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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1118)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 13 times today
Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett epitomizes the essence of South Carolina cuisine through its dedication to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and authentic regional flavors. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, this restaurant offers a culinary journey that highlights the best of the South. Diners rave about the "excellent She Crab Soup" and "standout Scallops," which are just a taste of the boldly flavored dishes that grace the menu. The vibrant atmosphere and historic views of Marion Square complement the dining experience, making every meal memorable. As one diner put it, Gabrielle Charleston is where "the food and ambience were outstanding," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of South Carolina.
A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant
4.5
Awesome(8564)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 126 times today
Church and Union in Downtown Charleston is a standout destination for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine. The creativity of Executive Chef Doug Watson and Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch shines through in a menu that is as inventive as it is delicious. Guests rave about the "Holy Sh*t Breakfast" and the "delicious and beautifully presented" cookie dough ganache, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation. The ambiance, described as "unique" and "very cool with a lot of history," complements the modern-American dishes served. With its vibrant setting and consistently "amazing service," Church and Union is highly recommended as a must-visit for an exceptional dining experience.
A photo of Bourbon N' Bubbles restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1339)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 13 times today
Bourbon N' Bubbles, nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, offers a quintessential Contemporary American dining experience that is both luxurious and inviting. This restaurant is celebrated for its exquisite blend of upscale ambiance and innovative American cuisine with a twist. Patrons rave about the "amazing food" and "great drinks," particularly recommending the A5 Wagyu Spinalis and the cornbread appetizer. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, as one reviewer highlighted, the food and service "exceeded all expectations." Whether it's for a special brunch or a memorable dinner, Bourbon N' Bubbles stands out as a "must-visit" in Charleston for anyone seeking a top-tier Contemporary American meal in a vibrant setting.
A photo of Tempest restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2365)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 20 times today
Tempest, hailed as USA Today's 10Best #1 New Restaurant, is a gem nestled on historic Market Street in Downtown Charleston. It's not just the location that captivates but also the exceptional seafood that stands out. Chef Adam Hodgson, alongside Bravo Top Chef Alum Jamie Lynch, crafts a menu that is both innovative and reflective of the region's bounty. The restaurant's raw and roast offerings are a testament to their commitment to quality, with dishes like the Tempest Tower leaving diners in awe. Glowing reviews consistently praise the "out of this world" roasted oysters and shrimp, and the "incredible" flounder, affirming Tempest's status as a pinnacle of seafood excellence. As one reviewer puts it, this place turns dining into "a wonderful southern experience," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and meticulously prepared seafood.
A photo of Port of Call - Food & Brew restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(17)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 6 times today
Port of Call - Food & Brew in Downtown Charleston is a beacon of American cuisine that expertly blends Southern classics with innovative twists. The restaurant's large and versatile menu receives glowing reviews for dishes like the "out of this world brunch burger" and "phenomenal bok choy," showcasing its commitment to quality and creativity. Guests rave about the "spectacular" atmosphere and "impeccable" service, highlighting staff members like Fagan, who is frequently mentioned for his attentiveness. Combining coastal charm with culinary excellence, Port of Call is celebrated for making each dining experience memorable, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and exceptional American fare.
A photo of ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1334)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 9 times today
ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful coastal twist. Praised for its "exquisite food" and "unique marry of flavors," ÉLEVÉ offers an experience where classic French culinary techniques meet Southern heritage, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Guests rave about the "best omelette ever" and the "delicious" truffle infused fries, highlighting Chef Mahdi Naim's expertise in elevating simple ingredients to artful culinary creations. With its "elegant, vibrant" ambiance and stunning rooftop views, ÉLEVÉ is not just a meal, but a memorable dining adventure praised as a "hidden gem" in Charleston.
A photo of The Establishment restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2656)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 13 times today
The Establishment in Downtown Charleston is a gem for seafood lovers, consistently lauded for its commitment to freshness and local sourcing. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one admirer noting, "Every time I come here I think it can’t get better and it does." The menu, crafted by Chef Elliott Howells, is a testament to refined and balanced culinary art, where dishes like the lemon poached grouper and the moqueca de peixe receive high praise. The restaurant also features the highly recommended crab gnudi, described as "little puffs of heaven." With its top-notch service and a vibrant atmosphere enhanced by live music, The Establishment stands out as a beacon of seafood excellence in Charleston’s historic French Quarter.
A photo of Saffire Restaurant restaurant
3.8
Excellent(118)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 1 time today
The bold flavors of Saffire's seasonally inspired menu reflect a belief in "the cuisine of today," healthy, eclectic, imaginative, unrestricted by ethnic boundaries...always evolving. Our chef elevates fresh, organic, carefully chosen ingredients above mere quality...to culinary artistry. The atmosphere at Saffire restaurant and lounge is casually sophisticated, yet warm and welcoming.
A photo of Burwell's Stone Fire Grill restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3615)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 15 times today
Burwell's Stone Fire Grill, nestled in Downtown Charleston, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. Celebrated as a Diners Choice for ten consecutive years, this eatery offers a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Guests rave about the "best filet" and unique hot stone steaks, which you can cook to your liking, enhancing the dining experience with a personal touch. The local favorite is praised for its use of fresh, local ingredients, ensuring that "everything I’ve ordered has always been superb." With glowing recommendations like being the "best place to dine in the low country" according to South Magazine, and its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Burwell's is undoubtedly a must-visit in Charleston for a memorable dining experience.
A photo of The Refuge restaurant
4.3
Awesome(595)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Isle of Palms
Booked 2 times today
Nestled in the charming Isle of Palms, The Refuge stands out as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine. This family-owned gem combines fresh, quality ingredients with culinary expertise to create memorable dishes that resonate with both locals and tourists. Praised for its "outstanding food and service," The Refuge delivers an array of mouth-watering options from its diverse menus, catering to breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reviews rave about the "delicious" food and "comfortable seating," making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic American flavors in a "nice atmosphere." As one reviewer enthusiastically recommends, "Choose the Refuge! We loved everything about it!" This restaurant is a true refuge for those seeking a top-notch dining experience on Isle of Palms.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Barnee
    New York City •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This restaurant is stunning ! The ambiance is absolutely incredible. The food and service was great. The only small issue was we ordered Cocktails first but no appetizers and our main courses came out to quick we had barely had a sip of our drinks. Otherwise an absolutely fabulous dinner
    More info
    Church and Union - CharlestonPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
    4.5
  • Alexandra
    Orange County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    It was our first time in Charleston and we stumbled upon this restaurant. We had a great meal and left happy and full. If you sit in the “bourbon” side you have to make sure to check out the “bubbles” side too! Great contrast while still being cohesive. My husband and I recommend! I had the Sunday Sauce special and it was *chefs kiss*!
    More info
    Bourbon N' BubblesPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Charleston
    4.2
  • Linda
    Charlotte •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We all enjoyed our entrees (lunch): seafood platter, grilled fish sandwich, smothered burger. The fried pickles and okra were a great way to start the meal. Service was fast and our waitress was very attentive.
    More info
    Port of Call - Food & BrewPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
    4.7
  • JanetKVIP
    Charlotte •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We arrived late into town due to an hour long traffic hazard delay and we’re worried about getting a reservation to a great restaurant. We were able to dine at Tempest and it was incredible! We had the tuna crude which was very good but the showstopper was the Swordfish Schnitzel with warm tartar sauce with trout roe. I/we are known as foodies-originally from California Bay Area! My husband said this was by far the best swordfish he had ever eaten! I agreed but was trying to identify the ingredients to prepare at home. We shared a bottle of wine and had the Some-More for dessert. Fabulous! Our server Dalton and his shadowing trainee, Megan were amazing as well! Truly a beautiful restaurant and amazing experience!, Do not miss it when in Charleston!
    More info
    TempestPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Charleston
    4.7
  • Maleeta
    South Carolina •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 8, 2024
    We were celebrating our very young acting friend who does the gym for two hours M-F who was celebrating her 90th birthday! Our Queen of Everything, Myrtice charms everyone she meets with her high energy. The management graciously compted her meal and gave her a dessert. She was thrilled and we agreed to come back someday soon for breakfast since her workout time is 5-7! Thank you for your kindness to all of us, especially making Myrtice feel extra special!
    More info
    Saffire RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown Charleston
    3.8

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Discover the essence of Contemporary American cuisine in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, where a range of restaurants offer a diverse and innovative dining experience. These eateries, located in the historic and vibrant heart of Charleston, showcase a commitment to quality and creativity, often utilizing locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing. The dining scene in Downtown Charleston is renowned for its blend of traditional American flavors with modern culinary techniques, providing a unique gastronomic journey for all palates. In these restaurants, the focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients not only enhances the flavor profiles but also supports local farmers and producers, reflecting a responsible approach to gastronomy. Patrons can expect menus that are thoughtfully curated with options that cater to various dietary needs, ensuring a satisfying experience for every diner. The ambiance of these establishments ranges from casual to sophisticated, making them perfect for both special occasions and casual outings. Each restaurant in this locale strives to offer exceptional service and a memorable dining experience, emphasizing the importance of customer satisfaction. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the Contemporary American dining options in Downtown Charleston is sure to leave you impressed with both the quality and the innovative approach to American cuisine.

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