When it comes to Southern charm and culinary excellence, few cities compare to Charleston, South Carolina. Known for its rich history, scenic waterfront, and award-winning food scene, Charleston offers a treasure trove of bars and restaurants that bring together creative cocktails and exceptional cuisine.

Whether you’re a visitor looking for authentic Lowcountry flavors or a local hunting for your next favorite spot, these must-visit bars and restaurants promise unforgettable food, drinks, and atmosphere.

Why Bars and Restaurants Together Make the Perfect Combo

Some nights call for a fancy dinner, others for casual drinks — but the best nights happen when great food and drinks come together in the same place. That’s why bar-restaurant hybrids are Charleston’s secret weapon. They offer:

• Complete Menus: From fresh seafood to creative appetizers, these spots serve meals worth savoring.

• Expert Drinks: Whether it’s a craft cocktail, a curated wine list, or local beers on tap, your drinks are made to complement your meal.

• Memorable Atmospheres: Rooftop views, cozy patios, live music, and historic interiors all enhance the experience.

Here’s a handpicked list of Charleston’s best bars and restaurants you won’t want to miss.

Top-Rated Bars and Restaurants to Experience in Charleston

1. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits

If you’re after breathtaking views alongside creative cocktails and elevated cuisine, The Watch delivers. Perched atop The Restoration Hotel, it combines a relaxed yet refined vibe with classic Lowcountry dishes and seasonal cocktails.

What to Try:

• Food: Shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and rotating seafood specials.

• Drinks: House cocktails infused with local flavors, plus a strong wine and beer selection.

• Ambiance: Sunset views over Charleston’s skyline make this a prime rooftop destination.
  

2. The ABC Store & Restaurant – Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mt. Pleasant

Combining a liquor store, wine bar, and restaurant all under one roof, The ABC Store & Restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s the perfect place to shop for spirits, enjoy a meal, and relax with a drink—all on the same visit.

What to Try:

• Food: Lobster rolls, charcuterie boards, paninis, and hearty salads.

• Drinks: Craft beers on tap, seasonal wines by the glass, and creative cocktails.

• Ambiance: Relax on the outdoor patio or enjoy live music nights.

This Mt. Pleasant gem is equally suited for a casual lunch, a fun date night, or a lively happy hour.

3. The Darling Oyster Bar

On bustling King Street, The Darling Oyster Bar offers a seafood lover’s paradise. From the stylish, coastal interior to the raw bar stocked with local oysters, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both visitors and locals.

What to Try:

• Food: Raw oysters, lobster rolls, fried shrimp platters, and fresh seafood towers.

• Drinks: Crisp white wines, coastal-inspired cocktails, and locally brewed beers.

• Ambiance: Relaxed, upbeat, and perfect for groups or date nights.

4. Prohibition Charleston

For a speakeasy-inspired night, head to Prohibition Charleston, where vintage vibes meet modern Southern cuisine. With live jazz, handcrafted cocktails, and bold flavors, it’s easy to lose track of time here.

What to Try:

• Food: Braised short ribs, fried chicken and waffles, and seasonal small plates.

• Drinks: Prohibition-era cocktails with house-made infusions and creative twists.

• Ambiance: Vintage décor with a side of live music makes every visit a celebration.

5. The Gin Joint

If you love a small, hidden bar with serious cocktail credentials, The Gin Joint is calling your name. Tucked off East Bay Street, this intimate cocktail haven focuses on expertly crafted drinks and creative small plates.

What to Try:

• Food: Rotating small plates using seasonal ingredients.

• Drinks: Order from the menu or let the bartender surprise you with a custom cocktail based on your preferred flavors.

• Ambiance: Quiet, cozy, and perfect for cocktail connoisseurs.

After exploring these must-visit bars and restaurants in Charleston, you might notice that creative cocktails and unique drink offerings are playing an increasingly important role in shaping the dining scene.

This reflects a broader trend seen across the industry, as highlighted in this Flavored Spirits Market Report, which dives into the growing popularity of infused and specialty spirits — a trend that many Charleston establishments are embracing.

What to Look For When Choosing a Bar-Restaurant in Charleston

With so many options, choosing the right spot for food and drinks can feel overwhelming. Whether you're planning to explore downtown or head over to Mt. Pleasant, it helps to know where to start.

If you’re also looking to stock up on drinks at home or on the way to dinner, check out this guide to finding the best liquor store in Mount Pleasant, SC — you might even discover a few spots with bars and restaurants nearby.

• Location: Choose somewhere easy to access, whether you’re staying downtown or exploring nearby neighborhoods like Mt. Pleasant or West Ashley.

• Unique Menus: Look for places with signature dishes that showcase Charleston’s local flavors and seasonal produce.

• Special Perks: Rooftops, patios, live music, and wine tastings all add to the experience.

• Real Reviews: Don’t just follow the crowds—check out local recommendations and read recent customer reviews for hidden gems.

Experience Charleston Like a Local

Charleston’s restaurant and bar scene is one of the city’s most exciting yet under-the-radar experiences. By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll uncover a world of creative cuisine, exceptional drinks, and unforgettable ambiance.

Whether you’re sipping craft beer at The ABC Store & Restaurant, sampling fresh seafood at The Darling Oyster Bar, or enjoying the view at The Watch, these must-visit spots offer the best of Charleston.

Next time you plan a night out, skip the ordinary and head to one of these bar-restaurant combos for a taste of what makes Charleston truly special.