Discover Southern Charms: A New Standard in Hospitality

In the South, hospitality is more than just a smile at the door or a thank-you at the end of a meal—it’s a way of life. The spirit of true Southern hospitality runs deep, and it’s about making people feel at home, welcome, and cared for, whether they’re sitting down for a heaping meat-and-three or checking into a cozy B&B.

That’s why Modern South Magazine has created the exclusive Southern Charms Award, a special designation given only to those restaurants and hotels that embody the heart of Southern hospitality, caring for others, and showing excellence in their craft.

Presented by Walton’s Anqitue & Estate Jewelry, Southern Charms recipients will receive dedicated editorial coverage on Modern South in addition to a gold charm inspired by the Victorian era, hand-carved and custom-made right here in the South.

What Are Southern Charms?

Unlike traditional rating systems that focus on luxury, price, or prestige, Southern Charms highlight what really matters in the South: making people feel special. It’s not about how fancy or expensive a place is—it’s about how guests are treated from arrival, throughout their visit, and to departure with both hearts and belly full.

Restaurants and hotels that earn a Southern Charm are those that consistently provide warm, welcoming service and go above and beyond to make every guest feel like family.

How the Southern Charms System Works

The Southern Charms system is incredibly exclusive, with establishments having to meet rigorous standards to be considered. The number of Charms awarded to an establishment ranges from 1 to 5, with each Charm representing a deeper level of excellence in hospitality.

Meet the Charms

The Key Charm represents more than just an open door—it’s a symbol of trust, warmth, and the heartfelt welcome that defines Southern hospitality. A key unlocks not only doors but also the connections and memories shared once inside.

The Key Charm is a prestigious symbol reserved only for establishments that consistently provide an exceptional experience, going above and beyond in service, atmosphere, and guest relations. Recipients consistently embody best-in-class hospitality, creating spaces where others feel at home—a cornerstone of Southern tradition.

Generosity and giving is a staple personality trait in the South. We’re volunteers and changemakers, fundraisers and get-your-hands-dirty kind of people. You’ll be well-fed and loved on in a time of need, not only from friends and neighbors ready to lend a hand, but also from area businesses that put philanthropy first.

Recipients of the Heart Charm have, well, heart. The charm symbolizes compassion, kindness, and the spirit of giving, and is awarded to hotels and restaurants that demonstrate outstanding commitment to charitable work, community support, and fostering social change. Heart Charm recipients work hard to make their communities – and the world – a better place to live.

Whether you’re visiting a friend or vacationing around the region, you’ll be pleased to find high-quality lodging and outstanding service across the South. From beautifully preserved historic properties to charming B&Bs and grand hotels that still make you feel like the only guest onsite, the Luggage Charm is awarded to hotels that embody overall excellence.

To earn the charm, hotels must have exceptional facilities, attentive staff, and must foster a premium guest experience. It’s about memorable stays that feel like a home away from home.

Southern cooking is more than just a cuisine; it’s a cherished way of life. But it’s not about the traditional ingredients or the generational recipes, it’s about the warmth of the people, the vibrancy of the places, and the decadent dishes that feel like a warm hug. The Cast-Iron Charm is awarded to restaurants around the region that exemplify culinary excellence through creativity, unwavering commitment to quality, and an outstanding guest experience.

Culinary excellence isn’t defined by the most extravagant dishes or intricate plating; but by skilled chefs who craft meals that nourish the soul. Just as a cast iron skillet is seasoned over time, true excellence in the kitchen comes from dedication, creativity, and commitment to quality.

Who Decides the Southern Charms Rating?

There is no sales component to the Southern Charm Awards. No payment for entry, no paid campaign to earn votes. It’s about recognizing the right people doing the right things.

We could say we’ve handpicked a team of experts ready to analyze every dish and white-glove every hotel room. But Southern hospitality shouldn’t apply only to industry experts, journalists, or VIPs. Excellence in hospitality should be apparent to every person that graces an establishment, so while the Modern South Magazine team is always on the lookout for new hotels and restaurants to shout about, our eyes and ears are on the ground listening to the experiences of the everyday consumer.

Only then, after our own experiences paired with praise from the community, will an establishment be considered for a Charm.

To share your experiences from around the region, email hello@modernsouthmagazine.com.

Why It Matters

In today’s world, where service can sometimes feel impersonal or rushed, the Southern Charms remind us of the importance of heartfelt hospitality. Whether you’re in a quiet bed-and-breakfast in Savannah or a bustling restaurant in Nashville, the Southern Charms rating guarantees you’ll find a place where people still take pride in making guests feel special. It’s a celebration of the Southern way of life and a commitment to keeping the tradition of hospitality alive.

So next time you’re traveling through the South or looking for a memorable dining experience, keep an eye out for those Southern Charms—a symbol that you’re about to experience the best kind of hospitality, where heart and soul come first.