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Best Hot Spot Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

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11 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Virginia's on King restaurant
1. Virginia's on King
4.5
Awesome(3005)
Price: Moderate
• Southern • Downtown Charleston
Booked 39 times today
This sophisticated Southern dining spot blends the comforts of a traditional Southern kitchen with familiar regional dishes prepared with the utmost care for quality and flavor. The menu incorporates local fresh ingredients and old family recipes to bring you Southern cooking, Lowcountry style.*menus subject to change, please visit www.holycityhospitality.com for current menus
A photo of Coast Bar & Grill – Charleston restaurant
2. Coast Bar & Grill – Charleston
4.5
Awesome(4946)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Downtown Charleston
Booked 50 times today
Charleston’s freshest seafood, with laidback Lowcountry style. Coast’s chefs meet daily with local farmers and fishermen to procure the freshest seafood and produce available. Featuring wood-grilled fish, a raw bar, and a refreshing drink list. Open nightly from 5:00. Outdoor seating available.*menus subject to change, please visit www.holycityhospitality.com for current menu
A photo of O-Ku restaurant
3. O-Ku
4.8
Exceptional(2712)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Downtown Charleston
Booked 39 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 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston restaurant
4. 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston
4.3
Awesome(5077)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown Charleston
Booked 47 times today
39 Rue de Jean - Charleston is a hot spot due to its high ratings from customers. With reviews praising its 'excellent food and service', 'great atmosphere', and 'authentic French restaurant' ambiance, it's no surprise it's been a favorite since 2000. It's also loved for its 'well-crafted cocktails' and 'robust wine list'. It's a place for a 'wonderful dining experience' and 'fabulous time'.
A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant
5. Church and Union - Charleston
4.5
Awesome(8500)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 130 times today
A 5th Street Group Concept. Modern-American cuisine served in a casual yet refined atmosphere. Menu by Executive Chef Doug Watson & Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch.
A photo of Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar restaurant
6. Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar
4.8
Exceptional(5031)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Downtown Charleston
Booked 42 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 Oak Steakhouse - Charleston restaurant
7. Oak Steakhouse - Charleston
4.7
Exceptional(5517)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • Downtown Charleston
Booked 46 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 Burwell's Stone Fire Grill restaurant
8. Burwell's Stone Fire Grill
4.9
Exceptional(3586)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown Charleston
Booked 27 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 Tavern & Table restaurant
9. Tavern & Table
4.5
Awesome(2670)
Price: Moderate
• American • Mount Pleasant
Booked 16 times today
Tavern & Table is a hot spot due to its stunning ambiance and top-notch food. As one review puts it, the patio is a 'hot spot with a short wait to be expected'. The restaurant offers a 'beautiful and relaxed atmosphere' with 'great food and atmosphere'. The 'casual hospitality' and 'beautiful and comfortable setting' also contribute to its popularity. The service is highly rated as 'attentive and friendly' and the 'food is awesome'.
A photo of California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating restaurant
10. California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating
4.1
Excellent(3163)
Price: Moderate
• American • West Ashley
Booked 72 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jana
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our table of 8 ordered these delicious items: Southern Salad, Braised Bacon & Melon, Fried Chicken, Maryland Crab Cake, Handmade Braided Ravioli w/ Italian Sausage, Crished Yukon Potatoes, Chocolate/Vanilla Gelato
    More info
    Church and Union - CharlestonPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
    •
    4.5
  • lorraine
    Greater Boston •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Had a wonderful meal. Steak tartare/ duck/mussels were excellent Kerrigan our server was very friendly The noise level was a little high but would not stop me from going back Overall s good experience
    More info
    39 Rue de Jean - CharlestonPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown Charleston
    •
    4.3
  • Pattie
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We enjoyed our first dinner on the 17th so much, decided to return for our ‘last night’ -right next to our hotel, a great location! Our server, Alex, was terrific! Calamari, fish tacos, mussels all delish…Pinot Gri and Cali Chardonnay tasty parings - we shall return! (But, perhaps NOT on an early eve before ‘showtime’ next door at the theatre😉)
    More info
    Coast Bar & Grill – CharlestonPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Downtown Charleston
    •
    4.5
  • Tony
    South Carolina •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Oku=slay Food is amazing, second time visiting from Asheville and both times they make me wonder why we don’t have a Japanese restaurant like this back at home. Our server was perfect, she didn’t feel the need to smother us by coming up every 5 minutes and asking us how everything was which was a plus. She was able to give us some really good recommendations on vegetarian options (which more than most have to offer) it was a really welcoming experience. The food was really well done. plating was beautiful, food times were fast, and the deserts we tried were amazing. Little improvement is that if they played as much edm, they could have been playing more charli xcx. Iykyk
    More info
    O-KuPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Downtown Charleston
    •
    4.8
  • Al
    Orlando / Central Florida East •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 14, 2024
    Had reservations for brunch in a few days but was looking for a casual southern place for dinner and VOK absolutely filled the desire! From the very start with the Tomato Pie appetizer we knew this was going to be good! Deviled eggs were okay but nothing special, She Crab Soup was on point! The cornbread they served with the appetizers was amazing and served as dessert as well! I had the Crispy Cod BLT with Onion Casserole on the side and my wife hade a small house salad, still quite large! Everything was delicious and plentiful! Service was excellent throughout the meal and some creative seasonal cocktails. My wife tried the Aperol Spritz with a twist of Apple Juice and Cinnamon and loved it! We both can’t wait to go back for brunch! Friendly atmosphere, a bit loud but some great music playing as well!
    More info
    Virginia's on KingPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
    •
    4.5

Discover best hot spot restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Discover the vibrant culinary landscape of Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, where each dining hot spot offers a unique blend of ambiance, flavor, and high-quality service. From the rich, savory dishes of elevated Mexican cuisine to the sophisticated charm of French bistros, every restaurant promises a memorable dining experience tailored for any occasion. Renowned for its festive atmospheres and creative cocktails, Downtown Charleston is a treasure trove for food enthusiasts seeking both traditional and innovative culinary delights. The area's dining scene is marked by its enthusiastic embrace of diverse cuisines, making it a premier destination for gastronomes. Whether you're planning a fun date night, a celebration, or a casual outing, the hot spots in Downtown Charleston cater to all tastes and preferences, ensuring a delightful and satisfying visit. Choose your next culinary adventure in this historic city known for its excellent food and welcoming vibes, where every meal is not just eaten, but experienced.

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