Restaurants in Charleston
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Best Restaurants
“The best, freshest seafood! Best fish taco i ever put in my mouth. And love the atmosphere!”
“OMG, The food, service and overall experience was amazing. Dan and the guys behind the bar made sure it was an excellent experience. Will be going back every year on St. Patrick’s day.🍀”
“Tried and true for 20 years. Absolutely best restaurant in Charleston. Food always incredible, service always perfect.”
“Leon's is literally in my dreams! My boyfriend and I went there for the first time three years ago. It blew our minds! Affordable, delicious food, and such a fun atmosphere. We returned a couple of times on the same trip. We live in NJ... and set up a trip last year JUST to go to Leons. I am actually scared to post a review because I selfishly want to keep it a secret for my boyfriend and I. Man, if you like chicken and oysters... you cannot go wrong. Damn, now I need to set up another trip. :)”
“Was not exactly what we were expecting but surprised us with the amazing service and food. Perfectly paced and great portions. Everything was perfectly cooked and presented. It was an experience that I would love to repeate again. Can not recommend this hidden gem enough.”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“Phenomenal service from Henry and Jake. The drinks, the atmosphere, the background music were all 10/10 as well. (The Penicillin and Salty Dog). The discrete bill with the miniature clothesline was a nice touch too”
“We went for lunch, there were so many great choices! We had the Pimento Cheese for an appetizer and it did not disappoint. My friend and I shared the Chicken Tenders and Classic Vegetarian plate full of great southern veggies. Delish! The atmosphere was inviting and the service was great. Definitely highly recommend!”
Restaurants with Delivery
“Was not exactly what we were expecting but surprised us with the amazing service and food. Perfectly paced and great portions. Everything was perfectly cooked and presented. It was an experience that I would love to repeate again. Can not recommend this hidden gem enough.”
“We had the most amazing night celebrating our 10th anniversary. The entire team went above and beyond and we left feeling so filled with joy—and OUTSTANDING food. Flavors that we never will forget and memories for a lifetime. WC team, thank you for making our first night in Charleston one we will never forget.”
“Leon's is literally in my dreams! My boyfriend and I went there for the first time three years ago. It blew our minds! Affordable, delicious food, and such a fun atmosphere. We returned a couple of times on the same trip. We live in NJ... and set up a trip last year JUST to go to Leons. I am actually scared to post a review because I selfishly want to keep it a secret for my boyfriend and I. Man, if you like chicken and oysters... you cannot go wrong. Damn, now I need to set up another trip. :)”
“We went for lunch, there were so many great choices! We had the Pimento Cheese for an appetizer and it did not disappoint. My friend and I shared the Chicken Tenders and Classic Vegetarian plate full of great southern veggies. Delish! The atmosphere was inviting and the service was great. Definitely highly recommend!”
“One of my top 5 restaurants in Charleston. Quality and taste is EPIC and getting to chat with Kazu and Chris just makes the experience so much more intimate. Such a fantastic value for the quality and quantity of food - my main recommendation is to keep a running list of the dishes served because at the end of the meal, you get to order more of whatever you liked a la carte. If you ever get the chance for a hard to get reservation here, TAKE IT!!!!”
“Always a fantastic time at Husk. It’s my go to spot when I’m in town. The bar team in the carriage house, Beau and Damian are rockstars and will make sure you are taken care of. Ryan’s warm hospitality is always great. Topped by the fantastic food and drinks! Don’t miss it!”
Online Reservation Available
“Probably my most exciting meal of my Charleston trip. Knowing that Chef Stanhope won a James Beard award, my expectations were high here. This meal exceeded all expectations. Superlative. I had the biscuit with pepper jelly, the eggs with anchovy, & the celery salad.”
“Always a fantastic time at Husk. It’s my go to spot when I’m in town. The bar team in the carriage house, Beau and Damian are rockstars and will make sure you are taken care of. Ryan’s warm hospitality is always great. Topped by the fantastic food and drinks! Don’t miss it!”
“Edmund’s Original is one of our favorite restaurants in Charleston. It’s the perfect mix of quality and price, with a team that always makes us feel right at home. I can’t speak highly enough of this place. Whenever someone comes to visit from out of town, we bring them to EO so they can get a taste of what we’re fortunate to enjoy regularly. The food is phenomenal - from the fried chicken to the burger to the steak, and everything in between. The beer selection is top notch. In-house developed cocktails are creative, while the classics are on point if that’s more your speed. The chocolate cake and an espresso martini are the perfect touch to finish it all off! Oh, and don’t sleep on the special events they host! When the chef teams up with other chef’s from around the state, they always deliver a unique and delicious experience!”
“Simply perfection! The oyster selection is otherworldly. The chargrilled oysters the best Ive had in my life. (Florida born an culinary chef.) The peel & eat shrimp so plump and served ice cold I have craved them since I had them. The service was above and beyond. The atmosphere encouraged private chatter but also conversation with next table easily. Friendly and cheerful and above all excellent food served with smiles, suggestions, and ease. I will never visit Charleston again without making sure to dine here. (Do not eat the soup. I actually sent it back to the kitchen. Never have I had to do that. ) Highly recommend again and again for everything else.”
“Me and my daughter had been traveling all night (and looked like we had been). We stopped here because we were starving and needed to kill time until we could check into our hotel. The staff was so friendly to us. I felt like we were under dressed (it was Easter) but no one seemed to judge us for it. As for the food - amazing!!!!! I got the fried artichoke sandwich and it was sooooo good. The fries were also very good. This place has such a good vibe. I wish we were in town longer so we could enjoy it again.”
“My husband and I had the pleasure of celebrating our wedding reception at Circa 1886, and we truly could not have asked for a more wonderful experience! From the moment we arrived, the staff was incredibly friendly, welcoming, and attentive. Their exceptional service and attention to detail made our special evening feel effortless and truly memorable. We felt so well taken care of throughout our entire celebration. The food was absolutely phenomenal! The Angus Filet Mignon and the Peach Lacquered Ashley Farms Chicken Breast were both outstanding. Every bite was delicious, beautifully prepared, and a wonderful reflection of the quality and care that goes into the dining experience at Circa 1886. The elegant atmosphere, exceptional cuisine, and outstanding hospitality created the perfect setting for our intimate wedding reception. It was everything we had hoped for and so much more! A heartfelt thank you to the entire Circa 1886 team for making our wedding reception such a beautiful and unforgettable experience! We will forever cherish the memories made that evening and cannot wait to return for another special occasion. We wholeheartedly recommend Circa 1886 to anyone looking for an extraordinary dining experience. Truly five stars in every way! ❤️”
“Came for the cocktails and photos, stayed for the food. Our server Geordi was exceptional. We were intrigued by the appetizers on the menu and decided to forgo a main course. Good choice. Each app we ordered(4) was delicious and beautifully thought out and prepared. A wonderful experience .”
“Our go-to on the island. Spice is the spice of life and Kwei Fei is a culinary bazaar of flavor. Try the lamb dumplings to start. Park your car in the lot, feast at Kwei Fei and then walk a few yards to the Pour House for some great live music for $10. Doesn’t get much better than this on date night, guys! Dine in the patio. It’s lovely!”
“The staff was amazing. It was our anniversary and the GM personally came to our table and poured us a glass of Champaign to celebrate. They also gave us a free dessert. The hostess, wait staff, and GM all took time to wish us a happy anniversary. The food was amazing as well! Overall it was a great dining experience!”
“What an amazing place! Went without reservations..told them it was my 70th birthday! Got a great table for 2 in back dining room…food was amazing! Our waiter Brian was the best! When I was disappointed that the didn’t have an apple dessert I wanted he had someone go across the street to get me one with a candle on it! And Josh brought us a glass of champagne… they didn’t know us …just met us.. and treated us to make my night extra special! Try High Cotton you will love it! ( we had the Filet and crab cakes)”
“This is a MUST!! It’s like a beautiful art museum as soon as you enter, beautiful exhibits!! It’s definitely a VIBE, mature crowd and the food was delicious!”
“We had the most amazing night celebrating our 10th anniversary. The entire team went above and beyond and we left feeling so filled with joy—and OUTSTANDING food. Flavors that we never will forget and memories for a lifetime. WC team, thank you for making our first night in Charleston one we will never forget.”
24 Hour Restaurants
“We only stayed here 1 day but we really enjoyed ourselves. The Staff is excellent and very friendly and honest. We checked out in a hurry and I left my wallet in the room. It was returned to me via express mail after they called me to let me know . I didn't even realize at that point it was missing. Edwin was a great help. Everyone there was super nice. The courtyard is an awesome hang out spot, great drinks.👍👍😁”
“It is hard to get a five-star review out of me for fast food, unless I think that the restaurant has been unjustly rated, but this location earned every star! I came in about a ¼ to 5... I did a mobile order for two roast beef and cheddar cheeses, no bun. The super nice lady up front told me that the roast beef wasn't ready and it would be about an hour, which I was fine with. I mosied back in an hour later and my order was ready on the to go pick up rack. I had to ask for a fork, which she happily got for me, and she also let me know that the packaged my sauces separate from my meat, just in case I didn't want them! That little extra step meant a lot! She was so nice and helpful. I haven't had Arby's in a couple months, but this one is one of the better ones I've ever been to across this country. It was so good, I had to do another order for a pita less gyro!!! Place is super super clean, and they have TVs playing the weather during this sweltering heat storm we're having! I'm glad I parked here for the night and I'm glad I ordered from here!”
“The staff was amazing. It was our anniversary and the GM personally came to our table and poured us a glass of Champaign to celebrate. They also gave us a free dessert. The hostess, wait staff, and GM all took time to wish us a happy anniversary. The food was amazing as well! Overall it was a great dining experience!”
“My husband and I had the pleasure of celebrating our wedding reception at Circa 1886, and we truly could not have asked for a more wonderful experience! From the moment we arrived, the staff was incredibly friendly, welcoming, and attentive. Their exceptional service and attention to detail made our special evening feel effortless and truly memorable. We felt so well taken care of throughout our entire celebration. The food was absolutely phenomenal! The Angus Filet Mignon and the Peach Lacquered Ashley Farms Chicken Breast were both outstanding. Every bite was delicious, beautifully prepared, and a wonderful reflection of the quality and care that goes into the dining experience at Circa 1886. The elegant atmosphere, exceptional cuisine, and outstanding hospitality created the perfect setting for our intimate wedding reception. It was everything we had hoped for and so much more! A heartfelt thank you to the entire Circa 1886 team for making our wedding reception such a beautiful and unforgettable experience! We will forever cherish the memories made that evening and cannot wait to return for another special occasion. We wholeheartedly recommend Circa 1886 to anyone looking for an extraordinary dining experience. Truly five stars in every way! ❤️”
Takeout Restaurants
“The service was impeccable! Suzanne and I had one of the best experiences during our weekend in Charleston. Suzanne loved her Shrimp and Grits, and I opted for a Ribeye Sandwich. I'm glad I did as it was perfect. Suzanne's birthday brunch was enhanced by the live Gospel music lofting through the building. I could go on and on about our brunch it was that much of an experience.”
“Not much space to eat, but you can order ahead and take to go. We saw that the line ended around 10:45 on a Friday morning so keep that in mind if you are really wanting to make this stop. Food was really good. My daughter, who’s a barista, felt her drink was a little weak, I agree. My iced coffee was good though. We also shared a banana bread that was to die for. I got a turkey sandwich and she got an avocado toast. My sandwich was so big I could have shared it for sure. Worth our wait in line.”
“When I say this, please should be packed around the corner. This is how good the place is the food is immaculate. The atmosphere is cheek. The service is top-tier, but that food is so so good down to the lamb dumplings the Korean KFC chicken and also their popular garlic noodles, which I did substitute for grilled chicken because I don’t eat pork but overall it was so good. I definitely will be going back again 10 out of 10.”
“Edmund’s Original is one of our favorite restaurants in Charleston. It’s the perfect mix of quality and price, with a team that always makes us feel right at home. I can’t speak highly enough of this place. Whenever someone comes to visit from out of town, we bring them to EO so they can get a taste of what we’re fortunate to enjoy regularly. The food is phenomenal - from the fried chicken to the burger to the steak, and everything in between. The beer selection is top notch. In-house developed cocktails are creative, while the classics are on point if that’s more your speed. The chocolate cake and an espresso martini are the perfect touch to finish it all off! Oh, and don’t sleep on the special events they host! When the chef teams up with other chef’s from around the state, they always deliver a unique and delicious experience!”
“What an amazing place! Went without reservations..told them it was my 70th birthday! Got a great table for 2 in back dining room…food was amazing! Our waiter Brian was the best! When I was disappointed that the didn’t have an apple dessert I wanted he had someone go across the street to get me one with a candle on it! And Josh brought us a glass of champagne… they didn’t know us …just met us.. and treated us to make my night extra special! Try High Cotton you will love it! ( we had the Filet and crab cakes)”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“Having frequently visited Charleston my entire life, I can confidently say the Dewberry is the finest hotel in Charleston. From the amazing room decor, the quaint lobby cocktail bar, to the breathtaking rooftop bar, you have everything you could want in a hotel. Couple that with absolutely delightful and accomodating staff with the utmost Southern hospitality and you will find it is likely one of the best hotels you have ever visited anywhere.”
“Exactly what Charleston’s been missing. Creative menu- did someone say Burrata? I have tried most things on the menu and truly loved it all, although the Bass is still my #1. So fresh, tender, just melts in your mouth. So much flavor in every bite. Cocktails are innovative and right on point. And don’t sleep on the desserts- Midnight Snack with Fruity Pebbles.. trust me.. 🤤”
“My date was sick and couldn't keep our brunch date. Since it was a new decade birthday for me, I went alone and had a wonderful time!! I sat in a bar booth and had fun interacting with the very interesting, knowledgeable server, who also was an adventurous cook at home. I sampled new things and compared dishes with other diners as they were leaving. It is my new favorite restaurant in Charleston! The interior is pretty, cheerful and bright. The oyster / bone marrow was elegant. So many good dishes. Their sister restaurant, The James, is also wonderful! It's not as upscale, but delicious, non-the-less! Somebody is doing something right!!”
“We had a lovely dinner at The James. I have a restricted diet and they wendy out if their way to make sure I was accommodated. There were 4 of us and everyone enjoyed our evening. Our server, Jessica was first class as were everyone we came in contact with. Would highly recommend The James.”
“I can confidently say it was one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had! Although we didn’t have a reservation, the staff went above and beyond to accommodate our large party and quickly arranged a lovely table for our group. When we asked for recommendations, our waiter suggested a family-style three-course meal, and we couldn’t be happier with his suggestion! Each course was beautifully presented, and simply delicious. From appetizers to desserts, every dish was crafted with care and creativity. It was a wonderful way to experience the menu and share in the joy of great food together. If you’re ever in the area, do yourself a favor and dine here—you won’t regret it! Thank you for an amazing experience; I can’t wait to return!”
“So, only rating the Speak Easy as the club was not our scene. The Speak Easy though was one of a kind, and awesome. The guy working the door was super nice and was able to get us in for a cocktail without a reservation. The bartender was great, and the fact that they have no menu, was very new to us, but we loved it!”
“My wife and I went there for date night last night and our only complaint was we haven't been there sooner. The wait staff was amazing, from the hostesses to the bartenders and finally the server. The food was next level and the focaccia was only describable as sinful. Prices were very reasonable and portions were huge. We will definitely be adding it to our rotation. 10/10.”
“Had a fish sandwich. Collard greens, slaw, fried oysters, and calamari. Outstanding. Collards off the chart. Service even better. 15/10 recommend.”
“The service was impeccable! Suzanne and I had one of the best experiences during our weekend in Charleston. Suzanne loved her Shrimp and Grits, and I opted for a Ribeye Sandwich. I'm glad I did as it was perfect. Suzanne's birthday brunch was enhanced by the live Gospel music lofting through the building. I could go on and on about our brunch it was that much of an experience.”
Fine Dining
“I found out about Southbound, through my job. I had to go do some work there, and found the owner and everyone there, super friendly. Most people at restaurants ignore working people while they are there. As my 42nd anniversary was quickly approaching, I decided to give this place a try. Some of my past picks, have not been the best. Southbound cleared EVERY hurdle I have about restaurants. From the moment we approached the restaurant, great service began! While coming thru the gate, the hostess yelled out, "HEY LARRY" and then said, "This must be your beautiful wife"! Like CHEERS, it felt great to go somewhere, "Where everybody knows your name" We were seated and got to view the open fire oven. I had dropped off 42 roses the week before for them to put on our table, for my wife. Tropical storm Debbie, and downtown flooding prevented us from going exactly on our anniversary. I was worried that store bought roses, would not last thru the weeklong delay, Joel assured me everything would be taken care of, and not to worry. As we were seated, there on the table, sat 42 roses. Fresh, and arranged with baby breath flowers included. I was told the young lady with the hostess had arranged them. They were gorgeous! They also had an anniversary card on the table from them, not something I had dropped off. The service was tremendous, the food indescribably outstanding! I have only had steak Tar Tar once before in my life, and was greatly afraid to try it again, as the first time was awful. It was superb! They take great pride in the presentation of their food products. I felt like I was in an episode of Master Chef. We had the steak, as well as the Sea bass, okra, corn, sweet potatoes, and the Caramel cake. Everything absolutely wonderful! This was a truly wonderful and memorable dining experience!! I would give 100 stars, and a Siskel and Ebert two thumbs up! There was only one thing I was disappointed about. No sweet tea! Were In Charleston SC, no sweet tea. Everything else totally made up for it though. The staff even had everyone present sign a menu, wishing us a happy anniversry1 I will most definatly go there again for a special occasion. Thanks to Andrew, Joel, and the entire staff, for making this night special!!”
“Husk was an absolute highlight of our trip! We stumbled across it after a full day of walking around exploring the area. It was busy when we arrived, so we grabbed drinks and headed upstairs to relax. We got so caught up in the atmosphere that we completely lost track of time—if the staff hadn’t come upstairs to track us down, we would have missed our bar seats entirely!
By the time we sat down, brunch service had ended and the kitchen was closed until dinner. However, while finishing our drinks, we had a fantastic conversation with the manager about their philosophy, local ingredient sourcing, and menu. That conversation convinced us to grab a drink elsewhere and return for dinner. Am I glad we did!
When we returned, the bar staff—James and Damian—were top-tier. James was especially outgoing, entertaining, and great at connecting with everyone at the bar. Another couple recommended the burger, and I couldn't resist. It was perfectly seasoned, expertly cooked, and wonderfully balanced—easily a burger I’d go back for anytime. My wife ordered the catfish with grits and okra sauce. I didn't even get a bite because we were both so completely locked in on our own plates, finishing every bite.
Wonderful service, incredible energy, and fantastic food. We’ll definitely be back the next time we're in town!”
“Food was outstanding. The scallops and ribeye were top notch. We also had two of the signature nitrotinies and were also very good and a fun experience. For desert we had the pecan pie and molten chocolate souffle cake. The molten chocolate souffle cake was dry and there was nothing molten about it. Presentation was nice but hard to recommend either.”
“If you're looking for dinner, this isn't it. This is an experience.
From the moment you step through the hidden entrance, you know you're in for something special. The intimate chef's counter, the interaction with the sushi chefs, and the attention to every detail make the entire evening feel personal.
The 17-course omakase was exceptional. Every course built on the last, showcasing incredible seafood, flawless technique, and creative flavor combinations( we opted out of the caviar and truffles but I can only imagine that took it to the next leve)l without ever feeling overdone. The pacing was perfect, and each dish was explained in a way that made you appreciate the craftsmanship even more.
Charleston has no shortage of great restaurants, but Sushi Bar has created something truly unique. It's the kind of place you book for a celebration, an anniversary, or simply because you appreciate world-class food and hospitality.
I've been fortunate to dine at some outstanding restaurants around the world, and this experience belongs in that conversation. Without question, one of the best dining experiences in Charleston, and one I'll be recommending often.”
“We were given a tip on this restaurant. While tough to get a table it was quickly obvious why. We had the rabbit roulade and the steak w wild mushrooms, but just as good as the main courses were the lamb dumpling appetizers. It was also a beautiful, refined atmosphere with top notice service.”
Cheap Eats
“Stopped here while out shopping on a girls trip and I still think about the GOAT sandwich to this day. It was the best sandwich to ever enter my mouth. To the chef, I love you. Don’t ever stop doing what you do. To the workers, you’re super cool and I appreciate you serving the best sandwich in the universe. This place deserves everything this world has to offer and more. I’ll never forget you, GOAT sandwich. Until we meet again xoxoxoxoxoxo”
“My wife and I did the wine blending (and tasting!) class here and it was OUTSTANDING! Eric is such a fantastic host. He is knowledgeable, fun, and has an overall chill vibe. Loved every minute of it. Learned alot, drank alot, and brought 2 amazing bottles of wine home that we blended ourselves. I highly recommend this experience. Thanks Eric!”
“I asked my fiancé to find a nice coffee shop that also sells beer in Charleston. After her google search, she asked our friends at The Lucky Luchador and they also recommended your establishment. I was definitely impressed with the atmosphere and selection of beer that was available. I will be coming back soon and will be your ugliest ambassador!!! 😊”
“Big Shout Out to Tina our server today at Metro Diner ! She was Wonderful! She came right over with a beautiful smile and took our beverage order. We told her we knew what we wanted. She had no problem taking our food order. She even made a suggestion to my husband that saved him a few cents. She was a ray of Sunshine. She was very attentive. She checked on us several times. The food is great! The staff is great! Their cooks know what they are doing!! You can aee they all work as a team ! We have never had a bad meal there!!”
“Since moving to CHS 4 years ago, not one place has been frequented like brown dog. Whether it’s a post church lunch, a meal with a new friend, or a quick bite to accompany a downtown expedition, brown dog never disappoints. I am a creature of habit and order the Cardi. B Crunch every time, but my friends have worked their way through the whole menu without coming across a single dish they didn’t love. Good vibes at the brown dog.”
“If you love authentic Italian sandwiches, Porkchetta is the place to go. Their sandwiches are served on fresh, homemade focaccia bread and packed with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Every bite is full of flavor, and the staff makes you feel right at home. An outstanding experience from start to finish — highly recommend!”
“Absolutely amazing! Amazing food, amazing management, amazing staff! You honestly can’t go wrong with this establishment, just be prepared to wait to get in…but it will be well worth the wait!”
“One of my top 5 restaurants in Charleston. Quality and taste is EPIC and getting to chat with Kazu and Chris just makes the experience so much more intimate. Such a fantastic value for the quality and quantity of food - my main recommendation is to keep a running list of the dishes served because at the end of the meal, you get to order more of whatever you liked a la carte. If you ever get the chance for a hard to get reservation here, TAKE IT!!!!”
“Vern’s Restaurant in downtown Charleston truly exceeded our expectations and left us with an unforgettable dining experience. The food was exceptional—quite possibly the best meal we have ever had.”
“Stepped out of our typical places to eat to try Azur and we were really impressed. Food, drinks, and service were all top tier. Pedro and Chris were great bartenders who made sure our experience was absolutely excellent.”
“Simply perfection! The oyster selection is otherworldly. The chargrilled oysters the best Ive had in my life. (Florida born an culinary chef.) The peel & eat shrimp so plump and served ice cold I have craved them since I had them. The service was above and beyond. The atmosphere encouraged private chatter but also conversation with next table easily. Friendly and cheerful and above all excellent food served with smiles, suggestions, and ease. I will never visit Charleston again without making sure to dine here. (Do not eat the soup. I actually sent it back to the kitchen. Never have I had to do that. ) Highly recommend again and again for everything else.”
“Excellent service! The atmosphere was an amazing place to grab a drink and/or eat for the evening while socializing.”
“Probably my most exciting meal of my Charleston trip. Knowing that Chef Stanhope won a James Beard award, my expectations were high here. This meal exceeded all expectations. Superlative. I had the biscuit with pepper jelly, the eggs with anchovy, & the celery salad.”
“Had brunch today. Food was good. The chicken and waffle was really tasty.”
“I can confidently say it was one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had! Although we didn’t have a reservation, the staff went above and beyond to accommodate our large party and quickly arranged a lovely table for our group. When we asked for recommendations, our waiter suggested a family-style three-course meal, and we couldn’t be happier with his suggestion! Each course was beautifully presented, and simply delicious. From appetizers to desserts, every dish was crafted with care and creativity. It was a wonderful way to experience the menu and share in the joy of great food together. If you’re ever in the area, do yourself a favor and dine here—you won’t regret it! Thank you for an amazing experience; I can’t wait to return!”
“When you go sit at the kitchen counter. Loved watching the cooks.”
“I would give the harlow 6 out if 5 stars if I could! From the service to the menu, the multiple oyster choices, the happy hours, the many specials, quality of the drinks, the happy, personable culture of the staff, the many heat lamps keeping the little outdoor garden oasis toasty and cozy, and the staff has nearly no turnover, and lots of Charleston restaurants have stupendous food, but what makes the harlow stand alone as a best of the best, is an obvious comeraderie amongst them coupled with the tastiest crab Mac n cheese in the universe along with their other delicious fare!”
“Came for the cocktails and photos, stayed for the food. Our server Geordi was exceptional. We were intrigued by the appetizers on the menu and decided to forgo a main course. Good choice. Each app we ordered(4) was delicious and beautifully thought out and prepared. A wonderful experience .”
“My date was sick and couldn't keep our brunch date. Since it was a new decade birthday for me, I went alone and had a wonderful time!! I sat in a bar booth and had fun interacting with the very interesting, knowledgeable server, who also was an adventurous cook at home. I sampled new things and compared dishes with other diners as they were leaving. It is my new favorite restaurant in Charleston! The interior is pretty, cheerful and bright. The oyster / bone marrow was elegant. So many good dishes. Their sister restaurant, The James, is also wonderful! It's not as upscale, but delicious, non-the-less! Somebody is doing something right!!”
“Me and my daughter had been traveling all night (and looked like we had been). We stopped here because we were starving and needed to kill time until we could check into our hotel. The staff was so friendly to us. I felt like we were under dressed (it was Easter) but no one seemed to judge us for it. As for the food - amazing!!!!! I got the fried artichoke sandwich and it was sooooo good. The fries were also very good. This place has such a good vibe. I wish we were in town longer so we could enjoy it again.”
“Our go-to on the island. Spice is the spice of life and Kwei Fei is a culinary bazaar of flavor. Try the lamb dumplings to start. Park your car in the lot, feast at Kwei Fei and then walk a few yards to the Pour House for some great live music for $10. Doesn’t get much better than this on date night, guys! Dine in the patio. It’s lovely!”
“Dinner was very good & everyone was so very nice. Had reservations & they seated us at 5. It was Mothers Day& graduation week so they were really busy BUT no one made us feel rushed. We will definitely come back..”
“When I say this, please should be packed around the corner. This is how good the place is the food is immaculate. The atmosphere is cheek. The service is top-tier, but that food is so so good down to the lamb dumplings the Korean KFC chicken and also their popular garlic noodles, which I did substitute for grilled chicken because I don’t eat pork but overall it was so good. I definitely will be going back again 10 out of 10.”
“Best seafood ever and I don’t particularly like seafood, but this was exceptional”
“Can’t hold back any longer, after this 2nd time visit, I felt to give a full and honest review. If I can rate this higher than 5 stars I would, but I say, the food, the hospitality and atmosphere continue to amaze us. Our server Hannah made sure we knew the specials, the menu and food items before ordering. The fast and friendly service, prompt food service was spot on again. The quality and freshness is evident just by seeing how the food looks but the taste of fresh and wholesome is confirmed with each bite. From the biscuits, the eggs, and Ofcourse the low country comfort food of chicken/waffles & grits were really great and actually better than expected. The house infused Bloody Mary was the perfect brunch addition.
If you are in the Charleston area, this is a must visit. Located just across the street to the Mills House hotel, right off Queen St is the perfect location walkable convenient access from just about any area. Yes they are dog friendly on their porch areas.”
“Exactly what Charleston’s been missing. Creative menu- did someone say Burrata? I have tried most things on the menu and truly loved it all, although the Bass is still my #1. So fresh, tender, just melts in your mouth. So much flavor in every bite. Cocktails are innovative and right on point. And don’t sleep on the desserts- Midnight Snack with Fruity Pebbles.. trust me.. 🤤”
“Delicious food, great atmosphere and unique drink options. Highly recommend.”
“I would definitely recommend S.N.O.B. for the quality of their food only. My friends and I were there on March 24, 2025, during an unexpected cold snap. We're from Florida and the weather was cold, windy and brutal. The four of us were seated at a table that was almost smack dab in front of the entrance door. Thus, people were constantly coming in and out. The manager should have had enough forethought to not place a table there, let alone sit people there in low fifty degree weather and high winds. We just wanted to get our food and get out.”
“Had a delicious dinner with out of town friends celebrating a birthday. Spencer was an amazing server. Food was outstanding, drinks were delicious! I love this place!”
“The best, freshest seafood! Best fish taco i ever put in my mouth. And love the atmosphere!”
“Great food awesome atmosphere. Service was awesome. Ate at the bar and it was perfect”
“10/10 — absolutely phenomenal.
We’ve been loyal Hall’s Chophouse customers since 2019 and have probably eaten there 60+ times, but Burwell’s completely blew us away.
The staff was incredible from start to finish. “Nurse Destiny” is hands down the best waitress we have ever had. She made the entire experience exceptional.
And the food was outstanding. Every course was incredible, and we all agreed it was better than our last 60 visits to Hall’s Chophouse.
Burwell’s has officially earned a spot at the top of our Charleston restaurant list.
10 out of 10. We will absolutely be back.”
“Fabulous. And if you're impatient, the sro.. best service in the house!”
“We had dinner at Legami the other night and had such a wonderful experience! Jackson was our server and was incredibly sweet, attentive, and professional. His recommendations were spot-on, and he truly made our evening extra special. Great food, great atmosphere, and outstanding service! We’ll definitely be back!”
“We had a lovely dinner at The James. I have a restricted diet and they wendy out if their way to make sure I was accommodated. There were 4 of us and everyone enjoyed our evening. Our server, Jessica was first class as were everyone we came in contact with. Would highly recommend The James.”
“My family celebrated my niece’s 21st birthday with you this past Monday (I missed out due to illness) and did nothing but rave about not only the food but the service! The staff individually and personally signed a birthday card for my niece, had a special dessert for her and a small gift and treated her and the rest of my family extremely well! They said the food was amazing! I am so disappointed I had to miss out but plan on making a trip to your wonderful restaurant the next time we visit Charleston!”
“Share Our Suzy is incredibly grateful for Swig & Swine and their continued partnership in presenting our annual Denim & Diamonds event. Their commitment to supporting local breast cancer patients and giving back to the community means so much to our mission. Because of partners like Swig & Swine, we are able to provide real support to women in the Lowcountry during treatment. We are thankful for their generosity and for standing with us year after year.”
“Super fresh, delicious brunch. Gluten free banana bread exceptional. Friendly staff. Attentive owner. Excellent!!!”
“The food was fantastic and the service was great! I recommend the key lime pie!”
“Our server was great (Jayden!) and Kory was wonderful too! Quick service, great food, and servers that went out of their way! Five stars! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️”
“Went to Charleston to celebrate ? my husband's birthday. Learned about the Forte and it was a great way to finish off our day with glasses of wine and delicious live music. Each musician was so incredibly seasoned and delightful to listen to. Thank you!”
“Filipino dishes with a twist. Hands down every dish we had was so good!”
“My wife and I went there for date night last night and our only complaint was we haven't been there sooner. The wait staff was amazing, from the hostesses to the bartenders and finally the server. The food was next level and the focaccia was only describable as sinful. Prices were very reasonable and portions were huge. We will definitely be adding it to our rotation. 10/10.”
“This was our first time and will definitely not be our last. My father in law was in town and we came here and the experience was 12/10. The food was amazing, the drinks were beautiful and delicious and the staff was very kind and attentive.”
“Amazing food, atmosphere and staff! Sushi and cocktails were phenomenal!”
“The food was incredible and our server, Courtney B was outstanding!! Courtney helped us select the perfect items and she made it fun!! Awesome!”
“My wife and I had dinner with four other friends here. It was outstanding. The food was over the top delicious and paired well with all the wines. Definitely one of the best places for dinner in the Charleston area. Michelin star worthy for sure!”
“I got the bacon cheeseburger with a gluten free bun. It was amazing!”
“Love the atmo and music. Excellent service from bartender. Got happy hour appys and restaurant week menu. Pork dumplings need to be on regular menu! Salmon with bok choy and mushrooms is healthy, tasty and basically perfection. Affogato with coconut gelato and satisfying bites of toasted coconut. Best version I’ve ever had.
This is worthy of returning!”
“I have been following them on social media and could not wait to have dinner here. They exceeded my expectations! Food, phenomenal, atmosphere just what I was looking for, service impeccable. I cannot wait to come back.”
“Some gal pals and I went here the other month and from start to finish it was an absolute delight. As a seasoned veteran of sampling culinary delights I have got to admit it was one of the best meals and experiences of my days. Absolutely no notes.”
“I have a long, productive day where I celebrating accepting a new job with CPI Security and hanging out with Dad today who lives adlund the corner on Society. Both my parents came here back in the 60's. It was phenomenal and very enjoyable! They staff killer - very friendly. Also, I'm a former craft cocktail bartender with a fairly refined palette and that Manhattan was fire! 🔥✌🏼”
“I come to Mex 1 at least twice a month, and it’s always a great experience. The atmosphere is fun, the food is great, and the service is consistently good. Adam the bartender is awesome—friendly, attentive, and always makes us feel welcome!”
“Had a great experience and stay… we enjoyed our time at the pool bar. Bartenders were very engaging and friendly.. great group and they make great drinks. Cozy and quaint.. just wish they played music around pool and not just on the bar side.”
“An entertaining chef, creative and exceptionally well-executed cuisine, a pleasingly funky ambience, and the delight at watching a fine chef at work, which equals a terrific experience.”
“An excellent restaurant for anyone looking to experience authentic Southern cuisine in the heart of historic Charleston!
Poogan’s Porch is one of Charleston’s best-known dining establishments, combining Southern hospitality, traditional Lowcountry cooking, and the charm of a historic setting. Housed in a Victorian-era residence dating back to 1888, the restaurant has plenty of character and offers a memorable dining experience that feels connected to the city's history.
What I particularly appreciate about places like this is the opportunity to experience traditional Southern cooking rather than just another generic restaurant menu. Southern cuisine has a rich culinary heritage, shaped by African American cooking traditions, local ingredients, and generations of Lowcountry food culture. Dishes featuring shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and other regional specialties help tell that story through food.
One interesting fact is that the restaurant takes its name from Poogan, a neighborhood dog who became a familiar presence outside the building in the 1970s. The restaurant opened in 1976, and Poogan eventually became part of its identity. It is a charming piece of local history that gives the establishment a personality beyond its menu.
The atmosphere is another major part of the appeal. The historic house, traditional architectural details, and welcoming Southern character make it a particularly enjoyable place to sit down for a meal while exploring Charleston. The location on Queen Street is also excellent, with beautiful historic streets and architecture nearby that are well worth exploring on foot.
Overall, Poogan’s Porch is a wonderful choice for visitors who appreciate historic buildings, Southern culinary traditions, and restaurants with a genuine sense of place. Charleston has no shortage of dining options, but places like this offer something beyond the food itself: a connection to the city's character and heritage. Definitely worth considering when visiting this beautiful historic city.”
“Madison Maison is THE spot to go in Charleston. The whole scene is a vibe. Our server Journey, was incredible.”
“So, only rating the Speak Easy as the club was not our scene. The Speak Easy though was one of a kind, and awesome. The guy working the door was super nice and was able to get us in for a cocktail without a reservation. The bartender was great, and the fact that they have no menu, was very new to us, but we loved it!”
“We were looking for an outdoor, casual atmosphere of our Charleston fav, Amen Street and lucked up to find her sister restaurant! Phenomenal local, outdoor atmosphere with delicious SC, coastal fish and sides! Perfect! Thank You and we will be back!”
“Home team was a pleasure to work with! Great with responding and getting answers to me quickly, they arrived on time to cater a wedding I coordinated, set up on time, and the food was delicious! Extremely friendly and easy to work with staff who were very helpful! As a planner I appreciate a great catering team and they’ve got it! Highly recommend!”
“Having frequently visited Charleston my entire life, I can confidently say the Dewberry is the finest hotel in Charleston. From the amazing room decor, the quaint lobby cocktail bar, to the breathtaking rooftop bar, you have everything you could want in a hotel. Couple that with absolutely delightful and accomodating staff with the utmost Southern hospitality and you will find it is likely one of the best hotels you have ever visited anywhere.”
“The brussels sprouts were delicious, we got burgers they were well done but perfectly well done (almost medium, not over cooked or burnt). Garlic fries were yummy too. Amazing vibe inside, solid waitress.”
“Everyone was so friendly. The food was amazing. I will definitely be back the mac & cheese will melt in your mouth.”
“The best food I’ve had so far living in Charleston. Highly recommend the Masala salad and wings!!”
Latest Reviews
“Wife and I had Breakfast and Dinner at the Saffron Restaurant. The food and atmosphere were great. Dinner was on a Tuesday evening and So we were invited to play the Trivia Game. We one 3rd out of 3 teams. Oh well was fun anyway. If your in the area this is a great chaise. We were staying at the Hilton Vacations so this was very close.”
“Omg this place is incredibly! I can't wait to go back. A five course meal cooked perfectly. Roasted red pepper soup, shrimp and grits, braised short ribs with the best gravy ever!!! And the dessert.....I didn't want to leave! The vibe.....loved it. Amazing chefs!”
“Leon's is literally in my dreams! My boyfriend and I went there for the first time three years ago. It blew our minds! Affordable, delicious food, and such a fun atmosphere. We returned a couple of times on the same trip. We live in NJ... and set up a trip last year JUST to go to Leons. I am actually scared to post a review because I selfishly want to keep it a secret for my boyfriend and I. Man, if you like chicken and oysters... you cannot go wrong. Damn, now I need to set up another trip. :)”
“We come to Kiawah Island for many years. One of our high high Lights is dining at Aji. We are from New Jersey and had the pleasure of having dined with on the delicacies created by Tim at our local sushi restaurant and are jealous that folks in Charleston have access to this great restaurant. We look forward to returning later in the year.”
“My Bride and I visit here at least once a week. She eats wings and I get my weekly fish or shrimp. The food is great and consistent. I alternate between the fried chips and onion rings. Service is always top notch. In three years only one miscue, and it was fixed immediately! It’s great to have a local place that you can depend on! 👍🏻”
“I found out about Southbound, through my job. I had to go do some work there, and found the owner and everyone there, super friendly. Most people at restaurants ignore working people while they are there. As my 42nd anniversary was quickly approaching, I decided to give this place a try. Some of my past picks, have not been the best. Southbound cleared EVERY hurdle I have about restaurants. From the moment we approached the restaurant, great service began! While coming thru the gate, the hostess yelled out, "HEY LARRY" and then said, "This must be your beautiful wife"! Like CHEERS, it felt great to go somewhere, "Where everybody knows your name" We were seated and got to view the open fire oven. I had dropped off 42 roses the week before for them to put on our table, for my wife. Tropical storm Debbie, and downtown flooding prevented us from going exactly on our anniversary. I was worried that store bought roses, would not last thru the weeklong delay, Joel assured me everything would be taken care of, and not to worry. As we were seated, there on the table, sat 42 roses. Fresh, and arranged with baby breath flowers included. I was told the young lady with the hostess had arranged them. They were gorgeous! They also had an anniversary card on the table from them, not something I had dropped off. The service was tremendous, the food indescribably outstanding! I have only had steak Tar Tar once before in my life, and was greatly afraid to try it again, as the first time was awful. It was superb! They take great pride in the presentation of their food products. I felt like I was in an episode of Master Chef. We had the steak, as well as the Sea bass, okra, corn, sweet potatoes, and the Caramel cake. Everything absolutely wonderful! This was a truly wonderful and memorable dining experience!! I would give 100 stars, and a Siskel and Ebert two thumbs up! There was only one thing I was disappointed about. No sweet tea! Were In Charleston SC, no sweet tea. Everything else totally made up for it though. The staff even had everyone present sign a menu, wishing us a happy anniversry1 I will most definatly go there again for a special occasion. Thanks to Andrew, Joel, and the entire staff, for making this night special!!”
“My date was sick and couldn't keep our brunch date. Since it was a new decade birthday for me, I went alone and had a wonderful time!! I sat in a bar booth and had fun interacting with the very interesting, knowledgeable server, who also was an adventurous cook at home. I sampled new things and compared dishes with other diners as they were leaving. It is my new favorite restaurant in Charleston! The interior is pretty, cheerful and bright. The oyster / bone marrow was elegant. So many good dishes. Their sister restaurant, The James, is also wonderful! It's not as upscale, but delicious, non-the-less! Somebody is doing something right!!”
Most Popular Restaurants
“the people that work there are absolutely wonderful outstanding employees they burger I had was top notch of wonderful the one waiter that waited on us today he was the nicest young man ever so kind the food coming out of the kitchen could have been a little faster other than that everything was terrific”
“Listen, I came to Bourbon & Bubbles expecting a nice dinner. But I'm here to tell you - I left this place questioning ALL my life choices. Because YES, that lobster ravioli is absolutely divine, some may say demure but I’m going with an orgasm of my tastebuds. One bite in and I was ready to trade in my KY girl heels & move upstairs. Everything else on the table held its own - crack potatoes lived up to their name, the deviled eggs were basically showing off, and the cocktails? Let’s just say their bourbon lineup could convince a Pentecostal to consider converting to Catholicism. The presentation was on point, too. It’s the kind of place where even the side dishes look better than I do in unfiltered photos.. Ambience-wise, picture a nightclub circa 2006 where velvet met gold, blue lighting was the vibe, and every bartender is a “master of their craft” (and will happily let you know). It’s moody, glam, and just the right amount of extra. 10/10 would come back, mostly to apologize to the ravioli for not meeting it sooner.”
“the owner Roy Neal was very ridiculous when it came down to riding the bull he was rude and unprofessional only with black people. I have watched others ride the bull before me and nothing was said to them it was the worst racial experience ever. I would not recommend anyone of color to eat here especially from a guy who was that outrageous and unapologetic about his irrational behavior”
“We were given a tip on this restaurant. While tough to get a table it was quickly obvious why. We had the rabbit roulade and the steak w wild mushrooms, but just as good as the main courses were the lamb dumpling appetizers. It was also a beautiful, refined atmosphere with top notice service.”
“My wife and I ate at the weekend buffet. We arrived early and were sat down immediately. Sylvie was super nice and attentive. The food was amazing. My wife loved the stuffed French toast. I highly recommend the shrimp and grits. It's rich and creamy and easily the best shrimp and grits I have ever eaten!”
New Restaurants
“We had dinner at Legami the other night and had such a wonderful experience! Jackson was our server and was incredibly sweet, attentive, and professional. His recommendations were spot-on, and he truly made our evening extra special. Great food, great atmosphere, and outstanding service! We’ll definitely be back!”
“La Cave (next to Felix) completely lived up to the hype. The ambience is absolutely beautiful.. elegant without feeling stuffy, with gorgeous decor and cocktails that were just as impressive as the food.
Everything we ordered was incredible. The caviar biscuit was a fan favorite, and the filet tartine was by far one of the best things I’ve ever eaten in my life. It was a perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, crunchy, creamy, rich, and tender all in one bite. It was perfectly cooked and packed with flavor, I hope they never take it off the menu lol! Every cocktail was unique, well-balanced, and presented beautifully.
Also have to give a huge shoutout to our server, Tito, who was amazing all night. Super attentive, knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely made the experience even better. They also accommodated us adding two extra people to our reservation last minute, which we really appreciated❤
Hands down one of our favorite dining experiences in Charleston. Already looking forward to coming back!!!”
“Love the atmo and music. Excellent service from bartender. Got happy hour appys and restaurant week menu. Pork dumplings need to be on regular menu! Salmon with bok choy and mushrooms is healthy, tasty and basically perfection. Affogato with coconut gelato and satisfying bites of toasted coconut. Best version I’ve ever had.
This is worthy of returning!”
“Rosemary Lounge delivers a relaxed, inviting atmosphere with a touch of elegance. The cocktails are well-crafted and balanced, and the staff is attentive without being overbearing. It’s a great spot to unwind, whether you’re meeting friends or enjoying a quiet evening. Definitely a place worth returning to.”
“5++ stars!
I was lucky enough to live in the same building as this bakery from basically the day they opened to now. They are amazing! I’ve never had anything bad! The “GRIT” cookie might be the best ever! And the seasonal danish flavors and twists are amazing!
Everyone is so sweet and don’t sleep on the best baguettes in town! Coffee is also really good.
Also I have been to almost every bakery in Charleston and this place is top of the list.”
“This place was genuinely a fever dream in the best way possible. everyone that goes to Charleston has to come, nonnegotiable. It's even better in the nighttime. It's a girls only with men optional bar. The only negative is that it closes at 12 AM cause that's when their liquor license ends :(. I love this place through and through. Bury me at Zachs Daiqs. 10/10 expierence.”
“Our little Pizza 🍕 club tried out Timber Pizza Co. this week and it did not disappoint! Their pizza choices are top-tier and each ordered something different to audition the varied flavors. Absolutely something for every palate! We ordered up the Bambino, North Central, Penelope and the Classic Pepperoni. Not a single disappointing bite! Cool vibe and outside seating available, plus great drink options. The crust…perfect in every way. Highly recommend. Service outstanding.”
“Five stars all around, absolute 10/10 experience in every way. One of the best meals we have EVER ever had. Every dish was unbelievable, just perfect bite after perfect bite. The staff were also wonderful and made our experience so special. The whole vibe was wonderful, I genuinely did not want to leave. We will return to Charleston just to eat here again!”

“FABULOUS smoked brisket/turkey ...sides are southern at its best...Local favorite....can't wait to go back!!!!!”