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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of O-Ku restaurant
1. O-Ku
4.8
Exceptional(2799)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Downtown Charleston
Booked 43 times today
O-Ku, a Japanese restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina, is a triumph of execution and concept. The restaurant's menu is a modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine, and it features fresh, seasonal ingredients that are prepared with care. The dishes are beautifully presented, and the flavors are both complex and delicate. Focused on incorporating authentically Japanese flavors into the fare, O-Ku's menu is comprised of signature contemporary Japanese entrées and traditional sushi of the season reflecting the uniquely designed space. Guests can enjoy chef specialties including kurobuta pulled pork don-buri, braised short rib with shiso pesto, coconut curry, and hakozushi a box-style sushi. A wide variety of nigiri, sashimi and crudos are also available. The beverage program at O-Ku is a sophisticated blend of specialty cocktails, premium sake, bubbles, red and white wines and unique beer selections.
A photo of Peninsula Grill restaurant
2. Peninsula Grill
4.6
Exceptional(8070)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 44 times today
Peninsula Grill is an AAA Four-Diamond restaurant located in the heart of Charleston’s renowned Historic District. It has garnered recognition from prestigious publications such as Departures, Condé Nast Traveler, Food & Wine, The New York Times, Southern Living, Travel + Leisure, and Wine Spectator.The Peninsula Grill Dining Room exudes the luxurious atmosphere of a supper club, with velvet-lined walls in shimmering oyster tones, woven seagrass accents, and indigenous cypress molding. Adjacent to the dining area, the Peninsula Grill Champagne Bar is an intimate jewel-box space offering a selection of champagnes.A proud member of Relais & Châteaux, an exclusive collection of exceptional restaurants and hotels in romantic destinations worldwide, Peninsula Grill invites guests to experience unparalleled dining. Business casual attire is requested, with collared shirts required for gentlemen in the Dining Room.
A photo of Oak Steakhouse - Charleston restaurant
3. Oak Steakhouse - Charleston
4.8
Exceptional(5618)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • Downtown Charleston
Booked 51 times today
Located on Charleston's historic Broad Street, Oak Steakhouse is a classic American steakhouse. A classic array of both wet and dry aged Certified Angus® Beef are featured on the menu. Ingredients are sourced locally and regionally from sustainable farmers and fisherman to accent the steakhouse menu. Items including local oysters on the half-shell, Clammer Dave's caper clams and a daily fresh fish selection depending on the season. Other popular dishes include the whole fried lobster, goat.sheep.cow artisanal cheese plate, wedge of Kurios Farms bibb lettuce salad, the house-made pasta and vegetarian plate. The expansive and impressive wine program at Oak Steakhouse emphasizes big California Cabernets and Old World reds from Italy and Bordeaux with more than 200 wines by the bottle and 20 wines by the glass. The bar attracts a loyal, local following from nearby businesses and neighborhoods with its great cocktails and happy hour. Inside a historic bank building that dates back to 1848, Oak's stately setting features three floors with five distinct dining areas. Arched windows, 20-foot ceilings, original metal work, fireplaces and 150-year-old heart pine floors, offers the perfect setting for enjoying a special evening.
A photo of Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar restaurant
4. Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar
4.7
Exceptional(5162)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Downtown Charleston
Booked 50 times today
Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar opened in 2009, reviving the former Amen name of Cumberland Street and restoring this historic corner. The new renovation stays true to the beauty of the original 1800's architecture while creating a comfortable atmosphere for contemporary life.Located at 205 East Bay Street in the heart of the historic district this Charleston seafood restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining all within walking distance of the local Market and the Charleston Harbor.The menu includes a variety of seafood dishes such as oysters, clams and shrimp in addition to an ever growing raw bar menu. Amen Street supports Charleston's local fishing industry with market fresh fish.We are open for lunch and dinner. Walk-ins are welcome and reservations are accepted as well.
A photo of Anson restaurant
5. Anson
4.8
Exceptional(4923)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern • Downtown Charleston
Booked 30 times today
Anson was named one of OpenTable's 50 Best Southern Restaurants in America for 2018 |
A photo of Burwell's Stone Fire Grill restaurant
6. Burwell's Stone Fire Grill
4.8
Exceptional(3660)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown Charleston
Booked 29 times today
Diners Choice Ten years running, aligned with extraordinary cocktail bar, make this 14 N Market Street stop a must for steak and seafood lovers. Burwell’s is a true leader in progressing hospitality, from use of the entire resource to local ingredients not harmful to our communities or environment. From shrimp to beef, you’ll only taste the best at Burwell’s. One of a kind, unlike any steakhouse back home, and one of the must visits in Charleston. Visit while in the historic Market Distirct. You can expect a casual, thoughtful design features highlighting Charleston and its rich history throughout. Burwell’s takes great pride in being approachable to all, with high craft memorable food, ensuring guests a warm and welcoming Charleston visit. Don't miss the Wagyu!Best place to dine in the low country - South MagazineOne of Charleston’s “local favorites” - bon appetit grub crawlWalk-ins welcome, Burwell’s popular bar is available for full menu diningPlenty of parking near by
A photo of California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating restaurant
7. California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating
4.6
Exceptional(3265)
Price: Moderate
• American • West Ashley
Booked 108 times today
Since 1987, California Dreaming has been a proud part of the Charleston, SC community. Our spacious, open setting features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the Ashley River, creating the perfect backdrop for a lively night out. You can also enjoy these panoramic views from our wrap-around deck, complete with a bar and easily accessible by boat. Whether you're craving low country favorites or our famous prime rib, California Dreaming is a favorite among both locals and tourists. **Please note that we provide Advance Priority Seating to reduce wait times and expedite the seating process when your entire party arrives. To ensure the best experience for all guests, we seat groups of up to 6. While larger groups are seated separately, this arrangement is flexible during quieter hours.
A photo of Lenoir - CHS restaurant
8. Lenoir - CHS
4.2
Awesome(103)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • Downtown Charleston
Booked 4 times today
From chef, cookbook author and PBS star, Vivian Howard, LENOIR reminds people that the South is a nuanced place with a storied history and disparate terrain that shapes us as well as our food traditions. Here we cook to perpetuate, honor and evolve the cuisine of the rural, agricultural South, and we back it up with hospitality that buys into the idea that food with a story tastes better. Named for Vivian’s home county in eastern North Carolina, LENOIR exalts the pillars of Southern hospitality and leaves people feeling like they are guests in our home rather than patrons in our restaurant.
A photo of Sorghum & Salt restaurant
9. Sorghum & Salt
5.0
Exceptional(384)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas / Small Plates • Downtown Charleston
Booked 2 times today
Vegetable & seafood driven small plates with a seasonal, always-revolving menu served in a trendy, industrial setting combining upscale fare with a laid back experience. Our tasting menu is available in the entire restaurant 6 days a week. Selected for OpenTables "Top 10 Diners' Choice Winners in Charleston" in 2021!
A photo of Boathouse at Breach Inlet restaurant
10. Boathouse at Breach Inlet
4.8
Exceptional(5444)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Isle of Palms
Booked 60 times today
This waterfront locale is historically known as the launching site of our country's first submarine, the H.L. Hunley. Poised at the breach between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic, you can enjoy a meal amongst the spectacular sunset views and balmy ocean breezes of the Isle of Palms. Come early and have a cocktail at the Rooftop Bar while enjoying amazing views before dining.

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Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Discover the charm of Downtown Charleston, South Carolina through its array of neighborhood gems that offer unique and memorable dining experiences. These restaurants, celebrated for their authenticity and cozy atmospheres, provide a culinary journey that ranges from local Southern delights to exotic international flavors. Each spot is renowned for blending excellent cuisine with exceptional service, making every meal a special occasion. The dining scene in Downtown Charleston is vibrant and diverse, catering to food lovers who appreciate both innovation and tradition. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, French bistro fare, or creative vegan dishes, you’ll find a restaurant that not only satisfies your cravings but also enchants with its ambiance. These neighborhood gems are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a meal in a setting that feels both inviting and exclusive. Make your next reservation in Downtown Charleston and experience why these eateries are beloved by both locals and visitors alike.

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