The Experience
Summer House is one of those airport finds that feels like a mini vacation: a casual sit-down spot with a breezy, California-leaning menu (think tacos, salads, and lighter plates) that’s a welcome break from the usual fried-and-rushed terminal routine. It’s the kind of place you pick when you want to eat real food and actually sit down—not balance a sandwich over your carry-on.
Travelers gravitate here for the fresh, coastal vibe and the fact that you can pair your meal with a glass of wine without committing to a heavy, steakhouse-style experience. The menu’s “sunny” personality shows up in crowd-pleasers like fish tacos and shareable starters that work whether you’re killing time before boarding or resetting after a long connection.
Location & Access
- Exact location: Charleston International Airport (CHS), near Gates B5-6 in Concourse B.
- Security: Post-security (you’ll need to be through TSA to access it).
- Seating & waits: Expect a moderate-sized dining room typical of concourse restaurants. Waits are usually manageable, but the pre-boarding crunch can create a short line—especially around peak departures.
Menu Highlights
- Fish tacos: The signature move here—lighter than airport burgers, with a bright, coastal feel that pairs well with wine.
- Fresh salads and bowl-style plates: A smart pick if you’ve been living on snacks all day and want something crisp and balanced.
- Wine by the glass: One of the main reasons people choose Summer House over faster options nearby—easy to linger without overdoing it.
Price context: Expect $$ airport pricing—more than fast food, but in line with other sit-down concourse restaurants. A taco plate or entrée-style salad typically lands in the mid-to-upper teens, with wine priced like you’d expect at an airport bar.
Dietary options: This is a friendlier menu for vegetarians (salads/bowls and some customizable items). Vegan and gluten-free options may be possible with modifications, but it’s worth confirming with your server. Halal offerings aren’t specifically indicated.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not consistently advertised—assume standard counter/server ordering unless signage in the concourse indicates otherwise.
- Reservations: No; it’s walk-in, airport-style.
- Best times to avoid crowds: Aim for mid-morning or a slightly early/late lunch (before the main wave of boarding). The busiest stretch is typically the hour leading into multiple B-gate departures.
- Power outlets: Some airport restaurants have them, some don’t—plan as if outlets are limited and charge up beforehand if you need to work.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Travelers who want a sit-down reset, something fresher than typical terminal fare, and a glass of wine near the B gates.
- Skip if: You’re cutting it close to boarding, need the cheapest possible bite, or want a guaranteed ultra-fast grab-and-go option.
Location
Near B5-6