North America Chevron. United States Chevron. South Carolina Chevron. Charleston Chevron. There was a moment, post-pandemic, where Charleston might have been teetering on the edge of becoming a has-been Southern culinary hotspot. Tourists and their money flooded into the city more than ever—some permanently—sending real estate prices climbing; a phenomenon which always threatens to deflate a swell of cooking creativity into a cookie-cutter caricature of its former glory.
The competition is fierce this year—from seafood, to Vietnamese, to barbecue, and everything in between. These are the best restaurants in Charleston. Read our complete Charleston travel guide here , which includes:. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable eateries, and weigh stand-out dishes, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials.
We update this list as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve. This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Definitely off the beaten tourist path in North Charleston, you'll know when you've arrived by spotting two Chinese lions by the front door. Inside, owners Corrie and Shaui Wang have always done things their way—and made a name for themselves by taking a similar DIY approach at big-sister Chinese restaurant Jackrabbit Filly.
But here, barbecue by the pound is the focus; most tables pick a shared combo as a centerpiece, like the poultry combo with five-spice chicken, crispy duck leg, and two small sides. Then, build from there with sides, snacks, and either pulled-pork or some ribs for the full effect.
Food comes pretty quickly, but popular meats such as duck legs and ribs can sell out on occasion. King is inspired by the backgrounds of chefs Brandon Olson North Carolina's Piedmont and Shaui China and Flushing, NY , and in both backgrounds, families gather over large dinners to share, sample, and celebrate—follow their lead. And do not miss the hot pot collards. Charleston has a strong culinary through line to Africa through Gullah Geechee cuisine, so many of the ingredients here are true to that: okra, rice, and local fish included.
