Charleston, South Carolina, is renowned for its rich culinary scene, blending traditional Lowcountry flavors with innovative and international cuisine. Here’s a guide to some of the best restaurants in Charleston, ensuring you have an unforgettable dining experience.
Fine Dining
FIG
Located at 232 Meeting St, FIG is a standout in Charleston’s fine dining scene. Known for its creative American cuisine, FIG offers a menu that changes seasonally, with dishes like foie gras, roasted bone marrow, and wood-fired lamb ribs. The restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and exceptional service make it a must-visit[1][5].
Charleston Grill
At the Charleston Place hotel, the Charleston Grill is another iconic fine dining spot. Helmed by Chef de Cuisine Suzy Castelloe, the restaurant features a seasonal menu that honors Southern purveyors and makers. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, live jazz music, and an unparalleled dining experience[4].
Sorelle
New to the scene but already making waves, Sorelle on Broad Street offers a luxurious dining experience. With a menu crafted in consultation with the Mina Group and executed by chef Nick Dugan, you can enjoy dishes like burrata di bufala and “Pillows of Gold” ricotta tortelloni. The upstairs dining room provides picturesque views of the historic “Four Corners of Law”[1].
Seafood
The Ordinary
Mike Lata’s ode to fresh seafood, The Ordinary, is a King Street hall that offers an array of seafood delicacies. From oysters farmed in the Carolinas to delicate preparations of fresh-caught bluefin tuna and snapper, this restaurant is a seafood lover’s paradise. Don’t miss the seafood tower, a multi-tiered selection of raw bar delights[1].
Pearlz Oyster Bar
For affordable yet exceptional seafood, head to Pearlz Oyster Bar on East Bay Street. This casual spot serves everything from oysters on the half shell to grilled and fried seafood, along with a great Happy Hour menu and daily fresh-catch dishes[3].
Bowen’s Island Restaurant
Located on Folly Beach, Bowen’s Island Restaurant has been a Charleston staple since 1945. Known for its steamed oysters and other seafood platters, this family-owned restaurant offers a rustic yet welcoming atmosphere perfect for family dinners or sunset viewing[1][5].
Local Favorites
Vern’s
In the Cannonborough-Elliottborough area, Vern’s is a low-key gem run by chef-owner Dano Heinze and his wife Bethany. The menu is inventive yet classic, featuring snails, fresh crudo, steak, and handmade pastas like gnocchetti. The wine list, curated by Bethany, adds to the restaurant’s national profile[1].
Toast of Charleston
On Meeting Street, Toast of Charleston offers authentic local cuisine with a side of Southern hospitality. Enjoy breakfast favorites like chicken and waffles, handcrafted espressos, and stuffed French toast. The lunch and dinner menus are equally delightful, with live entertainment in the evenings[3].
82 Queen
This historic restaurant on Queen Street has been serving Charleston’s most authentic Southern cuisine for nearly 40 years. The menu features shrimp and grits, crab cakes, jambalaya, and the award-winning she-crab soup, all served in a lush courtyard setting[3].
Unique Experiences
Sushi-Wa
For a unique sushi experience, visit Sushi-Wa in Wagener Terrace. This omakase-style sushi restaurant, run by chef-owners Kazu Murakami and Chris Schoedler, offers a traditional Japanese chef’s choice format. Enjoy sake and upgrades like A5 wagyu nigiri in a cozy and inviting setting[1].
King BBQ
At King BBQ in North Charleston, experience a fusion of Chinese and Southern barbecue traditions. Meats smoked on-site include mustard-tinged pulled pork and crispy smoked duck, which comes served with steamed bao on Saturdays[1].
Casual Eats
Butcher & Bee
On Morrison Drive, Butcher & Bee is a great spot for delicious sandwiches, salads, and sides at a reasonable price. Using the finest local ingredients, this restaurant offers a true taste of Charleston without breaking the bank[3].
Bessinger’s Barbeque
For traditional Southern-style barbecue, head to Bessinger’s on Savannah Highway. Enjoy heaping plates of pork with sides like mac ‘n cheese, coleslaw, and cornbread[3].
Most Important Facts About the Best Restaurants in Charleston, SC
Fine Dining:
FIG and Charleston Grill are top choices for fine dining, offering seasonal menus and exceptional service.
Sorelle is a new luxury addition with a menu crafted in consultation with the Mina Group.
Seafood:
The Ordinary and Pearlz Oyster Bar are must-visits for fresh seafood.
Bowen’s Island Restaurant is a historic spot for seafood, especially oysters.
Local Favorites:
Vern’s and Toast of Charleston offer authentic local cuisine with a focus on Southern hospitality.
82 Queen is a historic restaurant serving traditional Southern dishes.
Unique Experiences:
Sushi-Wa provides an omakase-style sushi experience.
King BBQ combines Chinese and Southern barbecue traditions.
Casual Eats:
Butcher & Bee and Bessinger’s Barbeque are great options for affordable and delicious meals.
Whether you’re looking for fine dining, fresh seafood, or casual eats, Charleston’s culinary scene has something to offer every palate and preference.
