
8 restaurants vital to Charleston

by Stephanie Barna
Updated March 30, 2023
In a city where dinner reservations outweigh historical tours on many travelers’ itineraries, there’s a high bar for restaurants. These dining stars—some city stalwarts, some newer entrants—demonstrate the constant emphasis on innovation required to succeed and stand out in Charleston.
Lowcountry cuisine reaches new heights at a refurbished Victorian-era home on Queen Street. A 26-year-old hotel grill serves a dessert so popular that it has trademark status. A laid-back King Street barbecue joint scored James Beard nods for its sumptuous, slow-cooked pork.
These world-class restaurants use the Holy City’s culinary heritage as a springboard for vibrant and inspiring menus. Read on for a guide to Charleston’s 8 greatest spots to book now.
Top review
S
Scott
Dined 4 days ago
4.3 (5356)
$31 to $50
French
Downtown Charleston
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J
Jennifer
Dined 2 days ago
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J
Jennifer
Dined 2 days ago
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R
reed
Dined 2 days ago
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4.8 (2835)
$50 and over
Seafood
Downtown Charleston
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C
Celeste
Dined 3 days ago
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C
Celeste
Dined 3 days ago
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K
kristin
Dined 4 days ago
4.7 (5742)
$30 and under
Steakhouse
Downtown Charleston
Top review
C
CAROL
Dined 2 days ago
Top review
C
CAROL
Dined 2 days ago
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