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Writer's pictureCouples Adventures

Charleston's 12 Most Romantic Restaurants

Updated: Oct 30, 2023


Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that oozes Southern charm and historical allure, making it the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening out. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and waterfront views, Charleston sets the stage for unforgettable romantic dinners. In this article, we'll explore seven of the most romantic restaurants to visit in Charleston, each offering a unique culinary experience and an ambiance that will sweep you off your feet.



man serving couple at restaurant


1. Peninsula Grill: A Classic Charleston Gem

Nestled within the elegant Planters Inn, the Peninsula Grill is an iconic Charleston restaurant that exudes romance. This intimate establishment is renowned for its charming courtyard, complete with a charming fountain and fl


ickering lanterns. The cuisine is equally impressive, with a menu that showcases Lowcountry flavors and classic Southern dishes. Don't miss the signature 12-layer Ultimate Coconut Cake, a crowd favorite and not to mention a sweet finale to a truly memorable evening with your loved one. View the Peninsula Grill menu.



a romantic restaurant at sunset

2. Husk: Celebrating with Local Flavors

Husk, located in a historic 19th-century mansion, offers a unique dining experience that celebrates a variety of popular Southern ingredients. The restaurant's commitment to using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients ensures that every dish is bursting with the utmost flavor. With its cozy atmosphere and carefully crafted menu, Husk is the ideal place for couples to savor Charleston's culinary her


itage together on a special night out.



a historic restaurant dining room

3. Circa 1886: A Taste of History

If you're seeking a romantic dinner with a touch of rich history, look no further than Circa 1886. This restaurant, housed in the original carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion, offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. The menu is a testament to Charleston's rich culinary trad


itions, with dishes that pay homage to the city's fascinating past. Enjoy your meal in the romantic courtyard, where lush gardens and softly lit lanterns create an enchanting atmosphere perfect for two.



a fancy meal at a seafood restaurant

4. The Obstinate Daughter: A Coastal Escape

This restaurant is located on Sullivan's Island, just a short drive from downtown Charleston, The Obstinate Daughter is a charming coastal restaurant perfect for a romantic seaside dinner. The menu features inventive Italian-inspired cuisine with a Southern twist, showcasing fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you dine indoors with its cozy ambiance or on the outdoor


patio with stunning ocean views, this restaurant provides an idyllic setting for a romantic evening with a loved one.




a restaurant on the corner of a street

5. Fig: Farm-to-Table Elegance

Fig, which is short for "Food is Good," lives up to its name with its exceptional farm-to-table cuisine. Helmed by acclaimed chef Mike Lata, Fig focuses on seasonal ingredients and offers a rotating menu that highlights the very best of what Charleston has to offer. The restaurant's intimate and cozy setting, with its dimly lit dining room and exposed brick walls, creates an inviting atmosphere for couples looking to enjoy an evening of exquisite food and wine.




an outdoor dining area of a restaurant

6. 82 Queen: A True Quintessential Charleston Experience

For a quintessential Charleston dining experience, head over to 82 Queen. This historic restaurant, situated in a charming 18th-century building, boasts a lush courtyard adorned with gas lanterns and vibrant flowers. The menu features Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits and she-crab soup, making it an ideal choice for those looking to savor traditional Southern flavors in a romantic setting.





a chef cooking a meal in front of restaurant guests


7. Zero Restaurant + Bar: Culinary Excellence

Zero Restaurant + Bar, located within the Zero George Hotel, is a hidden gem that offers culinary excellence as well as an intimate dining experience. With its small dining room and open kitchen, you can watch as skilled chefs prepare exquisite dishes that combine international influences with locally sourced ingredients. The tasting menu is a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds and make for a truly memorable romantic evening.


a woman dining in a rooftop restaurant


8. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits: Classy Views

For breathtaking panoramic views of Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge, head to The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits. This rooftop restaurant is a hidden gem for sunset dining and cocktails. The modern décor and the spectacular backdrop make it an ideal choice for a romantic evening.



dessert with strawberries, shrimp, and steak dishes

9. Magnolias: A Taste of the South

With its reputation as one of Charleston's most iconic restaurants, Magnolias has been enchanting diners for decades. Set in a historic 19th-century building, its warm and welcoming atmosphere is matched only by its Southern-inspired menu, featuring dishes like their famous Down South Egg Roll.




inside an expensive coastal bar

10. The Darling Oyster Bar: For Coastal Elegance

Overlooking King Street, The Darling Oyster Bar offers a blend of Southern charm and coastal elegance. The menu features a selection of fresh oysters and seafood delights. Enjoy your meal in the bright, airy dining room or on the charming outdoor patio.



a restaurant oyster dish

11. The Ordinary: Seafood Pa


radise

For seafood lovers, The Ordinary offers an oceanic oasis in the heart of the city of Charleston. This upscale seafood hall is housed in a restored bank building, featuring a grand oyster bar. Share a tower of fresh oysters or indulge in a seafood platter while basking in the warm, inviting ambiance.


dining room inside an expensive restaurant

12. High Cotton: Jazz Music and Romance

High Cotton is a restaurant that no


t only boasts delicious Southern cuisine but also features live jazz performances that set the stage for romance. The warm, inviting atmosphere and impeccable service make it an ideal choice for a romantic date night. Try their decadent shrimp and grits paired with a glass of fine wine.


Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that knows just how to set the stage for real romance. These seven restaurants offer a wide range of different dining experiences, from historic charm to coastal elegance and cu




linary innovation. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy a romantic night out in the city, Charleston's dining scene has something to offer every couple seeking a memorable and intimate meal together. So, go ahead and book a table at one of these enchanting establishments and let the magic of Charleston, South Carolina enhance your unique love story.


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