Best Southern American Restaurants in James Island

35 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant

1. Church and Union - Charleston

4.5

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 131 times today

Church and Union in Downtown Charleston is a standout destination for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine. The creativity of Executive Chef Doug Watson and Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch shines through in a menu that is as inventive as it is delicious. Guests rave about the "Holy Sh*t Breakfast" and the "delicious and beautifully presented" cookie dough ganache, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation. The ambiance, described as "unique" and "very cool with a lot of history," complements the modern-American dishes served. With its vibrant setting and consistently "amazing service," Church and Union is highly recommended as a must-visit for an exceptional dining experience.

2. Peninsula Grill

4.7

Exceptional(7948)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 33 times today

Nestled in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, Peninsula Grill stands out as a beacon of Southern cuisine excellence. This AAA Four-Diamond restaurant is celebrated for its "superb" food and "impeccable service," with patrons raving about signature dishes like the heavenly coconut cake, described as a "must" and the "best I’ve ever had" scallops. The atmosphere of Peninsula Grill, from its velvet-lined walls to the intimate Champagne Bar, exudes Southern supper club elegance, making every dining experience memorable. Whether it's the locally sourced ingredients or the sumptuous decor, Peninsula Grill offers an authentic taste of the South that is both inventive and deeply rooted in tradition.

A photo of Oak Steakhouse - Charleston restaurant

3. Oak Steakhouse - Charleston

4.7

Exceptional(5517)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 46 times today

Nestled in the historic heart of Downtown Charleston, Oak Steakhouse is celebrated for its impeccable approach to steak. Renowned for its certified Angus® beef, both wet and dry-aged, the restaurant sources from sustainable local farms, ensuring a menu that's both fresh and flavorful. Diners rave about the "fantastic food and service," with special mentions of the "phenomenal dry aged rib eye" and the "whole fried lobster." The ambiance, set in a stunning 1848 bank building, complements the culinary experience, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for an extraordinary meal. Regulars and newcomers alike are often "left in awe" by the personalized touches and the extensive wine selection, making every visit memorable.

4. The Establishment

4.8

Exceptional(2628)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 38 times today

The Establishment in Downtown Charleston is a gem for seafood lovers, consistently lauded for its commitment to freshness and local sourcing. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one admirer noting, "Every time I come here I think it can’t get better and it does." The menu, crafted by Chef Elliott Howells, is a testament to refined and balanced culinary art, where dishes like the lemon poached grouper and the moqueca de peixe receive high praise. The restaurant also features the highly recommended crab gnudi, described as "little puffs of heaven." With its top-notch service and a vibrant atmosphere enhanced by live music, The Establishment stands out as a beacon of seafood excellence in Charleston’s historic French Quarter.

A photo of California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating restaurant

5. California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating

4.1

Excellent(3163)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Ashley

Booked 76 times today

California Dreaming in Charleston's West Ashley neighborhood is a culinary delight for steak lovers. Since 1987, this restaurant has been serving up some of the most succulent and perfectly prepared steaks, earning rave reviews for its ambiance and cuisine. With its prime rib once a menu staple, patrons now revel in offerings like the flawlessly cooked ribeye, described by a guest as "cooked to perfection." The restaurant's setting, featuring stunning views of the Ashley River, only enhances the dining experience, making each bite of their delicious steak even more enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, the "prime rib was phenomenal," noting that it's a sought-after item that goes quickly. Whether it's the excellent service, the quality of the steak, or the beautiful backdrop, California Dreaming stands out as a top destination for steak enthusiasts visiting Charleston.

A photo of Virginia's on King restaurant

6. Virginia's on King

4.5

Awesome(3005)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 38 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, Virginia's on King is a beacon of Southern charm and culinary delight. This esteemed eatery excels in crafting authentic Southern dishes that resonate with the richness of Lowcountry cuisine. Utilizing fresh, local ingredients and cherished family recipes, the menu offers a journey through the South's culinary heritage. Highlights include the indulgent crab Benedict and the perfectly seasoned shrimp and grits, described by a patron as "velvety smooth." Diners consistently praise not only the food but also the ambiance and service, noting, "The food was fantastic if you like Southern food" and "Great service and food our waitress Genevieve was wonderful." Virginia's on King is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Southern hospitality and flavor in Charleston.

7. Anson

4.9

Exceptional(4783)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 23 times today

Anson was named one of OpenTable's 50 Best Southern Restaurants in America for 2018 |

8. Prohibition

4.6

Exceptional(2496)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 20 times today

It's true that Prohibition is a nod to the classic 1920's Speakeasy, but our elevated cuisine and progressive cocktail program are anything but old-fashioned. At Prohibition you can expect the culinary delights of Executive Chef Greg Garrison to leave you completely Jazzed, from savory local seafood to the finest cuts of meat, each dish is prepared with perfection. Kick back in our relaxing surroundings and sample the Mixology Expertise of our award winning Bar Team, led by Jim Mc Court. Our professional and passionate team are constantly striving to push the boundaries of excellence with cocktails like the 547 Manhattan and our signature Bacon Maple Old Fashioned to name but a few. Our extensive and imaginative beer, wine and liquor selection insures we can cater to all tastes.

A photo of 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston restaurant

9. 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston

4.3

Awesome(5077)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 51 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, 39 Rue de Jean is a culinary gem offering an authentic French dining experience since 2000. Praised for its "delicious, refined French food," this charming café and bar excels in Brasserie cuisine, providing a diverse menu that delights regulars and newcomers alike. Patrons rave about the "best French onion soup" and the innovative dishes like the "Rosemary Garlic Gnocchi," which showcase the kitchen's commitment to both tradition and creativity. The atmosphere, described as "charming" and perfect for both special occasions and casual dining, complements the exemplary service and well-rounded wine list, making every visit memorable. As one diner puts it, "Always a real treat to meet old and new friends at Rue de Jean," this spot remains a beloved staple for those seeking a slice of France in Charleston.

10. Rudy Royale

4.5

Awesome(837)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 36 times today

Rudy Royale in Downtown Charleston is a gem for seafood lovers, offering a delightful culinary experience that highlights the freshness and authenticity of its dishes. With a focus on seasonal cuisine, the restaurant's flounder tempura has garnered high praise as a must-try. Patrons consistently rave about the "unmatched deliciousness" of the seafood offerings, emphasizing the quality and flavor that make Rudy Royale a standout. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with exceptional service, ensures every meal is a pleasure. Whether it's the praised flounder or the celebrated tempura, Rudy Royale promises an unforgettable seafood experience right in the heart of Charleston.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

R
Roget
Indiana •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We celebrated our Anniversary (53). The entire staff were very attentive , friendly and professional. Ansons is one of our favorite two restaurants in Charleston. Roger & Joey Pyle, Hickory, NC
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AnsonPrice: Very Expensive• Southern• Downtown Charleston
•
4.9
F
Frederickvip
Virginia •113 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
This is a terrific restaurant. The menu is quite basic, but everything is prepared expertly, and the staff is both welcoming and professional. Whenever we're in Charleston we never miss a visit. My faves are the local Low-Country seafood items and the filet. Again, a basic menu but all the bases are well covered. Oh... and that coconut cake. "Extraordinary" doesn't do it justice.
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Peninsula GrillPrice: Very Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
•
4.7
D
Dale
Jacksonville / Northeast Florida •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Fried chicken sandwich was excellent. Chicken pot pie was also very good. Great service. Will return the next time we are in town.
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Rudy RoyalePrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
•
4.5
W
William
Los Angeles •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Started with the she crab soup which was remarkable. Then a swamp fox burger, which is a very generous half pound cooked to perfection. Spectacular quality meat. Finished the meal with their delicious butter cake. Very attentive wait staff. Great piano player in the background. A wonderful dining experience.
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The Swamp Fox at the Francis Marion HotelPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
•
4.4
A
Al
Orlando / Central Florida East •24 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 14, 2024
Had reservations for brunch in a few days but was looking for a casual southern place for dinner and VOK absolutely filled the desire! From the very start with the Tomato Pie appetizer we knew this was going to be good! Deviled eggs were okay but nothing special, She Crab Soup was on point! The cornbread they served with the appetizers was amazing and served as dessert as well! I had the Crispy Cod BLT with Onion Casserole on the side and my wife hade a small house salad, still quite large! Everything was delicious and plentiful! Service was excellent throughout the meal and some creative seasonal cocktails. My wife tried the Aperol Spritz with a twist of Apple Juice and Cinnamon and loved it! We both can’t wait to go back for brunch! Friendly atmosphere, a bit loud but some great music playing as well!
More info
Virginia's on KingPrice: Moderate• Southern• Downtown Charleston
•
4.5

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James Island

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in James Island

Price

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35 restaurants available nearby

1. Church and Union - Charleston

2. Peninsula Grill

3. Oak Steakhouse - Charleston

4. The Establishment

5. California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating

6. Virginia's on King

7. Anson

8. Prohibition

9. 39 Rue de Jean - Charleston

10. Rudy Royale

See what locals rave about

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