The Biggest Dining Surprises of 2017

In keeping with Eater tradition, our closeout of the year is a survey of friends, industry types, and bloggers. To kick it off in Charleston, Eater asked the group eight questions, ranging from the restaurants they frequent most to the biggest surprises of the year. Responses are in no particular order, and readers are encouraged to leave answers in the comments.

Q. What was the biggest dining surprise of 2017?

Marion Sullivan, Culinary Institute of Charleston and food editor Charleston Magazine:
Without question, Tu was the biggest dining surprise.

Hanna Raskin, Food writer and critic for the Post & Courier:
Considering the staffing crisis, every restaurant opening was a surprise.

Peg Moore, contributor and food critic for The Mercury:
Biggest surprise (and disappointment) was lack of classic French dishes at Goulette, such as the ones Perig served at La Fourchette. What he serves is delicious but I am hungry for a proper blanquette de veau!

Erin Perkins, editor Eater Charleston:
I think everyone saw the shuttering of Cypress coming, but when the company shut down sister restaurant Artisan Meat Share, sandwich and charcuterie lovers shed many tears..

Sydney Gallimore, Queen of the Food Age and Thrillist Contributor:
Pretty much all the restaurants from the great BBQ boom of 2016 have stayed open and popular.

Stephanie Burt, writer and founder of The Southern Fork:
Cypress and AMS closing.

Samantha Connors, Eater Charleston contributor:
Poke bowls. Everywhere.