DIG in the Park: A Lowcountry Supper Series in Charleston

What DIG in the Park is and where to find it

DIG in the Park is a seasonal outdoor supper series hosted by the restaurant DIG in downtown Charleston. The events take place in a park setting—typically Waterfront Park or another green space in the historic district—and feature family-style meals built around seasonal ingredients and Lowcountry cooking traditions. Each gathering seats 50 to 100 people at long communal tables, creating an informal, neighborhood-table atmosphere rather than a formal dining room.

The series runs during warmer months, usually April through October, with dates announced through DIG's social media and website. Tickets are sold per person and include the meal, non-alcoholic beverages, and access to the park setting. Because seating is limited and events often fill, reservations through DIG's website or by phone are necessary.

Key Takeaways

• DIG in the Park serves family-style meals outdoors in Charleston's historic district, with diners seated at long communal tables.
• The menu changes with the season and draws on Lowcountry ingredients and cooking methods that reflect Charleston's food culture.
• Events run April through October, with specific dates posted on DIG's social media and website.
• Tickets are per-person and must be reserved in advance because seating fills quickly.
• The experience is designed for groups and solo diners alike, though the communal table setup means you will share your meal with strangers.

The menu and what to expect

DIG's chef sources from local farms, fisheries, and producers, so the menu shifts with what is available each month. Spring menus might feature shrimp, fresh greens, and early vegetables; summer brings tomatoes, corn, and stone fruits; fall emphasizes root vegetables and game. Dishes are typically prepared simply to let the ingredient quality show—roasted, grilled, or braised rather than heavily sauced.

The meal arrives in courses, served to the whole table at once. You serve yourself from shared platters and bowls, which is part of the communal dining experience. Portions are generous, and the pace is slow—these are two- to three-hour events designed for conversation and lingering. Wine and beer are usually available for purchase separately.

Why the communal table format matters

Eating at a long table with people you do not know is deliberate. It echoes how Lowcountry communities have gathered for centuries—at church suppers, fish camps, and family tables where neighbors and strangers sat shoulder to shoulder. DIG frames these events as a way to experience that tradition and to meet other people interested in local food and Charleston's culture.

If you are uncomfortable with strangers, this format is not for you. But if you enjoy conversation over a meal and want to see how Charleston residents and visitors actually connect over food, the communal setup is the whole point. Many people return to multiple events specifically for the social aspect.

Practical details for attending

Bring cash or a card for wine and beer purchases, as these are not included in the ticket price. Dress is casual—these are outdoor events, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for standing and walking on grass. Check the weather forecast the day before; if rain is expected, DIG will either reschedule or move the event to a covered space, and you will be notified by email or phone.

Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to find your seat and settle in. The meal typically begins with an introduction from the chef or DIG's owner, explaining the menu and the sourcing behind it. Parking is available in downtown Charleston's public lots and garages; Waterfront Park itself has limited parking, so plan accordingly.

How DIG in the Park connects to Charleston's food scene

DIG opened in 2010 as part of a wave of restaurants emphasizing local sourcing and Lowcountry cooking. The restaurant sits on King Street in the heart of downtown and has become known for its commitment to seasonal menus and relationships with specific farms and fisheries. DIG in the Park extends that philosophy outdoors and makes it accessible to people who might not dine at the restaurant itself.

The series also reflects a broader shift in how Charleston restaurants present themselves: less as fine-dining temples and more as community gathering places. Other Charleston restaurants have adopted similar outdoor supper formats, but DIG's version has remained consistent in its focus on simplicity, seasonality, and the social experience of eating together.

Pricing and how to reserve

Ticket prices vary by event and menu but typically range from $60 to $85 per person. This covers the meal and non-alcoholic drinks; wine and beer are additional. Tickets are sold through DIG's website or by calling the restaurant directly. Because events fill quickly—sometimes within days of being announced—checking DIG's social media regularly or signing up for their email list is the best way to catch availability.

Cancellations and refunds depend on DIG's policy at the time of booking; check the terms when you reserve. If an event is postponed due to weather, you will be offered a date to reschedule or a refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring children to DIG in the Park?

Yes. The events are family-friendly, and children can sit at the communal table. However, the menu is designed for adults and may not include options specifically for kids. Call DIG ahead if you have concerns about what your child will eat.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?

Contact DIG when you reserve your ticket and explain your needs. The restaurant will work with you to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-related requests when possible, though the family-style format means options may be limited compared to the regular restaurant.

Do I have to sit with a specific group, or can I choose my table?

DIG typically assigns seating to balance the tables, so you will not choose where you sit. This is intentional—it encourages mixing and prevents groups from clustering together. If you are attending with friends, let DIG know and they will usually seat you together.

What happens if it rains?

DIG monitors the forecast and will either reschedule the event or move it to a covered location. You will be notified by email or phone if this happens. Rescheduled events are usually held within a week or two of the original date.

Is DIG in the Park the same as eating at the DIG restaurant?

No. The restaurant is indoors on King Street and operates year-round with a full menu and table service. DIG in the Park is a separate seasonal series outdoors with a set menu and communal seating. Both are run by the same restaurant group, but they are different experiences.