The first thing that may come to mind when someone mentions Charleston SC is probably pictures of old streets, beautiful buildings and kind people. However, that's not all this beautiful coastal city can offer.
Charleston, SC, stands out as a culinary destination, offering local Lowcountry cuisine and creations by talented chefs.
If you are wanting seafood, Charleston’s restaurants are some of the best places to get it or if you want to indulge in some good old Southern cuisine or international flavors; Charleston is the place for you.
Get ready to tour the sweet spot of the vibrant City as we highlight 12 best restaurants in Charleston SC you wouldn't want to miss. Explore through Charleston’s best eating joints.
12 Best Restaurants in Charleston SC
Charleston is recognized for having good foods and drinks, as every cuisine made right from the water used to the earthly cultivated resources are endowed by nature in and around Charleston.
Collectively, these twelve restaurants give a different point of view of what makes Charleston a genuine food city.
These are some of the best restaurants in Charleston SC that can be had, whether in elevine dining rooms or in a home-town comfort.
Relax and read through these 12 best restaurants in Charleston SC and make your selection on which to visit first.
1. Hyman’s Seafood
Hyman’s Seafood is a must visit if you are in Charleston. This amazing restaurant in Brookline has been offering its services to the residents and travelers since the year 1890, and it is a family business.
Hyman’s Restaurant & Sushi Bar specializes in fresh seafood obtained from local markets due to its fast service in a comfortable and loud environment.
Some of the favorite meals to be ordered are Fried shrimp and Savory Crab Cakes. Best served with a side of hush puppies, that is why this restaurant has been around for good.
2. 82 Queen
Located at the heart of the old town, Charleston, 82 Queen forms an antique facility that specializes in low country cuisine.
It has a lush green area as seating for customers during meals is very special.
Dishes like the she-crab soup and shrimp and grits highlight the best of Southern cooking and could be highly recommended.
The restaurant’s welcoming ambiance makes it a great choice for both romantic dinners and casual outings.
3. Circa 1886 Restaurant
Circa 1886 incorporates the rich history of Charleston with modern ideas in present day food service. Located in a carriage house, which was lovingly renovated, this place is perfect for some bistrot-like fine dining.
Chef Marc Collins, the amazing chef of this restaurant, has created wonderful changing menus that feature the South without becoming gimmicky or obscure.
Some of the best dishes are the duck duo and the venison. Every dish tastes like it was crafted by a great artist making it perfect for celebratory occasions.
4. FIG
By all counts, FIG is a prime example of a farm to table dining in Charleston. Obra Kitchen plus Bar, a James Beard Award winning restaurant has local and seasonal foods, with meats, seafood, cheeses, and produce from farm and sea.
The menu is seasonal; however, the signatures include the ricotta gnocchi and a fish stew.
FIG remains a guest favorite, celebrated for its comfortable atmosphere and exceptional food and service quality.
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5. Hank’s Seafood Restaurant
Hank’s Seafood is an upmarket version of Charleston’s maritime flavor and offers some classic dishes with a twist of seafood.
There is something classic about the dining room decor that makes guests feel at home. Its fresh and light seafood selection follows tradition.
Some of the specialties include, seafood tower, crab stuffed shrimp and low country bouillabaisse. Featuring the Historic District within its proximity, Hank’s is perfect for lunch or dinner after a long night out.
6. Revival restaurant
True to the name of the restaurant, Revival is all about reviving the old school Southern cuisine with modern methods. This restaurant has the beauty of a location right near the Waterfront Park and just as good a taste.
It proved it in the rice middlins and Charleston crab rice where heritage takes a back sit while creativity does a victory lap. You can enrich your meal with one of the many great cocktails they have to offer according to the bartender’s choice.
7. Magnolias
Since 1990, Magnolias has been Charleston’s premier seafood spot and a cornerstone of its culinary revival.
Some of the Micro menus highlights are the Down South egg roll and shellfish over grits. Given it is new and looks classy but homely at the same time, Magnolias is a place that anyone visiting the city should go to.
8. Lowland restaurant
For those guests who prefer the comfortable atmosphere, Lowland restaurant is open. This small dining area has all the Lowcountry comfort the customer will ever need, all while boasting menu creativity for a new feeling.
The smoked fish dip or the shrimp roll should do the trick; they come with a side of locally brewed beer. Lowland’s local focus ensures patrons enjoy warm, friendly service in a welcoming and unpretentious setting.
9. Babas on Cannon
Babas on Cannon is the new European style café in Charleston, serving share plates and more unique beverages. It is quite suitable for dinner with friends, lunch with family or even a romantic dinner for two!
Top offerings include lamb meatballs and tender charred octopus, complemented by expertly served wines and cocktails. Babas on Cannon is a clear evidence that there is a lot of value in small things.
10. Maison
Maison offers Charleston an alternative to French dining, more refined than ordinary restaurants.
This is an intimate bistro that applies French training to Southern provisions and produces food that is at once upscale and hearty.
Favorite dishes comprise the steak frites and duck breast that goes well with a fine wine from their attractive wine list.
Maison has friendly and professional staff, and the food as well as setting create a feel of a good place for celebrations.
11. Vern’s
Vern’s lies low on the radar of many a food-lover, but it has extraordinary recipes in a very casual environment.
It offers a diverse menu, periodically adjusted to seasonal produce, ensuring every serving feels fresh and unique.
Entrées like smoked trout dip and roasted chicken are well-seasoned and flavorful, as are the desserts.
Vern’s is one of those places you should deny everyone else and keep for yourself a secret spot that you will be happy to share after you fully enjoy it.
12. Chez Nous
Chez Nous is the coziest of them all and is located on a rather obscure street and has a distinctly European menu.
Their seven dishes, including appetizers, entrées, and desserts, reflect French and Mediterranean culinary styles crafted by skilled chefs.
The fact that the menu is quite fluid means you can never really go back to a place and get something you got before; thus the handmade pasta or seared duck breast is a highlight.
Conclusion
Many of Charleston’s restaurants are the epitome of the various Traditions of Charleston qualities such as history, cultural background, and amiable service.
These 12 best restaurants in Charleston SC encompass everything from traditional down home Southern cooking to upscale international cuisine – all from the heel city of South Carolina.
From seeing the tourist attractions repeatedly to experiencing the city’s best-known restaurants for the first time again, here are the places to go for a great meal and memories. Therefore a reservation should be made, indulge in the tastes of Charleston now, bite by bite.
