Best Restaurants in Charleston SC
Are you visiting Charleston for a weekend, attending a wedding , bachelorette, couples weekend or simply family vacation and wondering where are the best places to eat . Follow our guide below .
NOTE: we suggest having a reservation with plenty time in advance (3 weeks at least )
Charleston, South Carolina, is a culinary gem of the American South, blending rich history, diverse cultures, and a vibrant food scene. From traditional Lowcountry fare to innovative global cuisines, the city's restaurants offer something for every palate. Here's a guide to some of the best dining establishments in Charleston, each contributing uniquely to the city's gastronomic landscape.
1. FIG (Food Is Good)
Location: Downtown Charleston
Cuisine: Seasonal American
FIG is a cornerstone of Charleston's dining scene, known for its commitment to local ingredients and seasonal menus. The restaurant offers a refined yet approachable dining experience, with dishes that highlight the region's bounty. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.
2. Husk
Location: Historic Downtown
Cuisine: Modern Southern
Husk redefines Southern cuisine by focusing on locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes with a contemporary twist. The ever-changing menu reflects the seasonality of the Lowcountry, offering diners a fresh experience with each visit.
3. Slightly North of Broad (S.N.O.B.)
Location: French Quarter
Cuisine: Lowcountry Bistro
S.N.O.B. offers an eclectic menu that combines fresh, local ingredients with expert presentation. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and commitment to farm-to-table dining make it a staple in Charleston's culinary community. Slightly North of Broad - Charleston, SC
4. Vern's
Location: Elliotborough
Cuisine: Modern American
Vern's is a neighborhood gem known for its inventive dishes and welcoming ambiance. The restaurant's focus on seasonal ingredients and creative cooking techniques has earned it a spot on several "best of" lists. Resy | Right This Way
5. Chubby Fish
Location: Cannonborough-Elliotborough
Cuisine: Seafood
Chubby Fish is a seafood-centric restaurant that prides itself on sustainability and freshness. The menu features a variety of dishes that showcase the flavors of the sea, prepared with a modern flair. Eater Carolinas
6. King BBQ
Location: North Charleston
Cuisine: Chinese-Carolina Barbecue Fusion
King BBQ offers a unique dining experience by blending traditional Carolina barbecue with Chinese flavors. This innovative approach has garnered national attention, earning it a spot on Bon Appétit's list of the 20 best new restaurants of 2024. Wikipedia
7. Bintü Atelier
Location: East Side
Cuisine: West African
Bintü Atelier brings the rich flavors of West Africa to Charleston, offering dishes that are both authentic and inventive. Chef Bintou N'Daw Young's culinary artistry has been recognized nationally, with the restaurant being named one of Bon Appétit's top new restaurants of 2024. Wikipedia
8. Poogan’s Porch
Location: Historic Downtown
Cuisine: Southern
Poogan’s Porch is a Charleston institution, serving classic Southern dishes in a charming Victorian townhouse. Known for its warm hospitality and hearty fare, it's a must-visit for those seeking traditional Lowcountry cuisine. Poogan's Porch
9. 82 Queen
Location: French Quarter
Cuisine: Southern
82 Queen offers a quintessential Charleston dining experience, with a menu that features Southern favorites like she-crab soup and shrimp and grits. The restaurant's historic setting and lush courtyard add to its charm. Tripadvisor
10. Pink Bellies
Location: Downtown Charleston
Cuisine: Vietnamese-American Fusion
Pink Bellies combines Vietnamese flavors with Southern ingredients, resulting in a unique and flavorful menu. The restaurant's innovative approach has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Resy | Right This Way
11. Ellis Creek Fish Camp
Location: James Island
Cuisine: Seafood
Ellis Creek Fish Camp offers a relaxed, waterfront dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood. The restaurant's casual atmosphere and scenic views make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. wayward | a travel and style blog
12. Fleet Landing
Location: Downtown Charleston
Cuisine: Seafood
Fleet Landing is known for its waterfront dining and inventive seafood dishes. One of its standout offerings is the "Sm'oyster," a unique dessert that combines a roasted oyster with chocolate, toasted marshmallow, and graham cracker crumble. Food & Wine
13. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits
Location: Downtown Charleston
Cuisine: Modern American
The Watch offers panoramic views of Charleston's skyline, paired with a menu that highlights modern American cuisine with Lowcountry influences. It's an ideal spot for sunset dining and craft cocktails. Charleston CVb
14. Jackrabbit Filly
Location: North Charleston
Cuisine: Chinese-American Fusion
Jackrabbit Filly brings a creative twist to Chinese-American cuisine, offering dishes that are both comforting and innovative. The restaurant's playful menu and vibrant atmosphere have
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