Planters Inn
A Taste of Charleston: Southern Elegance and Coconut Dreams at Planters Inn and Peninsula Grill
In the heart of Charleston’s Historic District, where gas lanterns flicker and cobblestone streets whisper tales of the past, stands a pairing that epitomizes Southern charm and culinary excellence: Planters Inn and its renowned restaurant, Peninsula Grill. Together, they offer an immersive experience that marries timeless elegance with unforgettable flavors, crowned by a dessert that has achieved legendary status—the Ultimate Coconut Cake™.
Established in 1844, Planters Inn is Charleston’s sole Relais & Châteaux property, offering guests a refined sanctuary amidst the city's vibrant energy. The inn's architecture and interiors pay homage to its storied past, featuring high ceilings, four-poster beds, and antique furnishings that exude classic Southern hospitality. Guests often praise the inn's attentive staff and serene courtyard, which provides a tranquil escape just steps away from the bustling City Market.
Peninsula Grill: Charleston’s Culinary Crown Jewel
Nestled within Planters Inn, Peninsula Grill has garnered acclaim as a fine dining institution. The restaurant's ambiance combines sophistication with warmth, featuring velvet-lined walls and candlelit tables that set the stage for an exceptional dining experience. Executive Chef Courtney Van Dyke curates a menu that celebrates Lowcountry cuisine, offering dishes like seared diver scallops and the opulent "Opulent Spud" topped with caviar and gold leaf.
Peninsula Grill in Charleston is celebrated not only for its refined Lowcountry cuisine but also for its exceptional wine program. Boasting an extensive selection of over 300 wines from around the globe, the restaurant's wine list has earned the prestigious Wine Spectator “Best of Award of Excellence” for multiple consecutive years. Guests can expect a curated array of vintages, including rare and sought-after bottles, thoughtfully chosen to complement the menu's rich flavors. The knowledgeable staff is adept at guiding diners through the wine offerings, ensuring perfect pairings for each dish.
The Ultimate Coconut Cake™: A Dessert Worth the Journey
No visit to Peninsula Grill is complete without indulging in its signature dessert—the Ultimate Coconut Cake™. This towering confection boasts twelve layers of moist butter cake, each separated by rich coconut cream filling, all enveloped in a fluffy cream cheese icing and coated with toasted coconut flakes. Weighing approximately 12 pounds, the cake has been lauded by numerous publications, with Bon Appétit describing it as “skyscraper high… light as a cloud,” and The New York Times calling it “a little slice of heaven.” The cake's popularity has transcended the restaurant, leading to a nationwide mail-order service that allows enthusiasts to savor this Southern delicacy from the comfort of their homes.
Plan Your Visit
If you're dreaming of an authentic Charleston escape filled with historic charm and exceptional dining, look no further than Planters Inn and Peninsula Grill. Begin your day wandering the inn’s gracious corridors and tranquil courtyard, then unwind over dinner at Peninsula Grill—where the night ends with a towering slice of their iconic Ultimate Coconut Cake, served under the romantic glow of lanterns. It’s a stay that captures the spirit of Charleston, one indulgent moment at a time.
