Charleston, South Carolina, is a world-class culinary destination, and its identity is deeply connected to the fresh, bountiful seafood of the Lowcountry. From rustic, waterfront crab shacks to sophisticated raw bars in the heart of the historic district, the city offers an incredible array of options for any seafood lover. This guide will lead you to five of the best and most beloved seafood restaurants that provide an authentic and delicious taste of Charleston.
A Taste of the Lowcountry: A Guide to Charleston's 5 Best Seafood Restaurants
1. 167 Raw Oyster Bar
- The Vibe: A chic, intimate, and incredibly popular New England-style oyster bar, 167 Raw is a must-visit for those seeking the freshest seafood in a vibrant setting. It's a top-tier spot that often has a line, a testament to its quality and reputation.
- The Seafood: As the name suggests, the raw bar is the main event, featuring a meticulously curated selection of fresh oysters from the East Coast and beyond. Beyond oysters, their lobster roll is consistently ranked as one of the best in the city, and their creative crudos and fish tacos are phenomenal.
- Location: 289 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401
2. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
- The Vibe: Offering one of the city's best and only waterfront dining experiences, Fleet Landing is housed in a repurposed naval building right on the Charleston Harbor. The atmosphere is lively and casual, with a sprawling pier and outdoor patio providing stunning views of the water and the Ravenel Bridge.
- The Seafood: The menu is a celebration of classic Southern and Lowcountry seafood. Look for delicious preparations of local shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes with crab, and fresh-caught fish. It's the perfect spot for a scenic lunch or sunset dinner.
- Location: 186 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401
3. Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar
- The Vibe: Located in the heart of the historic district near the City Market, Amen Street offers a comfortable and contemporary dining experience in a beautifully restored 1800s building. It's a bustling spot with a classic seafood house feel.
- The Seafood: The restaurant features an impressive raw bar and a menu packed with Lowcountry favorites and modern takes on classic dishes. Their shrimp corn dogs are a unique and delicious starter, and their fresh fish entrees are always a great choice.
- Location: 205 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401
4. The Crab Shack
- The Vibe: For a casual, fun, and family-friendly seafood feast, The Crab Shack is a go-to destination, especially at its popular Folly Beach location. It's the quintessential beach town seafood joint with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
- The Seafood: They are famous for their overflowing steam pots, which are brimming with fresh crab legs, shrimp, clams, mussels, potatoes, and corn. It's a communal, hands-on meal perfect for sharing after a day at the beach.
- Location (Folly Beach): 26 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439
5. Hyman's Seafood
- The Vibe: A Charleston institution since 1890, Hyman's Seafood is a massive, multi-level restaurant on Meeting Street that has become a famous landmark. It's a bustling, casual spot where the walls are lined with plaques commemorating the famous celebrities who have dined there.
- The Seafood: Hyman's offers a vast menu of traditional seafood dishes, from fried shrimp platters and crab cakes to their famous She-Crab soup. It's a classic and historic Charleston dining experience.
- Location: 215 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401
From the sophisticated raw bar at 167 Raw to the classic steam pots at The Crab Shack and the stunning waterfront views at Fleet Landing, Charleston's seafood scene is a delicious reflection of its coastal heritage. These five establishments offer an incredible taste of the Lowcountry, providing fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable dining experiences for locals and visitors alike.
