Rivayat, a coastal-inspired Indian restaurant, is set to open in downtown Charleston later this summer. Created by Sujith Varghese, the award-winning restaurateur behind Mount Pleasant’s Spice Palette, Rivayat will offer a seafood-forward take on the vibrant cuisines of India’s coastal regions.
The menu at Rivayat will draw particular inspiration from Kerala, Varghese’s home state in southern India, known for its bold spices, coconut-rich curries, and proximity to the sea. Growing up, Varghese spent summers visiting his father’s home on the backwaters of Kerala, where freshly caught seafood like fish and shrimp were prepared daily, forming the foundation of their family meals.
“Rivayat is a love letter to the coastal flavors I grew up with — dishes that are modern, memorable, and deeply rooted in tradition,” said Varghese. “Charleston’s growing love for global cuisine – paired with its incredible access to fresh, local seafood – makes it the perfect place to bring this next chapter to life.”
Rivayat will feature a selection of dishes including South Indian staples, North Indian favorites, andnew interpretations that highlight the bounty of Charleston’s waters. The restaurant will also debut a crafted cocktail program designed to complement its spice-forward menu.
Located in the heart of downtown Charleston (210 Rutledge Ave.), Rivayat is expected to open in late summer 2025. The restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner six days a week. Follow along on Instagram at @rivayat_chs for opening updates, soft launch details, and a behind-the-scenes look at the journey leading up to opening day.