Charleston’s restaurant scene is always evolving, with new culinary hotspots opening across the city. Whether you’re craving authentic Italian, modern Southern comfort, or globally inspired small plates, Charleston’s latest openings offer plenty of options to try. This season, Charleston welcomes nine exciting restaurants bringing fresh flavors to downtown, Mount Pleasant, Johns Island, and beyond.
Experience modern Italian cuisine with a French twist at Legami, led by Chef Andrea Congiusta. The menu boasts king crab tagliolini, veal Milanese, and beef Wellington, all served in a historic King Street setting. If you’re a fan of fine Italian dining with a contemporary edge, this is a must-visit.
From the team behind Berkeley’s, The Archer brings elevated comfort food to Wagener Terrace. Chef Paul Farmer crafts standout dishes like duck frites, baked oysters, and beef stroganoff, complemented by a full bar. The welcoming neighborhood vibe makes this an ideal spot for relaxed dining with a touch of sophistication.
Specializing in chicken, Barnyard Chicken is the go-to for crispy Korean fried chicken nuggets with kimchi mayo, brick chicken, and chicken-fat fries. Don’t skip the whipped potatoes, rich with butter and cream, for the ultimate indulgence.
Located within The Dunlin resort, Linnette’s offers a true Lowcountry dining experience with stunning views of the Kiawah River. The menu highlights fresh seafood and seasonal produce, blending sophistication with Southern classics. A perfect destination for both locals and visitors looking for refined coastal dining.
Pelato brings Brooklyn-style Italian cuisine to Charleston, serving up family recipes like potato croquettes, chicken parmigiana, and house-made pastas featuring local ingredients. Taking over the former Butcher & Bee location, Pelato reinvents this beloved space with a fresh, authentic Italian vibe.
Meaning “hugs” in Italian, Abbracci fuses traditional Italian flavors with coastal Carolina charm. Guests can savor handmade pastas, Italian-inspired cocktails, and wood-fired dishes while enjoying the cozy outdoor ambiance, complete with fire pits for cooler evenings.
The long-awaited La Cave is finally here! Inspired by the South of France, this intimate sipping lounge features an expanded wine list, craft cocktails, and small bites. Designed for private parties and stylish gatherings, La Cave perfectly complements its sister restaurant, Félix, with a chic and cozy atmosphere.
Bar Copa brings a lively energy to Johns Island with globally inspired small plates and craft cocktails. Expect a menu that blends Latin flavors with comfort food twists, offering empanadas, grilled skewers, and inventive sliders—an ideal spot for casual gatherings and date nights.
Formerly a traditional fish camp, Sullivan’s Seafood and Bar has evolved into a destination for fresh, seasonal seafood dishes. The new menu features lobster sliders, mahi mahi sandwiches, and tuna frites, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and aligning with its sister restaurants, Post House and Basic Kitchen.
From authentic Italian to reinvented Southern favorites, these restaurants are shaping Charleston’s evolving culinary landscape. Book your table now on Open Table or Resy and be among the first to experience these incredible new flavors.
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