Many cities around the world come to life most on Friday and Saturday evenings. Here in Charleston, though, we do things a little differently. Stroll through downtown around 11 A.M. on a Sunday morning and you’ll find restaurants bustling, lines spilling out the doors, and tourists and locals alike strolling the streets while awaiting reservations. I enjoy the tradition of heading out to eat on Sunday mornings after church so much, I was inspired to create our Sunday Brunch Mimosa candle. Consider it a little way to bring the delight of a leisurely brunch home to enjoy all week long!

Perhaps inspired by this beloved candle, countless visitors to our flagship and candle classes have asked us where to go to brunch in Charleston over the years. I’m happy to share the spots you’d be most likely to find my family digging into plates of pancakes on a Sunday morning.

A Charleston institution for almost fifty years, Poogan’s Porch has always been our go-to brunch spot. Set inside a beautifully restored Victorian home, they specialize in the types of Southern dishes people travel to Charleston to enjoy. Make your reservation early, especially if you’re in town during a busy season—the tables in the intimate dining rooms or, better yet, the balconies overlooking Queen Street, fill up quickly.

My go-to order: If you’ve never tried chicken and waffles, don’t miss the chance to order my favorite take on this classic Southern dish here. They top them with fresh peaches and bourbon huckleberry syrup for a perfect sweet/savory experience. The macaroni and cheese appetizer is excellent too.

If the haint blue shutters and crisp umbrellas outside of Post House look familiar when you arrive, I wouldn’t be surprised. With exceptionally charming decor and seasonal menus, this Old Village tavern and inn, which opened under its current owners in 2020, quickly became beloved in the press and on social media. Whether we cozy up in their dining room or grab a table on the patio, enjoying brunch at this gorgeous, family-friendly spot is always a treat.

My go-to order: I usually order the Backbar Cheeseburger, which is topped with bread and butter pickles, caramelized onions, and their special sauce.

Head into Miller’s All Day because of the retro-inspired signage and cheery striped awning; stay for the decadent menu of diner staples, elevated with fresh, local ingredients. Now that this downtown restaurant has opened a second location near our home on James Island, we find ourselves here even more often. Along with a mouthwatering food menu, Miller’s All Day offers a creative cocktail menu, including many seasonal twists on mimosas (rosemary grapefruit or prickly pear, anyone?).

My go-to order: With all of the traditional diner breakfast and lunch options to choose from, narrowing down an all-time favorite is a challenge! I usually opt for either the pancakes or the club sandwich.

For special occasions, we love to get dressed up and book a table at High Cotton. The decor is elegant and quintessentially Charleston—so much so that a scene of The Notebook was filmed there. Though the upscale vibe sets the tone for a celebration on its own, High Cotton’s food is delicious and well worth the visit as well.

My go-to order: I absolutely love their brioche French toast. A classic brunch dish, executed flawlessly every time!

If you’re on the hunt for a brunch spot near the beach, look no further than The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island. Their James Beard-nominated chef melds the restaurant’s Lowcountry locale and identity with French, Italian, and Spanish inspiration. Whether you opt for a unique pizza, house-made pasta, or a more traditional brunch staple, there is something for everyone here.

My go-to order: Pasta for brunch may be a bit of an unconventional choice, but I can never resist their ricotta gnocchi.