City: Charleston, SC

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (843) 766-1644

Address: 1 Ashley Pointe Dr.

Description: You can go to California Dreaming by car or by boat (yes, you can tie up at a dock), and it’s always an adventure. The kids pretend it’s an old fort (although it isn’t), and the views of the Ashley River are mesmerizing. The restaurant and the bar do an incredible, nonstop business year-round. The interior is colorfully decorated with flags and divided into two dining levels, with seating for 260 (and the place is often full). The little ones are welcome and can order nonalcoholic drinks (such as a blue concoction called a Smurf) and food from a special menu. Patrons really go crazy for the soft, buttery croissants and the house salad (topped with eggs, almonds, ham, and bacon—almost a meal in itself). The twice-baked potato is another big hit. All fish is fresh and local, and the burgers, ribs, and ”Pittsburgh-style” steaks are popular. A decadent dessert list includes the fabulous house special—apple walnut cinnamon pie. Lunch and dinner are served every day, and hours are extended on weekend nights. Reservations are suggested.