Where to Eat in Charleston Right Now

The gist: Chef Vivian Howard of iconic Kinston, North Carolina outpost Chef and the Farmer opened this stunner in April, 2020. Located inside the Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel, Howard brings a “modern approach to Southern foodways” to town.
The food: Inventive dishes like Fried Collars with Furikake, Blueberry BBQ Wings, Cornmeal-dusted Catfish with Carolina Caviar, and Grits and Greens dot the menu. The K-town Patty Melt and French Fries (with Kitchen Sink Mayo, no less), paired with a glass of Chablis, is not to miss. Post up at the bar for snacks and cocktails or dip in for a nightcap and a slice of heaven, AKA Chocolate Chess Pie.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: Dominique Chantepie and Nico Romo—of hyped Shem Creek oyster bar Nico’s fame—paired up to open Bistronomy, an airy French bistro on Spring Street, with a focus on high quality ingredients and innovative techniques. Expect French fare with a modern take, in all the right ways—and ambiance that’ll make you feel like you’re perched in a Parisian bistro. Open for dinner and Sunday brunch.
The food: Goat Cheese Spring Rolls, vibrant Tuna Crudo, Beef Carpaccio, and Tomato and Panko-fried Mozzarella are excellent ways to start, but definitely save room for the mains. And by mains, we’re talking Duck à l'Orange, Bouillabaisse, and a standout Gruyere Burger with Foie Gras. And don’t leave without an order of the Escargot Dumplings—the combination of candied ginger, pistachio, browned garlic butter, and cilantro will not soon be forgotten. Brunch also makes an appearance, with a playful menu of cocktails, tartines (don’t sleep on the Beef Bourguignon and French Onion takes), classic French staples, and more on Sundays from 10:30 am to 2 pm.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: A restaurant and whole animal butcher shop had a kid, and they named it Herd Provisions. With access to owner Alec Bradford’s Leaping Water Farm in Virginia, stocked with rare 100% grass-fed White Park cattle, the restaurant focuses on quality meats that are completely traceable and consistently raved about. The spot also serves as a butcher and provisions ship, offering frozen cuts, local cheeses, and wines handpicked by Kelli Holmes.
The food: It’s obvious that beef is the star of the show. Brussels Sprouts in black garlic shoyu and Beef Fat Fries and Tartare are the way to start. Juicy Steak entree and Steak Frites will satisfy any carnivore’s palate and give you a sense of place while the burger menu is similarly stellar (the Poutine Burger, laden with white cheddar and fried shallots, is everything). But don’t fret if you’re a vegetarian, as there’s a whole menu for that, with items like savory Shakshuka, Mushroom Pappardelle, and Sweet Potato Fries with smoked paprika aioli. On Tuesday through Saturday from 4 to 6 pm, the price is right on a selection of happy hour drinks and small plates, including an $8 Blues Burger and a tasty $6 Kale Caesar Salad.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

Post House is best described as a coastal tavern with a few rooms stashed upstairs—the kind of place where you can easily overeat and stumble back to bed afterwards. Tucked away in Mount Pleasant, it’s a respite from the hustle and bustle of King Street traffic, serving up seasonal fare and classic cocktails just steps from Hog Island Channel.
The food: Charleston doesn’t fall short on seafood, but here you’ll find a “coastal offerings” section that brings the sea (legit straight from the waterways out back) right to the table. The Market Ceviche is always a hit, and it’s wise to order at least a dozen of whatever oysters are available that day. The Fish Cassoulet is ideal for sharing—or not—while the restaurant touts the Crispy Butterbean Burger, with melty American cheese and comeback sauce, as a tried-and-true staple.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: The weather in South Carolina is unpredictable, which means a nice, warm beach day could be in your cards in January. Or not. Whatever the case, you can always hit up this lively eatery a few blocks away from the beach for reliably delicious Mexican fare.
The food: An endless selection of tortas, tacos, quesadillas, and more dominate the menu. The taco section is filled with classics like Carnitas and Carne Asada and there are several types of fish tacos to satisfy any craving. The Fresh Catch is a must, but the Santos Shrimp hits all the right notes with Baja-spiced shrimp, shredded cabbage, chipotle crema, and corn-black bean salsa. If hunger strikes, the Bangin’ Shrimp Torta (AKA the sandwich version of a shrimp taco) and giant nachos will leave you in a food coma. Happy hour draws in a crowd Monday through Friday from 3 pm to 6 pm, when $5 infused Margs and $4 Queso and Chips come out to play.
How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating.

The gist: Out on Sullivan’s Island lurks one of Charleston's best restaurants: the Obstinate Daughter. Chef Jaques Larson helms the kitchen, where Southern food is influenced by Spanish, French, and Italian flavors—plus a wood fired oven that slings epic pizza.
The food: The biggest challenge is what not to order, as everything is majorly tempting. The Shrimp Roll and Peel n’ Eat Shrimp will never lead you wrong, but save room for housemade pasta and don’t sleep on the specials. As for pizza, the Old Danger, topped with pancetta, egg, scallion, white sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, and black pepper, is something you’ll think about long after the bill is settled. Weekend brunch consists of festive morning standards like skillets, Eggs in Purgatory, and Beet-cured Salmon, and are best paired with one of the many epic Italian wines by the glass.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: Frequent diners at Workshop have long loved the fresh, homestyle Vietnamese cuisine inspired by owner-chef Janice Nguyên Hudgins mother’s cooking. Its new standalone location opened earlier this year and has already become a go-to of Mount Pleasant diners.
The food: Classic Vietnamese foods you’ve come to expect, and dammit, each one is better than the last. The beef pho’s broth is flavorful and unctuous, while the sesame noodle stir fry is a super comforting and nostalgic dish. The cauliflower fried rice is another popular dish offering something a bit lighter, and the steamed bao buns are like little warm pillows of joy.
The cost: The appetizers are $7-10, second course options (curries, pho, fried rice, and noodles) are $12-15, and the banh mi is only $8. The kids’ menu has four different options at $6 a piece.
How to book: Call 843-388-7251 to reserve.

The gist: Dashi is another exciting food truck-turned-restaurant. The Asian-Latin fusion fare offers you the best of both worlds under one roof and harmoniously combines all the flavors. The food is great for a quick bite at lunch or an easily portable meal to grab-and-go.
The food: All the food truck favorites, like the tomato bread and steamed buns, can be found here. But now there are some heartier options like the curry shrimp and grits and the gaucho steak plate with fresh chimichurri. Don’t miss Dashi’s surprisingly impressive wine list.
The cost: Bottles of wine are upwards of $12, Sides are $3-5, small plates are $4-11, entrees are $11-15, and the kids’ menu is $7-12.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: French food has made a resurgence in Charleston, but Maison (not to be confused with the Maison Cafe inside the Grand Bohemian Hotel) sets the bar even higher with its artful and innovative plates. The one-page food menu features a number of familiar French favorites that are as beautiful to look at as they are satisfying to eat.
The food: The salmon rillette with lemon, everything spice, and pumpernickel is a must-try. If you’re not a fish person, you won’t want to pass up the roasted chicken with macaroni farci, morels, english peas, chicken jus. Pair it with a nice glass of wine and a chocolate mousse for dessert for an evening that’s truly magnifique.
The cost: Appetizers average in the $16 range, main courses are around the $33 mark.
How to book: Reserve via OpenTable.

The gist: Nigel’s Good Food has been a Lowcountry staple in North Charleston and Ladson for years, and when owner Nigel Drayton decided to expand into the BBQ biz earlier last year, Charlestonians rejoiced. Think a good old-fashioned barbecue joint with slow-roasted meats and impeccable sides.
The food: From the Dirty Harry Sloppy Joe to the melt-in-your-mouth brisket, to the Golden Geechie Wings, Drayton really knows his meat. Pair your protein of choice with one of his signature sides, like fried smashed potatoes or green apple coleslaw, and you’ll be licking your plate clean.
The cost: The three-meat combo served with two sides can easily be split between two people is $22. A whole rack of ribs is the priciest menu item at $27 and veggie sides are just $3 a piece.
How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating.

The gist: From the team that created the much loved Chez Nous, comes this intimate, Spanish-style market and tapas bar helmed by chef Juan Cassalett. Malagón provides a truly unique experience, choosing to forego a website and frowning upon social media use inside the restaurant -- in favor of a more personal meal in which you’re connected to the food and the people around you (basically how we used to eat before smartphones).
The food: As with a lot of Spanish cuisine, pork plays a huge part, like in the bechamel croquettes or almond-stuffed dates wrapped in serrano ham. But even if you don’t eat pork, the menu has something for everyone, like the tortilla española or the fresh grilled whole flounder with garlic.
The cost: Tapas range from $7-17 each.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: Chubby Fish might have a silly name, but it takes seafood very seriously. Partnering with local fisherman, the restaurant is seasonal and uncomplicated, with just a few options to choose from, but each bite is bursting with a flavor and depth.
The food: Some favorites on the rotating menu include the shark tempura sandwich, smoked swordfish curry, and chili garlic shrimp. Finish off the meal with something sweet off the dessert menu, like the blueberry ice cream sandwich or not-fried-chicken from Life Raft Treats.
The cost: Most entrees average in the $20+ range, with some lighter options around $10. Desserts are $6 apiece.
How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating.

The gist: Simply Seafood is a standout pandemic restaurant that popped up on John’s Island. On the surface, it looks like just another seafood shack, but fresh and flavorful ingredients set it far apart from the fishy pack.
The food: Much like a typical seafood joint, Simply Seafood offers fried seafood baskets, garlic seafood platters, seafood boils, sandwiches, and salads. A wise choice is the seafood platter with three different selections (we recommend the shrimp, oysters, and fish filets), plus two sides (you gotta try the mac and cheese and the fried okra). If you’re looking for something a little lighter, the garlic snow crabs or a shrimp seafood boil are also great options.
The cost: The three seafood platter with two sides is $15.99, garlic snow crab platter is $26.99, baskets range from $8-12, and sandwiches all clock in under $10.
How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating.

The gist: Named after the 8th-century consort of the last Tang emperor, Kwei Fei can be found in the same space as the Pour House and specializes in Sichuan cuisine from Western China. High quality Chinese food is hard to come by in Charleston, so Kwei Fei is a beacon of shining hope for those who crave a warm bowl of dan dan noodles or hand-folded dumplings.
The food: If you’re looking for something comforting, start with pork crescent dumplings and then go for the Xi’an Style Beef Noodles or Dan Dan Mian, which are hot and loud and bursting with flavor. The cocktails are also fantastic, and one of our favorites is the Mother’s Helper, which is made with your choice of booze and local One Love Kombucha.
The cost: Most of the apps are $8, entrees are $14-17. Cocktails run from $10-12. Tips are split between the kitchen staff, so act generously.
How to book: Make a reservation on Resy

The gist: When James Beard-nominated chef Shuai Wang announced he was transforming his popular food truck Short Grain into a brick and mortar, Charlestonians rejoiced. Deviating from the rice bowls that made it famous, Jackrabbit Filly’s menu features new American Chinese cuisine that warms you up from the inside.
The food: Seriously, the entire menu is worth trying. If you don’t have the time or the stomach room, however, definitely don’t miss out on the Karaage (or the Sichuan Hot Karaage, if you like it on the spicier side), the Fish Curry, and the Chili Tofu. Keep in mind the menu changes regularly, so double check before you order.
The cost: Cocktails are $10-12, lunch bowls are $13-15, and dinner options are $8-19.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: The Shellmore is a cozy, intimate wine and oyster bar that is undeniably one of the best restaurants in Mount Pleasant. Although its menu is limited (5-6 entrees and a few selections of oysters and cheese), the bar prioritizes quality over quantity.
The food: The menu changes daily and is always posted on Instagram. In general, it’s hard to go wrong with any seafood or oyster option and, during summer months, we gravitate toward Shellmore’s fresh ceviche and salad options. Be sure to ask for a recommendation for a great glass of wine to accompany your meal, because the bartenders really know their stuff.
The cost: Appetizers start around $8-12, while entrees are $15-20 a person.
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: Chef Sean Mendes opened Gillie’s Soul Food in 2017 as an ode to his grandmother and the food he grew up eating. The restaurant certainly exudes the feeling of your grandmother’s kitchen, with lots of family photos on the “grandma wall,” and lacy tablecloths throughout.
The food: Gillie’s menu is full of comfort food favorites, like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, macaroni and cheese, and some of the tastiest meatloaf in town. Be sure to save room for dessert, because the pineapple upside down cake is the perfect ending to any meal.
The cost: Appetizers average around $10, sandwiches and tacos are $5-10, a meat and three plate, and seafood baskets start at $15.
How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating.

The gist: Since the highly anticipated barbecue joint opened in 2016, locals and visitors alike have flocked here for its Texas-style meats, like buttery smoked beef brisket and the Hot Guts sausage. Lewis is perfectly suited to takeout because meat is served by the pound and perfect for sharing. This spot exceeds the hype.
The food: The number one thing you absolutely must get at Lewis is the Brisket. It’s offered both sliced and chopped, and while you’re welcome to get it either way, we opt for sliced and with lots of sauce. Other favorites are the housemade Hot Guts Sausage (served by the link), the El Sancho Sandwich, and the Green Chile Corn Pudding—and the joint’s juicy Turkey never disappoints.
The cost: A pound of brisket costs $22, and Lewis recommends ¼-pound per person, sandwiches start at $8, a single side is $3 and a family-size quart is $12
How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating.

The gist: Little Jack’s is a delightful time machine back to the diners and steakhouses of the late ’50s, menu included. Since its Tavern Burger was recently named one of the best burgers in the U.S., people have been flocking to this quaint and cozy little shop for a burger that’s so good, you can order it from the appetizer, entree, and dessert menus.
The food: You’d be remiss to not order the burger with a smashed patty, gooey American cheese, and griddled onions. Other popular dishes include the warm garlic knots served with cheese fondue, chopped salad topped with avocado ranch dressing, and the crispy chicken cutlet. Pair your meal with an updated classic cocktail, like the Rum Old Fashioned.
The cost: Appetizers start at $9, the burger with fries is $15, entrees start at $21
How to book: Reserve via Resy.

The gist: Since opening in 2015, the lines for this joint’s famous Fish and Chips have consistently snaked out the door. After moving to North Charleston, adding a lot more seating, and expanding its menu, the restaurant still feels like a proper English-style fish and chippy.
The food: People just can’t get enough of The Codfather’s British fried cod, thick-cut chips, mushy peas, and rich gravy. Plus, you can order entrees like “fish butty” (sandwich), housemade pies, and sausage rolls. Add a healthy dose of vinegar and HP Sauce to round out your meal.
The cost: An order of fish and chips is $12 and sides along range from $2-4.
How to book: Stop by for first come, first served seating.

The gist: From chef Jill Mathias and sous chef Juan Cassalett, Chez Nous is an intimate restaurant featuring artfully crafted cuisine with French, Northern Italian, and Spanish influences. Great for celebrations with a loved one, as the food evokes feelings of traveling in the French countryside.
The food: The menu changes daily and consists of two apps, two entrees, and two desserts. Recent offerings have included a melon and Buffalo mozzarella salad, risotto with saffron and bone marrow, a fennel-crusted pork chop, and watermelon budino. Don’t let the limited selections dissuade you -- everything is thoughtful and beautiful.
The cost: The daily menu usually clocks in around $50 a person before tip and bottles of wine to-go start at $24
How to book: Reserve via Resy.