Hunting down the best burger in Charleston is a journey, honestly—there’s no shortage of local joints, each putting their own spin on this all-American favorite. The city’s food scene is stacked, and it feels like everyone’s got an opinion on where to get the juiciest, most satisfying bite.
The best burger in Charleston? It’s the one that nails quality ingredients, taste, and—if you’re lucky—consistency every time you visit. Plenty of restaurants and bars are vying for that title, which keeps the burger game here pretty competitive (and delicious).
1) Heavy’s Barburger
Heavy’s Barburger is a favorite among locals for its straightforward, well-made burgers. They keep things classic—no need to get fussy with a good thing. You’ll notice the attention to quality in every bite.
It’s not just burgers, though. You’ll find wings, salads, and the usual bar fare, all in a laid-back spot that’s perfect for hanging out without any pressure. Heavy’s sits right on Morrison Drive, so it’s easy to swing by, whether you’re a Charleston regular or just in town for a weekend.
People rave about the friendly staff and the reliably tasty food. It’s the kind of place you end up coming back to without overthinking it.
Location: 1137 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403
2) Big Gun Burger Shop & Bar
Big Gun Burger Shop & Bar is all about creative burgers and a chill, slightly gritty vibe. Their menu’s a mashup of gourmet burgers, Southern-inspired small plates, and cocktails that’ll make you want to linger a while. It’s a go-to for lunch, but honestly, it’s just as good for a late-night bite.
They’ve got craft drafts and a happy hour with solid deals—think $3 tacos and $10 classic burgers with fries. The relaxed, slightly quirky energy draws a crowd, and the live music doesn’t hurt either.
Downtown location means you can stumble in after a day exploring, and the place is small but full of character. If you’re not in the mood to go out, they’ll deliver too.
Location: 137 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC
3) Bohemian Bull
Bohemian Bull is where you go for upscale bar food without the pretense. Their brisket burgers? Pretty hard to beat—rich, flavorful, and just messy enough. The place has a relaxed pub feel with some funky decor, plank walls, and an easygoing crowd.
They’re serious about craft beer and bourbon, which pairs perfectly with their food if you ask me. You’ll usually find locals here, just unwinding and enjoying a meal that’s a little better than your standard pub fare.
Community matters to them, too. They talk a lot about giving back and being good neighbors, and you can kind of feel it in the way they run things.
Location: 1531 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
4) Little Jack’s Tavern
Little Jack’s Tavern is as classic as it gets—think comfort food, wood floors, and those checkerboard tablecloths that just feel right. The menu’s heavy on burgers, old-school cocktails, and cold beer.
They’re open noon to 10, so you can drop in for lunch or dinner. The cocktails are legit, and there’s a decent lineup of spirits if you’re feeling fancy. Not just burgers—there are salads and other comfort dishes, too.
Heads up: takeout gets limited during peak hours, probably to keep things running smooth for diners inside. It’s a reliable neighborhood spot, especially if you’re after a low-key night out.
Location: 710 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
5) Husk
Husk is all about Southern food made with ingredients straight from local farms. The menu changes with the seasons, so you never really know what you’ll get—but that’s half the fun. The setting, a restored Victorian house, is pure Charleston charm with a side of modern Southern cooking.
Their kitchen team works hand-in-hand with local farmers, bringing you dishes that feel both familiar and a little adventurous. There’s a respect for tradition here, but they’re not afraid to get creative. That’s probably why Husk stands out in Charleston’s food scene.
They’ve expanded to other Southern cities like Nashville and Savannah, so you know they’re doing something right. Expect a mix of classic and inventive plates that keep you guessing.
Location: 76 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
6) Smash City Burgers Downtown
Smash City Burgers Downtown keeps it simple—classic, flavorful burgers in a laid-back space. They care about fresh ingredients and you can taste it in their patties and buns. There’s more than just burgers, too—they do brunch and lunch, so it works for whatever you’re craving.
Sundays are for vinyl records—seriously, they’ll play your favorites if you bring them in. It’s a cool touch and gives the place a bit of soul. The vibe is friendly and personal, not just another burger joint.
They cater events as well, so if you need to feed a crowd, they’ve got you covered. Downtown location’s a plus, and it doubles as a sports bar and music spot if you’re looking for more than just food.
Location: 47 Cooper St, Charleston, SC 29403
7) The Tattooed Moose
The Tattooed Moose is a bit of a legend around here, known for its lively, no-frills vibe and bar food that’s way better than it needs to be. People go nuts for Mike’s Famous Duck Club, loaded with duck confit and apple-smoked bacon.
But the menu’s got plenty of other gems—like The Lucky #1 Sub (Chinese BBQ pork belly and house-made kimchi), garlic and blue cheese fries, and jumbo wings in all kinds of flavors. You won’t get bored, that’s for sure.
Both locations host live music, oyster roasts, and family-friendly shindigs, so there’s usually something going on besides just eating.
Location: 4845 Chateau Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
8) The Griffon
The Griffon feels like you’ve stumbled into a cozy English pub—right in downtown Charleston. It’s casual, unpretentious, and the walls are covered in signed dollar bills (it’s a thing, trust me). Burgers and fish and chips are the stars, and the crowd’s a mix of regulars and tourists.
They’ve got a solid craft beer lineup, and they’re open late if you need a midnight snack. No reservations—just show up and hope for a table.
Southern Living Magazine even called it one of the best bars in the South. The menu’s not huge, but the burgers are always solid.
Location: 18 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401
9) Tully’s
Tully’s is one of those spots where the food’s good and the vibe’s even better. The menu leans classic American—burgers, obviously, but other favorites too. It’s right near the center of the city, so you can wander in without much planning.
Their burgers are made to order, with fresh ingredients and toppings to suit your mood. Folks seem to love the consistency here—no surprises, just good food.
There’s a lively bar scene, and live music pops up pretty often, which makes the whole place feel more fun. It’s comfortable, unfussy, and works for everything from date night to a big group hang.
Location: 32 Ann St, Charleston, SC 29403
10) Sesame Burgers & Beer
Sesame Burgers & Beer is one of those places that takes burgers a bit more seriously than most. Their gourmet burgers come piled high with all sorts of toppings—some classic, some a little out there. If you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, you won’t feel left out. They’ve made sure just about everyone can find something.
It’s got a laid-back bar vibe, so you can grab a cold drink and a burger without any fuss. The menu leans into American fast food, but there’s a bit of a twist—think comfort food, but with more care. Whether you’re rolling in with friends or just flying solo, it feels welcoming.
You’ll find it in North Charleston, and honestly, it’s not hard to spot. Locals seem to love it, and you’ll hear plenty about the friendly service—the staff actually seem happy you’re there. Food’s made fresh, and you get a good mix of familiar and offbeat burger choices.
Reviews are solid—people rave about the flavors and how they cater to different diets. It’s tough to go wrong here if you’re craving a burger.
Location: 4726 Spruill Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
Characteristics of the Best Burger in Charleston
What actually makes a burger in Charleston stand out? It’s not just the ingredients, though those matter a lot, but also how everything’s cooked and put together. When both pieces come together, you end up with something juicy, flavorful—just really satisfying.
Ingredient Quality
You can’t fake a great burger with low-quality beef. The best spots around here use blends like short rib or brisket, sometimes just really good ground beef. It’s all about that richness and texture. Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions—those little details—make a difference too.
Don’t underestimate the cheese. Melted American or a sharp cheddar can really tie the whole thing together. And the bun? It’s gotta be soft, maybe a little toasted, but never soggy. When everything’s fresh, you can tell from the first bite.
Cooking Techniques
There’s a bit of an art to getting the patty just right. Most local chefs cook them to order—medium or medium-rare is pretty standard if you want it juicy. Searing on a hot grill or cast iron gives you that crave-worthy crust.
Some places pay extra attention to how much fat goes in, or how they form the patty, just to keep things tender. Timing’s everything—nobody wants a dry burger. And when it’s time to build the burger, the best spots layer everything so you get a little bit of each flavor and texture in every bite.
Burger Culture in Charleston
Charleston’s burger scene is a mix of old-school comfort and local creativity. Folks here care about good ingredients, but they’re not afraid to try something new. That mix keeps things interesting.
Local Traditions
People in Charleston really do love their local ingredients, and it shows up on the burger menu. You’ll see everything from locally raised beef to bison, and that attention to quality just makes the burgers hit different.
Toppings get a Southern twist—pimento cheese, smoked bacon, pickled veggies. It’s a nod to Charleston’s food roots, honestly.
You’ll find everything from hole-in-the-wall burger joints to fancier taverns, and the crowd expects something hearty and honest—no need to get too fancy if the flavors are good.
Influences From Regional Cuisine
You can’t talk about Charleston burgers without mentioning Lowcountry flavors. Collard greens, mustardy sauces, spicy aiolis—they sneak into toppings and sauces all over town.
Some spots get bold and throw fried green tomatoes or shrimp onto their burgers. It’s a cool mashup of seafood and Southern comfort food, and it just works.
So, if you’re bored with plain old burgers, Charleston’s scene has enough twists to keep you curious, but it never strays too far from what makes a burger great.
Frequently Asked Questions
There’s no shortage of burger joints with loyal fans in Charleston. Depending on where you are or what style you’re after, you’ll find everything from classic bar burgers to more chef-driven creations.
Where can I find the top-rated burger places in downtown Charleston, SC?
Downtown Charleston has some heavy hitters like Husk and Little Jack’s Tavern. Both are known for using quality ingredients and offering a mix of old-school and new takes on burgers.
Which establishment offers the best smash burger in Charleston?
Heavy’s Barburger gets a lot of love for their smash burgers. They keep it simple—juicy patties, fresh toppings, toasted buns. Sometimes simple really is better.
Can you recommend any must-try burger joints in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Big Gun Burger Shop & Bar is a go-to in Mount Pleasant. The menu’s packed with creative burgers, and if you’re into craft beer, you’ll have plenty to choose from.
What are the most popular burger restaurants in North Charleston, SC?
If you ask around North Charleston, Bohemian Bull comes up a lot. They’re known for bold flavors and house-made sauces—definitely worth a try.
Are there any acclaimed burger spots in West Ashley?
West Ashley isn’t usually the first place people mention for burgers, but Heavy’s Barburger has a following there, especially if you’re after something classic.
What are the go-to destinations for a great burger in Summerville, SC?
Locals around Summerville seem to have a soft spot for Little Jack’s Tavern. The place isn’t flashy, but they know their way around a burger—think classic flavors, nothing too fussy. It’s the kind of spot where you can just relax, grab a bite, and maybe linger a little longer than you planned.
