Craving the best Charleston, South Carolina has to offer? My mom and I recently had a blast exploring this amazing city’s food scene. Trust me, you don’t want to miss these awesome restaurants!
Where to Eat in Charleston
167 Raw
Craving fresh seafood in Charleston? 167 Raw should be your top stop! This New England-style oyster bar boasts a menu that celebrates the bounty of the East Coast. We dove straight into their scallop and halibut ceviche, a vibrant mix of perfectly seared scallops and melt-in-your-mouth halibut in a refreshing citrusy marinade. It was a delightful explosion of flavor and texture. To balance the cool ceviche, we also tried their oven-roasted oysters. These beauties arrived piping hot, plump and juicy with a hint of smoky char. Each bite was a testament to the high-quality ingredients and culinary expertise at 167 Raw.
Bojangles
Sometimes, you just crave classic, delicious comfort food. Bojangles always hits the spot. This Southern staple serves up crispy, golden fried chicken that’s sure to satisfy. I always order the Chicken Supremes, and they lived up to their name. These juicy, tender pieces of chicken boasted a perfectly crispy, well-seasoned breading. To complement the savory side, we couldn’t resist Bojangles’ legendary Bo-Berry Biscuit. This warm, flaky biscuit is a revelation – packed with plump, sweet blueberries and topped with a delightful glaze. It’s the perfect sweet ending to a hearty Bojangles meal.
Husk
Husk Charleston is renowned for its authentic Southern cuisine, and their cornmeal fried catfish is a standout dish that embodies the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients. This crispy, golden masterpiece is a true testament to the region’s culinary heritage. Indulge in a taste of the South with every bite.
Magnolias
Magnolias is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience that captures the essence of the Lowcountry. Their menu is a symphony of fresh, local ingredients transformed into unforgettable dishes.
I was blown away by their Charleston Crab Cake, a perfect blend of sweet crab meat, crisp fennel, and apple slaw, elevated by a tangy lemon & garlic aioli. Another standout menu item is the Shellfish Over Grits. This dish is pure indulgence with succulent shrimp and sea scallops nestled in creamy white grits, all bathed in a rich lobster butter sauce. The fried spinach was the perfect finishing touch.
If you’re looking for a taste of Charleston that’s both elegant and satisfying, Magnolias is an absolute must-visit.
Poogan's Porch
Craving a delightful Charleston brunch? Look no further than Poogan’s Porch, conveniently located in downtown Charleston. This historic restaurant, housed in a charming Victorian home, offers mouthwatering Southern classics. I ordered (and loved) their legendary chicken and waffles, featuring crispy, juicy chicken atop light and fluffy waffles. My mom ordered the decadent French toast, and it did not disappoint. Poogan’s Porch is a must-visit for a delicious and memorable Charleston brunch experience.
Rodney Scott's BBQ
For some finger-lickin’ good BBQ in Charleston, look no further than Rodney Scott’s. This iconic pitmaster’s joint offers authentic whole-hog BBQ, a true taste of South Carolina tradition. We opted for their sampler platter, a perfect way to experience a variety of their offerings. Our platter included succulent pulled chicken, melt-in-your-mouth brisket, creamy mac and cheese, and fluffy hush puppies – all bursting with smoky flavor. Each bite was a delicious journey, and we left Rodney Scott’s feeling satisfied and raving about the experience.
