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Best Authentic Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

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11 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Vincent Chicco's restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1720)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown Charleston
Booked 17 times today
Boasting chic comfortable surroundings and offering dinner nightly, Vincent Chicco’s delivers good old-fashioned Italian-American cuisine, presenting authentic ingredients, handmade pastas, rich homemade sauces, delectable desserts and a full-service bar.*menu subject to change, please visit www.holycityhospitality.com for current menu
A photo of Maya restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(708)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Downtown Charleston
Booked 14 times today
Located in Charleston's lively Upper King Street District, Maya is an elevated Mexican eatery that celebrates Mexico's vibrant regional cuisines. The menu includes a selection of authentic dishes ranging from snacks and small plates, to tacos, shareable sides, and large format entrees. Maya's beverage program features mezcals, Mexican cervezas, and cocktails focused on fresh and seasonal flavors. The restaurant's décor is warm and welcoming, with natural furnishings and pops of color throughout. The space features La Terraza, an open-air patio with lush greenery and a full bar, which also serves as the setting for private dinners and events. Maya is open nightly for dinner, with happy hour available Monday through Thursday.
A photo of Muse Restaurant restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3348)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Downtown Charleston
Booked 20 times today
This Charleston locals’ favorite is nestled away in a historic home in downtown Charleston. The charming restaurant and intimate bar are reminiscent of a Mediterranean Villa, where Executive Chef, Josh Ogilvie, melds the cuisines of Italy, Spain, France, & Greece, featuring fresh preparations of Seafood, Fish, Savory Meats, Homemade Pastas, Homemade Bread, and Salads, all served by a warm and friendly serving staff. The extensive wine list complements the experience and offers 75 selections by the glass. The cozy bar empties out onto a terrace, offering outdoor dining and drinks. There are numerous menu items, which are gluten and dairy free and vegetarian, and there are vegan options as well.
A photo of Brasserie la Banque restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1292)
Price: Moderate
• French • Downtown Charleston
Booked 33 times today
Brasserie la Banque is a genuine French restaurant in downtown Charleston. The reviews rave about the 'authentic French experience' and 'creative French cuisine'. The menu is a mix of traditional and innovative fare, praised for its variety and quality. The atmosphere is described as 'elegant', 'relaxing' and 'French'. The owner's passion for the classic French brasserie is evident, making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Hummus restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(11)
Price: Expensive
• Lebanese • Downtown Charleston
Booked 4 times today
At Hummus Lebanese Authentic Cuisine, Chef Bachir, a passionate culinary artist and the mastermind behind our secret family recipes, brings the vibrant flavors of Lebanon to Charleston. Our signature dish, the **Beirut Shawarma Platter**, marinated in our family’s special spice blend, has become a local favorite, perfectly paired with our renowned, creamy hummus.Come join us at **Hummus Lebanese Authentic Cuisine**—where every dish is prepared with love, and every bite takes you closer to the heart of Lebanon.
A photo of Ma'am Saab restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(253)
Price: Very Expensive
• Pakistani • Downtown Charleston
Booked 5 times today
Ma'am Saab is a gem of authentic Pakistani cuisine nestled in Charleston's historic district. The restaurant, led by Chef Maryam Ghaznavi, serves crowd favorites like Butter Chicken and Biryani, along with a menu that takes you on a journey into Pakistan. Reviews rave about the 'excellent and authentic food' and the 'unique and amazing seasoning and spices'. The ambiance and service also get high praise. As one review says, 'if authentic subcontinent food is your thing, you have found the right place.'
A photo of Port of Call - Food & Brew restaurant
4.5
Awesome(14)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Port of Call in Charleston offers a fusion of coastal charm and culinary innovation. With a menu celebrating Southern classics with a modern twist, impeccable service, and an inviting ambiance, it's a culinary gem for locals and visitors alike. Come savor the essence of Southern hospitality and excellence at Port of Call.
A photo of Historic Charleston Supper Club restaurant
4.5
Awesome(6)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Would you like to combine Charleston’s two biggest passions, food and history? Come to the Historic Charleston Supper Club. Located in the National Historic Landmark, the South Carolina Historical Society’s Fireproof Building in the heart of Charleston’s historic district. We offer two distinct 18th and 19th century dining experiences, with all food authentic to the times. In the evenings, indulge in a 7 course, two and a half hour feast that explores Charleston history from Colonial times to Reconstruction and beyond. During the daytime, try the Colonial Tavern Table. An 18th century Publick House experience where you get to EAT LIKE A PIRATE. All experiences include a historical presentation by Culinary Historian Mike Hebb and a free visit to the South Carolina Historical Society Museum.
A photo of Galpao Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse - Charleston restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(687)
Price: Very Expensive
• Brazilian Steakhouse • Downtown Charleston
Booked 18 times today
Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse delivers an exquisite dining experience inspired by the rich Gaucho culture and culinary traditions of Southern Brazil. Galpão Gaucho’s rodizio experience offers an unparalleled dining experience, featuring 18 expertly grilled meats, including the new 24-karat Golden Steak™, paired with unlimited visits to an extensive 45-item gourmet salad bar.Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse, an authentic Brazilian dining experience.> THANKSGIVING 2024 - 11:30 AM - 8 PM Included in the rodizio (Thanksgiving Day only) we will also serve turkey and sweet potato casserole as part of the menu. No additional cost.> HOLIDAY HOURS: CHRISTMAS EVE 2024 11:30 am - 9:00 pm, CHRISTMAS DAY 12 pm - 8 pm, NEW YEAR'S EVE 11:30 am - 9:00 pm, AND NEW YEAR'S DAY 12 pm - 8 pm
A photo of Nick’s German Kitchen restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1334)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary German • Mount Pleasant
Booked 16 times today
Featuring scratch-made German specialties like Schnitzel, Spaetzle and more, Nick’s German Kitchen offers an authentic German kitchen infused with a modern vibe. Flavorful, fresh and appealing, Nick’s German will make you rethink everything you think you know about German food! Guten Appetit!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jerryvip
    South Carolina •37 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 15, 2024
    Our table was ready when we arrived. Hostess very polite. Our server was attentive and friendly to us. We enjoyed a Chianti while munching on a delicious bread with housemade dipping olive oil and herbs. We could have made a meal of that! We enjoyed the well seasoned short ribs with roasted Brussel Sprouts, served on creamy mashed potatoes. If we had room, we would have had dessert. Choices were wonderful! This was our first dining experience at Vincent's, but definitely not the last!
    More info
    Vincent Chicco'sPrice: Moderate• Italian• Downtown Charleston
    4.4
  • Cynthia
    Coastal Georgia •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 15, 2024
    Our server, Morgan, was first rate. Just the right balance of attentiveness mixed with professionalism! Definitely will be back. Cassandra from pastries was truly a special experience. She gifted us with some appetizer samples and carefully explained the ingredients. She was truly the gift. Thank you Morgan & Cassandra!❤️ The entire night reminded us of Le Grand Colbert. Awesome!
    More info
    Brasserie la BanquePrice: Moderate• French• Downtown Charleston
    4.6
  • Leslie
    Las Vegas •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 14, 2024
    Best dining experience of our lives. We closed the menus and trusted the Head Waiter, Donnie. We ate things we would have never ordered and loved every one of them! This is a quaint little place - Brandon, Hunter and Donnie are forever intertwined in our lives. Thank you for a wonderful experience. We will be eating here every time we get to Charleston. Cheers!
    More info
    Muse RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Downtown Charleston
    4.6
  • Shara
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 12, 2024
    We loved our dinner at Maya! The food was excellent and all the staff we encountered were super nice. Will definitely be back!
    More info
    MayaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Downtown Charleston
    4.6
  • Cherylvip
    South Carolina •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 3, 2024
    Our experience at Hummus was wonderful. The food was delicious and very authentic. Our server was great. We enjoyed ourselves and will definitely return.
    More info
    HummusPrice: Expensive• Lebanese• Downtown Charleston
    4.7

Discover best authentic restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Discover the heart of authentic dining in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, where culinary tradition meets southern charm. This bustling historic area offers a rich tapestry of restaurants that cater to those seeking genuine flavors and unique dining experiences. Each establishment, while diverse in its offerings, shares the common thread of authenticity, whether it's through meticulously crafted local dishes, international cuisines, or innovative plant-based options. Patrons rave about the exceptional food quality, the dedication to authentic recipes, and the warm, inviting atmospheres that make each meal memorable. The dining scene in Downtown Charleston is a vibrant blend of old-world charm and modern culinary innovation, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you are a local or a visitor, these restaurants promise an authentic taste of Charleston that is as rich in history as it is in flavor. Perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a genuine culinary experience, each restaurant in Downtown Charleston stands out for its commitment to delivering both exceptional dishes and a welcoming environment.

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