Looking for the perfect place to impress your special someone? Look no further than Charleston, South Carolina, a romantic city full of charm and delectable dining options. In this article, we have curated the top 15 date night restaurants in Charleston that are guaranteed to make your evening unforgettable.
Whether you're in the mood for an elegant fine dining experience, a cozy bistro with intimate ambience, or a lively spot with live music, this list has something for every couple. From the renowned Charleston Grill, where you can savor culinary masterpieces, to the wine-centric haven Uncork Charleston, and the legendary Halls Chophouse, where prime steaks are served with southern hospitality, these restaurants promise to create the perfect backdrop for a memorable romantic evening.
Get ready to indulge in a gastronomic adventure and let these exceptional dining spots in the heart of Charleston elevate your date night to new heights.
Jump to places
- Muse Restaurant & Wine Bar
- Oak Steakhouse
- Circa 1886 Restaurant
- High Cotton Charleston Restaurant
- Chez Nous
- Le Farfalle
- Slightly North of Broad Restaurant
- Magnolias
- The Establishment
- FIG
- Church and Union Charleston
- Uncork Charleston
- Charleston Grill
- Grill 225
- The Restaurant at Zero George
Muse Restaurant & Wine Bar is a hidden gem located down a side street in a beautiful house, offering an authentic Italian taste with a Southern charm. This multi-story restaurant, which was once a dentist office, boasts an intimate bar and sectioned eating spaces, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere for a romantic evening.
The restaurant's most notable feature is its extensive wine menu, offering a wide selection to pair perfectly with their delicious Mediterranean dishes, including homemade pasta. Guests have raved about the knowledgeable and enthusiastic wait staff, who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.
Visitors have praised the restaurant for its family-style dining option, allowing them to share a variety of delectable dishes that left them wanting more. With impeccable service and a mouthwatering menu, Muse Restaurant & Wine Bar is definitely worth a return visit for a truly fantastic date night.
Oak Steakhouse is worth visiting for a great date night experience. People say the service at Oak Steakhouse is top-notch, with a five-star rating. Guests rave about the house-made Oak steak sauce, which adds a delicious touch to the locally sourced beef and sustainable seafood.
The atmosphere is pleasant, though not extraordinary. Visitors appreciate the family-style sides, a unique and unexpected feature. Another reviewer couldn't stop gushing about their experience, having a perfect Mother's Day dinner at Oak Steakhouse. The service was impeccable, with Brodie being particularly memorable.
On top of that, the staff is lovely and accommodating. If you're looking for a delicious steak dinner, Oak Steakhouse is definitely a place to consider.
Circa 1886 Restaurant in Charleston offers an amazing dining experience that is worth visiting for a romantic date night. With its courteous and friendly staff, guests are treated to impeccable service throughout their evening. Known for its seasonal and local menu of elevated Lowcountry cuisine, visitors have raved about the delicious flavors in every dish they tried.
From flounder and beef tenderloin to duck and even chicken fingers for the kids, Circa 1886 caters to a variety of tastes. Wine enthusiasts have praised the restaurant for its spot-on recommendations that don't push for the most expensive choices. For those looking for a special occasion, the 5-course meals are a splurge-worthy option, with stunning desserts that look like works of art.
The crab salad and foie gras have been highlighted among the favorites. Seafood lovers will particularly enjoy the sea bass with smoked salmon wontons, bok choy, and a delectable tomato lemongrass broth. The menu also offers a tantalizing tasting menu, with standout dishes such as crab salad, lobster tail, and a refreshing lemon blackberry dessert.
Don't miss the chance to sample their house-made limoncello, which has received rave reviews. With its combination of excellent service, exquisite flavors, and thoughtful wine pairings, Circa 1886 is a top choice for a memorable date night.
High Cotton Charleston Restaurant is definitely worth a visit for a great date night. With a spacious and refined atmosphere, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. People say that the Lowcountry fare, prepared using fresh ingredients from nearby farms, is superb.
One guest mentioned that their perfectly seasoned and cooked filet was a fitting end to their time in Charleston. They also raved about the condiment sides, particularly the tomato and okra slice, which was surprisingly delicious. Another visitor praised the exceptional service, noting that the staff pays attention to every detail.
They even discreetly replaced a dirty knife without being asked. Additionally, High Cotton is highly recommended for Sunday brunch, with mouthwatering dishes like fried oysters, she crab soup, and crab cake Benedict. And don't forget to save room for the best pecan pie you'll ever taste.
Chez Nous is a pint-sized neighborhood spot that offers elevated food and wine from France and around Europe. It has received rave reviews from guests who have visited the restaurant. One visitor described their experience as an incredible meal with outstanding wine and service.
They enjoyed sitting at the bar, where they shared the daily cheese, a salad, two entrees, and the tiramisu, leaving them pleasantly full at the end. They were especially grateful to Nicki, their server, for recommending the cheese and showcasing her extensive wine knowledge.
Another guest praised the excellent food and mentioned that their server, Nicki, did a beautiful job explaining each item on the menu. They appreciated being seated at the bar for the extra shoulder room, preferring it over a 2 person table. The portion sizes were generous and satisfying.
According to one reviewer, Chez Nous is a very charming and cozy place, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options. They loved the fact that there were only two options for each course, making ordering quick and easy. The dinner menu changes daily, and guests can check the restaurant's Instagram page to see what will be served.
Everything they tasted was fantastic, and their server was both knowledgeable and friendly. Even their Uber driver, who picked them up afterwards, recommended Chez Nous, a testament to its popularity among locals.
Nestled in a bright and airy neighborhood, Le Farfalle is a destination worth visiting for a great date night. People have raved about the delicious food, particularly the in-house made pasta which has been hailed as the best in town. With its thoughtfully sourced, reimagined Italian cuisine, Le Farfalle promises a dining experience like no other.
To ensure a table at this popular spot, guests are advised to make a reservation ahead of time, as walk-ins might have to wait for availability. The service at Le Farfalle consistently receives high praise, with visitors describing the staff as personable, informative, and attentive.
From the outstanding server named Jack to the rest of the well-coordinated team, the level of professionalism and teamwork is evident. Despite a slight waiting time, guests appreciate the warm and exciting atmosphere inside, and find comfort in the beautiful booth seating.
Savoring flavorful drinks and the mouthwatering whipped ricotta sets the stage for an unforgettable evening. While there might be some inconsistencies in the dining experience, overall, Le Farfalle offers an exceptional two-hour dinner experience that will leave guests wanting to return for more.
Slightly North of Broad Restaurant is a worth-visiting place for a great date night. Located in an airy, 18th-century warehouse, this restaurant offers modern Southern & Lowcountry cuisine that has received rave reviews from guests. People say that the fresh grilled swordfish, pork chop, and lamb chops are cooked to perfection and the presentation is spot on.
The mashed red potatoes are described as delicious, and guests appreciate the warm corn bread muffins served as a starter, which are said to be amazing. The creamy banana cream pie is recommended as a delightful dessert option. In addition to the mouthwatering food, visitors also praise the excellent service provided by the staff.
With daily menus and a wide selection of seafood, Slightly North of Broad is a wonderful dining spot that offers an enjoyable experience for any date night. Highly recommended by those who have dined there.
Magnolias, a refined take on traditional Southern cooking, is a restaurant in Charleston that is worth a visit. People say that this charming establishment offers an upscale southern-inspired dining experience. Guests rave about the appetizers, including the dill pickle deviled eggs, blue crab bisque, and loaded homemade fried potato crisps, with the blue crab bisque being a particular favorite.
For the main course, visitors recommend trying the rack of lamb, which is cooked to perfection, or the low country bouillabaisse. Another standout dish is the Prosciutto & Apple Grilled Cheese, which impresses with its perfect balance of meat, fig spread, and apple.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff provides excellent service and ensures that every guest has a delightful dining experience. A local reviewer even considers the Spicy Shrimp and Sausage to be the best they have ever had, making Magnolias a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch Southern culinary experience.
The Establishment is a stylish seafood restaurant offering classic Southern dishes alongside beer, wine, and bourbon drinks. Guests highly recommend this place for its great food, alcoholic beverages, service, and ambiance. People say that the servers at this restaurant go above and beyond, guiding them through the menu and providing attentive service throughout the night.
The drinks served here are unique and full of flavor, just like the food. One visitor mentioned having the swordfish and steak, both of which were delicious. Another guest raved about the amount of blueberries on one of the desserts, calling it amazing.
They also praised the delicious cocktails. While their appetizer took longer than expected, the waiter kindly took it off their bill without them even having to mention it. Although some were worried about bringing their 5-year-old along, the staff at The Establishment made their whole family feel very welcome.
They even have a fruit mocktail and a kids pasta dish that are both kid-approved. With excellent food and top-notch service, The Establishment is definitely worth a visit.
Fig is a must-visit restaurant for a great date night. Visitors rave about the delicious food, fantastic service, and cool vibes. The ricotta gnocchi, in particular, is a standout dish that receives high praise. People say it is a little cloud of cheesy heaven and the best gnocchi they've ever had.
The replacement of flounder with snapper in another meal was a delightful surprise, making it one of the best fish dishes guests have had in a long time. The broiled oysters are also a hit, described as the best ever tasted. With its upscale yet unpretentious atmosphere and perfectly prepared, balanced flavors, FIG is an unforgettable dining experience.
Church and Union Charleston is a posh new American dining destination and cocktail bar housed in a former church, making it a unique and dramatic setting for a romantic date night. As visitors enter the restaurant, they are captivated by the stunning interior, where the atmosphere truly shines.
Despite the restaurant being packed, guests praise the accommodating staff who went out of their way to seat them in the shade on the patio. One particular standout server, Grant, made exceptional recommendations and provided excellent service, even while braving the direct sunshine.
The classic meals ordered by guests were met with enthusiasm, though specifics were not provided. While Church and Union Charleston is known to be slightly pricier, patrons agree that the experience is well worth it. Those who prefer a vibrant ambiance can enjoy the eclectic atmosphere of the main room by grabbing a seat at the bar rather than being seated in the side room.
The savory and decadent pork belly and grits leave a lasting impression on guests' taste buds. Additionally, the knowledgeable bartender skillfully serves up an array of delightful cocktails and makes specialty drinks upon request. With its chill dress code and intriguing history as an old church, Church and Union Charleston provides a great vibe where guests can indulge in fabulous food and an amazing atmosphere, leaving them eager to return.
Uncork Charleston is a restaurant worth visiting because guests have had great conversations with the manager while seated at the bar. People say the food is delicious and the wine selections are nice, and they even have a variety of choices for beer drinkers.
Visitors can also enjoy a full bar and opt for a cocktail if they prefer. The restaurant offers an excellent vibe and atmosphere, whether it's packed or empty, and guests rave about the great live music on weekends. The service is fast, and the bartenders are exceptional, with Rachel making an espresso martini that is said to be to die for.
Overall, Uncork Charleston is a must-see spot, with its pleasant atmosphere and a girl playing live music who didn't disappoint one guest searching for entertainment suitable for their 6-year-old daughter. Plus, the kids got to try their first Shirley Temple drinks, which they now want to ask for anywhere they go.
Charleston Grill, an opulent hotel destination for upscale Southern-French dishes, is a restaurant worth visiting for a great date night. People say that the food at Charleston Grill never disappoints, with exotic and delicious dishes like curry scallops and trout with capers and lemon.
One guest even raved about the mouthwatering mashed potatoes. Although they didn't have room for dessert, they are excited to try the famous carrot cake next time. The waitstaff, Brian and Katie, provided excellent service, and the live band added to the enjoyable ambiance without being too loud.
For special occasions like anniversaries, visitors mentioned that the staff at Charleston Grill went above and beyond by seating them beside the musicians and even giving them a card with a happy anniversary wish. With outstanding food and service, this restaurant is a fantastic dining experience for any occasion, and their crab cake is a must-try dish, as mentioned by one satisfied birthday girl.
Grill 225 is a fine-dining chophouse located in the Market Pavilion Hotel. Guests say that this restaurant is one of the best they have ever been to, with amazing service from the moment they stepped inside. Visitors also note that the food is worth every penny, and the staff went above and beyond to make their dining experience perfect.
The dining room creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere with its wood walls and high back chairs, adding a touch of Charleston flair to the traditional steakhouse. One reviewer even mentions the delicious gluten-free bread, which is a pleasant surprise.
Don't forget to try their Nitrotini, as guests say they are a fun and unique addition to the dining experience. For those looking for a perfect date night spot, Grill 225 may just become their new favorite place in Charleston.
The Restaurant at Zero George, an upscale hotel eatery, is a place worth visiting for a great date night. The joint is described as one of a kind, providing a unique and memorable experience. Visitors have praised the team at Zero George for their cordiality, professionalism, and knowledge about the menu and overall vibe.
With an ambiance described as superb, this restaurant offers a sophisticated and chic atmosphere that perfectly captures the elegance of historical Charleston. According to guests, the level of service at Zero George is second to none, and the food is absolutely incredible.
The executive chef is highly regarded for his mastery of the culinary craft, creating dishes that are considered some of the best in town. Additionally, the crafted cocktails and mocktails are both delicious and complement the set menu perfectly. For a truly unforgettable night of fine dining in Charleston, The Restaurant at Zero George is the place to be.
