Iconic Historic Charleston Restaurants
If you’ve been to Charleston, SC, you know that the area is rich in history. That extends to its food scene, too. We love checking out some of the most iconic and historic restaurants that this southern city has to offer. These are guaranteed to provide you with delicious food and memorable service. If you’re interested in checking out some of the most iconic and historic restaurants in Charleston, SC, check out our list below.
The Darling Oyster Bar
513 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 641-0821
The Darling Oyster Bar offers vintage appeal with a premium location on King Street. Raw oysters, fry baskets, and innovative dishes are found across the menu. The chic interior offers cozy dining options and plenty of oyster platters to share with the table. The bar is filled with choices, though they are well-known for their Bloody Mary. Sunday opens early so that you can take advantage of the brunch menu. Otherwise, they’re only open for dinner the rest of the week, and reservations are highly encouraged.
Stars Restaurant
495 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
(843) 577-0100
Stars Restaurant offers a mid-1930s vibe that is a go-to place for residents and visitors alike because of the rooftop bar. The seasonal menu features fresh and local ingredients. A wood-fired oven adds rich flavors to the pizzas and pasta. Whether you come in for happy hour or for the full menu, you’ll be blown away by the rich interior and the friendly staff. Enjoy wine by the carafe or find out what the bartenders are shaking up. Dinner time can get crowded, so it’s a good idea to make reservations.
Anson Restaurant
12 Anson St, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 577-0551
Anson is well-known due to its two-story building with a balcony and bright red doors. It’s not uncommon to see wedding parties using it as a backdrop for photos. Inside, there’s a rustic charm with wooden pillars, white linen-lined tables, and more. Ingredients are locally sourced and used in innovative ways. She Crab soup, Pan Roasted Grouper, and more are featured. Plus, there’s a pecan pie a la mode that is the perfect ending to your meal here.
Fleet Landing
186 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 722-8100
Fleet Landing wasn’t always a restaurant. It was built by the Navy in 1942 as a debarkation point. Only in the past 20 years has it become a restaurant that is known for its classic southern seafood fare. There’s no other place in Charleston that celebrates its oceanside heritage like this one, and the patio that overlooks the water is definitely where you want to be seated. Get a stack of fried green tomatoes with crab salad or explore the many fish and chicken options across the menu. You’ll also love all of the drink specials that the bar has to offer.
Hank’s Seafood
10 Hayne St, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 723-3474
When you’re craving fresh-from-the-dock seafood, you go to Hank’s. They’ve been a part of the Charleston food scene for over 20 years. It was almost instantly named as one of the best restaurants in America by Esquire, too. The warm wood interior invites you in, and the mouthwatering food invites you back again and again. The menu features a raw bar, fried shrimp, bouillabaisse, and much more. You won’t want to leave without trying their key lime pie, either.
Poogan’s Porch
72 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 577-2337
Poogan’s Porch has been open since 1976 and is considered one of the oldest culinary establishments in Charleston. You can find a fun and tasty take on lowcountry fare with such favorites as She Crab soup and homemade buttermilk biscuits. It’s located close to the antiques district and has an adorable front porch, complete with tables out there where you can dine. The interior is a Victorian townhouse that is also home to a massive wine cellar. You’ll find them open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.
Magnolias
185 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 577-7771
Magnolias first opened its doors in 1991 and have been serving contemporary southern cuisine ever since. The chefs, Don Drake and Kelly Franz, are seen as pioneers of creative lowcountry fare. The dining room is sophisticated with art on the walls and linen on the tables. Every meal that comes to the table looks like a work of art. A brunch menu on the weekends will also ensure that you’re well fed with such innovative items as a Creek Shrimp Omelet or a Magnolias Filet Frittata.
82 Queen
82 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 723-7591
82 Queen is a swanky restaurant where the true beauty is outside in the courtyard garden, complete with umbrellas to offer shade. The refined southern menu offers some favorites, including BBQ shrimp and grits as well as fried green tomatoes. The food and drinks alike are first-rate, and it’s common to see many people visiting to celebrate something special. They offer lunch and dinner menus, and it’s a good idea to make a reservation no matter when you plan to visit.
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