Enjoy An Incredible Night At Any Of These Downtown Charleston Restaurants

Long week from work and tired of cooking at home? Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a restaurant instead! Charleston is home to a wide range of top-rated restaurants and bars. From upscale lounges to chic bistros, Charleston has an eclectic array of spots for you and your friends to try. Not only is it easy to find a spot that will satisfy your cravings, but it’s definitely doable to find a place that will also work with your budget. Not sure what restaurants to check out? We’ve got you covered! Check out our guide to the best downtown Charleston restaurants!

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1. O-Ku Sushi

A sophisticated Japanese restaurant that is known for its unique and fresh cuisine!

Buy An O-Ku Sushi Gift Card

463 King St | Charleston | o-kusushi.com

First up on the list is O-Ku Sushi. If you’re in the mood for fresh sushi rolls and authentic Japanese cuisine, O-Ku Sushi is the place to be. Located right next to the Charleston Museum, O-Ku Sushi offers an upscale-rustic dining space where you can sit back and relax with friends.

On the menu, you’ll find a wide selection of Chef Specialty dishes, hot items, box style sushi, nigiri, and rolled sushi. Some favorite menu items include the A-5 Wagyu, Lobster Temaki, Braised Beef Short Rib, and Fuego Fiasco Roll. O-Ku Sushi also offers plenty of cocktails, beer, sake, and wine to enjoy alongside your dish. 

“the vibes, the vibes, the vibesssss! such a homey and lovely place. this was our first time visiting, based on recommendations from others. the sushi / food was great as well as the staff and atmosphere. reservations are a must.” -Yelp Review

You can Purchase a GiftYa Gift Card to O-Ku Sushi here!

2. Husk

Charming restaurant in Downtown Charleston that uses locally-sourced ingredients for all of its dishes!

Text A Husk Gift Card

76 Queen St | Charleston | huskcharleston.com

Next up on the list is Husk. Husk is an award-winning restaurant that is dedicated to providing true Southern food using locally-sourced ingredients. In 2011, Bon Appetit named Husk as one of the Best New Restaurants in America and since then has received acclaim from many.

The menu frequently changes depending on what the region’s producers are offering on a particular day. You can check the website for the menu of the day as well as past menu offerings. Past menu items include Yellowfin Tuna Tartare, Charcoaled Pork Toro, and Wood Fired Stono River Oysters. Husk also offers a small dessert menu, filled with fun treats like Peach Beignets and a Sorbet Trio. No matter the menu item you’ll have a delicious meal in store.

“This was the best dinning experience we had in Charleston. The service was attentive and efficient. Nice wine list, we had a bottle of the house brand GSM and enjoyed it. We'll be back when we visit Charleston.” -Yelp Review

You can Purchase a GiftYa Gift Card to Husk here!

3. Indaco

Rustic Italian restaurant that offers wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted pastas, and more delicious cuisine!

526 King St | Charleston | indacorestaurant.com

Now if you’re in the mood for Italian food, we have to recommend stopping by Indaco. This rustic Italian restaurant offers hearty dishes and great drinks that pair together beautifully. It’s the perfect spot to kick back and relax with friends and family. 

On the menu, you’ll find a wide selection of pizzas, pastas, and meat and seafood entrees. Some favorite dishes include the Roasted Half Chicken, Spaghetti Nero, Mortadella Pizza, and C.A.B. 22 oz Ribeye. Can’t decide on just one dish? Order the three-course, family-style meal for the table!

“Another 5 star update because Indaco doesn't miss! Fantastic meal every single time which honestly is rare. From the staff to the specials and of course the food and drinks. The budino dessert was one of the best things I've ever eaten.” -Yelp Review

4. Anson

Charming and homely restaurant that is known for its savory Southern cuisine!

12 Anson St | Charleston | ansonrestaurant.com

Anson is a stylish, homely restaurant in Charleston that is known for its savory and innovative Southern dishes. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday starting at 5pm, making it the perfect dinner spot for after work food and drinks. On the menu, you’ll find delicious plates like the NY Strip 14 oz., Roasted East Coast Oysters, and Crispy Brussel Sprouts. Dessert is also available and they’ve got some good ones like Pecan Pie ala Mode and Crème Brulee.

“Hidden gem of Charleston- I don't want to expose this too much, but it's the best restaurant in Charleston. Extremely locals only spot. King crab salad with remoulade, smash burger, and lobster bucatini. Martinis are out of control. Must visit” -Yelp Review

5. Tempest

Elegant seafood restaurant that is located in the former historic Harriott Pinckney Home for Sailors!

32 N Market St Suite C | Charleston | tempestcharleston.com

Tempest is a stunning restaurant that is famous for both its regal dining setting and fresh seafood dishes. In 2020, it was voted Best New Restaurant by USA Today’s 10 Best and since then has been delighting patrons day in and day out.

The menu features a wide selection of small plates, entrees, roasts, sides, and desserts. Some of their most popular dishes include the Yellowfin Tuna Crudo, Cucumber Salad, and Georgia Wagyu Strip. Brunch is offered every weekend from 10am to 3pm. You can expect savory dishes like their Smoked Shrimp Roll and Tempest Fried Chicken if you stop by then.

“My husband and I have celebrated our wedding anniversary here for the past two years. This place is a must anytime you are in Charleston. The food is delicious and service is always exceptional. Outside seating is available and this place has nice charm and beauty. See you next year!” -Yelp Review

6. 39 Rue De Jean

Refined French cafe and bar that will bring you back to the 1800’s!

39 John St | Charleston | holycityhospitality.com

39 Rue de Jean will take you back to Paris of the late 1800’s. With a rustic, brick wall setting and menu filled with Parisian-inspired classics, you’ll forget that the city of Charleston is just outside. Under “Les Entrees,” you’ll find mouthwatering dishes like the Garlic and Sage Duck Leg, Seared Scallops, and Grilled LAmb Porterhouse. Cocktails, wine, and spirits are also available to enjoy alongside your meal. Check out their menu online to see their full selection of dishes and their Brunch specials.

“Everything we had was amazing! So many different flavors and everything cooked perfectly. Only thing I would complain about is the cheesecake.. it's a ricotta cheesecake which requires a very specific pallet.” -Yelp Review

7. Poogan’s Porch

Popular Southern restaurant located inside a Victorian townhouse

72 Queen St | Charleston | poogansporch.com

Located inside a restored Victorian house, Poogan’s Porch offers a truly unique dining experience. Since 1976, locals have flocked to Poogan’s Porch for its charming ambiance and delicious Southern cuisine. Guests can stop by for brunch or dinner. Whenever you go, you can expect to enjoy some of the best food of your life. 

On the menu, you’ll find a wide selection of starters, salads, entrees, and desserts. Some of their most popular dishes include the Chicken Fried Pork Bone-In Chop, BBQ Mahi Mahi, and Sweet-Tea Glazed Salmon. Reserve a table for brunch or dinner now!

“My wife and I went here. The food was good, the vibes were great , and our server Donte was excellent. Highlight of our meal was the fried tomatoes. Definitely recommend.” -Yelp Review

8. FIG

Local neighborhood restaurant offering up an upscale bistro setting

232 Meeting St | Charleston | eatatfig.com

Find the freshest and most flavorful food at FIG, located in Ansonborough in Charleston. FIG is dedicated to providing hearty dishes for its guests using the best ingredients around. For dinner, you can enjoy mouthwatering plates like the Slow Baked Wreck Fish, Pan Roasted Bavette Steak, and Ricotta Gnocchi + Lamb Bolognese. For dessert, you can try some of their Camarosa Strawberry Sorbet or enjoy a sweet cocktail like the Lemongrass Habanero Daquiri. 

“I had a wonderful time eating the best gnocchi and chatting with strangers at the bar. The bouillabaisse was delicious, and the INFP was great. It definitely worth waiting outside before the restaurant opened for a meal like this.” -Yelp Review‍

9. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar

Want to dine on the waterfront? This downtown Charleston restaurant is the perfect fit!

186 Concord St | Charleston | fleetlanding.net

Of course when you’re in downtown Charleston you have to knock off dining by the waterfront on your list. And where better to go than Fleet Landing Restaurant where you can get some of the freshest seafood in the city. Enjoy lunch, dinner, and brunch on Sunday’s with menu items like Chilled Oysters, Signature Stuffed Hush Puppies, and their very own Seafood Tower with the options of split cold-water lobster tail, snow crab claws, oysters, shrimp cocktail, and a choice of smoked fish dip or crab dip, and ceviche or tartare.

“Shecrab soup was fantastic and oyster poboy was delicious! Great place. Packed on a Saturday at lunchtime. We managed to grabbed to seats at the bar with a beautiful view of the water. Definitely come back!” -Yelp Review

10. Bumpa's

Locally-sourced pub favorites for you to enjoy with a cold drink in hand!

5 Cumberland St | Charleston | bumpas-chs.com

Bumpa’s is a bar/restaurant that’s housed in a 150+ year old converted warehouse. Built all those years ago, you can feel the history and energy that’s made this old building into something anew. This pub has all your favorite foods like Pretzels and Beer Cheese, a stack of Legendary Fries, burgers, sandwiches, and more. Get your fingers greasy and enjoy the comfort food at Bumpa’s.

“Came here for the first time as we were in the mood for some fries and they did not disappoint! Large portion and you pick your own toppings. Fries were nice and crispy- just how we like them.

Also had the southpaw burger and fish sandwich. Both were fantastic!” -Yelp Review

11. Iron Rose

Located inside a hotel, decorated to look like its own place!

115 Meeting St #174 (Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton) | Charleston | ironroserestaurant.com

Iron Rose Restaurant and Bar is neatly tucked in the private courtyard of The Mills House Hotel. This fancy-upscale establishment brings elevated Southern flare to the hungry mouths of Charleston and beyond. They serve breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Look forward to dishes like their Smoked Salmon Plate, Pimento Cheese, 8OZ Cab Burger, and Grilled Cheshire Pork. 

“Went for brunch with some friends who were in town. Drinks were yummy and the food was good, but I did feel it was a bit over priced for what we got. I definitely recommend trying to sit out in the patio if it's a nice day” -Yelp Review

12. Azul Mexicano Downtown

Authentic Mexican food perfect for the afternoon out on the town with friends!

385 Meeting St | Charleston | azuldowntown.com

Azul Mexicano consists of three locations in South Carolina and they specialize in authentic and delicious Mexican food for all to enjoy. A big highlight is their speciality marga which you can get with your meal if you’re feeling a little extra zesty. They have menu options like Nachos Fajitas, Chicken Tortilla Soup, Ceviche, Tortas, Street Tacos, and much more. Enjoy all the flavors of Mexican food at Azul.

“We had lunch here after a bus tour of Charlston and were pleasantly surprise. Lady at the visitor center recommended this place which was so close so we decided to give it a try - it did not disappoint! Great food, generous portion, attentive service - A+!!!” -Yelp Review

13. Magnolias

Redefining Southern cuisine for over 30 years in Charleston!

185 E Bay St | Charleston | magnoliascharleston.com

What began in 1990 soon became a Chalreston staple, Magnolias is known to be the place to go for refined Southern dining. You’ll enjoy spins on your favorite dishes along with a skillfully created plate that looks as good as it tastes. They have dishes such as the Dill Pickled Deviled Eggs, Fried Mac & Cheese, Creamy Tomato Bisque, and Blackened Catfish. Magnolias is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

“Best meal of our trip. The pork chop and a sides were amazing, even the collard greens. Also had the halibut and was not disappointed. The flavors blended well and were not overpowering. Will definitely return when in Charleston.” -Yelp Review

So, to recap:

• Downtown Charleston restaurants

You’ve got a mix of everything: Southern flare, seafood favorites, and classic go-to comfort foods. Any of these places will make for a lovely night out with your loved ones.