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Best American Restaurants in Downtown Charleston

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33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Virginia's on King restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3097)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 64 times today
Virginia's on King is a gem nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, celebrated for its authentic Low Country cuisine. This sophisticated Southern dining spot delights patrons with dishes that blend the comforts of a traditional Southern kitchen with the vibrant flavors of Low Country cooking. Diners rave about the "best shrimp and grits in town" and the "crispy, juicy" fried chicken, which speaks to the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. Using local fresh ingredients and cherished family recipes, Virginia's captures the essence of Low Country dining, making it a beloved choice for those craving a true taste of Southern hospitality.
A photo of 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston restaurant
4.3
Awesome(5209)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 51 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, 39 Rue de Jean is renowned for delivering an exceptional French American dining experience. This brasserie-style cafe and bar has been delighting guests since 2000 with its perfectly balanced blend of French culinary tradition and American innovation. Guests consistently praise the restaurant for its "delicious and authentic" fare that transports them straight to Paris. Signature dishes such as the mussels with a variety of sauces and fresh baked bread are "absolutely delicious," making every meal a memorable one. With a warm ambiance and outstanding service, this eatery is a must-visit for those seeking quality French American cuisine in Charleston.
A photo of Victor's Seafood and Steak restaurant
4.1
Excellent(565)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 22 times today
Victor's Seafood and Steak in Downtown Charleston is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts seeking an authentic and high-quality dining experience. The restaurant excels in delivering fresh, flavorful seafood dishes that leave a lasting impression on diners. Guests rave about the "amazing" Oysters Rockefeller and the "excellent" Halibut over pimento cheese grits. The seafood towers and scallops are also highlighted as standout selections, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and taste. With an elegant ambiance and attentive service, Victor's Seafood and Steak provides an exceptional seafood dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors, making it a top choice in Charleston's vibrant food scene.
A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1141)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 13 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett embodies the essence of South Carolina cuisine with its dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is a celebration of the region's bounty, capturing the authentic flavors that make Southern food so beloved. Reviewers rave about the "excellent and superior level high touch service" and the She Crab Soup, described as "excellent" with a unique hint of roasted tomato. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, complimented by charming views of historic Marion Square, makes dining here a delightful experience for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1831)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 16 times today
The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion Hotel is a true gem of American cuisine nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston. Renowned for its classic Southern dishes, this restaurant perfectly captures the authentic flavors of the Lowcountry with its farm-to-table practices. Guests rave about their "award-winning Shrimp and Grits" and "remarkable she-crab soup," highlighting the exceptional quality and taste. The ambiance is enhanced by live piano music, creating a delightful dining experience. With a menu that embodies the rich culinary heritage of the region and a friendly, attentive staff, The Swamp Fox offers an unforgettable taste of genuine American hospitality.
A photo of Hotel Bennett Special Events restaurant
4.0
Excellent(46)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 2 times today
Special events in the Crown Ballroom at Hotel Bennett.
A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant
4.5
Awesome(8709)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 197 times today
Church and Union - Charleston is a shining gem of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful culinary experience right in the heart of Downtown Charleston. This vibrant restaurant combines “amazing food, service, and ambiance” to create a memorable dining experience. Executive Chef Doug Watson and Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch craft a menu that seamlessly blends innovation with tradition. Diners rave about the “spectacular” menu, where dishes like the filet mignon and braised bacon & melon are cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s “beautiful setting” and attentive service make every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether for a romantic evening or a celebratory gathering, Church and Union stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Contemporary American flavors.
A photo of Peninsula Grill restaurant
4.5
Awesome(8047)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 38 times today
Peninsula Grill in Downtown Charleston is a beacon of authentic Southern cuisine, celebrated for its "stellar experience" and "picture of excellence," making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast. This AAA Four-Diamond restaurant excels in offering dishes with the finest and freshest ingredients, crafting everything to perfection. Guests rave about the "outstanding service" and the renowned coconut cake, described as "remarkable" and "worth the hype." The sumptuous supper club ambiance enhances the dining experience, providing an elegant yet welcoming setting. Recognized by top publications, Peninsula Grill embodies the heart of Southern hospitality, ensuring every visit is a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of Anson restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4891)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 14 times today
Anson was named one of OpenTable's 50 Best Southern Restaurants in America for 2018 |
A photo of The Establishment restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2699)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown Charleston
Booked 13 times today
The Establishment in Charleston's historic French Quarter is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its dedication to sourcing seasonal, fresh ingredients from local farms and fisheries. Chef Elliott Howells crafts a menu that embodies a "clean, focused, and balanced approach," promising a refined dining experience that delights every palate. This American gem is renowned for its exceptional service and ambiance, as echoed by patrons who describe their meals as "possibly the best restaurant experience I've had in years" and "a symphony of flavors." The lively bar scene, complete with an award-winning wine cellar and live music, enhances its vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit culinary destination.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ken
    Charlotte •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    What a beautiful way to finish a weekend in Charleston! Not often you finish with the high point of the weekend! Gabriella’s never disappoints…
    More info
    Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel BennettPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.5
  • Deidra
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Warm French bistro. Great atmosphere. Wonderful food. Friendly attentive service. We had the scallops, the Chicken Francaise, the fried goat cheese salad, the bananas foster for dessert. Bottle of house Chardonnay All delicious. Our waiter Ethan was delightful. Great experience.
    More info
    39 Rue de Jean - CharlestonPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown Charleston
    4.3
  • Jeff
    Houston •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our steaks were made perfectly to our liking and we were extremely comfortable in the luxurious ambiance. Service was outstanding and we will be back, but reluctantly telling others how much we liked eating there so we are delayed in our future reservations.
    More info
    Victor's Seafood and SteakPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
    4.1
  • OpenTable Diner
    Virginia •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We had an amazing meal! I had the supper juicy and crispy fried chicken and collard greens that were absolutely scrumptious. I also had macaroni and cheese but while it was good it was also pretty typical standard macaroni and cheese. My husband had meatloaf and mashed potatoes with mushroom gravy and he said it was also delicious. He tried my fried chicken and greens and said he did prefer that meal over his. That just shows how absolutely amazing their fried chicken and collard greens are! Definitely cannot go wrong with that meal!!!
    More info
    Virginia's on KingPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.6
  • Penny
    Atlanta •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    One of the best meals I have ever had. I started off with the pear salad. It was light and absolutely delicious. I asked the waiter if I could substitute the sides to the short rib. I asked for mashed potatoes, green beans and fried onions. Not only was the food amazing, the presentation was beautiful. Chef layered the ribs and sauce on the potatoes, then topped with fried onions. He placed the green beans all around the plate. It was a beautiful presentation. My husband ordered the pork chop for dinner and he said it was one of the best. For lunch the next day, I ordered the pear salad again, and John had the shrimp and grits. Both were amazing. Thank you Chef Terrell Funney for delicious meals!
    More info
    The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion HotelPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
    4.4

Discover best American restaurants in Downtown Charleston

Discover the best of American cuisine in the heart of Downtown Charleston, South Carolina, where culinary excellence meets historic charm. Downtown Charleston is renowned for its diverse selection of American-style dining options, each offering a unique interpretation of classic dishes enhanced by local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. From upscale steakhouses to charming bistros, the restaurants here cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring an exceptional gastronomic experience for every diner. These establishments are celebrated for their commitment to quality, with many sourcing fresh, seasonal produce to create mouth-watering dishes that embody the spirit of American cooking. The dining scene in Downtown Charleston is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you're in the mood for a sophisticated meal in a historic setting or a casual dinner with a contemporary twist, Downtown Charleston's American restaurants offer something truly special for every palate. Enjoy the culinary delights of this charming city, where every meal is served with a side of Southern hospitality.

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