Discover the Best Restaurants in Charleston French Quarter: A Culinary Exploration

Charleston’s French Quarter is a food lover’s haven. This historic district is filled with charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and an array of restaurants that cater to every palate. If you’re looking for a taste of Charleston’s culinary scene, look no further than the French Quarter. From classic Southern fare to international cuisine, this district boasts some of Charleston’s best restaurants. Get ready to indulge in delicious food, memorable experiences, and unforgettable moments!

Foodie Paradise: The Best Restaurants in Charleston French Quarter

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The French Quarter is home to some of Charleston’s most iconic and innovative restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a fun night out with friends, or a casual lunch spot, the French Quarter has got you covered. Here are our top picks for the best restaurants in Charleston French Quarter:

1. Husk Restaurant

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Located on Queen Street, Husk is a must-visit for foodies. This James Beard Award-winning restaurant serves up elevated Southern cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes regularly to reflect what’s in season, so you’re in for a treat no matter when you visit. From the crispy fried chicken to the savory shrimp and grits, every dish at Husk is a work of art.

2. Slightly North of Broad

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Known locally as SNOB, this restaurant has been a Charleston institution for over 20 years. SNOB’s menu features a mix of Southern classics and coastal cuisine, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a casual, upscale vibe and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Be sure to try their signature dish, the crab cake, which has been named the best in Charleston by numerous publications.

3. 82 Queen

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This iconic Charleston restaurant is a must-visit for anyone exploring the French Quarter. 82 Queen has been serving up classic Southern cuisine for over 30 years, and they’re famous for their shrimp and grits. The restaurant has a charming courtyard where you can dine al fresco, and their menu features an extensive selection of seafood, steak, and pasta dishes.

4. The Ordinary

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If you’re a fan of seafood, you won’t want to miss The Ordinary. Located on King Street, this restaurant specializes in oysters, crudo, and other raw bar delights. The menu is constantly changing to reflect what’s fresh and in season, and their cocktail program is top-notch. The interior of The Ordinary is sleek and modern, with an open kitchen that allows you to watch the chefs in action.

5. High Cotton

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For a taste of classic Southern elegance, head to High Cotton. This upscale restaurant serves up steak, seafood, and other Southern favorites in a refined setting. The menu is extensive, with plenty of options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Be sure to check out their wine list, which features an impressive selection of bottles from around the world.

6. FIG

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If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, FIG is the place to go. This cozy restaurant on Meeting Street serves up handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and other Italian delicacies. Their menu changes regularly to feature what’s in season, and their cocktail program is one of the best in town. Be sure to save room for their famous butterscotch pudding, which is a must-try for dessert.

7. The Macintosh

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The Macintosh is a gastropub that serves up elevated pub fare in a stylish setting. Their menu features everything from oysters to burgers, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The Macintosh is also known for its extensive whiskey selection, so be sure to try one of their signature cocktails. If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, The Macintosh is the perfect spot.

8. Revival

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For a taste of Lowcountry cuisine, head to Revival. This restaurant is located in a historic building on John Street and serves up classic Southern dishes with a modern twist. Their menu features everything from fried chicken to seafood gumbo, and their cocktail program is top-notch. The interior of the restaurant is sleek and modern, with a vibrant mural on one of the walls.

9. Prohibition

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If you’re looking for a fun night out, head to Prohibition. This speakeasy-style bar and restaurant serves up classic cocktails and Southern-inspired small plates. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with live music and a rotating lineup of DJs. Be sure to try their signature drink, the Bee’s Knees, which is made with honey from their rooftop beehives.

10. The Grocery

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The Grocery is a farm-to-table restaurant that features fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes regularly to reflect what’s in season, and they’re known for their creative takes on classic dishes. The interior of the restaurant is warm and welcoming, with an open kitchen that allows you to watch the chefs at work. Be sure to try their charcuterie board, which features an array of cured meats and house-made pickles.

11. Basic Kitchen

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If you’re looking for healthy, plant-based cuisine, head to Basic Kitchen. This restaurant serves up colorful bowls, fresh salads, and other nutritious dishes. Their menu is designed to be both healthy and delicious, and they use only the freshest ingredients. The interior of the restaurant is bright and airy, with plenty of natural light.

12. The Darling Oyster Bar

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For a taste of classic coastal cuisine, head to The Darling Oyster Bar. This restaurant is located on King Street and serves up oysters, seafood, and other delicacies. The interior of the restaurant is nautical-themed, with blue and white decor and plenty of natural light. Be sure to try their signature dish, the Lobster Roll, which is made with fresh Maine lobster.

13. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits

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If you’re looking for a rooftop bar with stunning views, head to The Watch. This restaurant and bar is located on the top floor of The Restoration hotel and offers panoramic views of Charleston. The menu features Southern-inspired small plates and craft cocktails, and the atmosphere is chic and sophisticated. Be sure to try their signature drink, The Watchtower, which is made with bourbon and fresh lemon juice.

Complete Information About Best Restaurants in Charleston French Quarter

Charleston’s French Quarter is home to some of the city’s best restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, or international delicacies, you’ll find it all in the French Quarter. From Husk to The Watch, these restaurants offer memorable experiences and delicious food that are sure to impress. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as these restaurants tend to fill up quickly!

FAQs

1. What are the best restaurants in Charleston French Quarter?

Charleston’s French Quarter is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, including Husk, Slightly North of Broad, 82 Queen, The Ordinary, High Cotton, FIG, The Macintosh, Revival, Prohibition, The Grocery, Basic Kitchen, The Darling Oyster Bar, and The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits.

2. What type of cuisine can I find in Charleston French Quarter?

The French Quarter offers a wide range of cuisine, including classic Southern fare, fresh seafood, Italian, and healthy plant-based options.

3. Do I need to make reservations in advance?

It’s always a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants like Husk and The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits.

4. What is the dress code for Charleston’s top restaurants?

The dress code varies by restaurant, but most of Charleston’s top restaurants have a business casual or dressy casual dress code.

5. Are these restaurants family-friendly?

Most of these restaurants are family-friendly, though some may be better suited for adults or older children.

6. What is the price range for these restaurants?

The price range varies by restaurant, but most of these restaurants are upscale and on the pricier side.

7. Do these restaurants offer outdoor seating?

Many of these restaurants offer outdoor seating, especially those with courtyards or rooftop bars.

8. What is the best time to visit these restaurants?

The best time to visit these restaurants is during the off-season, which is usually from November to February. During this time, you’ll find fewer crowds and better prices.