Shrimp and grits is one of those Southern staples that’s just woven into Charleston’s food culture. You’ll find it on menus all over town—some spots stick with the classics, others get a little adventurous, but nearly everyone agrees it’s comfort food at its best. If you’re after a real taste of the Lowcountry, this dish is kind of a must.
Finding the best shrimp and grits in Charleston isn’t exactly a simple task—there are just so many variations, each with its own character. Some places lean into tradition, others toss in new flavors, but all of them give you a glimpse into the city’s deep culinary roots and love for seafood. Sampling a few is honestly half the fun.
1) Poogan’s Porch
Poogan’s Porch sits in a charming old Victorian townhouse, and it’s about as classic Charleston as you can get. The menu celebrates Southern standards, but it’s the shrimp and grits that seem to steal the show for a lot of folks.
Their take is creamy, rich, and loaded with flavor—definitely not shy on seasoning. It’s easy to see why it’s become a go-to for both regulars and out-of-towners.
Between the historic setting, the breezy porches, and a solid wine list, it’s a spot that feels welcoming but still a little special. Perfect for a lazy brunch or a relaxed dinner.
Location: 72 Queen St, Charleston, SC
2) Magnolias
Magnolias has been around since 1990, and it’s got that polished, upscale vibe without being stuffy. The kitchen, led by Chef Don Drake, turns out Southern favorites with a bit of a global twist—think classic Lowcountry ingredients, but with unexpected flavors sneaking in.
Their shrimp and grits? Always fresh, always thoughtfully put together. The space itself is warm and just a little bit fancy, making it a solid choice for date night or when you want to treat yourself.
If you’re planning something bigger, they’ve got private dining rooms upstairs. The whole place feels like a nod to Charleston’s past, but with a modern edge.
Location: 185 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
3) Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
Fleet Landing is right on the water and keeps things simple but stylish. The menu leans into classic Southern seafood—crab soup, oysters, and of course, shrimp and grits. There’s a main dining room and a raw bar, so you can go all-in or just snack and sip.
The waterfront patio is a real highlight, especially if you’re in the mood for a view with your meal. It’s just a quick walk from the City Market, so it’s easy to pop in while wandering downtown.
Lunch goes until mid-afternoon, dinner kicks off early evening, and if you’re coming on a weekend, definitely think about a reservation. Groups max out at 10, so it’s not really a big party spot, but it’s lively enough—especially around the bar.
Parking’s not too bad, with a garage and some street spots nearby.
Location: 186 Concord St, Charleston, SC
4) 82 Queen
82 Queen is tucked away in the Historic French Quarter, spread across three old buildings with a sweet little garden courtyard. It’s got that cozy-but-fancy feel, which makes it a favorite for celebrations or just a nice night out.
The kitchen puts local ingredients front and center, especially in their shrimp and grits (and the She Crab Soup gets plenty of love too). Service is usually spot-on—friendly, attentive, but not over the top.
If you’re thinking about going, reservations are smart since it fills up fast. The vibe is Southern charm meets a touch of elegance.
Location: 82 Queen St, Charleston, SC
5) The Glass Onion
The Glass Onion is all about unfussy Southern comfort, with a menu that’s big on local ingredients. Chef Chris Stewart draws on influences from Alabama, New Orleans, and the Lowcountry, so the flavors feel both familiar and a little unexpected.
No reservations here—it’s walk-in only, which keeps things casual. The spot’s on Savannah Highway, a little off the tourist path.
Their shrimp and grits are a solid reflection of the chef’s roots—soulful, balanced, and just plain good. The place doubles as a bar, too, so it’s lively and unpretentious.
Location: 1219 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407
6) Husk
Husk is where Southern tradition meets a bit of culinary experimentation. They’re all about what’s in season, sourcing from local farmers, and the menu changes more often than you’d expect—so don’t get too attached to one dish.
The setting is a beautifully restored Victorian house, which gives it a unique and kind of romantic vibe. Their shrimp and grits play with classic flavors but always feel fresh and thoughtfully put together.
Husk has sister restaurants in Nashville and Savannah, but the Charleston spot feels especially tied to the city’s food scene.
Location: 76 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
7) Virginia’s On King
Virginia’s On King feels like a love letter to Lowcountry cooking—lots of family recipes, plenty of local ingredients, and that homey vibe you get in a real Southern kitchen. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can drop in pretty much any time.
The space is warm and comfortable, with just enough polish to make it feel special. Upstairs, there’s a private dining room for smaller gatherings.
Thursday nights are known for their Fried Chicken, but honestly, the shrimp and grits are worth a try any day. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger a bit longer than you planned.
Location: 412 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
8) Slightly North of Broad Restaurant
S.N.O.B. (Slightly North of Broad) sits in an old warehouse and brings a fresh, modern approach to Southern food. They’re big on local produce and seafood—menus shift with the seasons, so there’s always something new.
You’ll find Lowcountry classics, but often with a twist, and the open kitchen adds a little energy to the dining room. It’s relaxed, lively, and just a bit eclectic, which fits the food perfectly.
The shrimp and grits? Always thoughtfully prepared, and the presentation is never boring.
Location: 192 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
9) Grace & Grit
Grace & Grit is a family-run spot over in Mount Pleasant, and it’s become a bit of a local favorite since opening in 2017. Chef Frank Kline keeps things interesting with fresh seafood and creative takes on Southern classics.
Their “Grit Flight” is a fun twist—basically a sampler of different grit styles, which, honestly, is hard to pass up if you’re a fan. You can eat inside or out on the dog-friendly patio under the oaks.
The bar’s got a strong bourbon selection, and the menu manages to blend tradition with a few surprises. It’s unpretentious, welcoming, and a great place to relax after a long day.
Location: 320 Wingo Way #100, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
10) Hyman’s Seafood
Hyman’s Seafood is one of those Charleston staples you hear about all the time—it’s been around forever, or at least since the 1890s, and sprawls across a big chunk of historic downtown. The place is known for its huge menu of seafood, deli bites, and a bar that always seems lively.
People rave about their shrimp and grits (and honestly, it’s hard not to). Hyman’s is still family-owned, which is kind of rare these days, and they really lean into their Southern roots with the food. You get the sense they’ve been perfecting these recipes for generations.
They’re open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.—or, you know, until things slow down. If you like deals or just want to keep tabs on what’s new, you can sign up for their newsletter. Sometimes they’ll send out offers for a free meal on your birthday or anniversary, which is a nice touch.
Location: 215 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Charleston’s Shrimp and Grits Tradition
Shrimp and grits in Charleston isn’t just food—it’s a whole vibe, honestly. The dish is rooted in local culture, combining simple ingredients and fresh seafood that locals have loved for ages. Recipes have shifted over the years, blending old-school tradition with some creative spins.
Origins in Lowcountry Cuisine
If you trace shrimp and grits back, it started as a pretty humble meal in the Lowcountry—a coastal stretch of South Carolina. Fishermen would snag shrimp from nearby waters and toss them with grits, which are just ground corn cooked up nice and smooth. It was quick, filling, and just made sense for families working long days.
Southern cooking is all about using what’s on hand, so folks would throw in onions, bell peppers, or maybe some bacon or sausage if they had it. That little bit of extra flavor is probably why the dish stuck around and became such a classic.
Evolution of Recipes Over Time
Now, Charleston chefs and home cooks have played around with shrimp and grits every which way. Some go heavy on the spices—cayenne, anyone?—while others stir cream or cheese into the grits for extra richness.
A lot of restaurants go all out with their versions: fresh herbs, fancy sauces, the works. Sometimes it’s traditional, sometimes it’s a little gourmet, but the main thing is always the fresh shrimp and creamy grits.
Here’s a quick rundown of how things have changed:
| Element | Traditional | Modern |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | Fresh shrimp | Shrimp with sausage or bacon |
| Grits | Plain, cooked with water or milk | Creamy, sometimes with cheese |
| Additional flavors | Onions, bell peppers, basic spices | Herbs, rich sauces, spices |
It’s kind of cool how shrimp and grits have managed to stay a Charleston staple, even as chefs keep putting their own twist on it.
What Sets the Best Shrimp and Grits Apart
So, what actually makes shrimp and grits stand out here? It’s not just about throwing shrimp on top of grits and calling it a day. The details matter: ultra-fresh seafood, local produce, and a little chef’s magic.
Key Ingredients and Techniques
The heart of a great plate is the balance—creamy grits and shrimp that’s seasoned just right. Good grits usually start with coarsely ground corn, cooked slow with butter (sometimes a lot of it) and maybe some cheese for that extra oomph.
Shrimp gets a quick sauté with garlic, onions, and a hit of spice—paprika or cayenne if you like a kick. Some folks toss in andouille or bacon for smoky depth. The shrimp should be tender, never rubbery, and everything’s tied together with a savory sauce.
Technique-wise, the grits need to be simmered low and slow, while the shrimp gets a quick flash in the pan. Fresh herbs like parsley or scallions on top? Always a good idea.
Influence of Local Sourcing
You can really taste the difference when the shrimp is fresh off the boat—seriously, local makes all the difference. Most of the better spots use wild-caught shrimp from South Carolina or close by, and it’s just sweeter and more flavorful than frozen stuff.
Locally milled corn gives the grits a better texture, and using local butter and cheese brings in that real-deal Southern flavor. Sometimes you’ll get a few local veggies or herbs mixed in too, depending on what’s in season.
Tapping into local farms and fisheries isn’t just about quality—it’s about keeping that Charleston vibe alive in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Charleston’s shrimp and grits scene is packed with variety. Some places stick to the classics, while others aren’t afraid to shake things up. A few names always seem to come up, whether you’re chatting with locals or scrolling reviews.
What restaurant serves the most authentic shrimp and grits in Charleston?
Poogan’s Porch gets a lot of love for their classic, no-nonsense take on shrimp and grits. They keep it pretty close to the original Lowcountry style.
Where can I find the best shrimp and grits in downtown Charleston?
If you’re downtown, Poogan’s Porch at 72 Queen Street is a favorite. Locals and tourists both seem to agree on this one.
Are there any award-winning establishments for shrimp and grits in Charleston?
82 Queen is often mentioned for their shrimp and grits—they’ve earned plenty of praise and it’s still one of their top sellers.
Which Charleston restaurant’s shrimp and grits recipe has a unique twist?
Magnolias likes to mix things up, adding unexpected spices and plating it in a way that’s definitely not old-school. It’s a fun change if you’re in the mood for something different.
Can you recommend a place for shrimp and grits that’s a local favorite in Charleston?
If you’re after shrimp and grits in Charleston, The Glass Onion pops up a lot among locals—people rave about their Southern twist on the dish. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar is also worth a mention; it’s got this laid-back vibe, fresh ingredients, and honestly, the waterfront views don’t hurt either. Both places have their fans, so maybe try both if you can swing it?
