To see the different segments that aired this morning, visit: http://www.today.com/klgandhoda/hey-yall-klg-hoda-are-live-charleston-6C9737251.

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Drooling, as I pondered  flavors like Hazelnut, Belgian Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut butter, Chocolate Praline and Cream Caramel, it was hard to decide on just one.  Chocolate Peanut Butter won out for me.  I strongly recommend enjoying a cup or cone of this yummy Belgian Gelato while watching the Frisbee players and sunbathers in Marion Square. And if you aren’t a gelato fan, Belgian Gelato serves up specialty Belgium coffee as well.

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Do you know why King Street was named one of the top ten best shopping streets in America by US News & World Reports?   Goorin Bros. Hat Shop is an example of the fun, eclectic mix of fine purveyors you’ll have the pleasure to visit on King.  Just steps away from my hotel, I was impressed by the professional, knowledgeable staff and the personal attention I received.  Of course, my head size was a true challenge, but talk about looking foxy!  Let’s all make hat wearing “relevant again”  as they say.   We all need skin (and fur) protection from  our sunny southern skies, so why not look fashionable too!

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                       I scampered a little bit farther from home today so I could enjoy the beautiful weather by the water! I decided to ride the free DASH trolley that runs all around the peninsula with a pick up across from my hotel.  I jumped off the DASH trolley at Waterfront Park and made my way over to Fleet Landing Restaurant. It’s the only downtown restaurant that sits on the water and has the most amazing views! I spied a few frolicking dolphins close by as I sipped sweet tea with friends while relaxing on their outdoor patio.

The restaurant has a chic maritime interior and features contemporary Southern seafood dishes. Fleet Landing is welcoming to families and can accommodate large parties as well. Can’t wait to bring all my foxy friends here!

I dove right into the delicious Fried Green Tomato Stack appetizer that was layered with Blue Crab Salad and a Creamy Shellfish Sauce.  Might I also suggest trying the amazing Fried Oysters with Southern Comfort BBQ Sauce or the Crispy Whole Fried Southern Flounder with Apricot Glaze.   With great seafood, fun ambience and amazing views, I can’t wait to go back and catch the breeze at water’s edge again.

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With still a hint of chill in the air, I scurried down King Street today looking for a hot spot to keep my tail warm.  I stumbled into the most amazing contemporary art gallery, the Rebekah Jacob Gallery, located at 502 King Street, open Mon. – Sat. 11am-7pm.

As soon as I entered I was kindly welcomed by Rebekah herself.  RJG opened seven years ago at 169 King, then moved to 502 a year ago.  RJG is becoming widely visited as it features many talented artists who participate in its “rigorous curatorial model and maintains an accelerated exhibit schedule, non-media specific, that  features emerging contemporary artists, as well as artists from all generations.” With a principal focus on an international group of contemporary artists, the gallery features some of the most thought provoking and beautiful works of the American South that this cultured fox has ever seen.

The fun doesn’t just stop here.  RJG can also be rented for private functions!  I think I might tell my girlfriend Slyette that this is where I want my birthday cocktail party next year…and the Francis Marion Hotel and cater the event!

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True Italians love fast cars and real pizza.  The Monza experience offers both with an awesome wood-fired oven and pictures of famous cars and engine parts “decor.”  Monza is located on Upper King Street at 451 King Street; just a short walk from my hotel.  Hanging out with my friends, I got to see what all the hype is about formula one racing.  The menu offers wonderful pizza and pasta options that are named after famous racers.  I had a chance to try the Nazzaro and the Pancetta & Gnocchi.  Mamma Mia!  Both Fabulous choices.  My Foxy lady went for the lighter side and tried the Chicken Caesar and thought it was a great option.   Now that spring is approaching, don’t forget about the cute outdoor seating area in the back.  I’ll see you there…Arrivederci!

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Charleston’s culinary distinction was not the only city showcased.  I chatted with a James Beard 2013 semi-finalist chef from Tampa, a Florida Culinary School chef and his able students, cake makers from Mississippi, and many locals representing their fine products.   I’ve never seen such innovative food combinations and presentations.

After I was satisfied, I hung out with the JetBlue folks and played in their photo booth, complete with wardrobe accessories.  As you know, JetBlue now services the Charleston International Airport with flights to/from NY’s JFK and Boston.  Ahhh…more yummy opportunities to dine out and try regional foods!

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With a name like STARS, I knew I was in for a treat, but I had no idea it could tower above its title.  The food, service and atmosphere all complement each other to make for an unforgettable evening! I spent most of the evening on the rooftop bar, which offers panoramic views of Charleston, and I could even check on my fox quarters rising high above the city in the background.

“For the Table” we decided to sample some of the starter items and they were scrumptious.  Some of my favorites were the Wood-Grilled Mushroom Bruschetta, Peanut Hay-Fed Beef Mini Burgers and the Wood-Grilled Meatballs.  The Tap-Wine was a rare treat and the servers are very knowledgeable to help you find one to suit your palate.

The restaurant reminded me a lot of the Francis Marion; bringing me back to the era when jazz, cocktails, and fine dining were treasured.  It had me doing the Foxtrot all the way home.

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Welcome to another day in the life of Sly!  My life is truly extraordinary.  There is no fox alive that has it as good as I do in our lovely city.  The options to dine deliciously and in style are endless right outside the doors to my home at the Francis Marion.  Even though I must admit, it is hard to leave my luxurious and comfortable accommodations; my travels and tales must continue as I venture out to a new Hot Spot in the city.

Here is the bit about the Rarebit, located at 474 King Street, open Tuesday-Sunday (11am to 2am).

 #1 They serve Breakfast All Day!…Breakfast is absolutely my favorite meal, so any place that serves French toast all day is okay by me.

#2 The Moscow Mule, their signature drink, this tasty cocktail is served in a copper mug and the talk of the town.

#3 The early 60s to mid 60s Hollywood Diner/Club décor and atmosphere.  The design and food combinations are truly rare to the Charleston scene.

#4 Ask about the daily Blue Plate Special.  “A web collection of 1930s prose gives this definition: “A Blue Plate Special is a low-priced daily diner special: a main course with all the fixins, a daily combo, a square for two bits.”

#5 Homemade Sodas (Ginger Beer, Herbal Tonic, and Root Beer)

Next time you find yourself on Upper King Street looking for an exciting new experience.  Stop by the Rarebit and tell them Sly sent you.

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When someone shouts fire, don’t run away…but walk down King Street to Fire Street Food Restaurant for a delicious fresh take on Thai/Korean/Chinese cuisine.  They’re just a few blocks from the Francis Marion (lucky me!), and fast, fresh and friendly.  Catch up with friends over a large serving of Pad Thai, or your favorite Teriyaki Stir Fry with Chicken, Beef, Shrimp or Tofu.  I hear the meat or shrimp grilled skewers are yummy too.  I had the Fire House Spicy Wrap with chicken and I highly recommend it.  The accompanying dipping sauce will fire up your taste buds for more!  I know there are plenty of choices with the current influx of Asian fare on King Street, but give Fire a try…the price is right.

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