Chef Nikko Cagalanan is in the “Emerging Chef” category. | Photo by Kultura
Attention local food lovers:The James Beard Foundation — an organization that recognizes and celebrates exceptional talent in the culinary arts, hospitality, and food systems — released its 2024 Restaurant and Chef nominees and honorees.
Chef Nikko Cagalanan of Kultura was named a finalist in the “Emerging Chef” category. This highlights chefs who display talent, character, and leadership.
Chef Cagalanan is known for his inventive take on Filipino cuisine with a menu that features local + fresh ingredients.
Born and raised in the Philippines, Cagalanan says his earliest memories are infused with the aromas and flavors of his grandmother’s traditional Filipino cooking and frequent trips to the market. Inspired by his upbringing, he opened Kultura in the summer of 2023.
This nomination adds to his growing list of accolades including Eater’s Best New Restaurant List and the Food Network’s “Chopped Champion.” Chef Cagalanan says, “I am humbled to be included in this year’s Emerging Chef category and am greatly inspired by my fellow nominees.”
Beginners Night | Thursday, April 4 | 5-7 p.m. | James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr., Charleston | $15 | Join instructors who will guide you through climbing basics — registration includes harness and shoe rental.
Friday, April 5
Opening art reception | Friday, April 5 | 5-8 p.m. | Charleston Artist Guild Gallery, 160 E. Bay St., Charleston | Free | Julie Furlong’s Lowcountry Blues collection features pieces that capture tranquility, elegance, and the natural splendor of the Lowcountry.
Saturday, April 6
Design from your Parks: A South Carolina Spring | Saturday, April 6 | 12-1:30 p.m. | Rose Pavilion, 30 Mary Murray Dr., Charleston | $35 | This quarterly series teaches homeowners how to design Lowcountry gardens while highlighting the seasonal beauty of the parks.
Sunday, April 7
Sunday Brunch Series | Sunday, April 7 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Firefly Distillery, 4201 Spruill Ave., North Charleston | Price of purchase | Get ready to brunch this weekend, there will be everything from music and lawn games to of course, food + drink.
Fruit, food, and fun. The Lowcountry Strawberry Festival kicks off at Boone Hall tomorrow, April 5. Enjoy fresh strawberries and classic festival fun including rides, a petting zoo, pig races, and several contests. Tickets start at $15.
Sports
Play ball. Tomorrow, April 5, is opening day for the Charleston RiverDogs; the first game of the season starts at 7:05 p.m. Cheer on the RiverDogs as they celebrate the team’s 30th anniversary and take on the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers.
Civic
The Charleston Water System could turn off the water supply for Sullivan’s Island residents, claiming the town owes ~$640,000 in charges. Charleston Water System rejected a motion from the island’s town council to pay part of what the company claims is owed as the Saturday, July 20 deadline looms. (WCSC)
Number
14. That’s how many Charleston properties ranked in the new US News & World Report for best bed-and-breakfasts. The Charleston spots that received top honors were the Wentworth Mansion and Zero George Street. (Charleston City Paper)
Answered
How much of Monday’s solar eclipse will we see here in Charleston? Meteorologist Rob Fowler says we’ll start to see the eclipse just before 2 p.m. with the largest chunk of obscuration (60%-70%) happening after 3 p.m. The forecast will also play a role in our visibility… so, here’s to hoping for clear skies. (WCBD)
Announced
Mark your calendars. The first Charleston Country Music Festival will take place Sunday, April 14, from 11 a.m. to5 p.m. at Jenkins Youth and Family Village off Azalea Drive in North Charleston. Performers include Whey Jennings, grandson of Waylon Jennings, and Raelyn Nelson, the granddaughter of Willie Nelson. (Holy City Sinner)
Concert
Charles “Chip” Esten will perform this Saturday, April 6, at 6 p.m. at Windjammer on Isle of Palms. Esten is an actor, singer, and songwriter best known for his roles as Ward Cameron on Netflix’s “Outer Banks” and Deacon Claybourne on CMT’s “Nashville.” Tickets start at $35.
Spend an afternoon strolling Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. | Photo by CHStoday
A few weeks back, we asked you what must-see places in the 843 that visitors have to add to their itinerary. You did not disappoint. Below are reader recommendations for what to see, eat, and do.
A bicycle phone holder that fits on bikes, e-bikes, and exercise bikes. The phone holder mounts right onto handlebars, letting you use navigation apps and keep your phone secure during rides.
Happy Thursday. The Lowcountry is already buzzing with exciting events and activities. Today Erika and I are headed to the Credit One Charleston Open to catch a match.
Pssst... stay tuned for tomorrow’s newsletter, where we break down all the exciting things happening in the 843 this weekend.
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