Top 25 places to eat in Charleston (2024)

Yelp’s Top 25 Places to Eat is a list unlike any other “best of” out there. Sure, you’ll see your obvious local favorites on the list, but it’s also chock full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path joints like Taco Kitchen tucked away off of Savannah Highway in West Ashley. From fine dining to shawarma food trucks — find them all in Yelp’s Top 25 Places to Eat in Charleston.

Did your favorite restaurant make it into the top 25? Let us know on Twitter and Instagram. Remember, we only know how good a spot is if you take the time to review it. So share your thoughts on Yelp, and maybe your favorites will be on next year’s list! Plus, we’re hosting a handful of free events and promos at some of the top places on our list. To get in on the fun, RSVP to one or all of the events on our landing page!

Topping this year’s best 25 list is Myles and Jun Yakitori, a Japanese Char Grill with delicious Yakitori, small plates, and Japanese classics such as Hibachi. It is also known for its welcoming and lovable owners, Mama Myles and Jun. They will always remember you and if you’re lucky, Mama Myles may even sing you a song!

Pro tip: You’re going to want to make a note of these spots, so we made it easy for you. For great businesses at your fingertips, get the Top 25 to-go. Follow this collection on Yelp.

1. Myles and Jun Yakitori (Summerville, SC)

Cuisine: Japanese

Known for: Yakitori (Japanese BBQ Skewers), Crispy Pork Belly, their lovable owners

Yelpers say: “Sangria is a must, the flavor is ever changing with a variety of fresh fruit daily… you won’t be disappointed. There has not been a dish we haven’t enjoyed. Grab a few skewers for an appetizer, the beef tongue or beef heart are great as well as the Kawa (fried chicken skin), it’s like a hot pork rind but much better… There are very few places you go where the owners know you by name and treat you like family.”

2. Hall’s Chophouse (Downtown CHS, SC)

Cuisine: Steakhouse

Known for: Steak, Lobster Tails, Oysters Rockefeller

Yelpers say: “The owner talks to all of the customers and personally shakes your hand when you come in, it’s truthfully so rare that businesses care as much as this one. Now besides the amazing servers, beyond spectacular service, and amazing environment the food is stellar. The steak is absolutely the best around the area. The shrimp and grits were delectable. The absolute showstopper is the lavender brioche French Toast with an espresso mascarpone on top and the best bacon I have ever had in my life.” – Jess S.

3. Toni’s Detroit Style Pizza (Mount Pleasant, SC)

Cuisine: Italian, pizza

Known for: Their thicker crust pizzas (Detroit style), affordable prices, and salads

Yelpers say: “A beautifully crisped margherita greeted me. It’s basically just extra tomatoes and basil. The best part is the way the cheese browns at the corners, but when you eat it fresh, the light, fluffy crust shines as well and the flavor mix is mesmerizing. In the entirely likely event that I someday visit Detroit, I can only hope to find a pizza this delicious.” – John B.

4. Jack Of Cups Saloon (Folly Beach, SC)

Cuisine: Globally inspired comfort food

Known for: Their changing menu, Sangria, and curry options

Yelpers say: “I will keep coming back until I’ve tried everything on the menu and then I’ll keep coming back to repeat! We got the Captain Crunch deviled eggs which were delicious. We also got the Indian nachos with the coconut curry and wowwee — delicious! So many unique flavors and satisfying… Then we ordered the espresso martinis, which come with mini powdered doughnuts on top! “ – Daniela Z.

5. 167 Raw Oyster Bar- Charleston (Downtown CHS, SC)

Cuisine: Seafood

Known for: Raw Bar, Lobster Roll, Fried Oysters, Tuna Burger

Yelpers say: “The vibe is hip, trendy, and you can’t help but get swept up in the energy of the restaurant. The staff was phenomenal, offering great suggestions and helping us get out of our comfort zone. As busy as it was (and it was nuts) we never wanted for anything. The oysters were on point with the freshness. We tried three different varieties, along with the V-10 oyster shooter (you HAVE to try this.) The lobster roll was divine, the local farm salad was gorgeous, and the ceviche, forget about it…we were fighting over it. The flavors were so developed and it was just delicious.” – Annemarie B.

6. Sena Cafe (Mount Pleasant, SC)

Cuisine: Cafe, bakery, breakfast & brunch

Known for: Lobster roll, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and desserts

Yelpers say: “We tried the German chocolate cake, mascarpone, strawberry shortcake, and several pie slices and they were all so good I couldn’t choose a favorite. Their breakfast sandwich croissants are buttery, flaky, cheesy and oh so good. We loved their coffee drinks as well; they’re strong! We spoke to the baker, and he was such a kind man who has an inspiring passion for making tasty desserts.” – Harry W.

7. The Pickled Palate (Mount Pleasant, SC)

Cuisine: American with Italian style paninis

Known for: Italian paninis, wine and beer selection, their garden atmosphere, soups

Yelpers say: “The paninis are SO good. We got the Turkey Brie and the Italian and both meals were so delicious. Like some of the best paninis I’ve had… There’s so much greenery around and it’s mostly outdoor seating with a little inside. It’s super super cute and photogenic. I highly recommend the scene for a fun lunch, a girls date out, or a casual date! Overall a wonderful experience and I’d love to go back and try the other paninis too!” – Alexis P.

8. Bistro A Vin (Downtown CHS, SC)

Cuisine: French

Known for: Wine, Charcuterie boards

Yelpers say: “This wine bar is phenomenal. All of the staff is extremely friendly and very knowledgeable. Conversations were great. We got a bottle of sparkling wine and a Charcuterie Board with Rust Belt Saucisson (meat) and P’tit Basque (cheese). The inside is very elegant and inviting, and the patio is so cute. Great scenery. We had a fantastic time and everything was delicious!” – Ali D.

9. Lewis Barbecue (Downtown CHS, SC)

Cuisine: Central Texas style Barbecue

Known for: Brisket, “Hot Guts”, Pulled pork, Ribs

Yelpers say: “ Absolutely. Love. This. Space. Great indoor and even better outdoor space. Food is so tender, like fall off the bone. If that isn’t the goal when eating delicious BBQ, what is right? I have been here multiple times and each time I am so happy as are the people I bring. Perfect for any group size and for kiddos. The staff here are always so nice and helpful. The Green Hatch Chile is a must, even if you are thinking nah, no… GET IT! We call the ribs “Meat Candy” because it is so good and serves as the perfect dessert! All the sides are great but our faves are the mac & cheese and green chile corn pudding.” – Anna L.

10. Sorghum and Salt (Downtown CHS, SC)

Cuisine: American

Known for: Tapas, seasonal ingredients, changing menu, trendy setting

Yelpers say: “This charming little place has big flavor. I cannot say enough how happy I was to stumble on to this gem serving up dishes that impressed my taste buds in a way fussier restaurants tend to miss out on. The atmosphere is casual and perfect for a quiet dinner for two or six. Whether you’re celebrating or just out for a bite to eat, this place is special.” – Angela F.

11. (North Charleston, SC)

12. Gnome Cafe (Downtown CHS, SC)

13. The Harbinger Cafe and Bakery (Downtown CHS, SC)

14. Taco Kitchen (West Ashley, SC)

15. Vicious Biscuit (Mount Pleasant, SC)

16. R Kitchen (Cannonborough, Charleston, SC)

17. Ra Coffee Company (Goose Creek, SC)

18. Jackrabbit Filly (North Charleston, SC)

19. Wild Olive (Johns Island, SC)

20. Galpao Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse (French Quarter, Downtown Charleston)

21. The Grit Counter (Mount Pleasant, SC)

22. Dashi (North Charleston, SC)

23. Stella’s (Downtown CHS, SC)

24. Boxcar Betty’s (West Ashley, SC)

25. Edison James Island (James Island, SC)

Top Places to Eat in Charleston Methodology: This is an all-time list of the Top Places to Eat in the Charleston area according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the restaurant category on Yelp, then ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews. This list looked at businesses in and around the Charleston area. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of July 1st, 2022. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of July 1st, 2022.

Top 25 places to eat in Charleston (2024)

FAQs

What food is Charleston, SC famous for? ›

10 Iconic Charleston Dishes and Where to Get Them
  • Dive into a heap of garlicky blue crab at Ravenel Seafood.
  • Okra soup is a signature Gullah dish at Bertha's in Charleston.
  • Callie's is the headquarters for Charleston's most famous biscuit.
  • Hank's oyster stew is a house staple and favorite among critics and diners.

What is the best street in Charleston for restaurants? ›

Charleston's historic downtown remains the shopping and dining hub for the region. Downtown retail, anchored by King Street, draws a strong and varied customer base.

Where does the cast of Southern charm eat in Charleston? ›

Bonus: both the Southern Charm crew + the Southern Hospitality crew often grab take-out from Leon's Oyster Shop + Little Jack's — two of our very favorites, too!

What food should you not miss in Charleston, SC? ›

As far as single food items go: try okra soup from Bertha's Kitchen, chicken liver pate from FIG, roasted oysters from Bowen's Island, raw oysters from the Ordinary, fried shrimp from Dave's Carry-Out, a caviar sandwich from Chubby Fish, whole hog from Rodney Scott's BBQ, and brisket from Lewis Barbecue.

What is the drink of Charleston? ›

The Charleston Light Dragoon Punch: This punch is a traditional Charleston cocktail that dates back to the 18th century. It is made with rum, brandy, peach liqueur, and a variety of fruits and spices. It is typically served in a large punch bowl and is a popular choice for parties and special occasions.

Where do celebrities go in Charleston? ›

With that in mind, here are the places where celebrities have been seen in Charleston and where you might just spot some in the future.
  • Callie's Hot Little Biscuit. ...
  • Shem Creek Music. ...
  • Rutledge Cab Company. ...
  • The Dewberry/Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer. ...
  • Butcher & Bee. ...
  • The Alley. ...
  • Bulldog Tours. ...
  • Fleet Landing.

What areas to stay away from in Charleston? ›

As a general rule, I avoid anywhere to the east of I-26 and to the north of SC-17 on the Charleston peninsula. This is known as the “east side” of Charleston.

What is nicest part Charleston? ›

Here's a list of some of the coolest neighborhoods in Charleston.
  • South of Broad. Possibly the most famous area in downtown Charleston, South of Broad is the epitome of Southern charm. ...
  • Lower King. ...
  • Upper King. ...
  • Hampton Park Terrace. ...
  • French Quarter. ...
  • Harleston Village. ...
  • NoMo. ...
  • Sullivan's Island.

What is the prettiest part of Charleston? ›

10 Most Instagrammable Places in Charleston
  • Rainbow Row. Pastel-painted rowhouses in Charleston's Historic District. ...
  • Hampton Park. Urban park with floral gardens and water features. ...
  • See also. ...
  • Joe Riley Waterfront Park. ...
  • Chalmers Street. ...
  • French Huguenot Church. ...
  • Folly Beach. ...
  • Angel Oak Tree.

What is King Street in Charleston known for? ›

Recently named one of the nation's top 10 shopping streets by U.S. News and World Report, King Street's shops are emporiums of chic and one-of-a-kind wares. Lower King is an esteemed antiques district while Upper King is a thriving contemporary design district.

What is the richest part of Charleston? ›

Check Out The Top 10 Most Expensive Neighborhoods To Live In Charleston:
  1. Cannonborough Elliottborough. ...
  2. Downtown Charleston. ...
  3. Hampton Park Terrace. ...
  4. Crescent. ...
  5. Radcliffeborough. ...
  6. South of Broad. ...
  7. North Central. ...
  8. Stiles Point.

Where is Craig's house in Charleston? ›

Craig's House, Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC - MapQuest.

Where does Miss Patricia live in Charleston? ›

As Southern Charm fans know, Patricia Altschul, aka the Grand Dame of Charleston, inhabits at the historic Isaac Jenkins Mikell house, an ultra-fabulous 9,500-square-foot mansion.

What restaurant does Leva own in Charleston? ›

In addition to Republic, the pair now own three restaurant/nightclub business properties on Charleston's popular King Street: Mesu, Bourbon N' Bubbles and their newest space, Lamar's Sporting Club.

Best Places to Eat in Charleston South Carolina ...Demi Mabry Photographyhttps://demimabry.com ›

Best Places to Eat in Charleston for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner shared by foodie, travel lover and former Charleston SC local, Demi Mabry.
This charming hole-in-the-wall joint offers the best soul food around. It's family-owned and operated, and has been a local favorite for over 40 years. We&#...
The Ultimate Charleston Foodie Guide - the best restaurants in Charleston, where to eat with kids in Charleston, group dining, date night and more.

What famous food is South Carolina known for? ›

7 Southern Foods You Must Try
  • Frogmore Stew. Frogmore Stew is a staple dish in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. ...
  • Shrimp and Grits. Shrimp and grits has been a South Carolina specialty for generations. ...
  • Oyster Roasts. Oyster roasts are just one of South Carolina's tasty culinary traditions. ...
  • Barbecue. ...
  • Peaches. ...
  • Boiled Peanuts.

What is the SC State food? ›

List of U.S. state foods
StateFood typeFood name
South CarolinaState snack foodBoiled peanuts
State vegetableCollard greens
State picnic cuisineBarbecue
South DakotaState dessertKuchen
125 more rows

What is the city of Charleston known for? ›

Nestled along the coastline of South Carolina, Charleston is renowned for its cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and vibrant culinary scene.

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