Charleston is a culinary destination where hospitality, craftsmanship, and cuisine go hand in hand — much like building a custom home.
Beyond the accolades and James Beard Awards (of which there are many), the city is home to countless restaurants that capture the unique flavor of each neighborhood, from elegant downtown dining to hidden gems in Mount Pleasant.
Keep reading for a locals’ guide to the best food in Charleston, S.C., thoughtfully curated by the team at Cook Bonner Ebeling. As you’ll see, we expect the same high level of quality, community, and attention to detail in the restaurants we frequent as we do in homes we design and build.
Downtown Charleston: Historic District
Charleston’s heart beats in its food, full of character and flavor, just like the homes and residents.
- One of the best restaurants in downtown Charleston, S.C., is Melfi’s, a cozy Italian spot on Upper King serving impeccable pasta, pizzas, and cocktails. Locals love its intimate, elevated vibe.
- Halls Chophouse is an institution for perfectly cooked steaks, live jazz, and a dose of classic Southern hospitality. Within walking distance, you’ll find many neighborhoods that offer a mix of timeless beauty, history, and thoughtful craftsmanship.
- An iconic fine-dining experience, Husk redefines Southern cuisine with seasonal, local ingredients.
- Poogan’s Porch offers some of the best southern food in Charleston and is named for a dog who was adopted by the staff when the home was converted to a restaurant in 1976, coincidentally the same year Cook Bonner Ebeling Construction was founded. We recommend the shrimp and grits or she-crab soup!
- We also recommend 167 Raw, a chic and lively seafood and sushi bar, perfect for oysters, crudo, and a casual yet stylish lunch.
- Church and Union (formerly 5Church) is located in a converted church and blends artistry and atmosphere; it’s upscale but approachable.
- Our last recommendation for the best restaurants in downtown Charleston, S.C., is Blind Tiger Pub, a laid-back favorite for burgers and local beers with a courtyard that feels like Charleston’s backyard.
Cross Broad Street from Blind Tiger, and the energy changes instantly. The commercial blocks give way to a quiet residential neighborhood that carries you all the way to the tip of the peninsula.
Here, pastel single houses stand in graceful rows, their piazzas catching the sea breeze, many of them centuries old and thoughtfully restored.
Mount Pleasant
Just across the Ravenel Bridge from downtown Charleston sits Mount Pleasant, a community full of hidden gems and family favorites. In South Mount Pleasant, particularly around Shelmore Boulevard, you’ll find several of our go-to spots for great food in the Charleston area.
- Tierra Al Mar is a small, authentic Mexican spot beloved by locals. It’s known for fresh ingredients and neighborhood warmth.
- A lively Mediterranean spot, Taverna Philosophia is known for fresh, flavor-forward Greek dishes and a bright, inviting atmosphere. It’s perfect for sharing plates and lingering over a glass of wine.
- Coastal Crust is a family-friendly favorite serving wood-fired pizzas, seasonal salads, and more in a relaxed, community-centered setting. Their airy outdoor space and consistently great food make it a go-to for locals.
- Metto Coffee & Tea is a staple morning stop for Mount Pleasant residents looking for fast, friendly service and, of course, exceptional coffee.
Just a short drive from these favorite food spots, you’ll find I’On, the Old Village, and several communities along the Charleston Harbor — areas where Cook Bonner Ebeling homes showcase sweeping views and signature craftsmanship.
James Island
James Island is known for its laid-back vibe, easygoing neighborhood eateries, and growing list of new favorites. The island is largely residential, balanced by an expansive county park, beautifully-designed homes on the water, and a direct path to Folly Beach.
- One of our team’s top picks is Ellis Creek Fish Camp, a casual, marshfront spot offering gorgeous views and fresh, no-frills seafood.
- Continuing toward Folly Beach, affectionately called “the edge of America,” you’ll pass Bowen’s Island Restaurant, a historic, deeply loved Charleston institution famous for its oysters and fried shrimp.
- Once you reach Folly, Chico Feo captures the beach town’s spirit with its outdoor, bohemian vibe, live music, and simple but delicious tacos and poke bowls.
- Rounding out our recommendations is Taco Boy, a festive favorite (with several locations) known for bright flavors, great margaritas, and a fun atmosphere.
Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms (IOP)
Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms are neighboring beach towns, known for their stunning homes and restaurants that combine casual charm with elevated flavors.
- High Thyme, a quaint Sullivan’s Island bistro, serves fresh, locally inspired dishes in a warm, inviting setting, perfect for a relaxed dinner.
- Just down the island, The Longboard brings Caribbean-inspired, seafood-focused cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, complemented by craft cocktails, local beers, and a curated wine list.
- Over on IOP, Islander 71 was voted Best Waterfront Restaurant in Charleston in 2024. With Southern-inspired seafood, a raw bar, and handcrafted cocktails, it’s ideal for savoring a sunset over the water.
From beachfront beers to dinners under string lights, both islands deliver the same easygoing, breezy vibe in food, architecture, and coastal charm.
Daniel Island
perfectly blends timeless Lowcountry charm with fresh, livable elegance. The island is easily navigable by bike or golf cart, and its dining scene features everything from cozy cafés to scenic waterfront restaurants.
- One standout is The Kingstide, offering elegant, community-focused dining right on the Wando River, complete with public boat access for a true riverside experience.
- For a more casual stop, the DIME (Daniel Island Market & Eatery) serves as a café, bakery, and grab-and-go spot, featuring coffee, gelato, and local goods.
West Ashley
Located just west of the Ashley River, West Ashley is known for its welcoming neighborhood charm and approachable dining scene.
- Our team recommends Home Team BBQ, a laid-back favorite featuring smoked meats, cold drinks, and live music that perfectly captures Charleston’s easygoing spirit.
- For something a bit more refined, Ms. Rose’s Fine Food & Cocktails strikes the ideal balance: polished but never stuffy, lively without being overwhelming.
West Ashley has a way of feeling like home, where comfort food, friendly faces, and a sense of community await around every corner.
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Kiawah Island & Seabrook Island
When fine dining meets resort-style relaxation, an effortless kind of luxury emerges — refined yet unhurried, the kind that pairs linen napkins with bare feet.
- For an elevated coastal dining experience, The Atlantic Room at Kiawah Island Golf Resort and Jasmine Porch at The Sanctuary offer elegant menus paired with sweeping ocean views.
- For expertly crafted cocktails with a view, the Ryder Cup Bar is a must-visit. This spot overlooks the 18th green of the Ocean Course, home to the 1991 Ryder Cup and the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships.
- Just outside the resort, Freshfields Village’s FortyEight Wine Bar delivers 48 wines by the glass, 48 menu options, and 48 beers, making it the perfect spot for relaxed evenings after a day on the water.
Cook Bonner Ebeling projects in this area embody the same spirit of understated luxury, blending timeless elegance with coastal ease.
Closing: The Taste of Charleston Living
The best food in Charleston is scattered across vibrant neighborhoods, each offering exceptional quality, thoughtful details, and a sense of community.
This same philosophy mirrors our approach to building custom homes. Every material is carefully chosen, tradition is honored, and the home’s design puts people and place at the center.
Like Charleston’s finest restaurants, a well-crafted home anticipates your needs before you even realize them. It welcomes, comforts, and leaves a lasting impression, blending effortless style with meticulous attention to detail.
Whether you’re dining beneath live oaks or watching the sun set over the harbor, Charleston invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and embrace life here. Discover more of our favorite Charleston neighborhoods, homes, and inspirations on our blog.
