"What were your first impressions when you arrived? Pink Bellies is located in a new construction building, behind an unassuming storefront with a small sign on King Street. But enter and all of that shifts into an explosion of texture, plants, and, as the night falls, more and more color through subtly shifting lights. It feels lively, fun, and California cool—a small restaurant ball of energy tucked into the corner of King and Spring Streets. What’s the crowd like? Single diners, groups of friends, and date nights, are are welcome at Pink Bellies. The diners are as diverse as the playlist, and everyone seems ready to have some fun. What should we be drinking? There is a strong cocktail game here, and the vibe of the lights and the food and the setting are all reflected in the cocktail glass, from a smoked whiskey cocktail that is still balanced beyond the party trick, and a pho cocktail with gin and a dash of sriracha and fish sauce that is one of the most popular drinks on the menu. Wine and beers are also available. Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. The food here is whimsical, sometimes a little theatrical, and generally doesn't take itself too seriously, but it all comes from a very particular point of view—that of chef Thai Phi. He's been wowing Charleston since his days working a food truck parked near the College of Charleston campus, and his menu at this slick and so-not-a-food-truck restaurant is very much an evolved expression of his Vietnamese-American viewpoint, from paying homage to his love of L.A. with the Animal Burger, to his family's culinary heritage. Standouts include the “OG” garlic noodles, banh mi with blueberry jam, and chicken wings that easily stand alongside the best in town. And how did the front-of-house folks treat you? The front-of-house staff is accommodating, laid back, and helpful with suggestions. Special applause is reserved for the kitchen staff, who stay calm under pressure when on weekend nights, the restaurant is completely full within 30 minutes of opening and the takeout orders are rolling in. What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? This is a great first-date spot, or a place to hangout with friends, or even stop in by yourself for noodles and a drink. However, with it's small table sizes, it's not really a big-group dining spot." - Stephanie Burt
