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Best American Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

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34 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Virginia's on King restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3062)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 35 times today
Virginia's on King is a gem nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, celebrated for its authentic Low Country cuisine. This sophisticated Southern dining spot delights patrons with dishes that blend the comforts of a traditional Southern kitchen with the vibrant flavors of Low Country cooking. Diners rave about the "best shrimp and grits in town" and the "crispy, juicy" fried chicken, which speaks to the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. Using local fresh ingredients and cherished family recipes, Virginia's captures the essence of Low Country dining, making it a beloved choice for those craving a true taste of Southern hospitality.
A photo of 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston restaurant
4.4
Awesome(5161)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 58 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, 39 Rue de Jean is renowned for delivering an exceptional French American dining experience. This brasserie-style cafe and bar has been delighting guests since 2000 with its perfectly balanced blend of French culinary tradition and American innovation. Guests consistently praise the restaurant for its "delicious and authentic" fare that transports them straight to Paris. Signature dishes such as the mussels with a variety of sauces and fresh baked bread are "absolutely delicious," making every meal a memorable one. With a warm ambiance and outstanding service, this eatery is a must-visit for those seeking quality French American cuisine in Charleston.
A photo of Victor's Seafood and Steak restaurant
4.3
Awesome(541)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 29 times today
Victor's Seafood and Steak in Downtown Charleston is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts seeking an authentic and high-quality dining experience. The restaurant excels in delivering fresh, flavorful seafood dishes that leave a lasting impression on diners. Guests rave about the "amazing" Oysters Rockefeller and the "excellent" Halibut over pimento cheese grits. The seafood towers and scallops are also highlighted as standout selections, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and taste. With an elegant ambiance and attentive service, Victor's Seafood and Steak provides an exceptional seafood dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors, making it a top choice in Charleston's vibrant food scene.
A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1129)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 9 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett embodies the essence of South Carolina cuisine with its dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is a celebration of the region's bounty, capturing the authentic flavors that make Southern food so beloved. Reviewers rave about the "excellent and superior level high touch service" and the She Crab Soup, described as "excellent" with a unique hint of roasted tomato. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, complimented by charming views of historic Marion Square, makes dining here a delightful experience for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1814)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 26 times today
The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel is a true gem of American cuisine nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston. Renowned for its classic Southern dishes, this restaurant perfectly captures the authentic flavors of the Lowcountry with its farm-to-table practices. Guests rave about their "award-winning Shrimp and Grits" and "remarkable she-crab soup," highlighting the exceptional quality and taste. The ambiance is enhanced by live piano music, creating a delightful dining experience. With a menu that embodies the rich culinary heritage of the region and a friendly, attentive staff, The Swamp Fox offers an unforgettable taste of genuine American hospitality.
A photo of Hotel Bennett Special Events restaurant
4.0
Excellent(45)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Special events in the Crown Ballroom at Hotel Bennett.
A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant
4.5
Awesome(8639)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 159 times today
Church and Union - Charleston is a shining gem of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful culinary experience right in the heart of Downtown Charleston. This vibrant restaurant combines “amazing food, service, and ambiance” to create a memorable dining experience. Executive Chef Doug Watson and Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch craft a menu that seamlessly blends innovation with tradition. Diners rave about the “spectacular” menu, where dishes like the filet mignon and braised bacon & melon are cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s “beautiful setting” and attentive service make every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether for a romantic evening or a celebratory gathering, Church and Union stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Contemporary American flavors.
A photo of Peninsula Grill restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(8021)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 39 times today
Peninsula Grill in Downtown Charleston is a beacon of authentic Southern cuisine, celebrated for its "stellar experience" and "picture of excellence," making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast. This AAA Four-Diamond restaurant excels in offering dishes with the finest and freshest ingredients, crafting everything to perfection. Guests rave about the "outstanding service" and the renowned coconut cake, described as "remarkable" and "worth the hype." The sumptuous supper club ambiance enhances the dining experience, providing an elegant yet welcoming setting. Recognized by top publications, Peninsula Grill embodies the heart of Southern hospitality, ensuring every visit is a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of Anson restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4860)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 32 times today
Anson was named one of OpenTable's 50 Best Southern Restaurants in America for 2018 |
A photo of Oak Steakhouse - Charleston restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5565)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 51 times today
Oak Steakhouse in Charleston is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, renowned for its expertly prepared steaks and locally-sourced ingredients. Nestled in a historic building on Broad Street, this classic American steakhouse offers a menu that showcases the best of Certified Angus® Beef, complemented by fresh local seafood and artisanal delights. Guests rave about the "phenomenal filet mignon" and the "best steak I have ever had," highlighting the quality and care in every dish. With a sophisticated wine selection and a charming ambiance, Oak Steakhouse promises an unforgettable dining experience that epitomizes the essence of American culinary artistry.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Tracy
    Philadelphia County •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food was awesome. Mac & cheese, fried chicken & deep fried baby back ribs were table favorites. Big portions too!
    More info
    Virginia's on KingPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.5
  • Thomas
    Atlanta Metro •33 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Our meal was top notch, my wife’s bass special was well cooked and nicely seasoned. My duck was the best I have eaten. The escargot appetizer was perfectly seasoned. Our server, Christin, was intuitive in her service and fun to chat with vs as food was brought. Highly recommended.
    More info
    39 Rue de Jean - CharlestonPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown Charleston
    4.4
  • Becky
    South Carolina •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We really enjoyed our dinner last night. Everyone loved their entrees! The steaks were cooked to perfection and the shrimp were large/firm/fresh! Our waitress was so lovely and genuine. She kept our drinks filled and answered every request for a side or dish right away! The booths were so comfortable and the restaurant is so classy! What we loved the most was that we could hear one another speak and it was not super noisy. It was a great experience and the menu is so reasonably priced for such an upscale restaurant! We will be back again soon! :-) And Thank You for making my friend's Birthday dinner so special!
    More info
    Victor's Seafood and SteakPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
    4.3
  • Diane
    Iowa •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We ate at the Swamp Fox 3 times during our stay. Each time, the food was incredible and the service amazing, especially Sylvie. The ambience was wonderful, too. We will definitely recommend the Swamp Fox and will visit again, should we return to Charleston. 
    More info
    The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion HotelPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.4
  • Kerri
    Asheville / Western North Carolina •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    "We decided to celebrate Christmas with a special 'date' for brunch at Gabrielle in Hotel Bennett, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. From start to finish, the service was impeccable. Daniel, in particular, stood out for his attentiveness and the thoughtful touch of addressing us by name. Every staff member we encountered was warm, professional, and genuinely helpful, adding to the festive atmosphere. The food and ambiance were perfect for the occasion, and we left feeling truly cared for. I can't recommend Gabrielle enough—it was such a memorable experience that it might just become our new Christmas tradition."
    More info
    Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel BennettPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.5

Discover best American restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Discover the best of American cuisine in the heart of Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, where culinary excellence meets historic charm. Downtown Charleston is renowned for its diverse selection of American-style dining options, each offering a unique interpretation of classic dishes enhanced by local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. From upscale steakhouses to charming bistros, the restaurants here cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring an exceptional gastronomic experience for every diner. These establishments are celebrated for their commitment to quality, with many sourcing fresh, seasonal produce to create mouth-watering dishes that embody the spirit of American cooking. The dining scene in Downtown Charleston is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you're in the mood for a sophisticated meal in a historic setting or a casual dinner with a contemporary twist, Downtown Charleston's American restaurants offer something truly special for every palate. Enjoy the culinary delights of this charming city, where every meal is served with a side of Southern hospitality.

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