Charleston’s relationship with the ocean runs as deep as its tidal creeks. For centuries, the city’s waterways have served as a lifeline, bringing in a daily harvest that defines the local palate. This maritime heritage has cultivated a dining scene where the seafood isn’t just fresh; it is a point of civic pride. From the salty breeze of Shem Creek to the cobblestone elegance of the Historic District, the pursuit of the perfect oyster or the freshest catch is a way of life here.
The Holy City offers a staggering variety of maritime menus, ranging from unpretentious dockside shacks to white-tablecloth institutions. You can find Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits simmering next to modern crudos and coastal fusion dishes. The common thread binding these diverse experiences is an unwavering commitment to sourcing the best product from the Atlantic and the surrounding estuaries. It is a standard that makes choosing just one meal a difficult, albeit delicious, challenge.
While the abundance of options is a blessing, it can also be overwhelming for visitors trying to navigate the culinary landscape. A generic "seafood restaurant" search yields hundreds of results, but not all are created equal. The true standouts are those that balance impeccable sourcing with skilled preparation, offering a sense of place that cannot be replicated elsewhere. These are the rooms where locals celebrate anniversaries and tourists finally understand the soul of Lowcountry cooking.
To truly appreciate Charleston’s bounty, one must look beyond the entrée. The best establishments honor the entire ecosystem, from briny local oysters harvested hours before they hit the ice to the delicate, sweet meat of the Carolina white shrimp. It is this hyper-local focus that separates a good meal from a memorable one. Whether you are craving a casual fried platter after a day on the water or a sophisticated tasting menu, the city delivers with a distinct Southern grace.
Our team has spent years navigating this vibrant food scene, dining through the busy tourist seasons and the quiet winter months to identify the consistent performers. We evaluate not just the food, but the atmosphere, the service, and the story behind the plate. The result is a curated guide designed to help you cut through the noise and find the true gems that define Charleston’s coastal identity.
Without further delay, here are the definitive dining destinations for the freshest catches in the Lowcountry.
Hyman's Seafood
| Address | 215 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 723-6000 |
Absolutely the most lovely lunch today at Hyman’s! Best experience we’ve had in a long, long time. Entire staff, from the staff at the host stand all the way to the sweet folks in the gift shop- everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Our meals were delicious and we enjoyed every bite. We’d come back to Charleston again just to visit Hyman’s Seafood. Thanks for a wonderful lunch!
Gordon is the best!! He was super friendly and made us feel right at home. He’s my favorite server. His service is top notch. We ate so much delicious food. It’s been amazing every visit we have had. 10/10 recommend and ask to sit with Gordon if you get the chance!
Hello Eli, it was nice meeting you at your restaurant. 4th and 5th generation managing a business is special. It’s a fantastic Charleston success story. As always, the food was great and your staff friendly. I’m posting some pictures of lunch. Everyone said they would get their meal again! We had the broiled seafood, shrimp dish, bourbon salmon and the seafood roll. Take care!
Probably the best meal I have ever eaten or pretty damn close. Words can’t describe how good the shrimp and grits are! No wonder it’s so highly rated! Definitely a food destination everyone should try once if you like southern cuisine! They gave us several complimentary items. Including the boiled peanuts. 🥜 I’m not the biggest fan of but these were good. Kaitlyn our server was excellent. Definitely will go back next time I’m in Charleston.
This was my first time at Hyman’s Seafood and I went on 4th of July. The entire experience was well worth the drive and everything about the visit was excellent! In ordered their fried catfish and their southern style collard greens. Both were very flavorful and delicious. My server along with Steve were quite helpful in helping me choose my entree. I also ordered their sex on the beach drink, while my friend ordered the variety of moonshine flavored drinks. The moonshine drink option was a hit! Lastly, the hush puppies are AMAZING! I personally cannot wait to return again soon in the near future!
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Raw Bar
| Address | 186 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 722-8100 |
Excellent staff, outstanding food, and perfectly crafted drinks made this yet another memorable lunch at The Landing. From the moment we arrived, the hostess set a warm and welcoming tone, and that level of hospitality carried through the entire experience.
The wait staff was attentive, friendly, and genuinely on top of everything without ever feeling rushed or intrusive. Service flowed smoothly, and you could tell everyone works together as a team to make the experience enjoyable from start to finish.
The food was fresh and full of flavor, especially the seafood, which stood out for its quality and preparation. Everything tasted clean, well-prepared, and thoughtfully plated, making it easy to see why this spot continues to be a favorite.
The drinks were just as impressive—well-balanced, refreshing, and made with care. Combined with the relaxed atmosphere, it created the perfect setting for a laid-back but elevated lunch.
Overall, another perfect visit to The Landing, and a place that consistently delivers great food, great service, and a great experience every time.
This restaurant serves the best raw oysters you’ll find anywhere. I’ve tried many high-end raw oyster spots, but nothing matches this place. If you like oysters, this is the spot to visit. They also serve the best burger. Usually, I don’t eat burgers, but I tried one from my daughter's plate, and it was absolutely fantastic. Everything there is good, and I’m a foodie, so that means a lot. This place shucks about 6,000 to 6,500 oysters a week—that’s impressive. The shucker Lukas even came up to me at the bar and said he created a recipe called Taco Oyster, which uses the best ingredients on top of the raw oyster—you don’t need to add anything else. Just enjoy whatever they put on top. It’s so delicious. I’d recommend that too. If I lived here, I would be here every day. Btw, the people who work there are also very nice. That is probably the most important.
Waterfront view with exceptional seafood flavors. Servise is impeccable. Our server, Miller, knew the menu by heart and described the flavors and textures of fish and sauce. Prices are compatible with other Charleston seafood restaurants. Cobia cooked to order runs $25 and served with two sides. Asparagus grilled perfectly and highly recommended. If you are not into flaky, slighly fishy flavors, Cobia may not be for you. There are other fish and seafood on the menu. We got a chance to sit outside and enjoy sunset on Charlaton harbor.
Absolutely loved Fleet Landing. The flounder was fresh, perfectly cooked, and one of the best seafood dishes I had in Charleston. The oysters were incredible too. Everything tasted extremely fresh. Sitting outside on the water made the whole experience even better, with a great atmosphere and views. Service was excellent from start to finish. Great food, great vibes, and a place I’d definitely come back to.
2nd time at Fleets Landing and I loved it even more. Not one bad thing on the menu. Even though the fried flounder took a while and it was deep fried fish, it was wonderful and totally worth it. Food, service and atmosphere 👌 are great. If you love oysters, they have some the best I've ever had, and I have had oysters from several places. Definitely coming back again and again.
Charleston Crab House
| Address | 41 S Market St, Charleston, SC 29401 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 853-2900 |
Charleston Crab House was a great experience! The sesame tuna was fresh and flavorful, and the Lowcountry boil was excellent—perfectly seasoned with Old Bay and plenty of delicious butter. The Painkiller cocktail complemented the meal perfectly. Our bartender provided excellent service and made the entire visit even more enjoyable. I would definitely return!
I cannot say how delicious this food was! We ordered the scallops with a side of collard greens and MAN it was good. The scallops were rich in flavor with a great sear. We also ordered the stuffed mushrooms and were to die for! I highly recommend stopping by on your visit to Charleston.
Awesome seafood! First off - the place just screams crab house with its decor and vibe. Really cool interior with seafood theming everywhere. Then, the service: attentive and friendly throughout our meal. And of course, the food: delicious crab that came with corn and potatoes. Very generous portions. Very flavorful. Overall, highly recommend this place. It may look touristy, but it’s quite good.
The place was packed, but we got a seat right away. Tori was our waitress and was very quick and accommodating. I have a dairy allergy and she provided a dairy free menu for me. The food was delicious, I got the Carolina Platter. Others at the table got the fried shrimp, shrimp Alfredo, which wasn’t on the menu, but you can order it, and the shrimp boil.
The entire fam enjoyed their meal. From the red fish, scallops, and shrimps; the low country boil; and the crab claws! Our server (Paris) did a phenomenal job! Would definitely recommend this place and will come back!
Fin & Crab
| Address | 9 Lockwood Dr, Charleston, SC 29401 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 723-6325 |
The old Marina, Variety Store, now Fin and crab Has undergone some very nice cosmetic changes to the inside. While, we all hate change It’s part of life and once you become 59 you just have to learn to accept it. The cosmetic changes are very nice. The bar is much more comfortable to sit at and the whole sprucing up thing is a big improvement. I have been eating breakfast here for over 35 years, but hardly would ever go in for dinner Because of the lack of Ambience and it primarily having that diner feeling. I would definitely come and check it out for dinner now most of the same crew is still working our beloved Dawn, Patty and Alie . My breakfast was absolutely delicious as usual. The grits were no different today than the last time. I ate them there or 20 years ago. Most of the breakfast menu remains the same. Regardless of what other reviews have said about price. They are very reasonable when you consider the prices around this town. I am just very grateful that. this establishment is still here In Functioning in the capacity We have all enjoyed for so long. I look forward to many more years of dining in here with all the regular locals, tourist, and Maritime transient. It is the only place in town where you can sit down and have such a nice eclectic mix of people. Wishing them much success.
A quaint location that felt off the beaten path. Overlooking the river, the view is a part of its charm. Our server was polite and attentive. Stopped for a quick lunch, but this location was higher priced than I anticipated. I was not discouraged, just surprised at that. A great choice if top quality seafood is desired. Recommended.
Amazing upgrade! I’m a lifelong customer. The seafood is amazingly fresh and delicious! The service and view is awesome! Free parking is major plus! I was happy to see my server, Patty!
Thanks! 5 stars overall!
Went here for the first time, and everything was great! I can’t for the life of me remember our server’s name, but he was absolutely amazing—super nice, funny, and honestly unlike any server I’ve had before. He definitely made the experience even better!
Everything was enjoyable from start to finish, and I’ll definitely be coming back. I would absolutely recommend this place. 10/10! ⭐️
We have a boat off of the marina. Are absolutely astounded by this. 15 shrimp + a house salad was EIGHTY DOLLARS. We ordered 1.5 pound and happily paid. Then opened the box to this. Man on the phone was zero help and said to come back tomorrow. I've heard the rumors of this establishment going downhill with the new owners and against my morals decided to still give it a chance. Absolutely never again.
Hank's Seafood Restaurant
| Address | 10 Hayne St, Charleston, SC 29401 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 723-3474 |
The food was so good. I forgot to take pictures. The service was excellent. Casey was an amazing service. I would definitely go back. We were treated with respect. I definitely recommend reservations. There is a paid parking lot right next to it. Everything was delicious. We had a huge party and we got different things on the menu.
First time eating at Hanks seafood wasn’t sure how it was going to go . They take reservations but also do walk-ins. However walkin sits at the bar or at the long community table with other people. So we decided to sit at the bar. The bar tender Lady was really helpful on what the favorites was as far as drinks and food . Now the appetizer we had oyster stew well I wasn’t a huge fan myself it was traditional stew to me . The crab cakes was pretty tasty and good . For main dish wife had fried shrimp platter and I had fried oysters and grouper with hush puppies and fries . The 2 hush puppies probably the best I’ve ever had . Overall food was good and would probably visit again.
The staff here were truly outstanding from start to finish, with bartenders who are not only skilled but also incredibly polite, patient, and professional under pressure. You can tell they take real pride in what they do, especially when it comes to crafting well-balanced drinks and keeping the bar running smoothly even when things get hectic.
At one point during our visit, a guest became very particular about her drink and insisted that the freshly squeezed lime juice prepared daily still wasn’t “fresh enough,” demanding that an entire lime be cut and squeezed directly into her cocktail. Without missing a beat, the bartender calmly accommodated the request and handled it with complete professionalism. It was honestly impressive to watch that level of composure and service in what could have easily become a frustrating situation.
That said, our experience couldn’t have been better. Our drinks were absolutely spectacular—perfectly mixed, refreshing, and clearly made with care. The waiter provided excellent service as well, attentive without being intrusive, and knowledgeable about the menu. The fresh seafood was a standout, tasting clean, flavorful, and prepared exactly right.
If you’re planning to dine here, it’s definitely worth arriving early. Starting your evening at the bar is highly recommended so you can experience the atmosphere and interact with the brilliant bartenders before heading to your table. It really sets the tone for a great night and enhances the entire dining experience.
What a GREAT place!! Crystal, the hostess, was super with accommodations. The meal was absolutely delicious from start to finish. We had all the classics, Shrimp and Grits, She Crab Soup, Crab Cakes, Tuna Tartar and the Special Salad. It was our first meal in Charleston and Hank's definitely set the bar really high. Will absolutely return next time we're in the Holy City.
Tried Hank's Seafood Restaurant while visiting Charleston with family and it definitely lived up to the hype. The appetizers were amazing, the main dishes were just as good, and everything tasted fresh and well made. I personally got the butter poached lobster tails & lump crab cake and it was honestly amazing. Service was great the whole night and the atmosphere had that perfect Charleston vibe. Easily one of the must-try spots in the city if you’re visiting.
Bowens Island Restaurant
| Address | 1870 Bowens Island Rd, Charleston, SC 29412 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (843) 795-2757 |
Fabulous, the best fried oysters I’ve ever had, these were perfect size, great coating and cooked to perfection. Service was great and friendly. Fried green tomatoes were a treat with pimento topping. Sides on the oyster platter were very tasty. We had the house porter and enjoyed it immensely. The views were relaxing. This place was well worth the trip to South Carolina and can’t wait to return. PS don’t forget to leave your mark
Must visit seafood spot in Charleston! It’s no frills quick service and quality, fresh food is unmatched. I don’t know how I waited so long to eat here and will definitely be back- especially when friends and family are in town!
Great local place. I had driven past the sign on the main road for years without giving it consideration. A friend told me about it, so I drove down and met for dinner. At first we had a disappointment, no oysters arrived today... that is what I wanted... but back up plan, seafood platter. It was all excellent and loved the hushpuppies.
Pros:
-Fish and Shrimp plate came with 2 decent size Flounder filets and 15 shrimp, fries, 2 bites of slaw, and 2 hush puppies.
-Fries and hush puppies were delicious.
-Ramp access to restaurant (but it's looooong).
Cons:
-Long, poorly maintained gravel road.
-Long wait time (40 minutes) with no one else waiting for food.
-Neutral flavor (could have used more seasoning).
I have been going here for decades... I went tonight and have gotten more and more upset as the night has gone on. I am so used to loving it, It did not occur to me to NOT enjoy it as I have so many times before. The environment is fun, but my order....small order of oysters and a side of (6) hushpuppies. $26.00, $28.00 with tip, everyone was super nice. I am kinda surprised at the price. I would expect that for a platter, I have been known to drop $100.00 on a steak, so I WILL absolutely pay for good food. This was just okay. And very expensive, I have been burping oil for 2 hours. Definitely go, but be warned the prices don't reflect sometimes.
Charleston Harbor Fish House - Southern Fare from the Land and Sea
| Address | 32 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 284-7060 |
Nice place with wonderful views of Charleston Harbor from the Mt Pleasant side. Direct views of the historic USS YORKTOWN and Laffey ships. Mostly seafood menu but hamburger and chicken options are available. Today we had the special which was Snapper Tacos in a soft taco with Asian slaw and an aioli sauce. This was tasty but the fish was a bit tougher than desired. The other dish was a classic fish and chips converted to a sandwich style. The batter was excellent and the fish was moist. Can't say much about the fries as they were a bit dull. May be time to change the oil. Our server Ryan was pleasant and accommodating despite us being on the opposite side of a very large restaurant from his other tables. They validate parking which is nice. Overall a pleasant experience.
I have eaten the breakfast buffet and at the rooftop bar. I thought for a buffet that the buffet food was good and had a lot of options. The rooftop top bar had your typical bar food which was pretty good as well. The view and atmosphere was awesome. Looking out to the marina and also seeing the USS Yorktown and the USS Laffey was pretty cool. Next time I am on vacation in Mt. pleasant I would probably come back. The service was also top notch and always kind!
Service was wonderful! The staff is very friendly and our server was diligent and kind! We got to the restaurant at 4:30 on a Thursday! Got in immediately and we had a wonderful view of the ships at patriots point!
Our starter was the Calamari! For dinner I had the Crab Cakes! My fiancé had the Lobster Roll!
We then went to the rooftop bar and I had the Meaning Of Life!
While visiting the USS Yorktown today, we decided to stop in for lunch. When you first walk in you get this smell of mildew….not sure where that is coming from but they seated us in a separate room behind the bar and it was a much larger room with great views of the ships and no mildew smell. Got the special which included Red Snapper tacos with homemade chips. The tacos were seasoned well but underwhelming. The Salmon BLT was excellent and the burgers and chicken wrap were good. Fries were underdone and not great. Their ranch dressing is made fresh and tasty.
Excellent time with friends and the service was fun and friendly. The food was the cherry on top! Excellent! I had the short rib for dinner following my incredible she crab soup. The short rib took it to another level and was NOT expected to be as good as it was! 🥹 🤤
Iron Rose
| Address | 115 Meeting St #174, Charleston, SC 29401 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:30 – 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 805-1054 |
We were two couples celebrating a birthday. We had a reservation and they seated us early. The dining room was loud so we requested the patio, but there was no availability.
My husband’s old fashioned arrive with a cute rose ice cube. My Amaretto Sour with a Cabernet Float came in a Coupe glass and was as tasty as it was pretty.
All of the food we ordered was delicious! Bites: Tuna Crudo, Pickled White Shrimp. Entrees: Charred Octopus, Seared Scallops, Cider Braised Pork Shank, Market Fish (Halibut). Veggies: Flash Fried Brussels Sprouts. Dessert: Chocolate Crunch Cake.
Our server, Lillian, was really helpful with dietary restrictions and menu recommendations.
Thank you for a memorable meal.
If the dining room wasn’t as loud, this would have been a 5 star review.
Absolutely loved our visit here! The cocktails and mocktails were both great — I had a mocktail with pear puree that was incredible. I really enjoyed the catch of the day dish, the corn, bacon, fish combination was so good! The clue crab appetizer was probably my favorite part of our meal though, so fresh! We also enjoyed the swordfish sandwich with the comeback sauce. We attempted to visit again before we left, but there was a private event, so we hope that we are able to visit in our next visit to Charleston. ☺️
Great nice dinner out! Our server, Abigail, was wonderful! Love the potatoes! Drinks were great! Love the atmosphere. Catch of the day was perfect and fresh! The chicken could have used a bit more flavor but was so tender! Banana pudding dessert was fabulous!!
The food was great. We went on a Monday morning which was not too busy. Food came pretty fast. Server was really good. The food portion is good for the price. If you are staying at the hotel this is a great breakfast stop. The only downside is if you want some specialty drink they will send you to their coffee shop which is at the other side of the lobby.
After visiting the Gibbs Museum, We wanted a place very close by to have lunch. We were so happy to find the Iron Rose restaurant at the Mills House Hotel.
Although the main restaurant was occupied by a large conference group, we were quickly seated at a nice table in the bar area in front of windows overlooking the patio.
We ordered a shrimp poorboy, swordfish sandwich(without bread)and club sandwich.
Everyone enjoyed their meal! Melanie waited on us and was very attentive to any needs we had. The prices were very reasonable and we had a lovely lunch before returning home to Summerville. We will be back!
King Claw - Juicy Seafood & Bar
| Address | 1734 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 868-6288 |
Want a great seafood boil? Go here! Never had one but this was amazing! We did the build your own and we're very happy with the choice. It was a really fun experience! Great experience! Highly recommend!!
Me and my bestie drove almost two hours after work to have dinner here! It was well worth the drive! They did have a 20 minute wait, so I would recommend making reservations, because they do get busy. Our server was Jodie, and she was absolutely amazing! Above and beyond experience. She gave recommendations when asked, and just provided us with a welcoming attitude that complimented the inviting ambiance. The music isn't loud and a nice background level. There's a bar and outside seating. Now to the important part. The food and the drinks are absolutely delicious. The Boom Boom Shrimp Tacos were the best I had, hands down. Got me scouring local restaurants now looking for something that taste remotely the same.lol. The seafood boil is well seasoned and fulfilling. I had mine Spicy and it wasnt overwhelmingly hot. I also had a Peach Rum Punch and a Mango Tequila Punch. Yaaaassss! Me and Tequila usually have a love hate relationship, but she was nice to me that night. My bestie had no complaints about her food! We will definitely be back!
I had a really good experience at King Claw - Juicy Seafood & Bar. The service stood out right away, and the food came out quickly, which made the visit even better. Everything felt smooth and welcoming, and I’d be happy to come back again. If you’re looking for a place with a good atmosphere and solid seafood, this is a nice choice.
We decided to stop by for dinner & it ended up being a great choice. I ordered the king boil in garlic butter, mild spice & Cajun seasoning, the select 4 appetizer with a double portion of oysters, chicken tenders & calamari and a fried shrimp dinner with Cajun fries.
The king boil was hands down delicious. The garlic butter & mild Cajun seasoning paired perfectly, neither flavor overpowered the other & the slight hit of heat really brought it up a level. None of the items in the boil were over or under cooked. The lobster was out of this world juicy & really stood out.
Fried appetizers are always hit or miss, but this one was a home run. The oysters were soft and juicy, the breading was crispy, seasoned & fried to a just right golden brown. The chicken tenders were also juicy & flavorful. The calamari was slightly chewy, as to be expected, but still great. The most important thing is; everything was hot & fresh. I would absolutely order this again.
The shrimp was great. Nothing really to write home about, but on par with most fried shrimp platters. The Cajun fries were fresh & seasoned beautifully.
The portion sizes & prices made everything a fantastic deal. You really can’t get this food at a better price anywhere in the area. Their lunch specials are also priced competitively & are sure to bring me back.
Service was outstanding. Our server was attentive, quick & made sure we were taken care of throughout the evening. The hostess however was slightly rude.
Atmosphere was laid out very well & decor matched the experience. The bar was huge & very lively, but far enough away from the dining area not to disturb other guests.
Overall I had a great experience. I will be returning soon!
Farha was our server. She treated us like she was an owner. Talked me into trying the boil. She said it would not disappoint. She was right. The food was great and the service was excellent. It is not often that you are treated this well by service. I would highly recommend this place for food that is affordably priced. Great dinner.
Charleston Crab House
| Address | 145 Wappoo Creek Dr, Charleston, SC 29412 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 795-1963 |
Charleston Crab House on James Island is always a wonderful experience! The waterfront views create the perfect atmosphere, and the seafood is fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. From the crab legs to the shrimp and Lowcountry favorites, every dish is absolutely delicious. The staff is friendly, attentive, and provides outstanding customer service. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or for a date night, this is a must-visit spot in Charleston. Great food, beautiful scenery, and true Southern hospitality every time!
We parked on the boat, went in to get a table and it took a bit bc there was a miscommunication between host people but my mom asked someone else and we were seated. The food was delicious. I asked the waitress what she thought of the shrimp and grits but she doesn’t like seafood lol. She recommended the appetizer version if I wasn’t very hungry which I got without the bbq sauce and it was really good. We added a cluster of crab legs to the collective bucket thing my mom ordered and that was very easy. My sisters loved their food too - fried flounder and grilled salmon. Kids menu was good. My dad got the grilled seafood trio which he said was very good. Overall a pleasant experience for Mother’s Day with yummy food.
We can't get FRESH seafood where we live so what a treat this quick trip to Charleston was!
We went late than we normally but it was still crowded. As you know, my hubby is walking challenged but we wanted on the outside deck because the weather was still really comfortable mid April (2026). After waiting about 20 minutes we were summoned. We had already been watching a few other groups seated, some using walkers and trying to maneuver the stairs. I asked if there was a ramp somewhere and was told 'not really so the hubby took it slow. Despite me asking the hostess to please walk slowly (she saw us come in), she worked her way thru the crowded tables and down another set of stairs to the door to the deck. She was already back at the door, passing us before we got thru that door and I was liking to see where she placed the menus, to see where we were sitting. There was another two steps up, no rails, to get to the table. There were at least five empty tables on the deck so not sure why the wait except maybe lack of servers.
Our server, David, almost immediately appeared. Friendly and attentive. We started with their 1/2 lb peel and eat shrimp seasoned with Old Bay ($14.95). The weren't heavily seasoned, served in ice. Because we ate lunch today somewhere else, I had a house salad and she crab soup. As I've never made she crab soup before, I cannot compare (but my soups are memorable). It was a creamy soup ($12.95). I wish they would have ladled from the bottom, unless you are not suppose to have bits of crab in it. The house salad ($8.96) was made with some type of frisée or endive lettuce, so if you like that, this is for you.
The hubby had their grilled seafood trio ($32.95) served with reddish, sea scallops and shrimp. He opted for greens and coleslaw which were really good sides. It's hard to find redfish on a menu. We finished up sharing a key lime pie ($8.00)
Overall, good food but definitely not handicap friendly. The girls seating folks need a lesson in customer service and hosting with a smile. One man, a we were leaving, guided us through their back gate, once we navigated down the two steps. Told us it was a solid surface likely easier to walk for us if we didn't mind going past their dumpsters. We really appreciated his suggestion!
If you’re looking for a true Lowcountry dining experience with waterfront charm, Charleston Crab House on Wappoo Creek delivers in all the right ways. Tucked just outside the bustle of downtown, this location feels like a local secret where the breeze carries a hint of salt air and the pace slows down just enough to enjoy it.
The setting is a standout. Overlooking Wappoo Creek, the restaurant offers that classic Charleston view boats drifting by, marsh grass swaying, and the kind of golden-hour light that makes everything look like it belongs in a postcard. This stretch of water has long been part of Charleston’s working waterfront, once tied to fishing, shrimping, and the steady rhythm of coastal trade. Dining here feels like stepping into that tradition, just with better cocktails and fewer nets to untangle.
The menu leans confidently into fresh seafood, and it shows. Crab dishes are the obvious highlight sweet, tender, and prepared with care but everything arriving from the kitchen reflects a respect for the ingredients. Whether you’re digging into a seafood platter or a classic Lowcountry staple, the flavors are clean, satisfying, and exactly what you hope for when you’re this close to the water.
Behind the bar, Diane deserves special recognition. Attentive, upbeat, and genuinely joyful, she brings an energy that elevates the entire experience. Drinks arrive promptly, recommendations come with a smile, and she has that rare ability to make every guest feel like a regular. In a city known for hospitality, Diane fits right in and then raises the bar a notch.
The atmosphere strikes a comfortable balance: casual enough for a laid-back evening, but polished enough to feel like an occasion. You’ll see locals unwinding, visitors soaking it all in, and at least one table debating whether they really need dessert (they do).
And a little Charleston humor feels appropriate here because between the view, the seafood, and Diane keeping the drinks flowing, the only thing missing is a dolphin jumping out of the creek to applaud your dinner choice.
In short, Charleston Crab House on Wappoo Creek captures what makes Lowcountry dining special: fresh seafood, genuine hospitality, and a setting that reminds you why people fall in love with Charleston in the first place. It’s a place to relax, enjoy, and maybe stay a little longer than planned.
Tori was amazing. So friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. She more than kept up on a busy Saturday night with lots of large parties. Even though we were only a small party of 2, she treated us like we were her only table in the busy time we were there. I would request her every time we go back! Thanks Tori!!!
Shem Creek Crab House
| Address | 508 Mill St, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 725-4902 |
Crabtastic!! We loved everything! We got the stuffed mushrooms (that came in she crab soup!) shrimp boil, crab cakes, and po boys. We all raved about it. I almost didn’t get the po boys but I’m so happy I did. The shrimp boil was the hit. The sausage, potatoes, corn…it was all worth it! (Plus the view and atmosphere was great—Linda, our server, made it a fun experience for a bunch of people coming from a land-locked state).
Parking was a challenge as their own parking space is limited. We enjoyed a beautiful view during a casual dinner outside on the terrace. It took 15 minutes before we got service but after that we had great service. The happy hour drinks only applies to bar customers unfortunately. We ordered crab stuffed mushrooms but it was just 4 small pieces and a ridiculous amount of cheese on top, do not recommend!! Main course was red fish paired with smashed potatoes and fresh vegetables which was delicious ad well as the salmon with collard greens and grits. Drinks are generous pours. Music was a bit too loud, could be more of a background music rather than hard rock blasting over our conversations.
Hubby & I ate @ Shem Creek Crab House our 1st night of our 50th Wedding Anniversary trip to S.C. It was Fabulous🤩😋 I ate snow crab legs & fried Shrimp 🍤 😋 Yummy to my tummy!! He ate fried Flounder. He really liked it too!! We were seated @ a window overlooking the water way😍 The waiter took us outside to take our photo. @ my request. We missed the sunset due to clouds but nice
anyway. We had a Great server! Highly Recommended ❣️
This was my 3rd time visiting Shem Creek, as they are usually very good with great service. However, the service fell very short this time. My daughter, her boyfriend and I ordered Fried Calamari and Hushpuppies as an appetizer, and the crab boil to share for dinner. Well, the crab boil came out first and we the calamari about 20 minutes later. We never did get our hushpuppies. The waitress apologized and said that she would bring us a piece of key lime pie on the house since we never got our hushpuppies. Well, guess what…after I paid, we sat there for another 15-20 minutes waiting on our complimentary pie, but it never came. So we just left. Very disappointing. Do better!
Lightly battered and delicious fried fish platter and Calamari. The cole slaw was creamy, and generous portion of waffle fries. The tartar sauce tasted store bought, and you need to request lemon.
I don't like oysters which made it difficult to choose my fish platter as they all had oysters as one of the three fish items. Many seafood restaurants will provide a selection to choose from, and that would have made my dining experience better.
Charleston Crab House
| Address | 508 Mill St, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (843) 725-4902 |
Max stars!!!! Wife and I went here for a Valentines date night. I know this is a shame but I don’t like sea food. My wife, loves it! So as a good husband I took here to get some crab legs. You could see it in her face, she loved it. So the sea food was fantastic, according to her.
Since I suck and don’t like seafood I got the Blackened Chicken Alfredo. I figured it would be meh but to my surprise it was good… nay DAMN GOOD! I really enjoyed it. The restaurant itself was nice. Staff friendly and attentive! Keep it up!
My only complaint is one I have with all sea food places, I get most seafood places don’t have much other items then seafood but maybe have more then a few options. That’s all. Go here and enjoy!
I had really high expectations!
The hostess girls were welcoming and fun!
It was the hush puppies that let me down! They tasted decent but were really really greasy- the honey butter that people raved about in the reviews turned out not to be butter, instead it was some kind of spread with artificial flavors in it so I wouldn’t touch it.
I ordered a crab bucket with snow crabs and Dungeness crabs. Snow crab was good but the Dungeness crabs weren’t.
The restaurant was uncomfortably hot (inside) so it was just not a good experience for me.
Having tried the Crab House chain when they first opened and been appalled and offended by the food, I was reluctant to return but was with a group so I just went with it. I checked the reviews and was surprised by the number of good reviews, but when I looked deeper the raves were generally from tourists (who are the preferred victims of this chain as they don’t know better). The appetizers were generally tasty, but enough bacon makes anything good. The crab dip actually was a pretty good version.
The hush puppies, though, were just fried corn mush, dense as rocks. Not sure where they went wrong with the batter- perhaps they forgot the leavening, and didn’t know enough to use self-rising corn meal. They were totally bland- absolutely no evidence of onions or peppers in the finished gut-bombs.
The She-Crab soup had a very good flavor. It was the thinnest, wateriest She-Crab soup I’ve ever seen, but good flavor.
Now we get to the major problem with this restaurant group- the call themselves the Charleston Crab House, yet their menu is almost 100% local food free. The only Blue Crab on the menu is the cover picture. 100% of the crab on the menu is from the West Coast or Alaska. This alone shows a complete disrespect and disregard of Lowcountry quality and tradition.
For my entree, I specifically asked what local product was available. I was told only the flounder was local. This is a travesty, as there are shrimpers docked just down the creek with phenomenal local product available, but tourist traps like this one prefer the ultra-cheap imported farmed shrimp to serve to unsuspecting tourists and transplants. There is a MAJOR difference in quality and flavor. Things being what they were I ordered the Crispy Flounder. It came fried in some hard, crunchy coating that was hard to break through. Traditional Lowcountry fried flounder has a simple salt, pepper, and cornmeal breading. The fish was either old and freezer burned, or badly overcooked, and was dry and stringy- hard to do with flounder.
All in all, they should pack up this chain and move all of the locations to the plains states, and compete with the other chains.
Do yourself, and the Lowcountry, a huge favor, and avoid this and all “local” restaurants who completely ignore local food traditions and producers. The world will be a better place.
Absolutely delicious crab pot! 🦀 Everything was perfectly cooked—the crabs were sweet and tender, the shrimp juicy, and the mussels fresh and flavorful. The sausage added a great smoky kick, and the corn and potatoes soaked up all the amazing seasoning. Generous portions and bold flavor. Highly recommend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My mother and me and my partner with our family friend had a wonderful time at this place.
Hour server, Falan was wonderful!!!
Red's Ice House
| Address | 98 Church St, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 388-0003 |
This restaurant and bar sits right on Shem Creek. The staff are pleasant but at times you have to flag them down. The waiter who brought the food tossed it across the table as opposed to properly placing it done. It took a while to get water and iced tea presumably because everything comes from the bar. If not for the one waiter I would have given the waitresses a 4 star. The smoked wings were the highlight and had a nice dry rub. I had fish and chips which was bland and greasy tasting. The batter was not flavorful. The hush puppies were good but a bit overcooked. My wife had a chicken bowl which was well plated and was better than my meal. The French fries I had were also blah. This place is very popular and has a great location but the food does not match. It could use some upgrading as well.
Had a great time at Red’s Ice House watching the dolphins along the canal and inlet. The crowd was lively and loud, but that’s to be expected on a busy Saturday with bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, and people heading out for shows. The staff absolutely worked their butts off taking care of everyone and keeping things moving. Great spot for cocktails on the rooftop with beautiful water views and a fun atmosphere. Definitely a good place to hang out and enjoy the Charleston area vibe!
Outstanding service, and because it was national chicken wing day that’s what I got!
The wings were “off the chain” good.
Kenny (outside bartender) made a great recommendation to get the wings “naked” and then add the sauce if needed.
Red’s is always a favorite of mine when in the area, and I certainly will be back again.
Stopped here on a short trip to Charleston, South Carolina and were pleasantly surprised. The food was good, the prices were extremely reasonable, drinks were good, and atmosphere was great! We sat indoors because it was so hot but there were a ton of outdoor seating options!
Wonderful place on the water for lunch/dinner and a few drinks. Multiple bars in the same location. Food was really only 3.5 stars but the prices were pretty good so the value was there. The drinks were average but again the price wasnt bad at all so yeah...its great for the price. No complaints.
The Kingstide
| Address | 32 River Landing Dr, Daniel Island, SC 29492 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 216-3832 |
Charleston has so many great options but it would be well worth a short drive to Daniel Island to eat hear. My waitress Paityn was the absolute best. She was knowledgeable about the dishes, chef and ingredients down to where they were sourced. She definitely made it an experience and not just a meal. Lobster bisque was great, good amount of lobster but the bisque would have been wonderful with no lobster. I normally don't order mussels but Paityn recommended it so I went with it. The mussels were fresh and the broth was so good. Ask for a spoon for the broth, I used the mussels shells to finish the broth. Blackened grouper for the entrée and it was excellent. Grouper was cooked perfect. The grits were some of the best I have ever had. Creamy and rich, no way to really describe and give it justice but wow. The tomatoes and mushrooms brought it all together adding a slight bit of acidity to a rich dish.
Our third restaurant choice from the Indigo Restaurant Group while visiting Charleston area. Took a chance that there would be a casual atmosphere upstairs as we were just grabbing a quick bite on our way back from the beach, that they did. Downstairs is beautiful, bit more upscale both offer views of the water, gorgeous sunset!!! Our server Peyton was friendly, the fish sliders were creative and very tasty. Worth the visit, recommend trying and look forward to visiting the downstairs restaurant for our next visit to Daniel’s Island.
The atmosphere and waitress were wonderful. I removed stars bc we got there for dinner service at 740pm. We were quickly sat (no reservation, Tuesday). The special was Mahi, a few minutes later, it’s out. The next option offered was Grouper or snapper. The grouper is out. So had to land on the snapper - dish was good, but not what was wanted (so made the experience downgraded). Also, I ordered an Old fashion - it was very light in color and watered down. The mussels were good. Cauliflower was good. Hush puppies had no flavor, the butter it was served with made it. Oysters were good. We had buttermilk pie, yummy. We were comped Brussels sprouts and mandarin cheesecake- tasty, Brussels were a bit tart for me with the vinegar onions, but hubby liked it
This place was incredible. We got the crab cakes, sword fish, and roasted carrots followed by the blueberry cheesecake and crunch bar for dessert. The cocktails were exceptional as well. Our server, Hudson, was very well versed on the menu and so friendly. The area is beautiful as well. Highly recommend! (Note: this was at the downstairs restaurant, the upstairs has a different menu altogether)
Overall I had a good time at the Kingstide. We were seated quickly when we arrived.
I ordered the hush puppies as an appetizer. They were tasty but fairly dense. For my entree I had the Pork Milanese and grits as a side. This was a fantastic dish. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The service was a mixed bag. We received our drinks and appetizers quickly. The entrees were a longer wait.
Overall the ambience is great. I'd recommend it to anyone im Daniel Island.
CudaCo. Seafood House
| Address | 765 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 789-3105 |
Just had one of the best meals out I’ve had in a LONG time. Fish skewers with seaweed salad and coconut sticky rice. Very generous portions!! Incredible flavours - these guys know how to cook fish. Super friendly vibes and I’m looking forward to going back next time I’m in Charleston. Wish you had a spot in Wilmington, NC 🙂
P.S great beer and good selection of organic/low intervention wines.
I don’t get these reviews. We stopped for lunch based on the great reviews. We spent almost $35 on two VERY small sandwiches. We got the po boy and the fried grouper sandwich. Food was fine but way off on the value. I’ve had better of both especially when factoring value.
Went for soft shell crabs which were excellent. Got a sandwich which was very large and juicy. Also had a fried flounder sandwich and rice for toddler. Husband had fried oysters. We ate outside on the picnic table on the marsh..a great location for a toddler to play. It got somewhat buggy and food took awhile to come. Very good quality & extremely friendly staff.
When they say, GREAT food, well the people have spoken!!!!! If you are a seafood lover = here you go. The service was awesome and I would highly recommend AGAIN❗️**the only knock is the seating if it rains, which it did. Otherwise there is plenty of seating outside
Once you park in the crowded parking lot, you’ll be pleasantly surprised the options and the seafood are so amazing. The service is fast and friendly and it’s in true Lowcountry style sitting outside by the marsh! ❤️
The Ordinary
| Address | 544 King St, Charleston, SC 29403 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 414-7060 |
This place is far from ordinary.
We came for dinner and sat outside. We were worried about being too hot but it was nice a shady and there was a large fan.
Our server, Daniel L was phenomenal. He gave great recommendations from start to finish based on our likes, not simply suggesting the most expensive items on the menu. Everyone who we interacted with was friendly and welcoming. Our food was paced out perfectly and our table never had empty dirty dishes or empty drinks.
Some memorable items include the smoked oysters, the oyster slider, the snapper crudo and their raw oysters. We are big fans of raw oysters and frequently get oysters that aren’t fully cleaned and have bits of shell in them. Not here! These were well cleaned. If you’re looking for a great entree choice, the snapper was delicious with the creamed corn underneath.
Everything was super fresh and thoughtful. All of the elements on each dish made sense and elevated the flavors. This is going to be a regular place for us on our travels to Charleston.
The Ordinary in Charleston was an outstanding dining experience. We tried a little bit of everything, starting with the oysters and oyster sliders, followed by the tomato and tonnato, shrimp on the plancha, and red snapper crudo. Every dish was beautifully prepared, fresh, and packed with flavor.
The seafood really shines here, and each dish had its own unique presentation and taste. The oysters were fantastic, and the shrimp and red snapper crudo were standouts for us. Great atmosphere, excellent food, and a perfect place to enjoy Charleston’s incredible seafood scene. Highly recommend!
This was a really solid restaurant. I was a bit disappointed with how limited the menu was but the food was very good.
Get the oyster slider. They are fantastic!
The summer salad is also very tasty.
Dessert was the best we’ve had in Charleston so far!
Ambience is unique and service is stellar. Friendly, attentive, and just downright polite.
I’m happy we went.
We celebrated our anniversary outside on the patio with our dog. Six courses of pure heaven. Drinks that were quite literally perfect. Daniel, our server, offered impeccable, approachable and knowledgable service. Absolutely beautiful and memorable meal. Way beyond the ordinary!! ♥️
The Ordinary is literally anything but. We had a stellar experience sitting at the bar with our very competent, knowledgeable, and friendly bartender Max taking great care of us all night. We had the to-die-for Jimmy Red Corn Hoecakes and Crispy Oyster Sliders to start, with the Lobster Roll and Pork Schnitzel for entrées. Kudos to the chef, staff, and everything that makes this place great - especially the atmosphere. Just top-notch from start to finish.
Magnolias
| Address | 185 E Bay St #200, Charleston, SC 29401 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM, 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (843) 577-7771 |
Thank you for a great experience during our recent lunch reservation. Despite the restaurant buzzing with people, we were seated immediately, our waitress, Erin, was exceptionally pleasant and attentive.
The food was excellent overall. We especially enjoyed the liver, fried tomatoes, bouillabaisse, and the exceptional pecan pie. While the catfish was a bit too salty for my taste, the accompanying grits and sauce were very tasty.
We had dinner at Magnolias last night and overall had a very good experience. The restaurant itself has a great atmosphere, and the service was outstanding from start to finish. Fiona, our server, was attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and genuinely happy to answer questions and offer recommendations.
We started with several appetizers including the Tuna Tartare, Traditional Deviled Eggs, and Scallops. The Tuna Tartare was easily the standout appetizer of the night. The sauce paired with it elevated the dish and brought everything together perfectly. The Deviled Eggs were good and well prepared, although fairly traditional without much of a twist. The Scallops were cooked very well, and the brandied apple bacon cream sauce was rich, flavorful, and absolutely worth ordering again.
For entrées, we had the evening special, Mahi-Mahi, along with the BBQ Pork Chop. Both dishes had great flavor, but unfortunately both were slightly overcooked and just a little dry. The sides accompanying each entrée were very good and balanced the plates nicely.
To finish, we ordered the crème brûlée and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Both desserts were simple, well executed, and a great ending to the meal.
Overall, the service and appetizers really stood out, and despite a couple minor issues with the entrées, we would definitely return.
Absolutely a wonderful experience. The food, the service, our waiter. I can’t imagine better. My wife had the flounder and I had the low country bouillabaisse. Both were absolutely spectacular. I highly recommend the fried green tomatoes as an appetizer. Richie our server was wonderful his suggestions and his knowledge and humor. He made the whole meal a great experience. I definitely want to return here again.
I had dinner at Magnolias yesterday, and once again, it did not disappoint. Magnolias is one of my favorite restaurants in downtown Charleston.
I arrived around 4:00 when they opened, which was perfect for a relaxing early dinner. I started with the collard green egg rolls, followed by the halibut with seasoned rice, shrimp, and vegetables corn, lima beans, and green beans. Everything was absolutely delicious. I enjoyed a beverage with dinner.
The service was impeccable. I believe my waitress was Anna, and she was awesome attentive, welcoming, and made my solo dining experience just as enjoyable. The atmosphere was wonderful, with families and visitors enjoying downtown Charleston, and it was simply a great vibe.
Whether you’re a Charleston local or visiting the city, I highly recommend Magnolias for brunch or dinner. It continues to be one of my favorite downtown restaurants.
Very nice restaurant. We got the fried chicken and the salmon. Everything was well cooked and just lovely. The service was very good as well. The one item my daughter noted was that the tap water tasted a bit off. I also think $25 for two small crab cakes is a little pricey but overall we would return!
Essential Tips for Navigating Charleston’s Seafood Scene
Dining out in Charleston is an experience to be savored, but a little local knowledge goes a long way. The city’s most popular dining rooms are often booked solid weeks in advance, and understanding the local seasons can dramatically elevate your meal. To ensure you get the most out of your culinary adventure, consider these strategic insights before making your reservation.
Prioritize Reservations. Walk-in availability at the city’s top seafood spots is a rarity, especially during the spring and fall tourist seasons. For peak dining times (6:30 PM to 8:30 PM), book your table at least two to three weeks in advance. If you are flexible, try securing a seat at the bar, which often offers the full menu without the long wait.
Know Your Oyster Season. The old adage suggests eating oysters only in months containing the letter "R" (September through April). While modern farming has made oysters available year-round, wild-harvested clusters and single selects are at their plump, briny peak during the cooler months. If you visit in the summer, look for "cluster" oysters or focus on other shellfish.
Embrace the Local Catch. While you might be tempted to order salmon or lobster, you are in the heart of the South Atlantic. Look for Carolina white shrimp, wreckfish, triggerfish, and black sea bass. These species are often the freshest items on the menu and represent the true flavor of Charleston’s waters.
Understand the Dress Code. Charleston is generally elegant but relaxed. While very few restaurants require jackets, most upscale establishments enforce a "smart casual" dress code. Think collared shirts, sundresses, or nice jeans without holes. Beachwear, flip-flops, and tank tops are best saved for the actual beach.
Factor in Parking and Traffic. The Historic District is notoriously difficult for parking, with narrow streets and limited garages. If you are dining downtown, use a rideshare service or allow an extra 30 minutes to find a spot in a city-owned garage. If heading to Shem Creek, be aware that parking lots fill up rapidly during sunset hours.
The magic of a Charleston seafood meal lies not just in the food, but in the atmosphere of the Lowcountry. The gentle humidity, the sound of clinking glasses, and the sight of marsh grass swaying in the distance create a sensory experience that goes beyond taste. It is a cuisine rooted in tradition, yet constantly evolving as new chefs bring their own interpretations to the docks.
Whether you find yourself cracking open a pile of steamed oysters on a paper-covered table or delicately plating a piece of seared wreckfish, you are participating in a legacy that spans generations. Take your time, ask your server where the fish came from, and savor the distinct, irreplaceable character of the Holy City’s coast.
