Charleston, SC, is one of America's premier food cities — home to multiple James Beard Award winners, Michelin-recognized restaurants, and a culinary culture rooted in Gullah Geechee tradition, Lowcountry ingredients, and serious farm-to-table craft. Whether you're visiting Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, or staying downtown, world-class dining is never more than a short drive away.
This guide covers the best restaurants in Charleston, organized by neighborhood, with honest descriptions, current details, and reservation guidance — updated for 2026.
Downtown Charleston Restaurants
Let's start our Charleston restaurant guide with some of our favorite restaurants in downtown Charleston. It's hard to choose because there are so many top restaurants offering delicious food.
76 Queen St | Dinner nightly; Brunch Sat–Sun
One of the most celebrated Southern restaurants in America, Husk has been defining Lowcountry cuisine since 2011. The rule is simple: if it doesn't come from the South, it doesn't come through the door.
Now led by Executive Chef Ray England, the kitchen continues to celebrate heirloom ingredients, locally grown produce, and the full bounty of the Lowcountry. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian-era home on Queen Street, the setting is as memorable as the food. Saturday and Sunday brunch on the porch is a Charleston institution. Reservations strongly recommended.
232 Meeting St | Dinner Tue–Sat
James Beard Award-winning chef Mike Lata's flagship restaurant remains one of the most consistently excellent dining experiences in the city. Named one of the best restaurants in the U.S. by Eater, FIG anchors its menu in fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with technique and precision. The pasta and the whole roasted fish are perennial standouts. Reservations open two weeks in advance and book quickly — plan ahead.
Named one of the best restaurants in the U.S. by Eater and winner of the prestigious James Beard award.
Mike Lata’s culinary passion and commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients make this a must-stop on any visit to Charleston.
544 King St | Dinner daily, closed Monday
Set inside a stunning 1927 bank building — soaring ceilings, original terrazzo floors, marble-topped raw bar — The Ordinary is chef Mike Lata's second restaurant and a Charleston seafood landmark. Oyster sliders, shellfish towers, and a constantly rotating raw bar menu make this a must for seafood lovers. The zucchini carpaccio, when on the menu, is not to be missed. Bar seating at the back raw bar is ideal for couples. Reservations via Resy, two weeks in advance.
252 Coming St | Dinner Tue–Sat
Among the most talked-about restaurants in Charleston over the past several years, Chubby Fish draws long lines for a reason. Chef and owner James London runs a daily-changing seafood menu that celebrates whatever is freshest from local waters. The "caviar sammich" has become iconic. The dining room is small, the energy is high, and the food is outstanding. Arrive early or expect a wait — they do not take reservations.
224 Rutledge Ave | Lunch & Dinner Mon–Sat, closed Sunday
A Charleston original, now recognized by the Michelin Guide. Set inside a converted corner gas station in the Cannonborough neighborhood, Xiao Bao Biscuit serves pan-Asian soul food — dishes drawing from China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam — with a rotating seasonal menu. The Okonomiyaki (Japanese cabbage pancake made in the style the owners learned while farming in Japan) is the dish everyone talks about. Come with a group and share several plates. The green curry fish is another standout.
6 Payne Ct | Lunch & Dinner Tue–Sat
Chez Nous ("Our House") is deliberately, defiantly small: two starters, two entrées, two desserts — that's the entire menu, and it changes every single day. Set in a tiny renovated Charleston single home just off Rutledge Avenue, the European-inspired cooking from chef Jill Mathias consistently earns national recognition. The daily menu is posted each morning on Instagram. If you can get a reservation, take it. Multiple major publications, including the NY Times and 50Best, have recognized it in recent years.
Charleston | Dinner daily
One of Charleston's most exciting newer restaurants, serving modern Filipino cuisine with deep Lowcountry roots. Chef Nikko Cagalanan was nominated for James Beard Best Emerging Chef in 2024. The pancit made with local blue crab and calamansi sauce is outstanding. The Halo Halo cocktail — purple yam (ube), pineapple, sake, and oat milk — is a must. A restaurant that genuinely earns the word "special."
Charleston | Dinner
A 2026 James Beard Award finalist for Best New Restaurant — one of only 10 restaurants in the country to earn that recognition. Merci opened in 2025 and has quickly become one of the most celebrated new arrivals in the Charleston dining scene. The beef Wellington has been featured in multiple press write-ups. Reservations recommended.
698 King St | Lunch & Dinner daily
Upper King Street's most reliably fun restaurant. Grilled oysters are the headliner, but the fried chicken sandwich — brioche bun, seafood-seasoned crust, tangy Asian slaw — might be the real reason locals keep coming back. Rosé on tap, frozen G&Ts, growlers of Champagne, and soft serve ice cream round out one of the city's most cheerful dining experiences. Walk-ins only; no reservations.
289 E Bay St | Lunch & Dinner Mon–Sat, closed Sunday
A New England-inspired oyster bar that draws a devoted local following to lower King Street. Only the freshest seafood makes it to the menu — sourced directly from Atlantic waters from Canada to Charleston. The lobster roll is exceptional. No reservations; closed Sundays. Arrive before peak hours or expect a wait.
(Outstanding Bakery — 2026 James Beard Finalist)
Upper King Street | Open mornings until sold out
Welton's draws lines down Upper King Street daily, and they're worth it. The small-batch scratch bakery turns out pastries rooted in local ingredients and global inspiration: tomato pie danishes, dark chocolate croissants, olive oil cake. One of only five bakeries in the country recognized as a 2026 James Beard Outstanding Bakery finalist. Arrive early — items sell out fast.
For more great seafood restaurants in Charleston visit more of our Favorite Charleston Seafood Restaurants.
Mount Pleasant, Sullivan's Island & Isle of Palms Restaurants
201 Coleman Blvd, Mount Pleasant | Dinner Mon–Thu & Sun; Lunch & Dinner Fri–Sat; Sunday Brunch
The standout restaurant on Shem Creek is one of the best in the Charleston area. French Master Chef Nico Romo built his reputation on exceptional raw oysters — served with the adductor muscle intact for maximum freshness — and on wood-fired seafood prepared with classic French technique. Multiple-year winner of Best Raw Bar, Best French, and Best Seafood in Mount Pleasant. The menu spans oysters and baked scallops to lobster roll, duck cassoulet, and filet mignon. Happy hour Monday–Friday, 4–6 pm. Reservations recommended.
Oysters and wood-fired fish aren’t the only stars here. Forbes magazine featured the Coleman Boulevardier cocktail with Campari, Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey, Dolin Rouge Vermouth, and garnished with a wood-fired orange.
Elegant, and beautiful it’s perfect for a first date or Sunday brunch with your besties.
Sullivan's Island | Lunch & Dinner daily; Weekend Brunch
A love letter to the original Sullivan's Seafood that stood on this spot from 1988 to 2020. FIG alum and James Beard Award-winner Jason Stanhope joined as chef and partner in March 2025, elevating the classic fish camp experience with serious seafood technique. The menu covers peel-and-eat shrimp, smoked fish dip, hush puppy tots, lobster roll, and a Lowcountry boil — alongside Stanhope's trademark celery salad with walnuts, cheddar, and dates, plus steak frites and a standout double cheeseburger.
2063 Middle St, Sullivan's Island | Dinner nightly; Sat–Sun Brunch
Charleston is on every must-visit list for good reason. Chef Jacques Larson's Italian-influenced coastal café on Sullivan's Island weaves local ingredients through handmade pastas, wood-fired dishes, and beautifully sourced vegetables and seafood. The Saturday and Sunday brunch is exceptional. One of the most consistent restaurants in the greater Charleston area.
Chef Jacques Larson inspires every ingredient in this Italian-influenced coastal cafe.
The commitment to fresh local ingredients shines in the veggies, salads, and seafood selections. Saturday/Sunday brunch is a must!
2209 Middle St, Sullivan's Island | Lunch & Dinner daily
Beach BBQ done right. Cold beer tastes better by the water with a plate of ribs or smoked chicken from Home Team. The carnitas tacos are exceptional. Takeout is easy for a beach picnic, or eat on the deck overlooking the island.
2210 Middle St, Sullivan's Island | Lunch & Dinner daily
Named after Edgar Allan Poe, who was stationed on Sullivan's Island as a young soldier, Poe's is the island's quintessential outdoor dining spot. The fish tacos and burgers are the reasons to go. The sprawling outdoor seating area makes it a natural gathering spot on warm evenings.
Isle of Palms | Breakfast & Lunch daily
The breakfast institution on the Isle of Palms. All your favorites done right, with house specialties including Crab Cake Biscuit, Shrimp & Grits, and Tomato Pie. Expect a line on weekends — it is absolutely worth it.
West Ashley Restaurants
1219 Savannah Hwy | Lunch & Dinner Tue–Sat
A West Ashley institution since 2008. Chef/owner Chris Stewart serves comfort classics with soul — deviled eggs, boiled peanuts, po' boys, and a rotating roster of specials showcasing fresh local ingredients. Featured on the Food Network. Consistently one of the most satisfying, unpretentious meals in the Charleston area.
Since 2008 chef/owner Chris Stewart has served up fresh locally sourced ingredients.
Inspired by his upbringing in the south this neighborhood eatery brings it with deviled eggs, boiled peanuts, and Po-boys!
1217 Savannah Hwy | Lunch & Dinner daily
The wood-fired pit is the star at Swig & Swine, where the low-and-slow approach yields consistently excellent smoked meats: ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and brisket. The Brunswick stew and pickled vegetables are excellent sides. By-the-pound and catering options make this a strong choice for groups.
828 Meeting St, West Ashley | Brunch & Dinner daily
The unofficial Sunday Funday headquarters for West Ashley. Lots of outdoor seating, draft beer pitchers, mimosas by the carafe, and a brunch menu that covers all the bases. The grass-fed burger is consistently excellent. A lively, no-pretension neighborhood spot that locals genuinely love.
1922 Savannah Hwy | Lunch & Dinner Mon–Sat
If you are only going to eat one fried chicken sandwich in Charleston, come here. The "Boxcar" — pimento cheese, peach slaw, house-made pickles on a fresh bun — is one of the great sandwiches in the state. The space is tiny and unassuming; the chicken is anything but.
If you are questing for the perfect chicken sandwich, this is the place. It is made with love and locally sourced ingredients. The pimento cheese is the game changer for this West Ashley hot spot.
Johns Island & Freshfields Village
Johns Island has emerged as one of the most exciting dining neighborhoods in the Charleston area, with a mix of nationally acclaimed fine dining, casual local favorites, and creative independents. About 15–20 minutes from downtown Charleston and 10–15 minutes from Kiawah Island.
From casual outdoor breweries to award-winning eateries the choices are abundant.
Travel south to Freshfields Village at the head of Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island.
Freshfields Village dining features pizza, a wine bar, gourmet takeout, a sports bar, and upscale dining too.
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Wild Olive
Since 2009 the love and warmth of chef Jacque Larson’s Italian eatery is unsurpassed in Charleston.
This Johns Island gem is easily one of the best restaurants in the Holy City.
Seasonal menus with local ingredients mean the menu changes and it is always fresh and inspired. Paired with reasonably priced wines and stellar service this is the restaurant to visit on Johns Island.
3005 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island | Dinner Mon–Sat, closed Sunday
Family-owned since 2019, The Royal Tern is a fancy neighborhood seafood and steak eatery with a wood-fire grill and one of the best raw bar programs in the Charleston area. Executive Chef Kyle Kryske's menu features whole grilled fish, blackened swordfish, shellfish towers, and rock shrimp po' boys alongside wood-fired steaks. The cocktail and wine program is exceptional. A perfect dinner option for Kiawah and Seabrook visitors who don't want to drive downtown.
Maybank Hwy, Johns Island | Dinner nightly; Sunday Brunch
From the Neighborhood Dining Group (also behind Husk and Delaney Oyster House), Minero is Johns Island's liveliest Mexican cantina. House-made tortillas, slow-cooked meats, charcoal-grilled chicken wings, catfish tacos, acclaimed burritos, and live-fire fajitas. Spacious indoor/outdoor bar with an extensive tequila and mezcal list and craft margaritas. The covered outdoor deck with lawn games makes this a festive evening choice. No reservations — walk in and put your name on the list.
Crowne Commons Plaza, Johns Island | Breakfast & Lunch daily
The go-to breakfast and brunch spot on Johns Island. Bright, casual space with seasonal outdoor seating and a menu of freshly prepared dishes that are light, creative, and satisfying. Located about 15 minutes from downtown Charleston.
Johns Island | Lunch & Dinner
Named after the famous centuries-old Angel Oak tree nearby, this family-owned spot has been serving rustic Southern food for over 10 years. The menu is down-home and comforting — if the Piggy Mac is on the menu, order it.
For a complete guide to Freshfields Village dining at the gateway to Kiawah and Seabrook Islands — including Hege's, La Tela Pizzeria, Café Eugenia, Forty Eight Wine Bar, and more — see our Freshfields Village Dining Guide and our Kiawah Island Restaurant Guide.
A Note on Dining in Charleston
Charleston is a true food city, with more quality restaurants per capita than almost anywhere in the South. A few practical notes:
- Reservations matter. For FIG, Husk, The Ordinary, Chez Nous, and Wild Olive, book as far in advance as possible — typically at least two weeks out.
- Many top spots don't take reservations — Leon's, 167 Raw, Chubby Fish, Xiao Bao Biscuit. Arrive when they open or be ready to wait.
- The Charleston Wine + Food Festival takes place each March, drawing celebrated chefs from across the country for dinners, tastings, and events throughout the city.
- Kiawah and Seabrook visitors should know that Charleston is just 20–25 miles from the islands — an easy 30–40 minute drive that opens up the full depth of one of America's great dining cities.
Restaurants in Freshfields Village
At the southern border of Johns Island, Freshfields Village is a culinary mecca. As the population on Kiawah and Seabrook Island grows, the village continues to expand its offerings. From takeout to full-course dinners the village is bustling.
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Hege’s Restaurant
This elegant french bistro serves contemporary cuisine with a classic flair. Chef Richard Hege honors the ingredients offering scrumptious dishes that bring locals back year after year. The lively bar scene is a favorite of islanders.
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Forty-Eight Wine Bar and Kitchen
Wine lovers may tour the world with a glass at Forty-Eight Wine Bar! Dozens of options by the glass or just a taste. The kitchen serves up small plates that accompany the wines beautifully. Forty-eight hosts special wine dinners and events too.
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La Tela Pizzeria
For over 14 years this family-owned and operated restaurant in Freshfields Village continues to serve great food. La Tela offers house-made dough, a traditional wood fire oven, and local ingredients produce the best Neopolitan pizza in Charleston. House-made pasta and great service too.
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Cafe Eugenia
This gourmet cafe and prepared foods outlet bring a Mediterranean flair to its menu. Picked shrimp, delicious salads, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards with fresh cheese and meats are standouts. If you are planning a get-together and don’t want to spend time in the kitchen your guests will be impressed with a spread from here.
Seabrook Island and Kiawah Island Restaurants
Seabrook Island and Kiawah Island offer island residents and Charleston beach vacationers a variety of dining outlets with stunning ocean, golf, or marsh views. Seabrook Island restaurants within the gated area require a Seabrook Island Club amenity card for access. Restaurants offered by the Kiawah Island Resort are open to the public.
Seabrook Island restaurants are the dining amenities of the Seabrook Island Club. Diners enjoy casual oceanfront dining at the Pelican's Nest.
The Island House hosts thirsty and hungry golfers after a day on Ocean Winds or Crooked Oaks Golf Courses.
The Palmetto Room is a favorite location for celebrations and upscale dining with family and friends.
Our complete Seabrook Island dining guide offers more information on island dining.
Outside the gated area of the island check out these options:
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Salty Dog Cafe
Salty Dog Cafe is a popular, casual seafood restaurant in Bohicket Marina. The fish tacos and peel-and-eat shrimp are always tasty. Enjoy the best sunsets over Bohicket Creek from this location with lots of outdoor seating and occasional live music too!
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Saveurs du Monde Seabrook Island
Savuers du Monde Seabrook is more than a mouth-watering patisserie. Lunch and dinner served in the old Red Sky Grill offers an intimate journey to France. Save room for dessert, or stop in and take home an assortment of treats.
Kiawah Island restaurants range from the renowned four-diamond Ocean Room at the Sanctuary hotel to Cherrywood BBQ at Osprey Point Golf Course. No matter what you are in the mood for Kiawah Island has great options such as these.
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The Atlantic Room
The Atlantic Room is Kiawah’s premier seafood restaurant. Located in the Ocean Course Clubhouse, enjoy seasonal ingredients, fresh and practical dishes, and breathtaking ocean views. Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner service. Outdoor dining is available in season.
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Tomasso at Turtle Point Golf Course
Tomasso is a family style Italian eatery serving up homemade pasta, pizza, and seasonal specials. Located just beyond the 18th green, at the Turtle Point Clubhouse. Warm and inviting with bar and table service. Outside seating is available in season.
For more Kiawah Island restaurant options see our Kiawah Island Restaurant Guide.