Food is one of the great delights of the Charleston and Savannah area — seafood, to be sure, from fresh shrimp to fish to crab cakes to oysters. But there’s also barbecue galore, and a multicultural bonanza of worldly flavors.

Here are some of the highlights of the area restaurant scene (follow the links for detailed descriptions of each establishment):

Seafood

The best seafood places in the area depend on fresh, locally harvested fish and shellfish.

• Bowens Island Restaurant, Charleston
• COAST Bar and Grill, Charleston
• Desposito’s, Savannah

New Southern

The area is home to some adventurous chefs offering an updated take on Lowcountry classics.

• Elizabeth on 37th, Savannah
• FIG, Charleston
• McCrady’s, Charleston
• Sapphire Grill, Savannah
• Tristan, Charleston

Classic Southern

Here are your best bets for fine old-school Southern cooking, both high-style and home-style:

• Hominy Grill, Charleston
• Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, Savannah
• See Wee Restaurant, Charleston

Barbecue

The pleasures of the pig are never far away in this region. Here are the best coastal ’cue joints:

• Blowin’ Smoke BBQ, Savannah
• Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ, Charleston
• Wiley’s Championship BBQ, Savannah