Where to eat American food in Charleston: The Best Restaurants and Bars

December 7, 2019 Merry Kessler

Reviews on American food in Charleston, South Carolina, United States. Historic Charleston is bursting with Southern charm and hospitality. The city feels a bit like it’s suspended in time, thanks to its antebellum architecture and surrounding plantation landscapes. Take in incredible views of the Battery and the French Quarter as you stroll the Waterfront Park, then become inspired by the cultivated beauty of the gardens at Middleton Place. At night, try a ghost tour for an introduction to the spooky side of the city.
Things to do in Charleston

10. Cru Cafe

18 Pinckney St, Charleston, SC 29401-2006 American Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service [email protected] +1 843-534-2434 http://crucafe.com/
Food
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Overall Ratings

4 based on 2874 reviews

Cru Cafe

Located at 18 Pinckney Street, in a classic 18th century Charleston single-style home, Cru Café offers the best in upscale comfort food. Guests of the restaurant enjoy indoor and outdoor porch seating, gourmet comfort food, a wine list tailored to the var

Reviewed By lauraeM9380OC

We came on a recommendation from our carriage driver and it was a perfect meal for our last night in Charleston. The food is beautifully presented, absolutely delicious, and reasonably priced (for the Charleston area ☺️). We started with a Brie cheese appetizer, then the scallops were perfection and melted in our mouths. We finished it off with a Berry Crisp and a piece of orange sherbet cake. Oh my! The service was spot on; friendly, engaging and prompt. The atmosphere is charming and it was a delightful evening to eat on the porch. Overall, perfection in our opinion!

9. Swig & Swine

1217 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407-7826 American, Bar, Barbecue Lunch, Dinner, Late Night Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service +1 843-225-3805 http://swigandswinebbq.com/
Food
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4 based on 1975 reviews

Swig & Swine

Reviewed By Cheryl L

Both the brisket and pork were outstanding, especially on the buttered roll. I don't care for bought potato salad, but this was unique and had a great flavor (a bit too much dressing for my taste, but still yummy). The coleslaw was also made perfectly. If I lived nearby, I certainly would be visiting this establishment frequently.Can't go wrong with the brisket! We're pleased to hear you enjoyed the brisket and pork! Thanks for coming in!

8. Circa 1886 Restaurant

149 Wentworth St Behind the Wentworth Mansion, Charleston, SC 29401-1733 American, Contemporary Dinner, Late Night Reservations, Private Dining, Seating, Free Off-Street Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Discover, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Street Parking [email protected] +1 843-853-7828 http://www.circa1886.com/?utm_source=tripadvisor&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=visit_website
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4 based on 2110 reviews

Circa 1886 Restaurant

Chef Marc Collins draws inspiration from many cuisines around the world to create a menu that is truly unique to the Charleston restaurant scene. Drawing inspiration from historic Southern dishes and always highlighting what is local and in season, Chef C

Reviewed By 994randyb

We ( 2 couples) dined last night at Circa 1886, located in the converted stables of the Wentworth Mansion, now a Country Inn, in central Charleston. The year refers to the date the Mansion was first occupied. The menu is very unusual; it is broken into 4 sections: Tastes of Native Tribes, Flavors brought from Africa, Influences from Europe and South Carolina Today. Each section has appetizers, entrees and desserts. Diners can pick and choose among the sections. The dishes are deliciously ptrpared. The wine list is broad and contains a number of fine wines from all over the world from (especially CA andFR) for under $100.Our waiter was very knowledgeable and explained the menu. The grilled pimientoCheese sandwich wrapped in Serrano and thenserved with a spoonful of American caviar which we shared was a 3-star moment.Thank you for reviewing your experience at Circa 1886. We appreciate your compliments to our creative cuisine and attentive staff. We genuinely hope to have the opportunity to serve you again. Sincerely, Michelle Widman Woodhull and Chef Marc Collins, Co-Owners

7. Peninsula Grill

112 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401-3157 American, Seafood, Grill Dinner Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Discover, Reservations, Private Dining, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service [email protected] +1 843-723-0700 http://www.peninsulagrill.com
Food
Service
Value
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Overall Ratings

4 based on 2684 reviews

Peninsula Grill

Located in the very heart of Charleston's famed Historic District, this AAA Four-Diamond restaurant has been recognized by Departures, Conde Nast Traveler, Food & Wine, The New York Times, Southern Living, Travel + Leisure, Wine Spectator, and others for

Reviewed By TMariah1

Superior combination of service, food, and wine we hadn’t experienced in a long time. All ordered items were of a high standard and the Triggerfish special was merely terrific. Extensive wine list and great suggestion by the sommelier. Wine markups are very reasonable. After a multi course meal, the signature cake fed four easily. Know that the recommended dress code is unenforced and that table conversation is difficult later in the evening. Dear TMariah1,Thank you for your thoughtful review.Everyone from the chef to the sommelier worktirelessly to ensure that you have the finest experiencein Charleston and I am so glad that you enjoyed your experience.We look forward to your return visit to Peninsula Grill.Cheers,Erich RauberManagerPeninsula Grill

6. Charleston Grill

224 King St, Charleston, SC 29401-3102 American, Contemporary Dinner, Late Night Reservations, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Valet Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Jazz Bar [email protected] +1 843-577-4522 http://www.charlestongrill.com
Food
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4 based on 1888 reviews

The Charleston Grill offers Contemporary Lowcountry cuisine featuring fresh local produce, seafood & game, prepared with a French accent. Emphasis is placed on the quality of the ingredients, unique presentations & sophisticated textures. Local ingredient

Reviewed By Chips3313

Charleston Grill is a rare treat in fine dining. The beautifully appointed and spacious dining room provides a place where conversation is possible even while hearing the strains of live music. Charleston Grill’s general manager, Mickey is always gracious, giving everyone a special welcome. Our wedding party of nine had the four course tasting menu with fine wines. The unsurpassed culinary delights- crab cake, scallop, tenderloin with vegetables, and finally desserts, the outstanding service and the beautiful ambience made for an unforgettable evening for the newlyweds, as well as the rest of us.

5. 167 Raw

289 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401-1620 American, Seafood Lunch, Dinner Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Street Parking, Free Off-Street Parking, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Discover, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service [email protected] +1 843-579-4997 http://167raw.com/charleston/
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4 based on 1657 reviews

167 Raw

Reviewed By Joseph T

Terrific small restaurant close to the Market Pavilion Hotel featuring fresh, delicious seafood. My wife enjoyed a pastrami flavored swordfish sandwich that she raved about. I had a shrimp po boy which was easily the best I’ve ever had. Problem is the words out so expect a one hour wait unless you get there very early, 11 am for lunch. But trust me, it’s well worth it.

4. Grill 225

225 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401-2608 Seafood, American, Steakhouse Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Seating, Parking Available, Valet Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Reservations, Private Dining, Accepts Discover, Accepts Credit Cards, +1 843-266-4222 https://www.marketpavilion.com/grill225.cfm
Food
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4 based on 2302 reviews

Grill 225

"Experience the Difference in 42-50 day aged Prime Steaks."Welcome to Grill 225, Charleston's first and only 100% USDA Prime steak house, and member of the Great Steak Houses of North America. Located at the luxurious Market Pavilion Hotel in the heart of

Reviewed By purplehotgirl

Beautiful place with excellent service but it was the most bland and boring food I’ve ever had! The baked French onion soup was just average, the oysters were about the same. The escargot was one of the better things but I could have better in the Northwoods of Wisconsin! The filet had absolutely no flavor and we ordered two sides with mushrooms and Brusselssprouts. Even salt and pepper didn’t help the mushrooms so they went uneaten. The best thing on our table were the brusselsprouts & escargot. We have pictures of my husband soup but it was so uneventful we can’t even remember what he ordered… I ordered a filet and they decided to split it in two and then charge for it! The manager was rude and unhelpful! Never again!Thank you for your candid review of Grill 225. I'm sorry you were not satisfied with your experience and that you weren't able to offer your server the opportunity to make your visit outstanding. Our staff is always interested in hearing feedback from our guests and we make it a priority to ensure that you are 100% satisfied. While ordering, your dining companion chose not to order an entree and you said that you would be splitting the filet. Our chef prepared your filet mignon to share, as per your request. We are saddened that on your recent journey through the south, and the other 22 establishments you reviewed along the way, you only experienced one and two star service over the duration. Please feel free to reach out to us directly to discuss your dining experience further, as we would greatly value the comments and views of our patrons.Holly Perry843-723-0500

What to do and see in Charleston, United States: The Best Places and Tips

3. Revival

162 E. Bay Street (Next To The Vendue), Charleston, SC 29401 American, Seafood Dinner Reservations, Seating, Parking Available, Validated Parking, Valet Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Highchairs Available, Wine and Beer [email protected] +1 843-414-2335 http://www.revivalcharleston.com
Food
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5 based on 431 reviews

Revival

A modern southern eatery. The concept for Revival is modern, yet relaxed dining with a focus on recipes and/or ingredients from South Carolina’s past. Chef Simon Glenn works directly with local farmers to “revive” certain ingredients and utilize them in o

Reviewed By elkcerf

We had a fantastic meal last night at Revival. Our server, Brian, was awesome! He made great recommendations for our meals. The she crab soup, Mac n cheese, crab cakes and lemon cake were stellar! A very nice manager also came out to greet us and made sure we had a wonderful time. We will be back!

Charleston Food Guide: 10 Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Charleston

2. Halls Chophouse

434 King St, Charleston, SC 29403-6230 American, Steakhouse Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night Seating, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Reservations, Private Dining, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Jazz Bar [email protected] +1 843-727-0090 http://hallschophouse.com
Food
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5 based on 5959 reviews

Halls Chophouse

Halls Chophouse is American-Fine Dining, serving prime steaks, Lowcountry and fresh seafood specialties in an energetic, visually striking environment. Complemented by signature desserts, an extensive wine list, a vibrant bar and innovative, rich decor tr

Reviewed By DGM115

We arrived ahead of our reservation but were seated shortly in the overflowing restaurant. Our waiter was professional and personable. Our meals were perfectly prepared and plentiful. The lady singing and playing piano added to the wonderful atmosphere.

Most Popular Bar food in Charleston, South Carolina, United States

1. Uncork Charleston

476 King St, Charleston, SC 29403-6229 Bar, American Lunch, Late Night, Drinks Seating, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Reservations, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Live Music [email protected] +1 854-222-3939 http://uncorkchs.com
Food
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5 based on 25 reviews

Uncork Charleston

Located at 476 King Street in the heart of Downtown Charleston’s entertainment district, Uncork is downtown’s only exact pour wine dispensing system made in Italy by Enomatic. Connoisseur’s can enjoy over 40 unique wines and experience by the taste, half

Reviewed By Jim D

Wine selection was large and you could try all of them in small quantities if you wznted.The cheese and meat plate allowed for many choices. Portions were much larger than the norm on these plates and the six item plate was more than enough for dinner for the 2 of us. Bread served was excellent and unlike most places there was enough.Friendly prompt service. Try it !Hi Mr. Jim ,Thank you so much for coming into Uncork. We are thrilled that you thoroughly enjoyed yourself and we provided you great,friendly southern hospitality. Your review let's us know that we are doing things right. Thank you again for coming in and for taking the time to write a 5 star review. Please come back and see us anytime.

Best Brew Pub food near Charleston, South Carolina, United States

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