The Charleston, South Carolina Seafood Restaurants Locals Swear Are The Best In Town
Charleston knows seafood like a pelican knows fishing spots. This coastal gem serves up ocean-fresh catches that make tourists and locals alike weak in the knees.
When you want the real deal, forget the tourist traps and head where Charleston residents actually eat.
These eight restaurants have earned their stripes through years of serving outstanding seafood that keeps people coming back for more.
1. Hyman’s Seafood
Since 1890, this downtown institution has been slinging seafood with the kind of consistency that builds legends. Tourists flock here, sure, but locals keep returning because the quality never wavers.
The menu reads like an encyclopedia of ocean delights, featuring everything from she-crab soup to fried flounder. Your server will rattle off daily specials that could make a vegetarian reconsider their life choices.
Massive portions mean you will probably need a to-go box, but that just means tomorrow’s lunch is sorted. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from families to business meetings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
2. Delaney Oyster House
Oyster lovers practically worship at this altar of briny perfection on Calhoun Street in Charleston’s historic district. The raw bar showcases regional varieties that highlight the Lowcountry’s incredible shellfish bounty.
Beyond the stellar oysters, the kitchen turns out sophisticated seafood dishes that balance creativity with respect for the ingredients. Think pan-roasted fish with seasonal accompaniments that actually complement rather than overwhelm.
The upscale-casual vibe strikes that sweet spot where you feel fancy without needing to remortgage your house. Happy hour runs Monday through Thursday from 4–6 p.m., offering discounted oysters and drinks.
3. Fleet Landing
Perched right on Charleston Harbor, this spot delivers views that compete with the food for your attention. Housed in a renovated maritime building, the history adds character to every bite.
Fresh catches arrive daily, and the kitchen treats them with the simplicity they deserve. Grilled, blackened, or fried options let you customize your seafood experience without getting too fancy.
Sunset dining here ranks among Charleston’s most memorable experiences, especially with a cold beverage in hand. The outdoor seating fills fast during peak season, so arrive early or prepare to wait while watching boats drift by the harbor.
4. Chubby Fish
This funky spot brings modern coastal flavors and creative seafood specials to the South Carolina coast with delicious results. The name alone makes you smile before you even taste the food.
Creative seafood preparations show that traditional is not the only way to celebrate ocean bounty. Tacos stuffed with blackened mahi or shrimp tempura prove that fusion done right respects both culinary traditions.
The laid-back atmosphere feels like dining at a beach shack, minus the sand in your shoes. Prices remain shockingly reasonable considering the quality and generous portions, making it perfect for casual weeknight dinners or post-beach refueling sessions.
5. Revival
Chef Forrest Parker transforms Lowcountry ingredients into edible poetry at this upscale gem. Seafood preparations here feel both innovative and deeply rooted in Charleston tradition.
The menu changes with the seasons and the catch, ensuring peak freshness in every dish. Expect creative combinations that surprise your palate while still tasting unmistakably Southern.
Intimate dining room vibes make this ideal for special occasions when you want to impress someone important. Reservations are practically mandatory, especially on weekends when locals celebrate anniversaries and promotions.
6. Charleston Crab House
When crabs are calling your name, this James Island Wappoo Creek spot answers with buckets of steaming goodness. The waterfront location adds scenic beauty to your seafood feast.
Bibs are not just suggested here, they are practically required equipment for tackling the messy, delicious crab clusters. Beyond crustaceans, the menu offers plenty of finfish options for anyone not feeling crabby.
Families love the casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere where kids can be kids without judgment. Sunset views over the marsh turn dinner into entertainment, especially if dolphins decide to make an appearance during your meal.
7. Coast Bar & Grill
This downtown favorite balances sophistication with approachability, making everyone feel welcome. The lengthy menu covers seafood territory from traditional preparations to contemporary twists.
Raw bar selections shine alongside cooked dishes, giving indecisive diners plenty of delicious options. Landlubbers in your group will find non-seafood choices, though they will probably regret not ordering from the ocean.
The bar program deserves recognition too, crafting cocktails that pair beautifully with briny oysters and buttery fish. Locals appreciate the consistent quality and service that never feels rushed, even during busy dinner rushes when tables turn quickly.
8. Oyster House
Located at 35 South Market Street in Charleston’s French Quarter, this restaurant delivers outstanding oysters and Southern seafood classics. The menu reads like a greatest hits album of Lowcountry cooking.
She-crab soup here sets the standard that other restaurants aspire to reach. Fried seafood platters arrive golden and greaseless, proving that proper technique matters immensely.
Family-friendly pricing and atmosphere make this a go-to for locals feeding hungry crews without breaking the bank. The consistency across visits means you know exactly what you are getting, which builds the kind of trust that keeps customers loyal for years running.