Best Low Country Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Price: Moderate (15)Price: Expensive (4)Price: Very Expensive (2)

13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Virginia's on King restaurant

1. Virginia's on King

4.5

Awesome(2962)

Price: Moderate

• Low country • Downtown Charleston

Booked 38 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, Virginia's on King is a beacon of Southern charm and culinary delight. This esteemed eatery excels in crafting authentic Southern dishes that resonate with the richness of Lowcountry cuisine. Utilizing fresh, local ingredients and cherished family recipes, the menu offers a journey through the South's culinary heritage. Highlights include the indulgent crab Benedict and the perfectly seasoned shrimp and grits, described by a patron as "velvety smooth." Diners consistently praise not only the food but also the ambiance and service, noting, "The food was fantastic if you like Southern food" and "Great service and food our waitress Genevieve was wonderful." Virginia's on King is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Southern hospitality and flavor in Charleston.

A photo of The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel restaurant

2. The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel

4.2

Awesome(1750)

Price: Moderate

• Low country • Downtown Charleston

Booked 19 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel is a treasure trove of authentic Southern American cuisine. With a menu crafted by Executive Chef Heyward Davis and Chef De Cuisine Daniel James, this restaurant is a celebration of farm-to-table freshness, emphasizing local fruits and vegetables while honoring cherished Lowcountry cooking traditions. It's no wonder diners rave about dishes like the "award-winning Shrimp and Grits" and the "delicious, as always" yeast rolls that evoke a nostalgic charm. The charming ambiance, complete with live piano music on weekends, makes every visit to The Swamp Fox a delightful culinary journey into the soul of the South. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this venue's blend of excellent food, service, and atmosphere promises a memorable dining experience.

3. Anson

4.9

Exceptional(4708)

Price: Very Expensive

• Low country • Downtown Charleston

Booked 34 times today

Anson, located in Charleston, offers an exceptional dining experience epitomizing Southern hospitality and cuisine. Customers have lauded the restaurant for its "friendly and accommodating service," "great atmosphere," and "absolutely fabulous food". The menu is deeply rooted in Southern culinary tradition, featuring classics like "Shrimp & Grits," "She Crab Soup," "Fried Green Tomatoes," and the customer-favorite "Crispy Flounder". As one reviewer put it, "The flounder is my go to, has been for 20 years. Shrimp and grits are amazing. [...] Southern food done right." Anson's expertise in Southern cooking, combined with its warm atmosphere, delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

A photo of Well Hung Vineyard and Restaurant restaurant

4. Well Hung Vineyard and Restaurant

4.3

Awesome(708)

Price: Moderate

• Low country • Downtown Charleston

Booked 4 times today

Experience the essence of Low Country cuisine at Well Hung Vineyard and Restaurant in Downtown Charleston, where the local charm and culinary delights meet. Nestled in the historic Charleston Market area, this restaurant offers a vibrant ambiance combined with authentic Low Country dishes like their acclaimed shrimp and grits, praised for being "absolutely fabulous" by patrons. Guests rave about the "exceptional food and service" and the unique dining options such as the waffle burger, which provides a delightful fusion of flavors. With its award-winning wines and a stunning rooftop dining area, Well Hung Vineyard is a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of the Low Country.

5. Tavern & Table

4.5

Awesome(2635)

Price: Moderate

• Low country • Mount Pleasant

Booked 35 times today

Tavern & Table, nestled in the picturesque Mount Pleasant, is a haven for Low Country cuisine enthusiasts seeking both authenticity and innovation in their dining experience. Described as a place where "the food is AMAZING" and the "pimento cheese with bacon jam was life changing," this restaurant captures the essence of Low Country flavors with a modern twist. Patrons consistently praise its "wonderful food and drinks," highlighting specialties like the "fire roasted oysters" and the "burnt ends mac & cheese" that are simply heavenly. With a scenic view of Shem Creek, Tavern & Table offers not just a meal, but a culinary journey that celebrates the rich gastronomic heritage of the Low Country, making every visit memorable and every plate a discovery of southern charm.

A photo of Burwell's Stone Fire Grill restaurant

6. Burwell's Stone Fire Grill

4.9

Exceptional(3541)

Price: Expensive

• Low country • Downtown Charleston

Booked 25 times today

Burwell's Stone Fire Grill, nestled in Downtown Charleston, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. Celebrated as a Diners Choice for ten consecutive years, this eatery offers a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Guests rave about the "best filet" and unique hot stone steaks, which you can cook to your liking, enhancing the dining experience with a personal touch. The local favorite is praised for its use of fresh, local ingredients, ensuring that "everything I’ve ordered has always been superb." With glowing recommendations like being the "best place to dine in the low country" according to South Magazine, and its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Burwell's is undoubtedly a must-visit in Charleston for a memorable dining experience.

A photo of Port of Call - Food & Brew restaurant

7. Port of Call - Food & Brew

4.4

Awesome(11)

Price: Expensive

• Low country • Downtown Charleston

Booked 3 times today

Port of Call - Food & Brew in Downtown Charleston is a beacon of American cuisine that expertly blends Southern classics with innovative twists. The restaurant's large and versatile menu receives glowing reviews for dishes like the "out of this world brunch burger" and "phenomenal bok choy," showcasing its commitment to quality and creativity. Guests rave about the "spectacular" atmosphere and "impeccable" service, highlighting staff members like Fagan, who is frequently mentioned for his attentiveness. Combining coastal charm with culinary excellence, Port of Call is celebrated for making each dining experience memorable, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and exceptional American fare.

A photo of California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating restaurant

8. California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating

4.1

Excellent(3103)

Price: Moderate

• Low country • West Ashley

Booked 42 times today

California Dreaming in Charleston's West Ashley neighborhood is a culinary delight for steak lovers. Since 1987, this restaurant has been serving up some of the most succulent and perfectly prepared steaks, earning rave reviews for its ambiance and cuisine. With its prime rib once a menu staple, patrons now revel in offerings like the flawlessly cooked ribeye, described by a guest as "cooked to perfection." The restaurant's setting, featuring stunning views of the Ashley River, only enhances the dining experience, making each bite of their delicious steak even more enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, the "prime rib was phenomenal," noting that it's a sought-after item that goes quickly. Whether it's the excellent service, the quality of the steak, or the beautiful backdrop, California Dreaming stands out as a top destination for steak enthusiasts visiting Charleston.

9. Bearcat

4.4

Awesome(214)

Price: Expensive

• Low country • West Ashley

Booked 9 times today

Bearcat in West Ashley, Charleston, is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike. Praised as a "neighborhood gem," this Wine Bar stands out not only for its inviting ambiance but also for its exceptional wine pairings that perfectly complement the innovative American cuisine. Patrons rave about the "distinctive yet harmonious flavors" and the sheer creativity that infuses both the food and the wine selections. With glowing reviews like, "the tasting menu with paired wines was tremendous," it's clear that Bearcat offers a sophisticated yet approachable wine experience that enhances each dish, making every visit unforgettable. Whether you're seated at the lively bar area or enjoying the quieter dining space, Bearcat promises an enriching experience that's bound to impress any wine lover.

A photo of Historic Charleston Supper Club restaurant

10. Historic Charleston Supper Club

4.3

Awesome(5)

Price: Very Expensive

• Low country • Downtown Charleston

Step into the heart of Charleston’s history and culinary excellence at the Historic Charleston Supper Club. Located in the iconic Fireproof Building, this unique dining venue offers an authentic Low Country cuisine experience, steeped in the rich flavors of the 18th and 19th centuries. Guests rave about the "delicious and authentic" meals, which include recipes from historical figures like Thomas Jefferson and Martha Washington, served on period china that enhances the old-world charm. Culinary Historian Mike Hebb brings these dishes to life, infusing each meal with stories that transport diners back in time. As one enchanted guest put it, it's a "phenomenal" blend of history and fine dining, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Charleston's storied past and exquisite Low Country fare.

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Discover best Low Country restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Dive into the heart of Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, and discover a treasure trove of Low Country cuisine that captures the essence and charm of the region. Each restaurant in this vibrant locale brings its own unique flair to traditional Southern dishes, emphasizing local ingredients and time-honored recipes. From the historically enriched dining experiences at the Historic Charleston Supper Club to the farm-to-table delicacies at The Swamp Fox, each establishment offers a distinct taste of Lowcountry culinary traditions. Virginia's on King highlights the diversity of local dishes with its Farmer's Plate, while Well Hung Vineyard and Restaurant pairs exquisite food with award-winning wines, creating a holistic dining experience. The dining scene in Downtown Charleston is a dynamic blend of history and modernity, where each meal is not just eaten but experienced, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. This rich culinary landscape is celebrated for its deep roots in Lowcountry cooking and its commitment to quality and authenticity, providing an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

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