Basic Kitchen

Basic Kitchen

⭐ 4.6/5 (1312 reviews) 💰 $20–30 per person American

📍 82 Wentworth St, Charleston, South Carolina

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 • 1312 reviews
📍 Address
82 Wentworth St
Charleston, South Carolina 29401
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$20–30 per person
🍽️ Category
American

⏰ Opening Hours

Tuesday11 am–3 pm5–9 pm
Wednesday11 am–3 pm5–9 pm
Thursday11 am–3 pm5–9 pm
Friday11 am–3 pm5–9 pm
Saturday10 am–3 pm5–9 pm
Sunday10 am–3 pm5–9 pm
Monday11 am–3 pm5–9 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

As you step into Basic Kitchen, the inviting warmth and casual elegance of the space immediately put you at ease. The cozy, trendy ambiance sets the tone for a dining experience that is both comfortable and stylish. With its modern, minimalist decor and natural elements like exposed brick and warm wood accents, the restaurant exudes a sense of simplicity and sophistication that perfectly aligns with its ethos of serving wholesome, plant-based fare.

The menu at Basic Kitchen is a true celebration of the vibrant flavors and textures of seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving a hearty vegan burger, a creative veggie-forward salad, or a comforting plant-based entree, the offerings cater to a wide range of dietary preferences and tastes. Signature dishes like the Lentil Bolognese and the Jackfruit Taco Bowl showcase the kitchen's talent for transforming familiar favorites into delectable, meatless masterpieces. The thoughtfully curated selection of organic cocktails, craft beers, and biodynamic wines further enhances the dining experience, making Basic Kitchen a go-to destination for health-conscious foodies and plant-based enthusiasts alike.

The service at Basic Kitchen is attentive and personalized, with the staff readily available to guide you through the menu and make recommendations based on your preferences. The overall value of the dining experience is exceptional, with the reasonable price range and high-quality ingredients ensuring that you leave feeling satisfied and nourished. Whether you're dining solo, enjoying a casual lunch with friends, or celebrating a special occasion, Basic Kitchen's commitment to providing a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere and a delicious, nutritious dining experience makes it a must-visit destination in Charleston's vibrant culinary landscape.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible seating Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating Offers delivery On-site services available Offers takeaway Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service Serves great cocktails
Popular for
Popular for lunch Popular for dinner Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol Serves beer Serves cocktails Serves coffee Serves comfort food Serves healthy options Serves organic dishes Quick bite Serves small plates Serves spirits Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes Serves wine
Dining options
Serves brunch Serves lunch Serves dinner Has catering Serves dessert Has seating Has table service
Amenities
Has bar on site Has toilet Has Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly Good for groups LGBTQ+ friendly Popular with locals Popular with tourists Transgender safe space Popular with university students
Planning
Brunch reservations recommended Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs available Has kids' menu
Parking
Paid multi-storey car park Paid parking lot Paid street parking

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

As soon as you step into Basic Kitchen, you're greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere that exudes a casual, yet chic vibe. The restaurant's decor is a harmonious blend of rustic and modern elements, with exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, and sleek, minimalist furnishings that create a clean, airy, and visually appealing space. The lighting is a mix of natural sunlight filtering in through large windows and strategically placed pendant lamps, casting a soft, ambient glow throughout the dining area.

The seating arrangements at Basic Kitchen are designed to foster a cozy and intimate ambiance, with a mix of cozy booths, communal tables, and smaller two-top tables that cater to a variety of dining needs and group sizes. The overall atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect setting for a casual lunch, a lively dinner with friends, or a quiet solo dining experience.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A range of gluten-free dishes made with alternative grains and flours.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of uncooked, plant-based dishes highlighting fresh, local produce.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and substitutes for those with allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan entrees and sides suitable for the keto diet.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - This is the ideal time to visit Basic Kitchen as it tends to be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience and the opportunity to enjoy the restaurant's healthy and delicious vegan options.
  • Friday dinner - The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and lively crowd make it a popular destination for a Friday night out, with the opportunity to indulge in the restaurant's excellent cocktails and small plates.
  • Weekend brunch - Basic Kitchen's brunch menu, featuring a variety of plant-based dishes, is a perfect way to start the weekend, with the added benefit of the restaurant's cozy and welcoming ambiance.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Commitment to Sustainability: Basic Kitchen sources its ingredients locally and uses eco-friendly practices, such as composting and reducing waste, to minimize its environmental impact.
  • Diverse, Creative Menu: The restaurant offers a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes, including innovative plant-based takes on classic American comfort foods and seasonal, locally-inspired specials.
  • Welcoming Atmosphere: With a cozy, modern decor and a focus on inclusive hospitality, Basic Kitchen creates a warm, inviting space for diners of all backgrounds to enjoy a mindful, plant-based dining experience.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Located in the heart of Charleston's historic downtown, Basic Kitchen is nestled within a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood. Just steps away from iconic landmarks like the Charleston City Market and the Ravenel Bridge, the restaurant is surrounded by a charming mix of historic architecture, boutique shops, and lively art galleries. The area is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a unique blend of Southern hospitality and cosmopolitan flair.

Basic Kitchen's diverse clientele reflects the eclectic nature of the neighborhood. From health-conscious young professionals to families seeking a casual dining experience, the restaurant caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Its commitment to serving delicious, plant-based fare in a welcoming atmosphere has made it a beloved gathering spot for the local community, as well as a must-visit destination for visitors seeking an authentic taste of Charleston's vibrant culinary scene.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"My Fiance and I are from Indiana, and this was our first time visiting this restaurant. …"

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"We were very happy with our visit to this restaurant. All the food was high-quality and healthy. It’s a great place to b..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"What a great spot! Located directly off King Street, Basic Kitchen offers a range of healthy and delicious food options,..."

— Customer #3