Best Casual Restaurants in James Island

Everything was tip top here. The hostess was gracious about our early arrival and was able to seat us. The waitstaff is so professional, concentrated and smooth but not frantic or stressed. The warm olives were such a good choice of appetizer! All of us raved about the food, three different pasta dishes and a pizza. Everything was delicious, and the portions are satisfying. Next time, I want to try their Chef’s Choice family style Pris Fixe option. The ambiance is upscale casual, not rowdy but not intimidating. It’s always fun to have an open kitchen in view. I noticed long bar-height tables suitable for large parties. We had hearing aid wearers in our party, and the noise level in the full restaurant did not interfere with conversation at a four-top along the wall. Indigo Road Restaurant Group is known for high standards and for doing things right; you can’t go wrong st any of them. Downtown Charleston residents like ourselves don’t eat downtown as much as we used to as the area has gotten so popular worldwide wide. But we stick to our favorites, and Indaco is one of ours.

A solid go-to in Charleston. Whether you are entertaining out of town guests, there for a romantic evening, a special celebratory gathering or really just want a fantastic meal in a great atmosphere -- Church and Union is the place. The vibe captivates you before you even take a seat; the service is attentive without being overbearing, and everything on the menu is spectacular. (I've been there enough to know!) Everything about Church and Union will be a memorable experience that you absolutely shouldn't miss.....a feast for the eyes and the palate. Don't sit on this one -- just go.

First up: Nathan. Fantastic hospitality, attentive and great personality. Worth his weight in gold. Second: if I only had one meal for the rest of my life it would be the current Wagyu Tartare on the menu. The kimchi Caesar??? Incredible. 12/10 I’m a Tartare girlie and that was the best. Second and a half: the tuna crudo. I’m so white Jalapeños are spicy to me, but that was a divine dish. Third: the hostess staff is efficient, warm and welcome. Bonus: they laughed with me not at me when I couldn’t figure out how to open the front door. All around great experience, thank you for knocking it out of the park.

Very amazing and relaxing experience!! The dishes were absolutely beautiful. I really enjoyed our server describing them after placing the dishes on the table. It really rounded the experience and made it so interesting.

This is a terrific restaurant. The menu is quite basic, but everything is prepared expertly, and the staff is both welcoming and professional. Whenever we're in Charleston we never miss a visit. My faves are the local Low-Country seafood items and the filet. Again, a basic menu but all the bases are well covered. Oh... and that coconut cake. "Extraordinary" doesn't do it justice.