If you’ve noticed that Charleston food has a strong Italian accent these days, then you’re right. A bevvy of Italian-inspired restaurants have opened here recently, and it makes sense because the Italian focus on coastal cuisine and locally sourced ingredients is easy to translate in the Lowcountry’s seafood and farm fresh bounty. Despite their similar tone, each on this list hits a distinctive note. But of course, Italian food is just the beginning for a city where eating is a sport. From traditional favorites such as hushpuppies and shrimp and grits to Chinese dumplings and Texas-style brisket, Charleston’s best restaurants offer more than just quality and depth of flavor; all of these offer exceptional hospitality that makes dining about more than just the food. These are the best restaurants in Charleston, where you’ll feel truly welcomed when you arrive and well-fed when you depart. Dining in Charleston is an experience that keeps us coming back.
Read our complete Charleston travel guide here, which includes:
How we choose the best restaurants in Charleston
Every restaurant on this list has been selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by a local contributor who has visited that restaurant. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable eateries, and weigh stand-out dishes, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials. We update this list as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve.
