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Best American Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

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35 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Virginia's on King restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3052)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 41 times today
Virginia's on King is a gem nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, celebrated for its authentic Low Country cuisine. This sophisticated Southern dining spot delights patrons with dishes that blend the comforts of a traditional Southern kitchen with the vibrant flavors of Low Country cooking. Diners rave about the "best shrimp and grits in town" and the "crispy, juicy" fried chicken, which speaks to the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. Using local fresh ingredients and cherished family recipes, Virginia's captures the essence of Low Country dining, making it a beloved choice for those craving a true taste of Southern hospitality.
A photo of 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston restaurant
4.4
Awesome(5156)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 53 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, 39 Rue de Jean is renowned for delivering an exceptional French American dining experience. This brasserie-style cafe and bar has been delighting guests since 2000 with its perfectly balanced blend of French culinary tradition and American innovation. Guests consistently praise the restaurant for its "delicious and authentic" fare that transports them straight to Paris. Signature dishes such as the mussels with a variety of sauces and fresh baked bread are "absolutely delicious," making every meal a memorable one. With a warm ambiance and outstanding service, this eatery is a must-visit for those seeking quality French American cuisine in Charleston.
A photo of Victor's Seafood and Steak restaurant
4.2
Awesome(539)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 22 times today
Victor's Seafood and Steak in Downtown Charleston is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts seeking an authentic and high-quality dining experience. The restaurant excels in delivering fresh, flavorful seafood dishes that leave a lasting impression on diners. Guests rave about the "amazing" Oysters Rockefeller and the "excellent" Halibut over pimento cheese grits. The seafood towers and scallops are also highlighted as standout selections, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and taste. With an elegant ambiance and attentive service, Victor's Seafood and Steak provides an exceptional seafood dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors, making it a top choice in Charleston's vibrant food scene.
A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1128)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 1 time today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett embodies the essence of South Carolina cuisine with its dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is a celebration of the region's bounty, capturing the authentic flavors that make Southern food so beloved. Reviewers rave about the "excellent and superior level high touch service" and the She Crab Soup, described as "excellent" with a unique hint of roasted tomato. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, complimented by charming views of historic Marion Square, makes dining here a delightful experience for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1813)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 18 times today
The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel is a true gem of American cuisine nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston. Renowned for its classic Southern dishes, this restaurant perfectly captures the authentic flavors of the Lowcountry with its farm-to-table practices. Guests rave about their "award-winning Shrimp and Grits" and "remarkable she-crab soup," highlighting the exceptional quality and taste. The ambiance is enhanced by live piano music, creating a delightful dining experience. With a menu that embodies the rich culinary heritage of the region and a friendly, attentive staff, The Swamp Fox offers an unforgettable taste of genuine American hospitality.
A photo of Stars Restaurant - Rooftop & Grill Room restaurant
3.9
Excellent(2403)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 7 times today
Stars Restaurant - Rooftop & Grill Room, nestled in the heart of Charleston's vibrant Upper King Street, is a standout destination for authentic Grill cuisine. Housed in a beautifully restored historic Arts and Crafts building, the Grill Room exudes 1930s charm with its stunning Walnut Bar. Diners rave about the "incredible food" and "fantastic service," describing each dish as "thoughtfully done, perfectly cooked, and seasoned uniquely with seasonal + locally sourced ingredients." The atmosphere is inviting, with a rooftop bar offering a spectacular 360-degree view of downtown Charleston, making it the perfect spot for an unforgettable dining experience.
A photo of Hotel Bennett Special Events restaurant
4.0
Excellent(45)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Special events in the Crown Ballroom at Hotel Bennett.
A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant
4.5
Awesome(8631)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 152 times today
Church and Union - Charleston is a shining gem of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful culinary experience right in the heart of Downtown Charleston. This vibrant restaurant combines “amazing food, service, and ambiance” to create a memorable dining experience. Executive Chef Doug Watson and Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch craft a menu that seamlessly blends innovation with tradition. Diners rave about the “spectacular” menu, where dishes like the filet mignon and braised bacon & melon are cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s “beautiful setting” and attentive service make every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether for a romantic evening or a celebratory gathering, Church and Union stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Contemporary American flavors.
A photo of Peninsula Grill restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(8016)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 45 times today
Peninsula Grill in Downtown Charleston is a beacon of authentic Southern cuisine, celebrated for its "stellar experience" and "picture of excellence," making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast. This AAA Four-Diamond restaurant excels in offering dishes with the finest and freshest ingredients, crafting everything to perfection. Guests rave about the "outstanding service" and the renowned coconut cake, described as "remarkable" and "worth the hype." The sumptuous supper club ambiance enhances the dining experience, providing an elegant yet welcoming setting. Recognized by top publications, Peninsula Grill embodies the heart of Southern hospitality, ensuring every visit is a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of Anson restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4853)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 43 times today
Anson was named one of OpenTable's 50 Best Southern Restaurants in America for 2018 |

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Diane
    Iowa •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    We ate at the Swamp Fox 3 times during our stay. Each time, the food was incredible and the service amazing, especially Sylvie. The ambience was wonderful, too. We will definitely recommend the Swamp Fox and will visit again, should we return to Charleston. 
    More info
    The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion HotelPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.4
  • Alan
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great food and service. We eat here whenever we're in Charleston. Recommend the mussels though this time we had scallops and halibut both were outstanding. My wife and I disagreed on how full the restaurant was she thought about normal I felt it was fuller and correspondingly nosier than I was accustomed to. Service was up to the standard we expect. We recommend and will continue to visit when in Charleston.
    More info
    39 Rue de Jean - CharlestonPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown Charleston
    4.4
  • Keaton
    South Carolina •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Love Victors, it's been a monthly thing for myself and my family. The food is amazing, and our drinks are always on time. If you want a personally experienced, and treated like family, go to Victors!!
    More info
    Victor's Seafood and SteakPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
    4.2
  • FeliciaVIP
    New York City •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Virginia’s was delicious! Everything was so tasty and the service was just lovely. So polite and attentive without being overwhelming.
    More info
    Virginia's on KingPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.5
  • Kerri
    Asheville / Western North Carolina •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    "We decided to celebrate Christmas with a special 'date' for brunch at Gabrielle in Hotel Bennett, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. From start to finish, the service was impeccable. Daniel, in particular, stood out for his attentiveness and the thoughtful touch of addressing us by name. Every staff member we encountered was warm, professional, and genuinely helpful, adding to the festive atmosphere. The food and ambiance were perfect for the occasion, and we left feeling truly cared for. I can't recommend Gabrielle enough—it was such a memorable experience that it might just become our new Christmas tradition."
    More info
    Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel BennettPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.5

Discover best American restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Discover the best of American cuisine in the heart of Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, where culinary excellence meets historic charm. Downtown Charleston is renowned for its diverse selection of American-style dining options, each offering a unique interpretation of classic dishes enhanced by local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. From upscale steakhouses to charming bistros, the restaurants here cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring an exceptional gastronomic experience for every diner. These establishments are celebrated for their commitment to quality, with many sourcing fresh, seasonal produce to create mouth-watering dishes that embody the spirit of American cooking. The dining scene in Downtown Charleston is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you're in the mood for a sophisticated meal in a historic setting or a casual dinner with a contemporary twist, Downtown Charleston's American restaurants offer something truly special for every palate. Enjoy the culinary delights of this charming city, where every meal is served with a side of Southern hospitality.

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