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The Best Bars for Foodies in Charleston

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by The OpenTable Team
Updated March 14, 2022

British colonists founded Charleston in 1670 in honor of King Charles II. Centuries later, the Holy City maintains its colonial charm as the oldest city in South Carolina, with so much to see and do. Charleston sure knows how to throw a party, from Lowcountry boils and country music jams served with craft cocktails and bottles of bubbly. But where are the smartest, savviest locals going out? Welcome to our Tastemaker List. Our team of experts brings you the best bars in Charleston to help revelers find their ultimate night out. Book a table at the bar tonight!

Dive bars downtown attract game lovers and those seeking a social nightlife. Amazing rooftop venues combine stunning views with masterfully mixed cocktails. Or how about a Bavarian-style Biergarten, just by the river? Find some friends, browse our list and book a table at one of the best bars in Charleston right now.

A photo of Bourbon N' Bubbles restaurant
4.2
4.2 (1320)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
King Street is the ultimate destination for bar lovers, from the hip and trendy to dark and intimate craft beer dives. Bourbon n Bubbles has homed in on the hype and added a touch of exclusivity. They’ve introduces Charleston’s first members-only “liquor locker”. This allows privileged guests to keep their favorite tipple in stock at all times. These drinks range from some of the highest end champagnes to an eye-and-mouthwatering selection of bourbons. Add in food like cilantro wings, filet mignon, and even a bourbon milkshake for dessert, and it’s one of the most luxurious nights out in Charleston. Booking recommended.
Top review
Kristenvip
Dined 3 days ago
BnB was fantastic. We had the fried chicken lollipops, truffle fries, and the Mac and cheese. It was all fabulous. And Sam our waiter was wonderful, he reviewed the menu and was super attentive. It was a wonderful experience and the food was out of this world. I love the Southern Hospitality show and had to go to one of Leva’s restaurants and it did not disappoint
A photo of Prohibition restaurant
4.6
4.6 (2491)
$30 and under
American
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
Billed rather sweepingly as a gastropub, Prohibition certainly has the right combination of great food and drinks to earn this moniker. It’s so much more, though, with a reputation as one of the best bars in Charleston for live music. Up to six nights a week sees bands from swing to acoustic take the stage, with punters dancing and singing along. Tuck into curried cauliflower or comforting shrimp and grits, then wash it down with some of the most creative cocktails on King Street. A night to remember.
Top review
Charmainevip
Dined 6 days ago
Food was great! We sat on the patio it was lovely we will visit again
A photo of ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston restaurant
4.4
4.4 (1329)
$30 and under
European
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
Head up to the fourth floor of the Grand Bohemian Hotel on Wentworth to discover Eleve. Inside, it’s chic and modern, with glam touches like huge chandeliers and ornate mirrors. The food is “French with a gypsy twist”. This means diners can expect oysters with a touch of ginger, lamb chops with tarragon and a heavenly espresso ice cream with a dash of liqueur. The rooftop area is a turfed affair with pale parasols and round wicker style sofas; the epitome of relaxation. Try their house cocktail, The Boheme, for a flavor explosion worth every cent.
Top review
Debbievip
Dined 5 days ago
Always lovely to sit outside and enjoy the beautiful view. Food is good and service is always excellent
A photo of The Establishment restaurant
4.8
4.8 (2615)
$50 and over
Seafood
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
This historic building on Broad Street dates back to 1791, and plenty of the original fixtures feature in the beautiful décor that welcomes guests upon their arrival at The Establishment. There’s a sense of grandeur here, from the huge horseshoe-shaped bar to the screen flicking between scenes of perfect serenity. Dive into sumptuous seafood, washed down with one of their popular signature cocktails- all very well priced during happy hour. A perfect place for some top Instagram shots. Booking recommended.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined 6 days ago
Our waitress and wait staff were phenomenal.I ordered the muscles because I was craving them and that curved it. That sauce was just brilliant. We enjoyed our dinner very much. It was very crowded and very loud, but you didn’t know because the staff didn’t miss a beat. and treated us like we were the only dinners in the restaurant. It was very expensive but worth every penny.
A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant
4.5
4.5 (8464)
$31 to $50
American
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
5Church is not only one of the best bars in Charleston, but the most dramatic by a long shot. Walking in here is a religious experience as guests take in the original stained-glass windows and huge, vaulted ceiling. Press hails the food as New American, which ranges from ramen to flatbreads to ravioli- something for everyone. Those just wanting to drink can pick from the extraordinary wine list or indulge in a sinful signature cocktail. Try the Garden of Eden at a special rate during happy hour: a feisty fusion of vodka, ginger, cucumber and lemon. “Take me to Church” just got a whole new meaning.
Top review
Debra
Dined 3 days ago
We love Church & Union, and bring out of town visitors here frequently. We had a late lunch, 2:30,pm, and it was great - food, service, and quiet! We were able to enjoy our lunch and a nice conversation with the ability to actually hear each other. Cody our waiter/server was friendly and helpful. My favorites are the burrata and southern salad. The guys loved the fried chicken sandwich.
A photo of Stars Restaurant - Rooftop & Grill Room restaurant
3.9
3.9 (2398)
$31 to $50
American
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
There’s a comforting, old school feel about Stars. Warm wood, a traditionally shaped bar and exposed, polished beams give the vibe of a 40s steakhouse- a theme which the menu echoes. Shrimp cocktail making the most of the local seafood, a house Caesar, plus the Stars Grill Room Steak, with truffle grits and seasonal greens; all the best in high-end comfort food. Head upstairs for what Stars claim is the best rooftop bar in Charleston. Enjoy unparalleled views of the city whilst sipping international wines, cocktails, or even craft beer. Stars has the whole night covered.
Top review
Amber
Dined on Oct 19, 2024
The food was very well prepared. Our order was delayed due to miscommunication with the kitchen (we did not notice). The manager and waiter were very nice and kept us updated. I would definitely be returning. Kaleb was a great waiter.
A photo of 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston restaurant
4.3
4.3 (5060)
$31 to $50
French
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
This classic French restaurant gets its name from its address, and that’s all the advertising it needs. Word gets around about the tuna-filled niçoise salad, buttery short ribs and the many variations of mussels- all perfect for pairing with a glass of bubbles. The bar offers an extensive wine list, including around 18 types of champagne and prosecco. Cocktails range from the Desperate Housewife to a Grim Mary, their own signature take on the brunch classic. Reservations recommended.
Top review
Mary
Dined 2 days ago
We arrived and waited a while to be seated. We were next to be seated in order of arrival and the gentlemen came from the back and took 3 parties to the left of us , that came in after us and seated them first, so I was not too happy to say the least. We were not a favorite of the onion soup. The rest of the meal was good, but not outstanding. Our waitress was excellent.
A photo of O-Ku restaurant
4.8
4.8 (2703)
$30 and under
Japanese
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
O-Ku is a downtown bar with a difference- it’s a sushi bar. O-Ku incorporates the ingredients and flavors of the South into traditional Japanese techniques, creating rolls with personality that keep guests coming back for more. Try the box style sushi, with quirky names like Green Eggs and Hamachi Hako, or keep it simple with tuna rolls jazzed up with a touch of spicy aioli. The bar staff are expert mixologists, creating a range of tempting cocktails such as the Asian inspired lemongrass gin and tonic. A journey to the East via King Street.
Top review
Cassaundra
Dined 1 day ago
We have come to O-Ku many times over the years and have always loved it. However, our experience tonight brought it to a new level. I made a reservation for our anniversary several days in advance and they kindly reached out asking for things we enjoy doing together. When we arrived for our reservation the table was decorated with paper confetti and custom “Happy Anniversary” menus; with a card and gift on the table! It was a very thoughtful and classy gift related to what I had shared of our interests, and we were blown away by the thoughtfulness of it all. The food was incredible as it always is, and the service was OUTSTANDING, thanks to our amazing waiter Sam. This was the most perfect anniversary experience and I have O-Ku to thank for it completely!
A photo of Maison restaurant
4.9
4.9 (1675)
$31 to $50
French
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
Visiting Maison is like accidentally stepping into a Parisian bistro. From the bright, airy room to the black and white motif working its way through the room, there’s a sense of simplicity and care in every detail. The food follows this attention to detail, with expected classics like escargot and pate de campagne arriving with perfectly flavored herby butter and sharp cornichons. The bar offers more than just amazing wine to pair with the food. There’s an exciting cocktail list plus a range of aperitifs and digestif- French culture delivered via amazing alcohol.
Top review
Michelle
Dined 6 days ago
This is a favorite in Charleston for French Cuisine. I highly recommend it and I have not had anything that wasn’t delicious from their menu.
A photo of Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar restaurant
4.8
4.8 (5016)
$30 and under
Seafood
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
Cumberland Street might be a bit of a hidden gem, but the popularity of Amen Street, the restaurant named for the original moniker of the street, has brought it right out into the limelight. Oyster shell chandeliers catch the attention while the long bar promises more than just premium seafood. As well as cold, fresh, oysters, guests can order up a range of beers, wines (part of the menu called “interesting reds” definitely bears further investigation) plus some specialty cocktails. Ask about happy hour and the Oyster Shooters.
Top review
Lisavip
Dined on Oct 30, 2024
The Franks Chicken is so delicious! As is the Shrimp and Grits! This was our second visit to this restaurant and we highly recommend it!! Our server, Danielle M was very sweet and attentive. Everything was perfect!
A photo of East Bay Meeting House Bar & Cafe restaurant
4.5
4.5 (308)
$31 to $50
Contemporary European
Downtown Charleston
About the restaurant
East Bay Meeting House is one of those rare venues that changes throughout the day to match the needs of its customers. Head there first thing for bacon and egg croissants and coffee, or grab a club sandwich at lunchtime. In the evening, French-inspired mains start off the night which winds its way into fine wine, an astonishing range of martinis and carefully crafted cocktails. Look out for live music and even poetry events at this celebration of café culture in the heart of the French Quarter.
Top review
Kerry
Dined on Oct 19, 2024
The wait staff was excellent and the violin music set the atmosphere! The stuffed pickle appetizer is not to be missed!
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