Best Seafood Restaurants in James Island

21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar restaurant

1. Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar

4.8

Exceptional(5037)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 32 times today

Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar in Downtown Charleston is a haven for seafood lovers. Established in 2009, this gem offers an authentic taste of the sea, supporting local fishermen by featuring market-fresh fish and a growing raw bar menu. Diners rave about the "unbelievably delicious" seafood platter and the "best shrimp and grits you will ever find," highlighting the quality and freshness. The restaurant's atmosphere complements its menu, with a vibe that's both historic and contemporary, making every dining experience memorable. Whether it's the locally-sourced oysters or the expertly prepared mahi mahi, Amen Street promises an exceptional meal, as echoed by a diner's praise: "Food was outstanding. Best fish/seafood in Charleston."

A photo of Coast Bar & Grill – Charleston restaurant

2. Coast Bar & Grill – Charleston

4.5

Awesome(4948)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 28 times today

Charleston’s freshest seafood, with laidback Lowcountry style. Coast’s chefs meet daily with local farmers and fishermen to procure the freshest seafood and produce available. Featuring wood-grilled fish, a raw bar, and a refreshing drink list. Open nightly from 5:00. Outdoor seating available.*menus subject to change, please visit www.holycityhospitality.com for current menu

3. Rudy Royale

4.5

Awesome(838)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 10 times today

Rudy Royale in Downtown Charleston is a gem for seafood lovers, offering a delightful culinary experience that highlights the freshness and authenticity of its dishes. With a focus on seasonal cuisine, the restaurant's flounder tempura has garnered high praise as a must-try. Patrons consistently rave about the "unmatched deliciousness" of the seafood offerings, emphasizing the quality and flavor that make Rudy Royale a standout. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with exceptional service, ensures every meal is a pleasure. Whether it's the praised flounder or the celebrated tempura, Rudy Royale promises an unforgettable seafood experience right in the heart of Charleston.

4. The Establishment

4.8

Exceptional(2628)

Price: Very Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 13 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 California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating restaurant

5. California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating

4.1

Excellent(3164)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • West Ashley

Booked 74 times today

California Dreaming in Charleston's West Ashley neighborhood is a culinary delight for steak lovers. Since 1987, this restaurant has been serving up some of the most succulent and perfectly prepared steaks, earning rave reviews for its ambiance and cuisine. With its prime rib once a menu staple, patrons now revel in offerings like the flawlessly cooked ribeye, described by a guest as "cooked to perfection." The restaurant's setting, featuring stunning views of the Ashley River, only enhances the dining experience, making each bite of their delicious steak even more enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, the "prime rib was phenomenal," noting that it's a sought-after item that goes quickly. Whether it's the excellent service, the quality of the steak, or the beautiful backdrop, California Dreaming stands out as a top destination for steak enthusiasts visiting Charleston.

A photo of Burwell's Stone Fire Grill restaurant

6. Burwell's Stone Fire Grill

4.8

Exceptional(3588)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 24 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.

7. Tempest

4.7

Exceptional(2352)

Price: Very Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 14 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.

8. Vincent Chicco's

4.5

Awesome(1722)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 17 times today

Vincent Chicco’s in Downtown Charleston is a haven for authentic Italian-American cuisine that shines through its handmade pastas and rich, homemade sauces. Praised for its "excellent food, great service, and lovely ambiance," diners consistently rave about the flavorful dishes like Chicken Parmesan, which has been described as "so much better than anywhere else." The restaurant’s celebrated Sicilian Sunday Gravy is hailed as the "best Italian dish I’ve ever had," emphasizing the culinary authenticity that Vincent Chicco’s strives to deliver. With a chic and comfortable setting, this spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking a premium Italian dining experience in Charleston.

9. Maison

4.9

Exceptional(1690)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 7 times today

Maison, nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston, SC, is a beacon of French Bistro cuisine, blending traditional flavors with innovative twists. Described as "always a rock solid experience," Maison offers an array of dishes that leave patrons raving, from the "delicious" duck and lentils to the "unbelievable" onion soup croquettes. The restaurant's atmosphere is as vibrant as its dishes, providing an intimate yet energetic dining experience. Reviewers consistently highlight Maison's service and culinary creativity, with comments like "the soft shell crab special was the most unusual and best I have ever had" and "the rabbit en croute was outstanding." Maison's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for both locals and travelers seeking a memorable meal in Charleston.

A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant

10. Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett

4.6

Exceptional(1104)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown Charleston

Booked 11 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.

‘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

M
Michellevip
Baltimore / Maryland •28 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We had the fried chicken sandwich and the smash burger. Both were AMAZING. We initially had lunch Friday, with Marianne (she’s a rock star), then took friends back on Saturday. Highly recommend.
More info
Rudy RoyalePrice: Moderate• Regional American (Southern)• Downtown Charleston
•
4.5
K
Katie
South Carolina •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
First up: Nathan. Fantastic hospitality, attentive and great personality. Worth his weight in gold. Second: if I only had one meal for the rest of my life it would be the current Wagyu Tartare on the menu. The kimchi Caesar??? Incredible. 12/10 I’m a Tartare girlie and that was the best. Second and a half: the tuna crudo. I’m so white Jalapeños are spicy to me, but that was a divine dish. Third: the hostess staff is efficient, warm and welcome. Bonus: they laughed with me not at me when I couldn’t figure out how to open the front door. All around great experience, thank you for knocking it out of the park.
More info
The EstablishmentPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Downtown Charleston
•
4.8
D
Dwaine
Columbus •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
We visited for this restaurant for the first time and have to say that we will visit each time in Charleston. My wife is celiac and the waiter was very knowledgeable and restaurant had many options. She had the New Bedford Sea Scallops, which were delicious. I tried the Lowcountry Bouillabaisse and it was very good. Highly recommend this as a go to restaurant in Charleston.
More info
Amen Street Fish + Raw BarPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Downtown Charleston
•
4.8
R
Richard
South Carolina •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Joanne our serve was wonderful. Food was delivered timely and a great value for price.
More info
California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority SeatingPrice: Moderate• American• West Ashley
•
4.1
P
Pattie
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
We enjoyed our first dinner on the 17th so much, decided to return for our ‘last night’ -right next to our hotel, a great location! Our server, Alex, was terrific! Calamari, fish tacos, mussels all delish…Pinot Gri and Cali Chardonnay tasty parings - we shall return! (But, perhaps NOT on an early eve before ‘showtime’ next door at the theatre😉)
More info
Coast Bar & Grill – CharlestonPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Downtown Charleston
•
4.5

Explore OpenTable

James Island

Seafood

Best Seafood Restaurants in James Island

Price

Regions

Neighbourhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Accessibility

21 restaurants available nearby

1. Amen Street Fish + Raw Bar

2. Coast Bar & Grill – Charleston

3. Rudy Royale

4. The Establishment

5. California Dreaming - Charleston - Priority Seating

6. Burwell's Stone Fire Grill

7. Tempest

8. Vincent Chicco's

9. Maison

10. Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable