Charleston, South Carolina, is a culinary wonderland. The city's historic charm and Southern hospitality draw visitors from all over the world, and it's not hard to see why. Charleston is home to an eclectic mix of restaurants that range from upscale fine dining establishments to charming neighborhood pub-style eateries. Here are the seven best restaurants in Charleston, SC, that you must try if you're visiting the Holy City.

 

Hominy Grill

 

Hominy Grill is a casual Southern restaurant located in the West Ashley area of Charleston. The menu features seasonal dishes, and even though the restaurant has been open since 1996, it still feels like a local secret. It's been featured on Food Network and has won awards for its food.

The restaurant has an indoor dining area, which is great for those who want to be out of the heat. The patio outside is a great place to enjoy the fresh air and views of the Ashley River.

The food is delicious, and the menu changes seasonally. The fried green tomatoes are always a must-try, as well as the shrimp and grits. For dessert, try the sweet potato pie with vanilla ice cream.

Xiao Bao Biscuit

 

The menu features a variety of dishes, including dumplings, noodles, and rice bowls. For those looking for something more substantial, there are also several steak options available.

The drinks menu is extensive and includes both beer and wine options. There are also cocktails on offer—try the bourbon-based Old Fashioned or the spicy Ginger Mule if you want to go off-menu!

 

 

Xiao Bao Biscuit is a Chinese restaurant located in West Ashley.

 

If you're looking to try some new food in Charleston while getting away from the typical tourist haunts, then Xiao Bao Biscuit should be your next stop!

 

FIG Restaurant

 

If you're in Charleston for a special occasion, FIG is an ideal location, as advised by moving experts from Strong-Ass Movers. One of the best restaurants in Charleston is located at the top of King Street and has been around since 1996. Their food is creative and delicious, as are their drinks, which are often served in beautiful glassware or on unique plates. The prices are high, but this is expected for fine dining establishments; however, it's worth noting that there's no dress code, so you can wear whatever you want.  

In addition to being known for its food and drink menus, FIG also offers live music seven nights a week from 6 pm until 10:30 pm (reservations required). If you're traveling with kids, they'll love this spot too because it's kid-friendly without being overbearing on the little ones—many restaurants have rules against children under a certain age but not here!

 

McCrady's Restaurant Tavern

This restaurant’s cuisine is American/Southern, with a focus on fresh local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Some of the menu items are:

• Tuna Tartare—Seared tuna with avocado, capers, and mustard seed vinaigrette; served with fried risotto cakes. 
• * Housemade Charcuterie—A rotating selection of cured meats from local farms; served with cornichons (cured French pickles) and whole grain mustard. 
• * Escargots—Escargot snails caramelized in butter with garlic and herbs over a puff pastry crust.

The price range is $12–$30 per plate for starters and appetizers. Special features include an extensive collection of vintage Champagne that can be paired with any meal upon request.

The eatery also offers a selection of innovative cocktails, including the Charleston Sour—a perfectly balanced cocktail made with moonshine, housemade sour mix, and bitters.

 

Chez Nous

 

The restaurant is known for its extensive wine list, which can be enjoyed on its beautiful patio overlooking the city. There are many menu items to choose from, including salads, seafood dishes, and vegetarian options. The restaurant serves brunch every Saturday and Sunday morning from 10:00 am–3:00 pm (reservations recommended).

 

Chez Nous is located in the heart of downtown Charleston and offers Mediterranean-style cuisine.

 

The menu offers a wide variety of items, including salads, seafood dishes, and vegetarian options. The restaurant serves brunch every Saturday and Sunday morning from 10:00 am–3:00 pm (reservations recommended).

The Ordinary

The Ordinary is a seafood restaurant located in Charleston, South Carolina. The Ordinary has been open since 1990, and it's known for its seafood dishes and cocktails. The restaurant has even won awards for its food and drinks!

 

One of the seven best restaurants in Charleston, SC.

 

The Ordinary has a wide selection of dishes, including oysters on the half shell, mussels, clams, crab cakes, and more. They also have several seafood entrees to choose from, such as pan-seared diver scallops and grilled yellowfin tuna. If you're not in the mood for seafood, plenty of other options are available at The Ordinary.

If you're looking for something on the lighter side, try one of their salads. They have a Caesar salad and a wedge salad that are both delicious! You can also get soup or steamed mussels as an appetizer before your meal. The Ordinary has a large selection of wine and beer to choose from as well.

 

Fleet Landing Restaurant and Bar

 

Fleet Landing Restaurant and Bar is located in the Charleston Harbor Resort. This restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, as well as on weekends for brunch. It has a full bar that offers a variety of drinks to its guests. The Fleet Landing menu includes seafood creations such as crab cakes, shrimp scampi, and seared tuna steak. It also offers traditional American dishes like prime rib or grilled salmon, as well as sandwiches, burgers, and salads. They also offer a kids' menu and desserts (including key lime pie). The restaurant also has a patio that overlooks the water. This eatery's interior features brick walls, wood floors, and large windows overlooking the harbor.

 

If You Fell in Love with Charleston

If all these amazing restaurants have inspired you, and you're considering moving to Charleston, it is no surprise! This incredible city has lots to offer to any couple, family, or single traveler. Start planning in advance as you'll have moving expenses to plan for and costs to keep in mind. Ensure to organize this with the right moving company so that you can plan everything in detail and make Charleston your home. 

 

Conclusion on the Best Restaurants in Charleston

We hope our list of the seven best restaurants in Charleston, SC inspired you to visit and explore the culinary scene. And perhaps it even inspired you to stay here long-term. Whatever the case, you will undoubtedly have an amazing time!

 

 

 

Images:

1. https://www.pexels.com/photo/three-vehicles-parked-beside-concrete-building-1115251/
2. https://www.pexels.com/photo/seafood-neon-light-signage-1064136/
3. https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photography-of-wine-glasses-1123260/

4. https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-brown-liquid-inside-clear-drinking-glasses-2789328/