Restaurants in Charleston
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Charleston?
No matter where you go on vacation, food is always a focus. In fact, for some people, it’s the focus, and the South Carolina Lowcountry does not disappoint. In recent years, restaurants in Charleston and the surrounding areas have received critical acclaim for everything from traditional dishes like shrimp and grits and tangy barbecue, to new culinary creations like Sea Island grass-fed beef bolognese and yellowfin tuna tacos. This area also “does” brunch better than anywhere in the Southeast. Chicken and waffles, creamy grits with fluffy eggs and thick bacon, and Lowcountry Benedict are only the beginning.
Are you hungry now? Let’s dive into some of our favorite restaurants on Kiawah Island, near the island, and in Charleston.
Restaurants in Charleston
The Holy City captures the hearts of travelers for many reasons including its history, Southern charm, and incredible restaurants. Charleston, which is known as the Holy City due to the many church steeples you can see in its skyline, serves as the perfect backdrop for a waterfront lunch, a celebratory dinner, or your first introduction to Lowcountry cuisine! Downtown Charleston is just a 30-minute drive from Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, making it an easy outing for any meal.
Lowcountry
- Early Bird Diner
- Hominy Grill
- Husk
- Jestine’s Kitchen
- Lewis Barbecue
- Minero
- Rodney Scott’s Barbecue
- Slightly North of Broad
- Swig & Swine
- The Grocery
Seafood
- 167 Raw
- Amen Street
- Bowens Island
- Fleet Landing
- Hank’s Seafood Restaurant
- Leon’s Oyster Shop
- Pearlz
- The Ordinary
Steakhouse
Fine Dining
Restaurants on Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island has excellent dining options no matter what you’re in the mood for. From family-friendly restaurants to date-night destinations, you’ll find someone for everyone in your group and every occasion at these Kiawah Island restaurants.
- Cherrywood BBQ and Ale
- Jasmine Porch
- Loggerhead Grill
- Mingo Point Oyster Roast and BBQ
- Night Heron Grill and Bar
- The Atlantic Room
- The Market at Town Center
- The Ocean Room Restaurant
- The Players Pub
- The Ryder Cup Bar
- Tomasso
Restaurants at Freshfields Village
If you’re looking to explore dining options just off the island, Freshfields Village boasts some incredible, casual restaurants to choose from.
- Cantina 76
- Forty-Eight, A Wine Bar
- Fuji Sushi Bar
- Hege’s French Bistro
- King Street Grille
- La Tela Pizzeria
- Ladles
- The Station Deli
Restaurants at Bohicket Marina
After a day on the beach, a round on the golf course, or reeling in an incredible catch, refuel at any of these Bohicket Marina restaurants. These casual eateries are perfect for a quick bite with the family or a laid-back night out with friends.
Restaurants on Johns Island
Neighboring John’s Island is home to several delicious eateries with options ranging from hearty home cooking to imaginative Southern cuisine to inspired Italian favorites. One thing you’ll notice about restaurants in the Lowcountry is that the menus are overflowing with dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. John’s Island is no different and uses several purveyors located on the island itself. John’s Island is just moments from Kiawah and Seabrook Islands.
Grocery Delivery Service
You’ll need to stock your vacation rental with essentials whether you plan to dine out for most meals or create your own culinary masterpieces. Order everything you need ahead of time and have it brought to you using the island’s grocery delivery service.
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