Charleston has some of the most amazing restaurants and it can be hard to choose, here are my recommendations for a visit to the Holy City. They do book up so if they take reservations plan ahead.
We love SNOB especially great for people for food allergies or sensitivities as they are very accommodating.
Slightly North of Broad - Charleston, SC
Located in a great spot near the market and water. Casual but top notch food.
Amen Street - East Bay, Charleston, SC
Warning that it is loud and can get crowded but the food is good and the location is very cool in an old church.
Church and Union Charleston
If you want a real southern vibe and food this is an adorable classic restaurant on everyone's list.
Poogan's Porch | Southern Restaurant in Charleston | South Carolina
Not downtown but on John's Island but worth the drive for this unique outdoor dining experience and amazing food and drinks.
Lost Isle - Johns Island, Johns Island, SC
Another John's Island best this is fantastic Italian food but they book up so book early.
Wild Olive Restaurant | Johns Island
If you have time on your visit to hit Shem Creek on Mt Pleasant do it and this is a great food option with great water views.
Tavern & Table
We love taking friends here for lunch or dinner with beautiful water views and maybe a dolphin sighting.
Sunsets Waterfont Dining- Downstairs
We love the trip to Isle of Palms and Islander 71 is a great spot to watch boats, birds, people and they have oyster roasts and live music.
Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar
On James Island this food and drink menu are fantastic. They are open for lunch and dinner and we love it as a fun last minute date night.
The James
Can be really tough to get a reservation but I have yet to meet anyone that didn't love their experience.
Sorelle
Can't put together a restaurant list and not include some steakhouses and Hall's is one of Charleston's most famous. We love the brunch.
Halls Chophouse
Inside a hotel, this restaurant and bar/lounge are such a fun place to meet up with friends.
Frannie & The Fox
The food and chef are top notch and you get rooftop views. A little pricey but worth it for a great experience.
Élevé Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge
The menu is always changing so a great place to go back to if you can get a reservation.
FIG
This is on my list to hit very soon. Old Village charm and a lovely setting in Mt Pleasant
Post House
Parking can be a challenge as can reservations, but it is a top named restaurant and a good reason to go to Sullivan's Island.
The Obstinate Daughter
John's Island dinner location for that special occasion, smaller menu but great food.
The Royal Tern
Another steakhouse option for the meat lovers. Consistent and delicious.
Marbled & Fin
Another Charleston staple for dining downtown.
82 Queen
They don't take reservations so people start lining up at 4pm to get on the list. But everyone raves and says it is worth it.
Chubby Fish
Located on Upper King, this has great Italian food in a fun vibe. It is small so reservations are a must.
Indaco
Sister restaurant to SNOB and Halls, another old school steakhouse option and they have live music in the lounge most nights
High Cotton Charleston Restaurant
Fun restaurant right off the beach in Folly they do live music often and have a casual beach vibe.
Rita's Seaside Grille
This is a splurge location, but it so perfect for a Charleston high-end experience I had to include it.
Charleston Historic District Fine Dining Restaurant | Circa 1886
