The Best Restaurants in Charleston

A renowned establishment that serves elevated Southern cuisine, Peninsula Grill was first opened in 1997. On the menu, diners will find tasty options like oysters, beef tartare, and roasted breast of duck. The interior is chic, with elegant tablecloths and decorations that help to provide a stylish vibe. There is also a dedicated champagne bar inside of the restaurant, which is a great place to grab a glass of bubbly while waiting to be seated.

After its doors opened in 2019, Maison became one of the most loved French restaurants in Charleston. The menu is filled with a variety of unique versions of classic items, including onion soup croquettes, steak frites, and burgundy escargot. The stylish interior is filled with natural lighting and light-colored furniture. There is an extensive drink menu with a variety of classic cocktails, so make sure to set aside some time for a beverage before dining.

Grill 225, which opened in 2002, is a fine dining chophouse that can be found in the Market Pavilion Hotel. Choose from a variety of popular dishes such as the prime beef tartare, shrimp brulee, and BLT salad. Diners will find the interior to include dark red furniture, low lighting, and luxurious light fixtures, helping to give it a romantic and intimate feeling. Make sure to make a reservation well in advance, as it is a particularly popular restaurant in the city.

Located in historic downtown Charleston, The Establishment is an elegant seafood restaurant that was opened in 2018 and focuses on using local and sustainably sourced products. The menu changes frequently depending on what exactly is available at the time, so make sure to check often. The interior is filled with wood furniture and large tables that can comfortably fit bigger groups, making it convenient for dining with friends or family. There is also a wine bar that has an extensive drink list, which includes bourbons, fine scotches, and modern cocktails.

Opened by Tres Jackson in 2018, Sorghum & Salt is a farm and sea to table restaurant that offers a variety of a la carte items and tasting menus. While the menu is ever evolving, some of the most popular dishes available include the house made ricotta, local trout, and acorn squash. The inside features exposed brick and stylish lights, giving it a modern and hip feel. There is also a special vegan menu that employees can provide diners with on request.

A cocktail bar that serves small plates, Neon Tiger first opened in 2020 under the ownership of John Adamson. A few of the most popular items on the menu include the BBQ sandwich, mac n cheese, and classic burger. The interior is dark, funky, and mysterious, reminiscent of a lounge from the 80s. A trip to this establishment wouldn’t be complete without trying out one of the tasty house cocktails during dinner.

A premier champagne lounge housed in the Hotel Bennett, Camellias is a Charleston staple. The menu is filled with a variety of delectable desserts for diners to enjoy, which include sponge cakes and truffle. On the menu, you will also find fresh oysters, as well as a caesar salad. The interior is classy and stylish, outfitted with marble, an etched mirror ceiling, and strings of crystal cascading from the chandelier. Those not in the mood for champagne can always choose a white, red, or rose wine instead.

An elegant restaurant that serves locally sourced seafood, the Tempest was first created in 2020. Choose from many popular dishes on the menu, ranging from smoked toro to blue crab cassoulet and a dry aged steak tartare. The restaurant is located in a historical building and features plenty of natural light, as well as comfortable seating and tables.

Chef Brett McKee and Andy O'Keefe opened the Oak Steakhouse in 2005, which specializes in locally sourced beef & sustainable seafood. On the menu, diners will find dishes such as a shrimp cocktail, pan seared scallops, filet mignon, and a dry aged cowboy ribeye. The interior is filled with dark furniture and wooden accents, giving it an intimate feel. Those eating with a large group can always add on some family style sides, which include whipped potatoes and brussel sprouts.

Known for its Brazilian BBQ dishes & hearty sides, Galpao Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse was founded in 2017. The menu offers 17 different cuts of meat, as well as a variety of fresh salads for diners to choose from. The interior is open and bright, with plenty of seating options to choose from. Those that are particularly hungry can always opt for the unlimited salad bar that offers over 40 items, including imported cheeses and cured meats.

Located in the historic center of Charleston, Anson serves traditional Southern fare and has a large bar. The menu is filled with tasty treats, including dishes such as pan roasted grouper cashew curry, filet mignon, and shrimp pasta linguine. Inside, diners will find exposed brick, comfortable leather booths, and large wooden tables. They’re known for their house made cocktails, so make sure to set aside some time for a drink.

Since it was first opened in 2009 by Steve Palmer, Indaco has been a Charleston restaurant that is particularly popular amongst locals. The menu features a variety of unique Italian dishes, such as burrata, butternut squash pizza, and smoked fish fritters. Inside is a diverse twist of a modern restaurant meeting a traditional trattoria. There is also an open kitchen that allows curious diners see the food being made before their eyes.

A Parisian-inspired cafe, the East Bay Meeting House Bar & Cafe serves a variety of French items. Choose from some of the most popular dishes, which include hot paninis and summer salads. The interior is warm and inviting, with a full espresso and cocktail bar that serves hot and cold drinks throughout the day. For a unique experience, diners can always choose to go to this establishment for a formal teatime, which includes a choice of tea and a selection of finger foods to snack on.

Seafood lovers will want to make sure that they pay a visit to the Rappahannock Oyster Bar, which is a lively restaurant that was first created in 2017. On the menu, diners will find choices such as smoked fish dip, wagyu beef tartare, shrimp and grits, and a variety of raw oysters to choose from. With its modern light fixtures, exposed brick, and warm-colored furniture, the restaurant has a welcoming ambiance that allows individuals to feel comfortable and right at home. There is an extensive drink menu to choose from, and those that are feeling particularly bold can opt for an oyster shooter made with an alcohol such as gin or vodka.

Located directly on the Charleston waterfront, The Kingstide specializes in fresh seafood and was opened in 2021. There is something on the menu for every palette, including options such as fried calamari, Alaskan king crab, tuna tartare, flat iron steak, and kale salad. There is a large wrap-around balcony to sit on, which includes comfortable seating. The inside of the restaurant is characterized by wooden furniture and bright natural lighting, allowing diners to easily see the impressive and beautiful views of the waterfront. There is also a large drink menu, so individuals will want to make sure that they set some time aside for quenching their thirst before they begin their meal. Choose from a variety of unique and classic cocktails, including choices such as a lowcountry spritz, frozen eggnog, and the caliente kicker. Local craft beers are served here as well.