50 Best American Restaurants in Charleston

“Edmund’s Original is one of our favorite restaurants in Charleston. It’s the perfect mix of quality and price, with a team that always makes us feel right at home. I can’t speak highly enough of this place. Whenever someone comes to visit from out of town, we bring them to EO so they can get a taste of what we’re fortunate to enjoy regularly. The food is phenomenal - from the fried chicken to the burger to the steak, and everything in between. The beer selection is top notch. In-house developed cocktails are creative, while the classics are on point if that’s more your speed. The chocolate cake and an espresso martini are the perfect touch to finish it all off! Oh, and don’t sleep on the special events they host! When the chef teams up with other chef’s from around the state, they always deliver a unique and delicious experience!“

“Great food, prompt service. The polenta was wonderful!“

“Leon's is literally in my dreams! My boyfriend and I went there for the first time three years ago. It blew our minds! Affordable, delicious food, and such a fun atmosphere. We returned a couple of times on the same trip. We live in NJ... and set up a trip last year JUST to go to Leons. I am actually scared to post a review because I selfishly want to keep it a secret for my boyfriend and I. Man, if you like chicken and oysters... you cannot go wrong. Damn, now I need to set up another trip. :)“

“Excellent service! The atmosphere was an amazing place to grab a drink and/or eat for the evening while socializing.“

“Fantastic atmosphere. Saturday brunch with Beth, server as pleasant as con be. Highly recommend Shrimp and grits with Bloody Mary. A must when visiting Savannah.“

“We didn’t have reservations, but were able to sit at the bar! We had the best food, craft cocktails and dessert! The staff was amazing, especially Kiersten, K-WOW, the bartender! Highly recommend!“

“Delicious meal & friendly staff“

“We LOVED our lunch visit a few weeks ago! great service, excellent food, loads of fun!“

“Jenn was the best waitress I have ever had and I go to restaurants for fun. She was caring and was passionate! The buffalo Brussels sprouts were amazing and the shrimp Gnocchi was to die for!!! 10/10 would recommend and ask for Jenn!!!“

“Vern’s Restaurant in downtown Charleston truly exceeded our expectations and left us with an unforgettable dining experience. The food was exceptional—quite possibly the best meal we have ever had.“

“We had the most amazing night celebrating our 10th anniversary. The entire team went above and beyond and we left feeling so filled with joy—and OUTSTANDING food. Flavors that we never will forget and memories for a lifetime. WC team, thank you for making our first night in Charleston one we will never forget.“

“We had a lovely dinner at The James. I have a restricted diet and they wendy out if their way to make sure I was accommodated. There were 4 of us and everyone enjoyed our evening. Our server, Jessica was first class as were everyone we came in contact with. Would highly recommend The James.“

“The staff was amazing. It was our anniversary and the GM personally came to our table and poured us a glass of Champaign to celebrate. They also gave us a free dessert. The hostess, wait staff, and GM all took time to wish us a happy anniversary. The food was amazing as well! Overall it was a great dining experience!“

“French Fries are the best and the sweetest girl from Georgia pretty blonde was super nice and friendly and made sure we didn't sit dirty with empty plates and glasses - Did not catch her name but the atmosphere was absolutely wonderful-“

“Had brunch today. Food was good. The chicken and waffle was really tasty.“

“amazing food amazing staff get the fried chicken“

“Our experience at Élevé absolutely exceeded expectations. On Monday, we gathered with friends for a delightful rooftop dinner that felt both elegant and relaxed, with remarkably artful cuisine, a chic rooftop garden ambiance, and breathtaking views of downtown Charleston’s cobblestones made it unforgettable. Then on Tuesday, we returned simply for a glass of wine at sunset, and that alone felt like magic.

What truly elevated the experience was the service. I didn’t catch the server’s name Monday but she was fabulous. On Tuesday, Hannah was a true highlight, warm, bright, and effortlessly attentive. Both servers navigated the evenings beautifully.

The setting is one of Charleston’s most artful dining destinations, with an elegant rooftop garden and an inventive coastal cuisine rooted in Southern and French flavors, where every detail, from the herbs to the presentation, is intentional. The vibe borders on whimsical: a rooftop wonderland where art, cocktails, and culinary design converge.

Élevé isn’t just a dinner, it’s an experience you want to savor again and again. If you’re in Charleston, plan to stay awhile, and ask for Hannah.“

“Hats off to Gaby! She was wonderful! Her energy and huge smile. We’d go back just to see her again! 🫶“

“Best restaurant in Charleston! It really is a must!“

“I asked my fiancé to find a nice coffee shop that also sells beer in Charleston. After her google search, she asked our friends at The Lucky Luchador and they also recommended your establishment. I was definitely impressed with the atmosphere and selection of beer that was available. I will be coming back soon and will be your ugliest ambassador!!! 😊“

“Great meal and awesome waitress“

“Always amazing!! Cooking class with Chef Tyler was so fun!! Zero George is our go to in Charleston!“

“Had a great experience and stay… we enjoyed our time at the pool bar. Bartenders were very engaging and friendly.. great group and they make great drinks. Cozy and quaint.. just wish they played music around pool and not just on the bar side.“

“Best meal, service, and atmosphere we've had in Charleston! All our food was delicious, but the shrimp and grits was out of this world! Best decision we made was to eat there.“

“The dining area of the Lobby of this hotel is an awesome experience. The service culture and southern hospitality of the staff make this place a crowd favorite. The food is excellent. Sections of classic favorites like avocado toast or unique selections or just some oyster are all delicious and served with an informed smile. Make this a goto if your in the area.“

“Unique cocktails; friendly knowledgeable waitstaff“

“Yummy vegan options!, great service, and cute decor.“

“Great music, happy hour, and staff!“

“Food was excellent! Our server was excellent as well. We will be back!“

“I have no clue on who the owners are, but I can tell you that all of their food is made with Love ❤️. You can see it and you can taste it. Everything I have ever had has always been so delicious. This place is a Charleston Gem and I pray this little place continues to Thrive and Prosper. Charleston Loves You❤️❤️“

“Lunch at the Charleston location on 17 was off the hook good! Go get some.“

“Yummy food served up hot and quick. Super excellent service.“

“Herd Provisions in Charleston is an absolute gem! Having dined at some of the best steakhouses around, I can confidently say the filet at Herd Provisions stands out as truly exceptional. The flavor of the steak was superior—perfectly seasoned, tender, and cooked to perfection, showcasing a depth of taste that’s hard to find elsewhere. I also have to strongly recommend the wild mushrooms as a side. They’re bursting with just the right amount of flavor, and the hint of spice takes them to the next level, making them the perfect accompaniment to the steak. The combination was nothing short of phenomenal. The farm-to-table approach at Herd Provisions is evident in every bite, and the care they put into their ingredients and preparation truly elevates the dining experience. If you’re in Charleston and craving a steak dinner that’s a cut above the rest, this is the place to go. Don’t miss it!“

“Beautiful restaurant with Fabulous food and service! Look forward to our next visit.“

“Dinner was very good & everyone was so very nice. Had reservations & they seated us at 5. It was Mothers Day& graduation week so they were really busy BUT no one made us feel rushed. We will definitely come back..“

“Sat by the window thoroughly enjoyed our meal We had wings, chicken pot pie, turkey club Was really homemade and delighted to finely have real turkey (not deli meat or turkey roll) and fresh chicken pie - service and food excellent!“

“We were given a tip on this restaurant. While tough to get a table it was quickly obvious why. We had the rabbit roulade and the steak w wild mushrooms, but just as good as the main courses were the lamb dumpling appetizers. It was also a beautiful, refined atmosphere with top notice service.“

“I loved the vibes and atmosphere. Food and drinks were amazing. Our bartender, Pepe was phenomenal and will definitely be back next time we’re in Charleston!!“

“Excellent food and service.“

“just a great experience, food , wine and service.“

“Great food; great service“

“Amazing food, cozy atmosphere and wonderful. friendly staff!! Highly recommend!!“

“Amazing food! My family and I went here yesterday during our trip to Myrtle Beach based on some recommendations I saw online...and this place exceeded all expectations!! All of us were beyond satisfied with our meals. Delicious flavors and good portion sizes too! We said we will come back to Myrtle Beach (from PA) just to come back here 😂. Great service, nice atmosphere, and the food is absolutely amazing! We wanted to get photos of our meals but we were so excited to dig in when it came out that we forgot all about photos! Go check this place out and see for yourself.“

“Came for lunch today and the food, service and portions were great! Highly recommend the Buttermilk Catfish Sandwich with the sauce that comes with truffle fries instead of mayo!“

“I found out about Southbound, through my job. I had to go do some work there, and found the owner and everyone there, super friendly. Most people at restaurants ignore working people while they are there. As my 42nd anniversary was quickly approaching, I decided to give this place a try. Some of my past picks, have not been the best. Southbound cleared EVERY hurdle I have about restaurants. From the moment we approached the restaurant, great service began! While coming thru the gate, the hostess yelled out, "HEY LARRY" and then said, "This must be your beautiful wife"! Like CHEERS, it felt great to go somewhere, "Where everybody knows your name" We were seated and got to view the open fire oven. I had dropped off 42 roses the week before for them to put on our table, for my wife. Tropical storm Debbie, and downtown flooding prevented us from going exactly on our anniversary. I was worried that store bought roses, would not last thru the weeklong delay, Joel assured me everything would be taken care of, and not to worry. As we were seated, there on the table, sat 42 roses. Fresh, and arranged with baby breath flowers included. I was told the young lady with the hostess had arranged them. They were gorgeous! They also had an anniversary card on the table from them, not something I had dropped off. The service was tremendous, the food indescribably outstanding! I have only had steak Tar Tar once before in my life, and was greatly afraid to try it again, as the first time was awful. It was superb! They take great pride in the presentation of their food products. I felt like I was in an episode of Master Chef. We had the steak, as well as the Sea bass, okra, corn, sweet potatoes, and the Caramel cake. Everything absolutely wonderful! This was a truly wonderful and memorable dining experience!! I would give 100 stars, and a Siskel and Ebert two thumbs up! There was only one thing I was disappointed about. No sweet tea! Were In Charleston SC, no sweet tea. Everything else totally made up for it though. The staff even had everyone present sign a menu, wishing us a happy anniversry1 I will most definatly go there again for a special occasion. Thanks to Andrew, Joel, and the entire staff, for making this night special!!“

“Everything was a hit! Cheddar bacon fries with the cheddar dust, amazing. Black and blue burger, fried shrimp, and the Harlow, the best hands down. Then there’s the MASSIVE banana pudding. We live in Summerville, but will for sure be making the trip back!“

“Absolute wonderful experience on Thanksgiving Day. Professionally greeted, seated and presented the (3) dinner course options. The entrees were perfectly prepared, flavored beyond belief and served with a smile and professional demeanor. Personally, I recommend the Wagyu steak.“

“I love sitting at the bar having dinner and a drink. There is always someone to talk to and the staff are awesome people.“

“Had the steak & cheese eggrolls, pulled pork nachos and pineapple passionfruit marg. All so good! Would def come back and recommend to others! 😁“

“To the owner: the AC is set on 68 and pulling to 79. While the fans in the corners (moving air = imperative), you gotta upgrade the AC. Your staff is great…amazing. But these working conditions should have OSEA in here. Invest in AC…!!!! 😘“