Our Insider’s Guide to the Best Spots to Dine While in the Lowcountry – Part of Southern Report’s Take Me There Series.

Typically when we dive into covering a new city, we start more generally with a “things to do” list. We’re making an exception with Charleston because, although there is tons to do and see, enjoying the local cuisine is taken so seriously that it basically ranks as a ‘top’ activity in itself.

Charleston, South Carolina is one of my all-time favorite cities. In fact, if I had to pick up and move, this is where I would go. We visit regularly and we have family that has lived there for almost two decades. Nicknamed “Palmetto,” after the state palm tree, the city offers something for everyone. Every inch of this historic, coastal city exudes southern charm, from the cobblestone streets to the infamously friendly people. Everywhere you look, you can take in views of the tidal marshes, historic sites, breath-taking Victorian & Georgian homes, and horse-drawn carriage rides. You’ve got great beaches and fantastic fishing. The vibrant culture is also palpable, with downtown being known for its rooftop bars, courtyards and great local music. It just has an overall romantic ambiance that’s hard to put into words.

With all that said, if you ask anyone what their favorite part of Charleston is, the large majority will talk about a dining experience. If it’s your first time visiting, it can be overwhelming to try to make the most of your food experience, simply because of how many great options there are. And, like any city, there will be places that are more popular and touristy than they actually are good. To that end, we’ve collaborated with our own local Charlestonian foodie and compiled a solid list of restaurants that will leave you feeling like you made the most of every meal while in town.

Magnolia’s– Upscale Lowcountry-Style Southern Cuisine

Whether you are after southern classics, such as fried green tomatoes or more modern interpretations of traditional Charleston dishes like bouillabaisse or shellfish gumbo, you CAN’T go wrong here. The building has history, the chef’s have history and most of all- the food has history. Long after you leave, you’ll want to tell that story to those who haven’t had a chance to experience Magnolia’s themselves.

Shiki– Japanese Fresh Seafood

Small hole in the wall sushi spot that literally only locals know about, and very few. It’s like an if-you-know-you-know kinda spot. So freakin’ good (consistently) every time with legit Japanese chefs and super fresh seafood. Prices are also surpisingly accessable. I had the pleasure of spending 2 weeks in japan, eating at some high-end sushi spots and Shiki holds its own against those.

Vern’s – American Bistro That Leans Into Italian Cuisine

Since opening in 2022, Vern’s has continued to earn consistently good reviews. Diner’s describe the food as accessible but inventive and the atmosphere as unpretentious and warm. Check out the house-made pasta options and the Instagram-worthy Cafe Obscura Cocktail.

Cuda Co– Fresh Local Seafood

A small spot on James island for crazy-fresh seafood. Great oysters and you can also select any of their fresh seafood and have them cook it up any way you’d like. Not much to look at from the outside, but don’t let that fool you (like it did me for the longest time). If you go, grab a bag of their homemade Cajun chips too.

Husk– Modern Southern Cuisine That Heavily Incorporates Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients.

Located in a beautiful spot of historic, downtown Charleston, Husk will remain a favorite of mine as long as the doors are open. There are 3 locations now in total- Charleston, Nashville (which we’ve already written about) and Savannah. Each location supports local farmers and is constantly changing the menu to reflect local crops in the peak of harvest. Founding chef Sean Brock is a James Beard award-winner and his cookbook, Heritage, adorns my own coffee table. It’s a splurge and you definitely need reservations in advance, but you won’t regret it.

Melfi’s – Upscale Italian

Fresh pasta, salads, other assorted authentic Italian selections. Also, HANDS DOWN best martini I’ve ever had. I’m a take-it-or-leave-it kind of drinker typically. I can enjoy a dinner out without an adult beverage, but when I go here and always get TWO. Try the “fat and dirty”. Super cold, crazy smooth, with olive-oil washed vodka.

The Pass– Gourmet Sandwiches

The BEST freakin’ sandwiches. A small Italian lunch spot in one of my favorite neighborhoods. If you’re not sure where to start, order the “Good Italian Boy”and you wont be disappointed. It’s one of my favorite sandwiches in the whole world, and I’m not exaggerating.

Rappahannock Oysters – Fresh Seafood with Southern Accompaniments

I love a good oyster bar in general, but this place is SO much more than just that. Ironically, my first experience with Rappahannock wasn’t in Charleston at all. My best friend shares my love of raw oysters and shipped 100 to me on dry ice for my birthday one year (it’s rare the water is cool enough in Florida to harvest any locally). These were some of the best oysters I’d ever had. The ‘Olde Salt’ variety were particularly fresh and briny 🧑‍🍳 💋 . At the time, I had looked them up and saw they came from a Virginia river region. Imagine my surprise when browsing the web for dinner ideas on a random trip to Charleston, I find Rappahannock Oyster Co. The back-story here is definitely worth reading.

In short, a Virginia business man named James Croxton purchased a 2-acre oyster lease on the Rappannahock River in the early 1920’s. That lease didn’t expire until 2001, but when it did, his heirs took it over and carried on the tradition. They ship oysters all over the country for people to enjoy and have launched several corresponding eateries- Charleston being one.

Holy City Bagels– Authentic NY-Style Bagels

We finally have some good LEGIT bagel shops coming to town, both NY-style and even Montreal-style. But Holy City was the first so I’m partial. It’s not going to blow your mind in terms of the best food you’ve ever eaten, but given that previously we couldn’t get a decent bagel in Charleston to save our lives, its not to be taken for granted.

Baba’s– Old-World-Style European Cafe and Bar

A fun spot that feels more like you’re NY’s West Village than Charleston. Considering a lot of restaurants in our town feel seem to be cranking out the same exact food with the same exact vibe, I love this spot for coffee and light bites. Their shrimp toast is REALLY good. You can eat outside on the sidewalk if you’re in the mood to enjoy the fresh air and some people-watching.

Lowland– Upscale, But Simple, Modern Comfort Food

This is a splurge, but if you can swing it, you MUST check it out. In addition to serving up incredible food, it’s also a gorgeous spot. Make sure to check out both floors because they’re totally different but equally beautiful. This is definitely one of the more popular restaurants right now.

This list only scratches the surface of what Charleston’s dining scene has to offer. We’d love to hear about YOUR favorites!