Could a casual restaurant, nestled in the heart of Isle of Palms, South Carolina, truly capture the essence of Southern cuisine while offering a modern dining experience? Acme Lowcountry Kitchen has not only answered that question, but it has also redefined it, establishing itself as a culinary cornerstone for both locals and visitors.
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, a beacon of fresh flavors and a testament to sustainable practices, welcomes diners for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The ambiance is relaxed, the setting inviting, with options for indoor seating, a patio, and a deck, ensuring a space for every preference. Its popularity is reflected in its strong average rating of 4.6 stars, based on numerous reviews and testimonials, a testament to its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Acme Lowcountry Kitchen |
| Location | 31 J C Long Blvd, Isle of Palms, South Carolina 29451 |
| Cuisine | American, Southern, Seafood |
| Specialties | Shrimp & Grits (multiple variations), Flounder and Fries, Local's Breakfast, Dozer (brunch option), Oyster Rockefeller |
| Seafood Sourcing | Primarily East Coast and Atlantic Ocean, with exceptions for Faroe Islands salmon (Atlantic) |
| Atmosphere | Casual, friendly, quintessential beach shack vibe (based on its former JC Long Beach House location) |
| Hours | Vary; typically open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (check for the specific day) |
| Key Feature | Emphasis on sourcing seafood locally and sustainably, commitment to fresh ingredients |
| Additional Notes | Offers a full bar, has a noisy environment, especially on the enclosed/covered patio. |
| Notable Awards | Platinum member of the South Carolina Aquarium and the first South Carolina member of the James Beard Smart Catch Program. |
| Cash/Non-Cash Payments | Cash prices are listed; a 3.5% is added to non-cash payments. |
| Takeout | Takeout menus are available; takeout orders availability may vary, best to call in advance. |
| Tripadvisor Ranking | Ranked #1 of 31 restaurants in Isle of Palms. |
| Reviews | 4,227 unbiased reviews on Tripadvisor, rated 4.5 of 5. |
The journey of Acme Lowcountry Kitchen began in 1995, initially operating as a Tex-Mex restaurant. The transformation occurred in 2008, marking a pivotal moment that steered the restaurant towards its current identity. It has since carved a niche for itself. The restaurant provides more than just a meal. It offers an immersion into the Lowcountry culinary tradition.
The restaurants dedication to sourcing local ingredients is a defining feature. Seafood is procured primarily from the East Coast and the Atlantic Ocean, with a notable exception: the salmon, sourced from the Faroe Islands. This specific choice exemplifies the restaurants pursuit of quality, acknowledging the exceptional reputation of Faroese salmon. This commitment to local and sustainable practices resonates with diners, creating a dining experience that is both ethical and flavorful.
The menu showcases a variety of Southern classics and innovative dishes. Shrimp and grits, a Lowcountry staple, is available in several versions, including the Southern Hospitality, with fried shrimp, pimento cheese grits, and collards, and the Whistle Stop, featuring fried green tomatoes and sauteed shrimp over pimento grits. These dishes reflect a deep understanding of regional flavors and a dedication to culinary excellence.
Beyond the shrimp and grits, the menu includes options such as flounder and fries, providing something for everyone. The restaurant also offers a selection of dishes for brunch, including the Local's Breakfast and the Dozer, catering to diverse tastes throughout the day. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the quintessential beach shack vibe inherited from its old JC Long Beach House location, fostering a casual and welcoming environment.
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen stands out in the bustling culinary scene of Isle of Palms. The restaurants approach to dining is more than just offering meals; it delivers an experience. It offers an escape that attracts both tourists and locals alike, drawing them in with its promise of down-home cooking, fresh seafood, and warm Southern hospitality.
The restaurant's commitment to providing impeccable service is evident. The staff, known for their professionalism and friendliness, contributes significantly to the restaurant's positive reviews and reputation. Its a place where the staff will steer you in the right direction, recommending dishes like the shrimp, creating an atmosphere that encourages repeat visits and word-of-mouth recommendations.
The restaurant's location, 31 J C Long Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC, is easily accessible. It is a spot to enjoy the casual eatery's inside seating, or take advantage of the patio and deck options.
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen is a place where you can enjoy fresh and local seafood, along with breakfast and drinks, with the restaurant offering a full bar. The restaurant's operating hours are flexible, with the restaurant open today from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, providing ample opportunity for patrons to enjoy its offerings.
The menu highlights this commitment, with dishes such as the oyster rockefeller fried oysters over parmesan spinach cream, and the fried green tomatoes served with lowcountry sauted shrimp & smoked sausage over grits & smothered in lowcountry tasso gravy. The prices listed are cash prices, with a 3.5% added to non-cash payments.
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen is your go-to spot for always local South Carolina shrimp. This local focus translates into dishes that burst with flavor and a dining experience that captures the essence of the Lowcountry. This focus on sourcing and quality translates into a dining experience thats both authentic and satisfying.
The restaurants recognition, including its platinum membership in the South Carolina Aquarium and its status as the first South Carolina member of the James Beard Smart Catch Program, showcases the restaurants dedication to sustainability and responsible practices. This level of commitment contributes to its overall value and appeal.
It's worth noting that the dining experience at Acme Lowcountry Kitchen has certain considerations. The restaurant tends to be a bit noisy, especially on the enclosed or covered patio. While takeout orders are sometimes available, customers should call ahead to confirm. The atmosphere combines a casual vibe with a high standard of service, creating a dining destination that offers both comfort and quality.
