My family likes to eat! Going out to try new restaurants or tasting new types of foods makes us feel like we are on an adventure, traveling to a new place. The exposure that food brings from different cultures and ways of life is something our whole family enjoys exploring. We are always on the hunt for new places. While we like to go out, our busy schedules don’t always allow us the time or energy to do so. Here’s where good takeout is a must! I have a few great suggestions for you to try the next time you want to experience tastes from a different land.
Some great Charleston restaurants for takeout
Located in both Mt. Pleasant and now at the Pour House in James Island, Malika Canteen is the only Pakistani restaurant in South Carolina. Filled with flavors that will leave your mouth watering for more, you can’t go wrong with any of their curry options. Their chaat papri coupled with their homemade naan is a combination of flavors that will transport you to another land.
If you are wanting something a little more familiar, I’d suggest their masala fries or the burger, which my husband orders every time. They also have lots of flavorful options for non-meat eaters to choose from and an easy kids’ menu to navigate that includes chicken & rice along with a Pakistani version of grilled cheese.
Sometimes you and your kiddos just need comfort food after a long day at work and school. For my family, that means carbs and soup. Located in Avondale, Poke Burri is a national chain serving fresh poke, ramen and so much more.
They have every type of ramen you could want with tons of make-your-own options. Their poke bowls and poke burritos are the perfect spread to put in your beach bag for a cold meal on a hot day. Plus, you have a try their sushi doughnuts and their secret menu, which often includes sushi pizza. Both are a fun twist on a classic that is sure to delight your kids.
Located inside a Hispanic Supermarket in West Ashley, El Molina’s offers the most beautiful
presentation of authentic street tacos. With the restaurant in the back, you can head in to order while you shop for desserts, homemade chips, and Mexican sodas and spices you can pick up while you wait. While they don’t deliver, the tacos travel well and can easily be reheated. Great for a crowd or a family looking for leftovers. You can feed a lot of faces with ease. Plus, who does love a fun night in on Taco Tuesday?!
As a busy family we all have lots of meals on the go. With locations in downtown and Mount Pleasant, Bon Bahn Mi specializes in Southeast Asian cuisine. Simple, fresh and fast, we like to order their banh mi, which is a short baguette with a thin, crisp crust and soft, airy texture filled with whatever you’d like. This Vietnamese baguette makes my kids happy since it is similar to an American sub sandwich, and it makes my hubby and me happy because the flavors are bold and unique. Highly recommend keeping them in mind as you run from activity to activity.
To sum up this restaurant in one word it would be yummy. They have an eclectic menu with lots of great vegetarian and gluten-free options, all with a seasonal twist. Some of my family’s favorites include all their soups, the chana masala, and their sharable options that let everyone try a taste. We always order too much, but we manage to eat it all every time! Located on Folly Beach, they have outdoor dining and curbside pick-up with a very laid-back beach vibe. Check their website to see all their seasonal, delicious options.

There are so many takeout options we haven’t yet tried, but we can’t wait to do so. Check out Lowcountry Eat Out! on Facebook to see what your neighbors are saying about their local experiences around town. Enjoy traveling around the world in the comfort of your home!
And for more great places to eat around the Lowcountry, don’t forget to check out our Charleston Moms EATS series!