Best Seafood in Charleston: Top Spots for Fresh and Delicious Catch

Charleston is known for its fresh seafood and southern flavors. The city’s restaurants serve up all sorts of dishes featuring local fish, shrimp, oysters, and the rest of the ocean’s bounty. If you’re a fan of coastal cooking, you’ll probably find yourself spoiled for choice here—locals and visitors both rave about the variety and quality.

The best seafood in Charleston blends fresh ingredients with that classic Lowcountry touch. The result? Dishes that really celebrate the region’s deep culinary roots. Whether you’re after something traditional or a bit more adventurous, there’s a spot for you.

1) Hyman’s Seafood

Hyman’s Seafood is a well-known spot that’s been part of Charleston since the 1890s. It fills several historic buildings downtown and has a massive menu of fresh seafood. The place is a little bit restaurant, a little bit bar, and there’s even a deli mixed in.

It’s the kind of spot that draws both locals and tourists, and their reviews speak for themselves—Hyman’s has become one of the most talked-about family-run seafood joints in the country. They throw in some fun perks, too, like birthday and anniversary meals (just don’t expect to walk in and get one on the spot; you’ll need to plan ahead).

The hours run from late morning into the evening, shifting a bit depending on the crowd. If you like keeping up with deals or local happenings, their newsletter is worth a peek.

Rating: 4.9 (42,132 reviews)
Location: 215 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401

2) Charleston Crab House

Charleston Crab House is family-owned, and they’ve been at it for more than 27 years. The vibe is relaxed—right in the Historic District—and the downtown spot has a rooftop with a pretty great view of the Charleston City Market.

The menu? It’s all about crab, of course, plus other seafood favorites, steampots, soups, salads, and a handful of Southern fried classics. You can stick to the basics or go for something a little different. There’s indoor and outdoor seating, so you can pick your scene.

They’ve got three locations around Charleston, including waterfront spots on James Island and Shem Creek. If you’re coming by boat, you can even dock at those two. Parking’s easy at the waterfront restaurants, but downtown you’ll be hunting for a garage or a spot on the street.

Rating: 4.5 (4697 reviews)
Location: 41 S Market St, Charleston, SC 29401

3) Magnolias

Magnolias is a Charleston staple for seafood and Southern cuisine, but with a bit of a modern edge. You’ll find classics like Fried Green Tomatoes and Shellfish over Grits, but also more creative plates—Lowcountry Bouillabaisse, anyone?

It’s been around since 1990, tucked into a historic building that once housed the city’s original Customs House. Lunch, dinner, and a popular Sunday brunch are served in a setting that’s both elegant and inviting.

Chef Don Drake is at the helm, bringing international experience and a knack for blending those traditional Lowcountry flavors with something a little unexpected. The result is food that feels both familiar and new.

There are private dining rooms upstairs for events, and if you want to bring a little Magnolias home, they offer gift cards and a shop. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here.

Rating: 4.7 (4528 reviews)
Location: 185 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401

4) Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar

Fleet Landing sits right on the water at the foot of the City Market, with a modern look and a patio that’s perfect for soaking up the view. The menu leans into Southern seafood—think crab soup, oysters, and plenty of fresh-caught options.

Lunch runs from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and dinner picks up from 5 to 10 p.m. If you’re just after a drink or a snack, the main bar and raw bar are open in between. Reservations are smart, especially when it’s busy, but they do cap groups at 10. Parking isn’t too bad either—a garage is close by, and you might luck out with street parking on Concord.

Rating: 4.6 (10,576 reviews)
Location: 186 Concord St, Charleston, SC

5) King Claw – Juicy Seafood & Bar

King Claw is all about the seafood boils—Cajun-style seasoning, plenty of crab legs, shrimp, crawfish, and more. Everything’s made daily, and they stick to local seafood whenever they can.

The vibe is casual, a bit loud, and full of energy. Nautical decor, TVs everywhere, and enough space for big groups or just a quick bite. The staff is friendly, and it feels like they genuinely want you to have a good time.

You can customize your seafood order, go for a fried basket, or mix and match. They really lean into southern hospitality, which is always nice. If you want something fresh and flavorful, this place is usually a safe bet—and folks seem to agree on the quality and the fun atmosphere.

Rating: 4.6 (3396 reviews)
Location: 1734 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407

6) 167 Raw Oyster Bar

If you’re after a taste of New England in Charleston, 167 Raw Oyster Bar is your spot. They focus on East Coast seafood—oysters, lobster rolls, and some pretty solid fish tacos. The space is small, modern, and there’s a cozy patio if you want to eat outside.

They’re open Monday through Saturday, starting late morning and running into the evening. No reservations here, so you’ll want to get there early or just be patient—it’s first-come, first-served and usually worth the wait.

167 Raw also does private events, building custom menus and raw bars for whatever you’ve got planned. The menu stays simple, but the quality is what keeps people coming back.

Rating: 4.7 (2850 reviews)
Location: 193 King St, Charleston, SC 29401

7) Hank’s Seafood Restaurant

Hank’s Seafood Restaurant is housed in a historic warehouse close to the City Market, and it really leans into that classic Charleston port vibe. There’s a lively energy here, and the seafood menu covers just about everything you’d hope for.

They’re known for the raw bar and dishes that let local ingredients shine. The menu is thoughtful, and the bar’s got you covered for drinks. If you’re planning something special, Hank’s offers private spaces like the Loft and Social Hall—definitely a nice touch for events.

Chef Tim Richardson runs the kitchen, bringing plenty of local and fine-dining experience. You can taste the care and creativity in the food, and honestly, the whole place feels like it’s run by people who love what they do.

Rating: 4.7 (3011 reviews)
Location: 10 Hayne St, Charleston, SC 29401

8) Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar

Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar brings a polished but easygoing seafood vibe right to Charleston’s historic district. People love it for its fresh, responsibly sourced seafood, cozy brick walls, and a bar that’s actually fun to sit at. Oysters are a big deal here, but the rest of the menu is no slouch either—lots of thoughtful, well-prepared dishes to choose from.

You’ll find it a quick stroll from the Charleston Market and the harbor—so it’s a handy pit stop if you’re out exploring. Lunch, dinner, or even something a little fancier for a special night, they’ve got you. Reservations are simple enough to snag, which is always a relief in a busy city.

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM, with deals on drinks and lighter seafood bites. The staff is attentive but not overbearing, and honestly, they seem to care if you’re having a good time.

Rating: 4.6 (1996 reviews)
Location: 205 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401

9) Bowens Island Restaurant

Bowens Island Restaurant is one of those places that just feels like Charleston—laid-back, right on the water, and covered in graffiti from years of happy customers. It’s a little rough around the edges, but that’s part of the charm. Fresh fish and oysters are the main event here.

People appreciate the no-fuss, order-at-the-counter setup, and the seafood is about as fresh as it gets. This isn’t a fancy spot—it’s more of a locals’ hangout, and that’s exactly why folks keep coming back. The menu’s simple, but honestly, that’s all you need when the ingredients are this good.

There’s space for groups and parties if you want to bring a crowd. The staff is friendly, and you’re encouraged to just relax and soak up the view. If you like your seafood with a side of sunset, you’ll probably love it here.

Rating: 4.4 (2899 reviews)
Location: 1870 Bowens Island Rd, Charleston, SC

10) Charleston Crab House

Charleston Crab House has been around for nearly three decades, still run by the same family. The James Island spot sits right on Wappoo Creek, so you get those classic waterfront views and a laid-back vibe. Unsurprisingly, crab is the star of the show, but they’ve got plenty of other seafood classics too.

The menu is pretty varied—think steampots, crab dip, sandwiches, and soups. You can sit inside or grab a table outdoors if the weather’s nice. There are two other locations in Charleston, including one downtown, so you’ve got options if you’re chasing a rooftop view or want to be near the historic market.

Just a heads up: dogs aren’t allowed, and they close for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Parking is easy at James Island, while the downtown spot can be a bit more of a hunt (street or garage). If you’re arriving by boat, there’s some dock space, but it’s first-come, first-served—so don’t count on it if you’re late.

Rating: 4.3 (4418 reviews)
Location: 145 Wappoo Creek Dr, Charleston, SC 29412

Seafood Traditions In Charleston

Charleston’s seafood scene owes a lot to its history and the local waters. The city’s coastal setting and deep Southern roots really shape the flavors and style. Most of the best-loved dishes are built around what’s fresh and local, with recipes that have stuck around for generations—sometimes for good reason, sometimes just because, well, that’s how it’s always been done.

Historical Influence On Local Cuisine

Seafood traditions here go way back—think colonial days, when the Atlantic coast was a literal buffet of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans.

African, French, and English settlers all brought their own tricks and spices to the table, and the resulting mash-up is honestly pretty special. You get a blend of Old World and New World flavors that you don’t find everywhere.

The Gullah community, deeply rooted in African American culture, made a huge impact too, especially with their slow-cooked, boldly seasoned seafood dishes.

Local docks and markets have always been the heart of it all, supplying daily catches of shrimp, oysters, and flounder. There’s a big focus on freshness—most recipes let the ingredients speak for themselves.

Signature Dishes Unique To Charleston

Charleston’s got a handful of signature seafood dishes that really show off its heritage and what’s in season.

• Shrimp and Grits: Creamy, comforting, and loaded with fresh Lowcountry shrimp and stone-ground grits. If you haven’t tried it, you probably should.
• She-Crab Soup: Rich and velvety, made with blue crab meat and crab roe. It’s kind of a local rite of passage.
• Oysters: Raw, grilled, fried—doesn’t matter. Oysters are everywhere and always seem to taste better here.
• Flounder: Usually grilled whole, simple but somehow always a standout on the table.

All these dishes really highlight Charleston’s obsession with fresh seafood and that classic Southern hospitality. A lot of restaurants keep these traditions alive, paying attention to the details and not cutting corners.

What To Expect From Charleston Seafood Restaurants

Charleston’s seafood restaurants are all about what’s fresh and local—sometimes fancy, sometimes just laid-back and fun. You’ll notice a real connection to the coast, not just in what’s on your plate but in the whole vibe of the place.

Sourcing Of Fresh Ingredients

Most of the seafood comes straight from nearby—shrimp, oysters, flounder, crab, you name it. Restaurants here tend to work with local fishers, which helps keep things fresh and supports the community at the same time.

Classic dishes like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup usually feature seafood caught that day or, at most, the day before. That’s probably why everything tastes so bright and, well, like it should.

Raw bars are a thing too, with oysters and clams from South Carolina’s own coastline. Menus change with the seasons, so you might not get the same thing twice if you visit a few months apart—but that’s kind of the fun of it.

Ambiance And Dining Experience

Expect anything from a lively raw bar with paper napkins to a white-tablecloth spot that feels a little more buttoned-up. Southern hospitality is big here, so even the fancier places tend to feel welcoming.

Sometimes you’ll hear the pop of oyster shells or the staff chatting with regulars about what’s best that night. Outdoor seating is pretty common, especially if there’s a good view or a breeze off the water.

Some restaurants really lean into the nautical or rustic look, while others just let the scenery do the talking. Service is generally friendly and unhurried, so you’re encouraged to slow down and actually enjoy your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ hits on favorite seafood spots, where to eat by the water, and where to track down fresh seafood in downtown Charleston. There are also a few pointers for finding affordable meals and places with a view or buffet-style options.

What are the top-rated seafood spots favored by Charleston locals?

Locals seem to have a soft spot for Hyman’s Seafood—classic dishes, always fresh. Charleston Crab House is another go-to, especially for crab and other shellfish.

If you’re after something a bit more upscale, Magnolias is known for its Southern seafood. King Claw gets mentioned a lot for its casual, saucy seafood boils.

Which restaurants offer the best waterfront seafood dining experience in Charleston?

Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar is tough to beat for waterfront views and seafood that actually lives up to the scenery.

Charleston Crab House also scores points for its scenic setting right near the water.

Where can I find the best seafood in downtown Charleston?

Hyman’s Seafood and Magnolias are both downtown favorites, each with their own take on fresh, high-quality seafood.

You’ll get a mix of old-school and modern dishes at both—plenty to keep things interesting.

Can you recommend popular seafood restaurants with a view in Charleston?

Fleet Landing is probably the most obvious pick for harbor views and good eats.

Charleston Crab House also offers great views and a lively, fun atmosphere.

How can I find affordable yet high-quality seafood in Charleston?

King Claw gets high marks for being budget-friendly without skimping on quality. Hyman’s Seafood is another reliable choice for reasonably priced plates.

It’s worth checking out daily specials at local spots—sometimes you’ll stumble on a great deal and some of the freshest catches around.

Are there any notable seafood buffets or all-you-can-eat options in Charleston?

Honestly, Charleston isn’t really known for its seafood buffets—at least, not in the classic, all-you-can-eat sense. Most spots here lean into à la carte menus, serving up fresh, made-to-order seafood that’s hard to beat.

Every now and then, you might stumble across a seasonal or special event buffet, but it’s a good idea to check local listings or just call ahead to see what’s on. Things change, you know?