What are the Best Bars and Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina?

Charleston, South Carolina is known for its beautiful beaches, antebellum mansions, and lively nightlife. There’s something for everyone in this historic town—from craft breweries to historic bars to the best restaurants in the south. Whether you’re looking for upscale seafood or casual pub fare, there’s a unique dining or drinking experience waiting for you in Charleston.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best bars and restaurants in Charleston. We’ll also provide recommendations on where to stay, tips on how to save money while visiting, and suggestions on how to make the most of your trip. Let’s dive right in!

Where to Stay

When planning a visit to Charleston, the first decision you have to make is where to stay. Luckily, no matter your budget or style, there’s a hotel, B&B, or vacation rental available for any taste.

If you’re looking for an upscale stay, head downtown and stay at one of the area’s many luxurious hotels. The Dewberry is a great place to start—it’s filled with mid-century modern decor and provides an unbeatable view of Charleston’s skyline.

If your budget is more tight-knit, consider staying in one of the nearby towns or resorts. Kiawah Island Resort is a luxurious oceanside oasis and the town of Folly Beach is popular with visitors both young and old. There are plenty of affordable places to stay in both areas.

What to Eat

Charleston’s culinary scene is second-to-none. With its proximity to the ocean, it’s no surprise that seafood is a mainstay on menus around town. You can find everything from classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits to upscale seafood restaurants like 155 Meeting Street.

But Charleston is known for more than just seafood. The city is also home to some of the best barbecue in the nation. For that smoky goodness, head over to Lewis Barbecue for some of their award-winning brisket or visit Home Team BBQ. No matter what type of barbecue you love, you won’t be disappointed with the offerings in Charleston.

Lastly, make sure to sample famous dishes like Frogmore stew and Hoppin’ John. These classic dishes have been served in Charleston for centuries and will give you a nice glimpse into the city’s past.

Where to Drink

No trip to Charleston would be complete without a little libation. With its deep-rooted history and sizable population of young professionals, there are plenty of places to grab a cold beer or sip a craft cocktail.

To start, head over to Craft Conundrum—one of the city’s oldest craft breweries. Located in downtown Charleston, Craft Conundrum serves a rotating selection of beers on tap and features live music from local acts on weekends.

For a classic drinking experience, pay a visit to The Blind Tiger Pub. This historic bar has been around since 1934 and provides customers with a rare glimpse into Charleston’s olden days. And speaking of historic bars, don’t forget The Commodore—often referred to as the “granddaddy of bars.” Located on Upper King Street, this bar has been serving patrons since 1955 and is known as a favorite hangout spot for sailors and locals alike.

How to Save Money

Charleston may be one of America’s most expensive cities when it comes to accommodations, but there are some ways to save money while visiting. Many local restaurants offer great deals with their daily specials and Happy Hours. Make sure to check out websites like Yelp or Google for local deals before heading out for dinner or drinks.

Also look for restaurants that offer foodie tours or pub crawls—many are available for well under $50. This can be a great way to sample some of Charleston’s best restaurants without breaking the bank.
Finally, consider taking a history and hops tour with Get Your Guide. From walking through the streets learning about Charleston’s past to trying local craft beers at some of the city’s oldest bars, this tour offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore Charleston like you’ve never explored it before—all while saving money!

Conclusion

With its exquisite cuisine, rich history and lively nightlife, Charleston has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for elegant seafood dining or eclectic craft beers—or both!—you won’t be disappointed with all the bars and restaurants this south coastal town has to offer. Be sure to keep this guide in mind while planning your next trip to Charleston and make sure to check out our recommended tours with Get Your Guide before heading out—it’s sure to add an unforgettable experience!