Good Food, Better Company

Looking for the best places to eat in Charleston SC with friends? From hidden gems around town to waterfront favorites for groups, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re planning fun things to do with friends over tacos, burgers, or upscale seafood, these ten spots will deliver—no ranking, just our favorite flavors and settings.

Xiao Bao Biscuit

Overview: At the corner of Rutledge and Spring St, this funky eatery offers Szechuan and Southeast Asian small plates in a converted gas station.
Location: Downtown Charleston.
Price Point: $$
What We Order: Pad Kra Pow, Jiao Zi dumplings, and a Szechuan Sting.
Our Take: Szechuan-style small plates in a great space—perfect for sharing.

Xiao Bao Biscuit’s greatest hits—Pad Kra Pow, Okonomiyaki, and Som Tum with Chicken—showcase the bold flavors and eclectic spirit of one of Charleston’s most beloved fusion spots.

167 Sushi

Overview: A sleek, minimalist spot on East Bay, 167 Sushi is a top choice for anyone wondering where to take your friends to in Charleston. They have some of the best sushi in the city with great modern cocktails. This one is a must if you're looking to try the best places to eat in Charleston. 
Location: East Bay, Downtown Charleston
Price Point: $$$
What we order: Spicy Hamachi maki and Tuna Sriracha maki—honestly, it’s all good.
Our take: Modern sushi, great vibes, and consistently phenomenal service in an awesome setting.

167 Sushi’s Charred Octopus balances bold flame-kissed flavor with sweet pineapple yuzu and herbaceous edamame tabbouleh—a standout bite that’s as inventive as it is refined.

Cuda Co. Seafood

Overview: Located on Folly Road, Cuda Co. is one of the freshest Charleston dining spots for market-style seafood. Expect laid-back, no-fuss meals that highlight coastal ingredients.
Location: James Island
Price Point: $$
What We Order: Any of the fresh poke bowls or five baked oysters with a cold beer.
Our Take: Fresh-off-the-dock seafood without a stuffy price tag. It’s an ideal stop for great local seafood.

Bistronomy by Nico

Overview: Tucked off King Street, Bistronomy by Nico is one of the true hidden gems around Charleston SC. In particular, they offer French-inspired small plates and cocktails. The vibe? Cozy and candlelit.
Location: Downtown Charleston
Price Point: $$$
What We Order: Tuna crudo, beef tartare, and any one of their signature cocktails.
Our Take: Chef Nico’s secret weapon—every dish is a hit in this intimate bistro.

A vibrant and elevated starter: Bistronomy by Nico’s octopus combines charred tenderness with citrusy brightness, creamy chèvre, and nutty pistachio crunch.

The Obstinate Daughter

Overview: On Sullivan’s Island, this rustic-chic restaurant blends Italian and Lowcountry influences with seafood pastas and wood-fired pizzas, plus charming courtyard seating. Parking can be a bit tricky.
Location: Sullivan’s Island
Price Point: $$$
What We Order: The Rutledge Pizza and a William Moultrie Cocktail.
Our Take: Island-inspired, upscale dining—perfect for date nights or special gatherings.

Santi’s Mexican Restaurant

Overview: A popular casual restaurant in Charleston SC, Santi’s offers street-style tacos, burritos, and margaritas with easy group seating and outdoor vibes.
Location: Mt. Pleasant & Downtown Charleston
Price Point: $
What We Order: Taco Lunch with Steak (Mexican style) and a margarita on the rocks.
Our Take: Crave-worthy Mexican flavors, no-frills, and always a solid pick for meeting friends.

Comfort food done right: These crispy chicken quesadillas from Santi’s are generously stuffed, perfectly grilled, and always satisfying—ideal for sharing as an app or savoring solo.

Heavy’s Bar + Burger

Overview: Tucked in downtown Charleston, this place specializes in smash-style burgers, hand-cut fries, and cold iced teas. Notably, you can enjoy them in a fun dining room or killer outdoor seating.
Location: Downtown Charleston
Price Point: $$
What We Order: The Barburger, a side of fries with honey mustard, and a cold sweet tea. Prefer something stronger? Try a beer or beverage from their full bar.
Our Take: Smash-style burgers seared to perfection—ideal for a laid-back lunch or late-night bite.

The St. Joe Blackened Mahi delivers coastal flavor with a kick—served hot off the cast iron and perfectly paired with sweet potato fries at Heavy’s Barburger.

Lewis’ Barbecue

Overview: A staple among best barbecue in Charleston SC, Lewis’ serves Central Texas-style brisket and sides in a lively, warehouse-style setting.
Location: Downtown Charleston
Price Point: $$
What we order: The El Sancho Sandwich with brisket.
Our take: Hearty, smoky BBQ in a relaxed atmosphere—expect a line, but it moves fast.

The Pass

Overview: Known for its stacked sandwiches and snug setup, The Pass is a go-to when you’re deciding where to get lunch in downtown Charleston—especially if sandwiches are your love language.
Location: Downtown Charleston
Price Point: $$
What we order: “Such a Nice Italian Boy” with an ice-cold Mexican Coke.
Our take: Inventive deli sandwiches worth the wait, every single time.

Tavern & Table

Overview: With breezy views over Shem Creek, Tavern & Table stands out among waterfront restaurants Charleston SC. Known for its great views and solid food, this spot lets you take in all of Shem Creek. You can get some salty air and watch the shrimp boats bring fresh catch to the docks.
Location: Shem Creek, Mount Pleasant
Price Point: $$
What we order: Shrimp & Grits and an Ice Cold Beer.
Our take: Creekside dining, a killer burger, and maybe even a dolphin sighting—what’s not to like?

Chilled perfection from Tavern & Table—fresh-shucked oysters and peel-and-eat shrimp make for a classic, no-frills coastal pairing on the patio or at the bar.

Bonus Spot: Mozzo Deli on Coleman

Overview: Known for quick service and a stacked sandwich lineup, Mozzo is perfect for early breakfast runs or casual lunches. If you’re craving a classic NY-style deli experience.
Location: Coleman Blvd, Mount Pleasant, Downtown
Price Point: $
What We Order: Bacon, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel. Coffee.
Our Take: A reliable go-to when you want something quick, familiar, and filling—ideal before a day out exploring.

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