Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina

14 May 2024

1. Husk

Husk is a popular restaurant in Charleston that focuses on showcasing Southern cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes daily to highlight the freshest seasonal offerings, and dishes like the famous buttermilk fried chicken and shrimp and grits are must-tries.

2. FIG

FIG, short for Food is Good, lives up to its name with an innovative menu that celebrates traditional Southern flavors with a modern twist. The restaurant’s commitment to using local ingredients shines through in dishes like the wood-fired clams and seared grouper.

3. The Ordinary

The Ordinary is a seafood lover’s paradise in Charleston, with a raw bar and a menu featuring fresh catches from local waters. Be sure to try the oysters, shrimp cocktail, and seafood towers for a true taste of the Lowcountry.

4. Xiao Bao Biscuit

Xiao Bao Biscuit offers a fusion of Asian and Southern cuisines in a cozy and eclectic setting. The menu features dishes like kimchi stew, okonomiyaki, and beef larb that are bursting with bold flavors and creative combinations.

5. The Obstinate Daughter

The Obstinate Daughter is a charming restaurant on Sullivan’s Island that serves up inventive Italian-inspired dishes with a Southern twist. The wood-fired pizzas, freshly made pastas, and seafood dishes are all standout options on the menu.

6. Leon’s Oyster Shop

Leon’s Oyster Shop is a laid-back eatery in Charleston known for its fresh oysters, fried chicken sandwiches, and creative cocktails. The outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a casual meal with friends while soaking up the Southern hospitality.

7. 167 Raw

167 Raw is a cozy seafood spot in Charleston that specializes in fresh seafood dishes and raw bar offerings. The lobster rolls, ceviche, and tuna poke bowls are all popular choices that highlight the restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients.

8. Slightly North of Broad

Slightly North of Broad, or SNOB as it’s affectionately known, is a classic Charleston restaurant that blends Southern flavors with global influences. The shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and she-crab soup are all must-try dishes that showcase the restaurant’s culinary prowess.

9. Hominy Grill

Hominy Grill is a beloved institution in Charleston that serves up classic Southern comfort food in a cozy and welcoming setting. The shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and buttermilk pancakes are all timeless favorites that keep locals and visitors coming back for more.

10. The Grocery

The Grocery is a farm-to-table restaurant in Charleston that sources ingredients from local farms and purveyors to create seasonal and sustainable dishes. The menu changes frequently to highlight the best of the region’s produce, meats, and seafood, making each visit a unique and memorable culinary experience.

Conclusion

Charleston, South Carolina is a food lover’s paradise with a vibrant culinary scene that celebrates the region’s rich history and diverse flavors. From fine dining establishments to casual eateries, the city offers a wide range of options for every palate. Whether you’re craving traditional Southern dishes, innovative fusion cuisine, or fresh seafood delights, Charleston has something to satisfy every craving. These top 10 must-try restaurants are just a taste of what the city has to offer, and each one promises a memorable dining experience that embodies the spirit of the Lowcountry.

EXPLORE MORE: Places to eat in Charleston SC

FIND: Things to do in Charleston SC

CHARLESTON BUSINESS OWNERS: Get a Free Business Profile

FIND BUSINESSES: Charleston Business Directory

BE SEEN: Advertise Your Business Here

Add Your Business, It's FREE!

Start getting more customers contacting your business with a free listing.