Charleston, South Carolina, is synonymous with fresh, local seafood, thanks to its winding waterways brimming with shrimp, fish, oysters, and more. Whether you’re craving something casual or looking for a fine dining experience, there are plenty of standout Lowcountry seafood restaurants that highlight the rich seafood culture of the city. Here’s a list of must-visit restaurants that bring the best of Charleston’s seafood to the plate.
Raw Lab
For a truly unique experience, visit Raw Lab, the world’s first omakase-style raw bar. This intimate setting accommodates only 12 guests and offers a 10-course seafood feast for $250 per person. Guests gather around a U-shaped bar, where Master “mermmelier” Kevin Joseph guides the culinary journey, serving dishes like cold-smoked oysters and other raw delights. Paired with 13+ wine selections, Raw Lab is a luxurious evening that’s perfect for seafood connoisseurs. Reservations are a must, and the experience is available Thursday through Saturday evenings.
Location: 99 S. Market St., Charleston | Website: Raw Lab
Bowen’s Island
Stepping onto Bowen’s Island near Folly Beach is like taking a trip back in time. This family-owned institution offers rustic, counter-service dining with stunning views of the marsh. The star of the show is the local oysters, harvested directly from the waters nearby. In winter, they serve steamed oysters by the tray, along with seafood platters and the classic Lowcountry Boil—a blend of shrimp, corn, sausage, and potatoes. The experience is cozy and timeless, making it a must-visit for a casual meal.
Location: 1870 Bowens Island Rd., Charleston | Website: Bowen’s Island
The Ordinary
The Ordinary is a former bank turned old-school oyster hall in Downtown Charleston, known for its seafood towers filled with the best of the East Coast’s shellfish. Chef Mike Lata celebrates the “merroir” of local waters by sourcing fresh, regional ingredients. Some highlights include slow-baked snowy grouper and stuffed clams from Clammer Dave. With a beautiful space and a menu full of fresh seafood, it’s a place where you can indulge in the finest flavors Charleston has to offer.
Location: 544 King St., Charleston | Website: The Ordinary
The Establishment
For a fine dining experience with a focus on sustainable seafood, The Establishment is a fantastic choice. Located in Charleston’s oldest neighborhood, it offers a seasonal menu that showcases fresh, local seafood like wahoo sashimi, whole red snapper, and butter-poached wreckfish. Paired with an extensive wine selection, the dining experience here is both surprising and delightful.
Location: 28 Broad St., Charleston | Website: The Establishment
167 Raw
167 Raw is a buzzy raw bar that features creative takes on classic seafood dishes. Known for its tuna burger, oysters, and clam specials, 167 Raw keeps it casual and fun. Their roasted Steamboat Creek oysters with tuna chorizo and manchego are a fan favorite. With no reservations, be prepared for a line out the door—but the wait is always worth it for fresh, local seafood.
Location: 193 King St., Charleston | Website: 167 Raw
Pink Bellies
For a unique fusion of Vietnamese-American flavors and Lowcountry seafood, head to Pink Bellies. This restaurant creatively blends Asian influences with local seafood ingredients, serving dishes like shrimp dumplings made with Tarvin shrimp and softshell crab specials when in season. Chef Thai Phi focuses on cooking local shrimp with care to preserve their sweet flavor and tender texture.
Location: 595 King St., Charleston | Website: Pink Bellies
Hannibal’s Kitchen
Hannibal’s Kitchen brings the rich culinary culture of the Gullah community to the forefront with authentic soul food and seafood dishes. Try the shrimp and whiting platter, shark steak plate, or the signature crab rice—a Lowcountry dish featuring picked crab over rice with onions and peppers. This family-owned gem preserves the region’s heritage while serving classic Southern sides like collard greens and okra soup.
Location: 16 Blake St, Charleston | Website: Hannibal’s Kitchen
Chubby Fish
Chubby Fish is a neighborhood favorite where the menu changes daily based on what local fishermen bring in. Chef James London focuses on untraditional techniques, like poaching and grilling, to allow the quality of the seafood to shine. From snapper ceviche to grilled oysters with crab fat curry, the menu at Chubby Fish always offers something fresh and unique.
Location: 252 Coming St., Charleston | Website: Chubby Fish
