Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. South Carolina

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Sullivan's Island

Price
Regions
Neighbourhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Accessibility

10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Refuge restaurant
4.3
Awesome(595)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Isle of Palms
Booked 7 times today
Nestled in the charming Isle of Palms, The Refuge stands out as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine. This family-owned gem combines fresh, quality ingredients with culinary expertise to create memorable dishes that resonate with both locals and tourists. Praised for its "outstanding food and service," The Refuge delivers an array of mouth-watering options from its diverse menus, catering to breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reviews rave about the "delicious" food and "comfortable seating," making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic American flavors in a "nice atmosphere." As one reviewer enthusiastically recommends, "Choose the Refuge! We loved everything about it!" This restaurant is a true refuge for those seeking a top-notch dining experience on Isle of Palms.
A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant
4.5
Awesome(8599)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 181 times today
Church and Union in Downtown Charleston is a standout destination for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine. The creativity of Executive Chef Doug Watson and Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch shines through in a menu that is as inventive as it is delicious. Guests rave about the "Holy Sh*t Breakfast" and the "delicious and beautifully presented" cookie dough ganache, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation. The ambiance, described as "unique" and "very cool with a lot of history," complements the modern-American dishes served. With its vibrant setting and consistently "amazing service," Church and Union is highly recommended as a must-visit for an exceptional dining experience.
A photo of Tempest restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2368)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 13 times today
Tempest, hailed as USA Today's 10Best #1 New Restaurant, is a gem nestled on historic Market Street in Downtown Charleston. It's not just the location that captivates but also the exceptional seafood that stands out. Chef Adam Hodgson, alongside Bravo Top Chef Alum Jamie Lynch, crafts a menu that is both innovative and reflective of the region's bounty. The restaurant's raw and roast offerings are a testament to their commitment to quality, with dishes like the Tempest Tower leaving diners in awe. Glowing reviews consistently praise the "out of this world" roasted oysters and shrimp, and the "incredible" flounder, affirming Tempest's status as a pinnacle of seafood excellence. As one reviewer puts it, this place turns dining into "a wonderful southern experience," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and meticulously prepared seafood.
A photo of Bourbon N' Bubbles restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1339)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 12 times today
Bourbon N' Bubbles, nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, offers a quintessential Contemporary American dining experience that is both luxurious and inviting. This restaurant is celebrated for its exquisite blend of upscale ambiance and innovative American cuisine with a twist. Patrons rave about the "amazing food" and "great drinks," particularly recommending the A5 Wagyu Spinalis and the cornbread appetizer. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, as one reviewer highlighted, the food and service "exceeded all expectations." Whether it's for a special brunch or a memorable dinner, Bourbon N' Bubbles stands out as a "must-visit" in Charleston for anyone seeking a top-tier Contemporary American meal in a vibrant setting.
A photo of The Establishment restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2657)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 21 times today
The Establishment in Downtown Charleston is a gem for seafood lovers, consistently lauded for its commitment to freshness and local sourcing. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one admirer noting, "Every time I come here I think it can’t get better and it does." The menu, crafted by Chef Elliott Howells, is a testament to refined and balanced culinary art, where dishes like the lemon poached grouper and the moqueca de peixe receive high praise. The restaurant also features the highly recommended crab gnudi, described as "little puffs of heaven." With its top-notch service and a vibrant atmosphere enhanced by live music, The Establishment stands out as a beacon of seafood excellence in Charleston’s historic French Quarter.
A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1124)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 16 times today
Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett epitomizes the essence of South Carolina cuisine through its dedication to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and authentic regional flavors. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, this restaurant offers a culinary journey that highlights the best of the South. Diners rave about the "excellent She Crab Soup" and "standout Scallops," which are just a taste of the boldly flavored dishes that grace the menu. The vibrant atmosphere and historic views of Marion Square complement the dining experience, making every meal memorable. As one diner put it, Gabrielle Charleston is where "the food and ambience were outstanding," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of South Carolina.
A photo of Port of Call - Food & Brew restaurant
4.5
Awesome(18)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 13 times today
Port of Call - Food & Brew in Downtown Charleston is a beacon of American cuisine that expertly blends Southern classics with innovative twists. The restaurant's large and versatile menu receives glowing reviews for dishes like the "out of this world brunch burger" and "phenomenal bok choy," showcasing its commitment to quality and creativity. Guests rave about the "spectacular" atmosphere and "impeccable" service, highlighting staff members like Fagan, who is frequently mentioned for his attentiveness. Combining coastal charm with culinary excellence, Port of Call is celebrated for making each dining experience memorable, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and exceptional American fare.
A photo of ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1337)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 5 times today
ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful coastal twist. Praised for its "exquisite food" and "unique marry of flavors," ÉLEVÉ offers an experience where classic French culinary techniques meet Southern heritage, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Guests rave about the "best omelette ever" and the "delicious" truffle infused fries, highlighting Chef Mahdi Naim's expertise in elevating simple ingredients to artful culinary creations. With its "elegant, vibrant" ambiance and stunning rooftop views, ÉLEVÉ is not just a meal, but a memorable dining adventure praised as a "hidden gem" in Charleston.
A photo of Saffire Restaurant restaurant
3.8
Excellent(118)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
The bold flavors of Saffire's seasonally inspired menu reflect a belief in "the cuisine of today," healthy, eclectic, imaginative, unrestricted by ethnic boundaries...always evolving. Our chef elevates fresh, organic, carefully chosen ingredients above mere quality...to culinary artistry. The atmosphere at Saffire restaurant and lounge is casually sophisticated, yet warm and welcoming.
A photo of Burwell's Stone Fire Grill restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3620)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 47 times today
Burwell's Stone Fire Grill, nestled in Downtown Charleston, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. Celebrated as a Diners Choice for ten consecutive years, this eatery offers a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Guests rave about the "best filet" and unique hot stone steaks, which you can cook to your liking, enhancing the dining experience with a personal touch. The local favorite is praised for its use of fresh, local ingredients, ensuring that "everything I’ve ordered has always been superb." With glowing recommendations like being the "best place to dine in the low country" according to South Magazine, and its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Burwell's is undoubtedly a must-visit in Charleston for a memorable dining experience.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Julio H
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    If you’re ever in Charleston, this is a must-visit spot! The roasted mushrooms appetizer and the short ribs entrée were absolutely incredible—perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. My family and I also enjoyed an array of other dishes, including the unique Swordfish Schnitzel, the rich and tender Steak Au Poivre, and a perfectly creamy Spaghetti Carbonara. We ended our meal on a high note with the decadent “Some More” dessert. Everything was thoughtfully prepared and delicious. If I return to Charleston, this place will be at the top of my list!
    More info
    TempestPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Charleston
    4.7
  • TinaVIP
    Orange County •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our server was wonderful! He knew all about the decor and had great facts! They were also very accommodating. The smaller room got really cold, since people were leaving, so I asked if we can move to the big room, which had more people and was warmer. They looked into it and was able to grant the request. I was sad that the raviolis were sold out. We both had the lamb burgers. They were amazing! Would recommend!
    More info
    Church and Union - CharlestonPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
    4.5
  • JanetVIP
    Charlotte •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Outstanding dining experience at The Establishment- Ambiance; Service and Food were all incredible!! This is a beautiful restaurant with several differs dining areas! The from desk staff were warm and welcoming.! Once we were seated our server, Annie, came over to introduce herself! She was fun, energetic and absolutely adorable and charming while also very efficient!! Please ask for her-you won't be disappointed! The Sommelier came to help us decide upon a bottle of wine. He was very pleasant and professional and passionate about the restaurant (with good reason)! we selected our wine stand enjoyed the pleasant vocal entertainment in our dining room! Annie returned and we again had fun and interesting conversation before.ordering our dinners. We shared the "Gnudu" for our appetizer-OMG it was ethereal-sosoeft, light and pillowy-absolutely to die for!! I ordered the Tilefish with Pretzel Spaetzle which was delicious. The Hubs ordered the whole fried fish! He loved it!! While this is a pricey restaurant, it is well deserved for a social night out! This was our second visit and definitely won't be our last! It's a definite for our next trip to Charleston, we just hope that Annie will still be there because someone is going to snatch that girl up-she is special indeed! Go to The Establishment--you will be so glad that you did!
    More info
    The EstablishmentPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Downtown Charleston
    4.8
  • Alexandra
    Orange County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    It was our first time in Charleston and we stumbled upon this restaurant. We had a great meal and left happy and full. If you sit in the “bourbon” side you have to make sure to check out the “bubbles” side too! Great contrast while still being cohesive. My husband and I recommend! I had the Sunday Sauce special and it was *chefs kiss*!
    More info
    Bourbon N' BubblesPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Charleston
    4.2
  • Tasha
    South Carolina •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 7, 2024
    Jeremy was an excellent server. Everyone enjoyed their entrees. Two of us enjoyed the braised short ribs, best I I've ever eaten!
    More info
    The RefugePrice: Moderate• American• Isle of Palms
    4.3
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo