Skip to main content

Dining & Nightlife in Charleston/Downtown

Many come to Charleston with one thing on their mind: food. The best grits you'll ever have, prepared in ways you never imagined. Festive dockside oyster roasts. High-end Charleston restaurants. Outdoor cafés. Fresh from the dock seafood. Every meal is an event in itself. Prepared with perfection. Served with a warm smile. Enjoy.

Skip to search results

Home Team BBQ - Downtown Charleston

With 3 locations serving award-winning barbecue, ever-evolving bar offerings, a family-friendly atmosphere, catering & live entertainment, it’s easy to root for Home Team BBQ!

Carmella's Cafe & Dessert Bar

Carmella's features cakes, gelato, sorbetto, coffee, wine, adult dessert cocktails, cannoli, cookies, & other gourmet desserts - PLUS breakfast, sandwiches, pizza & much more!

Veranda Lounge at The Loutrel

Your gathering place to swap stories and share city secrets over can’t-miss libations and small plates. In the company of our gracious staff, you’ll feel right at home!

Anson Restaurant

Long known for taking the best ingredients historic Charleston's seasons have to offer & crafting them into innovative turns on traditional Southern Cuisine.

Azur

Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century Charleston single house with an inviting bar space with expansive seating, & a quaint outdoor patio, perfect for alfresco dining.

Babas on Cannon

Inspired by cafés & bars of Europe. Welcoming folks in the morning for espresso & house-made pastries, at lunch for sandwiches & salads, & in the evening for cocktails & wine.

Bar167

Bar167 is a Mediterranean-inspired bistro restaurant & cocktail lounge by 167 Hospitality, located in the heart of historic Charleston.

Basic Kitchen

Basic Kitchen uses tons of local produce and a rainbow of ingredients to create food that’s nourishing, healthful and delicious. Open for lunch + dinner M-Sat and Sun. brunch.

Beautiful South

Inspired by the foods of Southern China, expect re-imaged classics like General Tso's and Crab Rangoon alongside specialties like Whole Roasted Duck and Sesame Oil Noodles.

Beech

The basic necessities of a healthy diet including fresh: fruit, fish, rice and vegetables, sourced sustainably, locally and organically when possible. Fast-casual atmosphere.

Bistronomy by Nico

Bistronomy lends a cozy and intimate atmosphere to experience an innovative approach to traditional French Bistro fare paired with a vast selection of French wines.

Brasserie la Banque

Located within the iconic 1 Broad Street corner building, Brasserie la Banque is an homage to traditional French cuisine in a lively environment.

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit - Upper King Eatery

Callie's grab & go eatery serves a variety of piping hot, award winning biscuits, pimento cheese sandwiches, and locally inspired breakfast, lunch, and late night treats.

Caviar & Bananas Downtown

Extraordinary product offering, sourced locally and globally to create the ultimate culinary experience. Upscale, sophisticated environment that stimulates the five senses.

Charleston Beer Works

Come as you are Charleston bar-craft beer bar, modern sports bar & a fresh kitchen wrapped into one great place. Enjoy our downstairs or upstairs bars or a seat on the patio.

Church and Union Charleston

New American cuisine by Top Chef Alum Jamie Lynch and Culinary Director Adam Hodgson. Cutting edge design, set in a casual yet refined atmosphere of a 104 year old church.

CO banh mi..noodles..bar

Saunter into the warm, urban atmosphere at CO and take your palate on a luxury flight to the Far East with exotic flavors for lunch, dinner, or after-hours cocktails.

Culinary Institute of Charleston (CIC)

Taste the future of Charleston's culinary scene in the Culinary Institute of Charleston's student-run restaurants, Relish and 181 Palmer. Reservations: OpenTable.com.

Edmund's Oast

Edmund’s Oast restaurant is a a rare combination of brewery, locally and seasonally driven menu, impressive cocktail and wine lists, outdoor courtyard and covered event space.

Edmund's Oast Brewing Co.

Edmund's Oast Brewing Co. is a 20,000 square foot brewery, restaurant, and taproom produces a variety of beers packaged in cans, bottles, and kegs for wide-reaching wholesale.

El Jefe Texican Cantina

Signature Ribeye Taco; marinated for 7 days, the "Nitro-Rita" voted Charleston's Best Margarita and a Mechanical Bull, what's not to love about this Texican inspired Cantina.

Eleve

Discover modern American cuisine with a coastal influence while enjoying spectacular views of Charleston at our vibrant rooftop bar and restaurant.

Estadio

Experience the vibrant flavors of Spain right in the heart of Charleston. Estadio offers a celebration of Spanish culture fused with the warmth of a local gathering place.

Fatty's Beer Works

We tell the story of our favorite beverage through the history of the greatest time-traveling brew master the world has never known. Taproom is open every day!

Felix Cocktails et Cuisine

Experience Paris in one of upper King Street's newest favorites. Félix offers a beautiful atmosphere to enjoy creative cocktails and delightful small plates.

FIG

James Beard winning Chef serves up seasonal cuisine, focusing on fresh, local sustainable product. Featured in Bon Appetit, Food & Wine, Food Network and The New York Times.

Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar

Historic downtown's Best Waterfront Dining on the Charleston Harbor. Sustainable seafood and waterfront views from the wrap-around deck and chic dining room.

Graft

Graft is a wine shop and wine bar in uptown Charleston, SC. Created by two long-time friends, it is a celebration of good wine, community, great times and the best music.

Grill 225

This fine dining establishment stockpiles accolades, like Fodor’s Choice. A member of “Great Steakhouses of North America,” seafood and live lobsters flown in daily.

Handy & Hot

Helmed by award-winning chef, TV personality & cookbook author, Vivian Howard, Handy & Hot is a small batch bakeshop located at 68 Wentworth Street open daily from 7am – 4pm.

Heavy's Barburger

A neighborhood bar & burger joint. Everything fresh-made, daily. We’re shakin’ margaritas with an extensive line-up of tequila & juices. Vintage sound system & vibey playlist.

Herd Provisions

Offering a rustic version of neo-American bistro fare, we feature grass-fed meat that comes directly from our farm. Open for dinner.

Historic Charleston Supper Club

Historic Authentic 7 course supper in a National Historic Landmark and Museum. Culinary historian Mike Hebb will guide you through Charleston history. Includes museum visit.

Honeysuckle Rose

Honeysuckle Rose redefines the culinary experience: Intimate 30-seat setting, 8-course menu with seasonal ingredients, and curated global wine pairings.

Indaco

Located on Charleston’s Upper King Street, Indaco serves rustic Italian cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas and hand-crafted pastas, plus a well-rounded beverage program.

Iron Rose

Tucked inside the walled courtyard at The Mills House, Iron Rose brings elevated Southern Coastal Fare to the historic French Quarter, with indoor and outdoor dining.

Juanita Greenberg's

At Juanita Greenberg’s we make real Mexican-ish food prepared fresh and fast. Since 1993, we have been serving huge nachos, quesadillas, and big fat healthy burritos.

Kultura Charleston

Kultura, located at 73 Spring Street, is a culinary haven offering an immersive journey into the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine led by Chef Nikko Cagalanan.

Le Farfalle

Authentic historic district Italian restaurant, Chef Michael Toscano serves up lunch, brunch and dinner with modern Italian style. Impressive wine and craft cocktail program.

Legami

Legami serves contemporary, shareable Italian dishes and housemade pastas and playful cocktails. Legami has multiple areas for indoor dining as well as an expansive patio.

Legend Deli

Home of Legendary Sandwiches! Legend Deli is known for chef inspired twists on deli classics and great vibes. Sourcing local products and Boar’s Head meats and Cheeses!

Leon's Oyster Shop

A fried chicken & oyster joint on Upper King. A well loved neighborhood restaurant, with lighter updates on classic Southern fare, cheap beer and expensive champagne.

Lewis Barbecue

Award-winning, Texas-style barbecue from legendary Pitmaster John Lewis. Open daily for lunch + dinner. Offering catering + shipping. 464 N. Nassau St | lewisbarbecue.com.

Little Jack's Tavern

A friendly neighborhood joint with classic cocktails and smart updates to classic tavern fare. Think burgers, fresh fish, generous salads and nightly steak offerings.

Little Palm

A breezy, poolside restaurant and cocktail bar with a lively, spirited environment offering fresh, vibrant cocktails and seasonal, ingredient-driven dishes

Maison Bistro

Maison celebrates classic French fare. Our beverage menu boasts French wines refreshing cocktails & outstanding Happy Hour. A cozy, intimate space with award winning cuisine.

Makan Charleston

With a passion for Asian traditions & ingredients, chef James Wozniuk aims to bring the Makan experience so guests may feel fully transported to Malaysia at their table.

Malagon

Malagón is a Spanish tapería and mercado showcasing authentic flavors and service through traditional tapas, cheeses, and charcuterie in a lively and transportive atmosphere.

Maya

Maya is a Mexican eatery with a coastal-inspired outdoor patio. The menu includes a variety of regional, authentic dishes plus cocktails focused on fresh, seasonal flavors.

Melfi's

Clubby, classic Italian restaurant in downtown with fresh pasta, salads, larger plates, and Roman-ish thin crust pizza. Intimate for 2 or a proper adults evening on the town.

Mercantile and Mash

Located at the Cigar Factory, Mercantile is a food + retail emporium offering breakfast, lunch, coffee and more. Bar Mash is a cozy spot for a well crafted beverage + bite.

Millers All Day

Millers All Day celebrates breakfast and brunch with timeless food and drinks in a centuries-old King Street building outfitted with a midcentury modern aesthetic.

MUSE Restaurant & Wine Bar

A locals' favorite set in a historic home reminiscent of an Italian villa with terrace. Homemade pasta & bread, fresh fish, savory meat dishes & extensive wine list.

O-Ku

O-Ku celebrates authentic Asian cuisine, focusing on unique ingredients & presentations, including signature nigiri, Omakase experience & well rounded sake and beverage list.

Oak Steakhouse

Oak offers a remarkable menu featuring Certified Angus Beef cuts and locally-sourced seafood, complemented with superior service and expansive wine program.

Park & Grove

A restaurant that celebrates Charleston's beautiful Hampton Park with a seasonal menu offering dishes such as house-made pastas, gourmet hot dogs & a local catch of the day.

Pink Cactus Charleston

Join us for lunch or dinner to try our authentic Oaxacan cuisine on our laid-back outdoor patio. Don't miss our tamales, tacos, enchiladas, tortas, quesadillas & margaritas!

Poogan's Porch

Charleston's oldest independent dining establishment, serving seasonal, elevated Lowcountry cuisine in a restored (and purportedly haunted) Victorian home on Queen Street.

Poogan's Smokehouse

Charming without pretension, tried and true, a seat at Poogan's Smokehouse is a bite into the American South. Casual regional fare with bold flavors and a barbecue backbone.

Prohibition

A nod to the speakeasies of the 1920's, Prohibition combines amazing Southern-inspired cuisine, award winning drinks and a unique atmosphere...all without a secret knock.

Rancho Lewis

Pitmaster John Lewis pays homage to the culture and cuisine of the West Texas/New Mexico region with Rancho Lewis, a border-food-meets-cowboy-cookin' restaurant and bar.

Rodney Scott's BBQ

Rodney Scott's BBQ serves true South Carolina whole-hog barbecue alongside Southern favorites in a lively, upbeat atmosphere in Charleston.

Ruby Sunshine Cafe

Ruby Sunshine brings the unique flavors and hospitality to our all-day brunch using fresh and local ingredients and preparing food to order from our scratch kitchen.

Rusty Bull Brewing Co

The original brewery in N. Charleston offers a wide array of handcrafted beers; downtown, you’ll get the same quality brews & a full bar. Both locations also serve food.

Sorelle

Inspired by Italy’s all-day cafes, markets & culinary traditions, boasting a mercato, bar, wine room, pizza counter, dining room & chef’s table, helmed by Chef Nick Dugan.

Southbound

Discover dry-aged meats, craft cocktails, uncommon wines, and rotating menu prepared on a wood-burning hearth within a historic Cannon Street home.

Swamp Fox Restaurant & Bar

Featuring Lowcountry specialties reminiscent of the old south. Award-winning shrimp & grits and Certified SC farm fresh ingredients artfully prepared by Chef James.

Taco Boy - Downtown

Skip siesta. Let’s fiesta. Charleston’s ultimate taqueria, serving casual Mexican-style fare for lunch, and dinner daily —tacos, guac, cold margs, tequila flights, and more.

Ted's Butcherblock

A neighborhood butcher shop & cafe offering premium quality meats, seafood & charcuterie, award-winning sandwiches, prepared foods, wines & craft beer. Tues-Sat, 11am - 7pm.

Tempest

“Best New Restaurant” in the country by USA Today 10Best. Upscale dining featuring hyper-local seafood, with a seasonal menu curated by Chefs Jamie Lynch and Adam Hodgson.

The Belmont

Chic, intimate lounge offering curated cocktails, charcuterie boards, flatbreads & homemade pastries. The warm, sophisticated atmosphere is located in the heart of Charleston.

The Brick Charleston

A favorite neighborhood tavern where locals gather to watch their favorite teams, listen to live music, and play bar games on patio. Kitchen is open until 1am every night.

The Cocktail Club

Tucked away on Charleston’s bustling upper King Street, The Cocktail Club is a stylish speakeasy-style bar with rooftop terrace, dedicated to the art of the craft cocktail.

The Daily

More than a coffee shop. An experience in quality and convenience. Our aim is to create world-class food, smoothies, and coffee sourced and served with responsibility & pride.

The Establishment

A refined dining experience in historic Charleston featuring a daily menu of fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, an award-winning wine cellar, and a list of over 175 whiskies.

The Grocery

An ingredient inspired menu rooted in Southern and Mediterranean flavors. Small bites to family style portions. A warm setting boasts an open kitchen and wood-burning oven.

The Ordinary

A James Beard nominated convivial seafood hall and oyster bar, helmed by award-winning Chef Mike Lata. Lata supports local and regional fisherman, farmers and producers.

The Pass

Unapologetically interesting sandwiches, & heavy doses of Italian hospitality. Try the "Such a Nice Italian Boy". Call ahead for take out and catering needs!

The Peacock

Three levels of dining and entertainment. Upscale dining, speakeasy lounge, rooftop deck with Charleston Harbor views. Classic American cuisine with an international flare.

The Rise Coffee Bar

Located on Wentworth Street, The Rise is an effortless, sip and stroll coffee shop that offers guests the finest selection of local coffees, teas, and homemade pastries.

The Select Restaurant & Bar

Located in downtown Charleston, The Select blends international flavors with Lowcountry traditions. Enjoy a curated menu, craft cocktails, and a chic, welcoming atmosphere.

The Tippling House

Housed in a beautifully restored, 19th Century Charleston home. The Tippling House is a wine bar offering world class wines paired with locally sourced, New American cuisine.

Tinto Café & Provisions

Everyone can find a treat & leave feeling happier than when they came in. Our gelato is blended daily with fresh ingredients & our small-batch coffee is roasted locally.

Tommy Condon's Irish Pub

Experience the charm of an authentic Irish pub, blending Irish and Southern cuisine with live music daily. Enjoy great food, craft beers, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere!

Uncork Charleston

Modern wine bar located on historic King Street. 40 curated wines on tap, craft beers and fine spirits. Our charcuterie and cheese Selections are bound to entice every palate.

Vern's

Vern’s is an intimate and inviting neighborhood bistro serving up modern American cuisine and thoughtful beverage pairings by husband-and-wife duo Dano and Bethany Heinze.

Vintage Lounge

A wine bar offering a curated selection of charcuterie, cheese & small plates. In addition to our award-winning interiors, we feature live music & a beautiful patio.

Request a Visitors Guide

Where should we send your visitor guide?

*We will not sell or give away your personal information. Your privacy matters to us.

Would you like to receive e-mail updates about deals and events in Charleston?
May we send you offers from our partners?
Interests










Request a Digital Visitors Guide

contact_sendemail
udf_544













udf_659

Search