Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

37 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Virginia's on King restaurant

1. Virginia's on King

4.5

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 40 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, Virginia's on King is a beacon of Southern charm and culinary delight. This esteemed eatery excels in crafting authentic Southern dishes that resonate with the richness of Lowcountry cuisine. Utilizing fresh, local ingredients and cherished family recipes, the menu offers a journey through the South's culinary heritage. Highlights include the indulgent crab Benedict and the perfectly seasoned shrimp and grits, described by a patron as "velvety smooth." Diners consistently praise not only the food but also the ambiance and service, noting, "The food was fantastic if you like Southern food" and "Great service and food our waitress Genevieve was wonderful." Virginia's on King is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Southern hospitality and flavor in Charleston.

A photo of 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston restaurant

2. 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston

4.3

Awesome(5084)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 47 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, 39 Rue de Jean is a culinary gem offering an authentic French dining experience since 2000. Praised for its "delicious, refined French food," this charming café and bar excels in Brasserie cuisine, providing a diverse menu that delights regulars and newcomers alike. Patrons rave about the "best French onion soup" and the innovative dishes like the "Rosemary Garlic Gnocchi," which showcase the kitchen's commitment to both tradition and creativity. The atmosphere, described as "charming" and perfect for both special occasions and casual dining, complements the exemplary service and well-rounded wine list, making every visit memorable. As one diner puts it, "Always a real treat to meet old and new friends at Rue de Jean," this spot remains a beloved staple for those seeking a slice of France in Charleston.

A photo of Victor's Seafood and Steak restaurant

3. Victor's Seafood and Steak

4.5

Awesome(512)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 4 times today

Victor's Seafood and Steak in Downtown Charleston is a culinary gem that stands out for its exceptional seafood offerings. Renowned for its elegant dining atmosphere, the restaurant has consistently impressed guests with its high-quality, perfectly cooked local seafood specialties. Diners rave about the "amazing" oysters and the "superbly" prepared halibut over pimento cheese grits, highlighting the authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. The seafood tower and the lobster roll have also received glowing reviews for their freshness and exquisite taste. Victor's dedication to providing a top-tier dining experience is evident from the numerous positive testimonials, with guests often noting it as the "perfect choice" for a memorable meal in Charleston. This establishment is not just recommended; it's celebrated for turning every dining occasion into a special event.

A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant

4. Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett

4.6

Exceptional(1104)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 11 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 The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel restaurant

5. The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel

4.4

Awesome(1776)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 24 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel is a treasure trove of authentic Southern American cuisine. With a menu crafted by Executive Chef Heyward Davis and Chef De Cuisine Daniel James, this restaurant is a celebration of farm-to-table freshness, emphasizing local fruits and vegetables while honoring cherished Lowcountry cooking traditions. It's no wonder diners rave about dishes like the "award-winning Shrimp and Grits" and the "delicious, as always" yeast rolls that evoke a nostalgic charm. The charming ambiance, complete with live piano music on weekends, makes every visit to The Swamp Fox a delightful culinary journey into the soul of the South. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this venue's blend of excellent food, service, and atmosphere promises a memorable dining experience.

A photo of Stars Restaurant - Rooftop & Grill Room restaurant

6. Stars Restaurant - Rooftop & Grill Room

4.0

Excellent(2398)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 6 times today

At Stars Restaurant - Rooftop & Grill Room in Downtown Charleston, the Grill cuisine truly shines, offering an authentic Carolina Cuisine experience that delights every palate. Located in the heart of Charleston's vibrant dining scene on Upper King Street, Stars Restaurant is celebrated for its masterful grill techniques and quality ingredients. Patrons rave about the "amazing service and steaks" and highlight the unique offerings such as the "original Oysters Rockefeller." The Grill Room, with its 1930s ambiance and stunning Walnut Bar, provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying finely grilled dishes. One visitor enthusiastically shared, "Best food I have ever had. You need to come. Service is amazing." Stars Restaurant consistently offers not just a meal, but a remarkable dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the best in Grill cuisine.

A photo of Coterie- Charleston restaurant

7. Coterie- Charleston

4.2

Awesome(396)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 2 times today

At Coterie in Downtown Charleston, the essence of Contemporary American cuisine is celebrated with a passion for flavor and a keen sense of community. This hidden gem offers an eclectic mix of dishes that capture the vibrant spirit of American dining, with menu items that cater to every palate, including standout dishes like the local fish curry and innovative vegetarian options. Praised for its “electric choices and taste," every meal at Coterie is a delightful surprise, described by patrons as “cooked to perfection.” The charming patio setting enhances the dining experience, making every visit memorable. As one diner raved, it's a place where the “flavors popped and the dishes were all so beautifully presented,” making Coterie a must-visit for those seeking the best in Contemporary American cuisine in Charleston.

A photo of Hotel Bennett Special Events restaurant

8. Hotel Bennett Special Events

3.9

Excellent(41)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Special events in the Crown Ballroom at Hotel Bennett.

A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant

9. Church and Union - Charleston

4.5

Awesome(8502)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 110 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.

10. Peninsula Grill

4.7

Exceptional(7953)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 39 times today

Nestled in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, Peninsula Grill stands out as a beacon of Southern cuisine excellence. This AAA Four-Diamond restaurant is celebrated for its "superb" food and "impeccable service," with patrons raving about signature dishes like the heavenly coconut cake, described as a "must" and the "best I’ve ever had" scallops. The atmosphere of Peninsula Grill, from its velvet-lined walls to the intimate Champagne Bar, exudes Southern supper club elegance, making every dining experience memorable. Whether it's the locally sourced ingredients or the sumptuous decor, Peninsula Grill offers an authentic taste of the South that is both inventive and deeply rooted in tradition.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

L
Lisa
Dallas - Fort Worth •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Googled a breakfast place and Virginia’s on King came up first. It did not disappoint. The food was fabulous, the service attentive, and the ambiance traditional Charleston. We will be back and bring friends. Highly recommend anything that comes with grits or get them on the side. Crab cakes were delicious, full of fresh flavor. I can’t say enough about the wait staff. Attentive without being stalkerish and just down home hospitality. Thanks VoK for a wonderful experience!
More info
Virginia's on KingPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
•
4.5
M
Michellevip
Baltimore / Maryland •28 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We had the fried chicken sandwich and the smash burger. Both were AMAZING. We initially had lunch Friday, with Marianne (she’s a rock star), then took friends back on Saturday. Highly recommend.
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Rudy RoyalePrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
•
4.5
R
Roget
Indiana •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
We celebrated our Anniversary (53). The entire staff were very attentive , friendly and professional. Ansons is one of our favorite two restaurants in Charleston. Roger & Joey Pyle, Hickory, NC
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AnsonPrice: Very Expensive• Southern• Downtown Charleston
•
4.9
F
Frederickvip
Virginia •113 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
This is a terrific restaurant. The menu is quite basic, but everything is prepared expertly, and the staff is both welcoming and professional. Whenever we're in Charleston we never miss a visit. My faves are the local Low-Country seafood items and the filet. Again, a basic menu but all the bases are well covered. Oh... and that coconut cake. "Extraordinary" doesn't do it justice.
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Peninsula GrillPrice: Very Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
•
4.7
W
William
Los Angeles •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 16, 2024
Started with the she crab soup which was remarkable. Then a swamp fox burger, which is a very generous half pound cooked to perfection. Spectacular quality meat. Finished the meal with their delicious butter cake. Very attentive wait staff. Great piano player in the background. A wonderful dining experience.
More info
The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion HotelPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
•
4.4

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Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

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37 restaurants available nearby

1. Virginia's on King

2. 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston

3. Victor's Seafood and Steak

4. Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett

5. The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel

6. Stars Restaurant - Rooftop & Grill Room

7. Coterie- Charleston

8. Hotel Bennett Special Events

9. Church and Union - Charleston

10. Peninsula Grill

See what locals rave about

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