recreation Facility, 160 Fairbanks Drive, from 11 a.m. to noon, according to a press release.The press release says the next two workshops will be on March 20 at the James Island Recreation Complex, 1088 Quail Drive, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and on April19 at the Charleston Gaillard Center, 2 George Street, a...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — The city of Charleston and regional partners are hosting their third free workshop for residents to learn about composting today, March 4.
The March 4 workshop will be at the Daniel Island Recreation Facility, 160 Fairbanks Drive, from 11 a.m. to noon, according to a press release.
The press release says the next two workshops will be on March 20 at the James Island Recreation Complex, 1088 Quail Drive, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and on April19 at the Charleston Gaillard Center, 2 George Street, and via Zoom from noon to 1 p.m.
Read more: SMC celebrating new surgical services project, hosting robotic showcase
According to the press release, the workshops are designed to provide tools and resources to help residents get started composting, including information on the new food scrap drop-off program and composting at home. Residents are invited to join a workshop of their choice and pick up a free, reusable kitchen compost caddy.
The press release says thanks to a regional partnership with Charleston, Charleston County and Folly Beach, multiple drop sites are available for residents in the Charleston region to drop off food scraps at no charge. Three new sites will open on March 1. The food scraps are then sent to the Bees Ferry Compost Facility, instead of the landfill, to be recycled into compost.
Residents interested in dropping off food scraps must sign up in order to learn how the program works and what items are accepted, according to the press release. The sign up form is also available at www.charleston-sc.gov/compost
Read more: CCSD hosts 4th annual Battle of the Books
Once registered, the press release says food scraps can be dropped off at any of the following sites listed below:
Corinne Jones Park at 36 Marlow Drive (Peninsula)
Elliotborough Park at 134 Line Street (Peninsula), opening March 1
Medway Park at 2101 Medway Road (James Island)
James Island Recreation Complex at 1088 Quail Drive (James Island), opening March 1
Bees Ferry Landfill at 1344 Bees Ferry Road (West Ashley)
Ackerman Park at 55 Sycamore Avenue (West Ashley)
Folly Beach City Hall at 55 Center Street (Folly Beach)
Governors Park at 165 Fairbanks Oak Alley (Daniel Island), opening March 1
Read more: Palmetto Goodwill to host 6th annual Hippie Dash 5K fundraiser at James Island County Park
For more information about each drop site, including hours open and directions to access the site, the press release says to go to www.charleston-sc.gov/compost
WEST ASHLEY, S.C. (WCBD) – They’re in the sky, perched in trees, and on top of roofs.Birds of all types are flocking to the Grand Bees neighborhood in West Ashley. According to neighbors, they’re leaving behind a mess. Dead vultures found in West Ashley positive for avian flu, cannot be removed “A...
WEST ASHLEY, S.C. (WCBD) – They’re in the sky, perched in trees, and on top of roofs.
Birds of all types are flocking to the Grand Bees neighborhood in West Ashley. According to neighbors, they’re leaving behind a mess.
“A lot of poop, a lot of debris left over in the yard. You know, it doesn’t matter how many times they clean it. It’s like ‘where’d this napkin come from, where’d this come?’” said Jamie Weiler, a Grand Bees resident.
The Lennar housing development is located right off Bees Ferry Road, next to a large Charleston County landfill.
Katie Fox moved to the neighborhood one year ago and said the birds are dropping off lots of trash when they fly in.
Wrappers, feminine products, chicken bones, and even needles are just a few of the items neighbors have seen in their yards.
“I have tons of trash in my backyard that I often use one of those trash claws to pick up because I don’t want to catch any diseases from this,” Fox said. “And then many kids can’t go out and play. Dogs are choking on bones. They had to go to the vet to get those removed from their stomach. So, it’s been pretty bad. We’re all running out of ideas.”
Fox said she’s woken up by the sound of the crows every morning. The noise doesn’t stop until the evening.
Jamie Weiler said the birds weren’t a problem when the homes were being built. Little did he know, a few months later, he would have some unexpected neighbors.
“Since there’s no construction noise there’s no hammering or anything like that. They’re not scared so they’re just hanging out, hanging out, hanging out. So, it’s gotten worse over time,” Weiler explained.
According to Charleston County officials, the landfill has been there since the 1970s.
News 2 reached out to Lennar’s Charleston office, but we have not heard back. We also made calls with county leaders in hopes of getting some answers.
WEST ASHLEY, S.C. (WCIV) — Today marks a new chapter in the turf war between two cities, as the City of Charleston and the City of North Charleston will go to court to over a plot of land in West Ashley, which could shake up the landscape of the town.It all started back in 2017 when the City of North Charleston annexed the Runnymede property next to the Ashley River and Magnolia plantations. The owner of this property also owned land at the Whitfield Tract plantation and gave permission to the city to annex a one-acre property a...
WEST ASHLEY, S.C. (WCIV) — Today marks a new chapter in the turf war between two cities, as the City of Charleston and the City of North Charleston will go to court to over a plot of land in West Ashley, which could shake up the landscape of the town.
It all started back in 2017 when the City of North Charleston annexed the Runnymede property next to the Ashley River and Magnolia plantations. The owner of this property also owned land at the Whitfield Tract plantation and gave permission to the city to annex a one-acre property adjacent to it.
With this land it would open the door for North Charleston to take control of nearly 2,500 acres of land at Whitfield Tract.
But the problem is the city’s current lines do not touch this property, which is an argument the City of Charleston will hammer in at court on Tuesday, Oct. 11.
The City of Charleston and the National Trust for Historic Annexation sued the city of North Charleston in 2018 over this dispute. In the first hearing the court ruled the City of North Charleston did not have the right to jump over Charleston for this land, however Charleston did not have “standing” to sue (which can be a big hurdle to cross in civil cases.)
Read More: Annexation debate continues on "national treasure" area in Ashley River historic district
On Tuesday, there’s two appeals-- one for the one-acre of land and one for the remaining 2,500 acres on Whitfield Tract.
In 2018 the City of Charleston annexed the 2,500 acre property at Whitfield tract as purely a conservation measure just a week after the City of North Charleston annexed the one acre property next to it.
In 2018 the City of Charleston annexed the 2500 acre property at Whitfield tract as purely a conservation measure just a week after the City of North Charleston annexed the one acre property next to it.
Turf war between Charleston, North Charleston continues over property in West Ashley. (WCIV)
Conservation experts are worried Tuesday's decision could be a slippery slope for land acquisition in the future.
“I think that you have some catastrophic impacts that could happen across this state if cities, leapfrogging over other cities. I mean, just imagine, like, Sullivan's Island, leapfrogging over the town of Mount Pleasant to get Cainhoy Road or something," Senior Program Director for the Coastal Conservation League Jason Crowley said.
The City of North Charleston gave ABC News 4 this statement ahead of the court hearing:
The City of North Charleston prevailed at the trial court level and looks forward to moving through tomorrow’s appeal hearing stage as well.
Read More: Lawsuit filed against North Charleston over West Ashley annexation
Conservation experts also warn about the environmental impacts this decision could have. The one acre of land in question is right next to the Church Creek River Basin. The property currently acts like a sponge, stopping flooding to the basin from the Ashley River.
But if this property is developed, this could flow downstream into neighborhoods in West Ashley and only increase flooding problems in the City of Charleston.
The City of North Charleston has not confirmed any plans for the property, but certain zoning requirements could leave the door open for developments. The property falls outside the City of Charleston’s urban growth boundary, which prevents them from making any developments.
Read More: Charleston City Council unanimously votes to annex portion of land near Highway 61
However, the City of North Charleston does not follow those rules.
While conservation experts argue for the historic nature of these plantations, they say the ecological impacts could be much worse.
“Any sort of change in hydrology change and development in this vast undeveloped area will have catastrophic effects downstream in the communities that are already dealing with some pretty major flooding,” Crowley said.
Read More: Charleston votes to annex 2,000+ acres along Hwy 61, 1 week after North Charleston vote
"And then you add on traffic and all the other things that everyone loves to talk about. And you will just completely destroy this area that people have fought so hard to protect over the last several decades,” Crowley continued.
The City of Charleston provided ABC News 4 with this statement ahead of the court hearing:
Fixing flooding in Church Creek is a top priority for the city of Charleston-- and to do that, we have to prevent overdevelopment of this area at the top of the drainage basin. That's our goal here, and it's why we'll be in court again on Tuesday morning
Tuesday's hearing is an appellate court hearing, which will purely focus on the legality of these annexations. But it also means if the City of Charleston loses, they could appeal all the way to the Supreme Court, which could take years to be heard.
While downtown Charleston is known for its fine dining restaurants, fast casual spots, late night dive bars and craft cocktail joints, it isn’t the only area in Charleston with standout menu items. Just over the Ashley River in West Ashley, you’ll discover many locally-owned restaurants that serve quality food for a fraction of the downtown price.Plus, when you’re hanging at these 13 restaurants, you can escape the hustle and bustle of downtown.Avondale Wine and Cheese813 Savannah Hwy.(843) 76...
While downtown Charleston is known for its fine dining restaurants, fast casual spots, late night dive bars and craft cocktail joints, it isn’t the only area in Charleston with standout menu items. Just over the Ashley River in West Ashley, you’ll discover many locally-owned restaurants that serve quality food for a fraction of the downtown price.
Plus, when you’re hanging at these 13 restaurants, you can escape the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Avondale Wine and Cheese813 Savannah Hwy.(843) 769-5444Avondalechs.comOpen Mon.-Wed. 3-9 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. 12-9 p.m.
Voted Best Wine Bar by City Paper readers this year, Avondale Wine & Cheese currently offers a variety of charcuterie and cheese board options, tapas and, of course, wine. Choose your own combination of meats, cheeses and tapas items for your board, so you can try a little bit of everything. It’s a lot to choose from, and can be daunting for those less educated in all things meat, cheese and wine, but the staff at Avondale is there to help pick the right flavors for you.
Boxcar Betty’s1922 Savannah Hwy.(843) 225-7470Boxcarbettys.comOpen daily 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Boxcar Betty’s is the perfect place to fulfill a chicken sandwich craving. The fried-to-order chicken sandwiches here can be customized to your desires, with a range of toppings and sauces to choose from. Or, opt for a classic sandwich like the Boxcar with pimiento cheese, house-made peach slaw, pickles and spicy mayo. Even vegetarians can indulge in Boxcar Betty’s offerings with pimiento-stuffed portobello mushrooms as a protein choice.
Early Bird Diner 1644 Savannah Hwy.(843) 277-2353Earlybirddiner.comOpen daily 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Though Early Bird made a name for itself as a spot for late night adventures and a hangover-fueled morning haunt, its hours have shifted to a traditional cafe, but it hasn’t lost its charm. The famous pecan-fried chicken and waffles taste as good as ever. The sweet, crispy exterior of the chicken pairs perfectly with the fluffy Belgian waffles. Pro-tip: Pour the syrup over everything on the plate, get a biteful of chicken and waffle and dip the syrup-coated pair into the honey mustard. It’s a flavor combo unlike any other.
Gene’s Haufbrau817 Savannah Hwy.(843) 225-4363Open daily 11:30-2 a.m.
Gene’s Haufbrau is a West Ashley staple. This year, it celebrated 70 years of serving Charlestonians one of the largest selections of beer. And, the food is stellar too. Gene’s knocks pub fare out of the park with classics like chicken wings and burgers, but ask about the daily blue plate specials, ranging from pork chops and pot roast to fried flounder.
The Glass Onion1219 Savannah Hwy.(843) 225-1717Ilovetheglassonion.comOpen Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
The Glass Onion has been a neighborhood favorite since 2008, serving fine dining quality meals in a casual atmosphere. Chef/owner Chris Stewart combines his native Alabama roots with cooking styles he learned in New Orleans and Charleston, giving the menu a creative Southern flair. Menu items like gumbo brimming with okra and sausage, pan-roasted flounder served over tender braised beans and thick mashed potatoes, shrimp and grits and fried catfish with red rice are part of the reason City Paper readers voted The Glass Onion as the Best West Ashley Restaurant in 2022.
Home Team BBQ1205 Ashley River Road(843) 225-7427Hometeambbq.comOpen daily 11-12 a.m.
Chefs Aaron Siegel and Taylor Garrigan started their acclaimed barbecue empire, Home Team BBQ, in West Ashley. The meats here, like pulled pork, smoked chicken, ribs and a superb salt-and-pepper brisket, are all cooked over wood on offset metal pits. Siegel and Garrigan’s fine dining roots show up in an array of creative snacks and tacos, like chopped brisket sliders on brioche buns and smoked shrimp tacos with white bean puree. And, don’t miss out on Home Team’s smoked chicken wings with tangy white Alabama-style sauce.
Old Li’s1662 Savannah Hwy. Unit 105(843) 640-3994Oldlisrestaurant.comOpen Thurs.-Tues. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Old Li’s is a hidden gem in West Ashley tucked in the Indigo Village shopping center on Savannah Highway. It first opened in 2021, serving Chinese cuisine, but not the standard Chinese American takeout dishes like General Tso’s. Instead, Old Li’s offers more adventurous meals like squirrel fish and griddled pork intestines. Of course, you can also stick to some favorites like pork fried rice, Yuxiang (or shredded) pork and Kung Pao Chicken.
Red Orchid’s China Bistro1401 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. (843) 573-8787redorchids.com
City Paper readers have voted Red Orchids Best Chinese for many years — and for good reason. Not only are the dishes affordable but also delicious. Tucked away in the back of the Ashley Landing Mall parking lot, Red Orchids is the perfect place for a quiet lunch or dinner out. Pro-tip: As the temperatures in the Lowcountry drop, stop by Red Orchids for a bowl of wonton soup. It’s savory, warm and served with delicious pork dumplings. It also comes with crispy wonton strips that add extra crunch.
R Kitchen1337 Ashley River Road(843) 789-4342Rutledgekitchen.comOpen Wed.-Sat. Reservation Only.
R Kitchen is a different dining experience than the traditional sit down, order and eat. R, is reservation only and the menu changes every night, offering a five-course menu based on seasonal ingredients and the chefs’ creativity. Reservations can be made by texting (843) 789-0725.
Swig & Swine1217 Savannah Hwy.(843) 225-3805Swigandswinebbq.comOpen daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Swig & Swine specializes in fresh-smoked meats with ice-cold drinks. Its extensive drink menu includes local draft beers as well as signature cocktails. Try the St. Louis ribs or the pork rind nachos for a messy good time.
Three Little Birds65 Windermere Blvd.(843) 225-3065Threelittlebirdscafe.comOpen Mon.-Fri. 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Located near the Earth Fare in the South Windermere Center, Three Little Birds is a quaint dining space wrapped in lush greenery. big breakfast and lunch meals. Serving big breakfast and lunch meals, some classics standout like Tom’s Plate offer two eggs any style, toast, a side and the choice of bacon, ham or sausage. Or, you can try the lox bagel, topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese and capers or the Carolina Scramble with eggs, andouille sausage, shrimp, peppers and onion.
Triangle Char & Bar828 Savannah Hwy.(843) 377-1300Trianglecharandbar.comOpen Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11-12 a.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
Triangle Char + Bar is a family-friendly neighborhood restaurant with a cozy vibe and delicious food. Highlights of the menu include a selection of grass-fed burgers like the Hot Sh*t, a blackened burger with jalapeno-bacon jam, an over easy egg and pepper jack cheese. Or if you don’t feel like getting your hands a little messy, Triangle has “fork and knife” options like the retro bowl made with quinoa, sweet corn, spinach, bacon and white onion, all tossed in a parmesan cream sauce.
Zen Asian Fusion2037 Sam Rittenberg Blvd.(843) 766-6331Zenasianrestaurant.comHours vary
Zen is the perfect spot to relax after a long day or hang out with a group of friends. The dim lighting and calm ambiance adds to the delicious sushi rolls and entrees offered at this Asian fusion restaurant. Traditional Chinese dishes like Mongolian beef share the menu with chef specials like crispy roasted Mandarin duck or noodle dishes like pad thai and mei fun. But Zen shines in its abundance of delicious and well-crafted sushi rolls. Take, for example, the Holy Moly Roll, made with King crab, tuna, avocado and spring mix, then deep fried and topped with a creamy sauce.
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