The Absolute Best Seafood in Downtown Charleston [Updated 2024]

Having personally reviewed 12 establishments that specialize in delectable seafood dishes, I have carefully curated this list to ensure a delightful culinary experience for all seafood enthusiasts. With Charleston's vibrant culinary scene and rich coastal heritage, it comes as no surprise that the city boasts an array of exceptional seafood options.

From mouthwatering shrimp and grits to succulent crab cakes and freshly shucked oysters, this guide will help you navigate the bustling downtown area and discover the best seafood that Charleston has to offer. Join me on this indulgent journey as we explore the finest seafood establishments in downtown Charleston!

Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar

Highlights
Delicious
Fresh Oysters
Variety
Spectacular
Helpful Staff

Let me start by saying, Wow, what an extraordinary seafood dining experience at Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar in Downtown Charleston! From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I was in for a treat.

The menu at Amen Street is a seafood lover's delight, with a variety of options that will please even the pickiest palate. I couldn't resist starting with a plate of their famous fresh oysters. Each briny bite transported me straight to the ocean, leaving me longing for more.

As I perused the menu further, I was amazed by the spectacular selection of dishes, from succulent lobster and tender scallops to flavorful shrimp and melt-in-your-mouth fish. With such an array of options, I was like a kid in a candy store, unsure of which delectable dish to choose.

What truly set Amen Street apart was their helpful staff. The moment I had a question or needed a recommendation, they were there with a smile, ready to assist. Their knowledge and passion for seafood made the dining experience all the more enjoyable.

Overall, Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar is a true seafood gem in Downtown Charleston. The delicious flavors, fresh ingredients, and friendly staff combine to create an unforgettable dining experience. If you find yourself craving the best seafood in town, look no further than Amen Street - you won't be disappointed.

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Hank's Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Delicious Seafood
Great Service
Cozy Atmosphere
Tasty Swordfish
Fried Okra

Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately enveloped by a warm and cozy atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The attentive and friendly staff greeted me with a smile and promptly seated me at a comfortable table, ready to indulge in some of the best seafood dishes Charleston has to offer.

As a seafood enthusiast, I was pleased to find a diverse menu featuring an array of mouthwatering options. Being a huge fan of swordfish, I couldn't resist ordering their tasty swordfish dish. The fish was cooked to perfection – moist and flaky with a subtle charred flavor. Each bite was a burst of delightful and fresh oceanic goodness.

To accompany my swordfish, I couldn't resist trying their fried okra as a side, and boy, did it deliver! The okra was perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. It was truly a southern delicacy that added a delightful crunch to my meal.

Throughout my dining experience, the service at Hank's Seafood Restaurant was impeccable. The staff was attentive without being intrusive, always ensuring that my water glass was filled and my needs were met.

Overall, Hank's Seafood Restaurant more than impressed me with their delicious seafood, great service, and cozy atmosphere. It's without a doubt a top contender in the competition for the best seafood in Downtown Charleston. Seafood enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit Hank's and indulge in their delectable oceanic delights.

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Hyman's Seafood

Highlights
Amazing food
Attentive staff
Great suggestions
Delicious seafood
Generous portions

Let me start off by saying, wow, the food at Hyman's Seafood was absolutely amazing! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly and attentive staff, who were more than happy to provide me with great suggestions from their extensive menu.

Speaking of the menu, it was filled with a tempting array of delicious seafood options. From succulent shrimp to delectable crab cakes, there was something for everyone. I decided to try their famous Lowcountry Boil, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The combination of perfectly seasoned shrimp, tender sausage, and flavorful corn created a harmonious medley of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the portions were also quite generous. I left Hyman's Seafood feeling fully satisfied and wanting to come back for more. The freshness of the seafood was evident in every bite, making it clear why this place is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Overall, my experience at Hyman's Seafood was superb. The combination of amazing food, attentive staff, and great suggestions made for a memorable dining experience. If you find yourself in Downtown Charleston in search of the best seafood, don't miss out on this gem. Hyman's Seafood is a must-visit destination that will leave you fully satisfied and craving for more.

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Tempest Charleston

Tempest Charleston in Downtown Charleston is a seafood lover's dream. The playful yet professional restaurant offers an impressive array of fresh catches. From succulent shrimp to melt-in-your-mouth oysters, every bite is a tantalizing trip to seafood paradise. Don't miss their signature lobster roll – it's divine.

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A.W. Shuck's Seafood Shack

A.W. Shuck's Seafood Shack in Downtown Charleston was a playful and delicious seafood stop. Their fresh and tasty oysters melted in my mouth, while the crispy fried shrimp left me wanting more. The lively ambiance added to the experience, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.

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Anson Restaurant

I just had the pleasure of dining at Anson Restaurant in Downtown Charleston, and let me tell you, it was a seafood lover's dream come true! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that set the stage for what was to come. The menu boasted an impressive selection of seafood dishes that catered to all tastes and preferences. I started with the oysters, which were shucked to perfection and bursting with the flavors of the ocean. Then, I had the pleasure of indulging in the most succulent and perfectly cooked lobster I've ever had the privilege of tasting. Each bite was a celebration of freshness and expert preparation. The staff were knowledgeable, attentive, and added to the overall enjoyment of my dining experience. Anson Restaurant truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best seafood destinations in Downtown Charleston. If you're in the area and looking for a memorable seafood feast, you can't go wrong with Anson Restaurant. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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The Darling Oyster Bar

The Darling Oyster Bar in Downtown Charleston magically transported me to a coastal oasis where the freshest seafood danced on my taste buds. From the succulent oysters to the perfectly grilled fish, each bite was a symphony of flavors. The lively atmosphere added a delightful touch, making it an unforgettable dining experience. It's truly a seafood paradise in the heart of Downtown Charleston.

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The Ordinary

The Ordinary in Downtown Charleston is a seafood lover's paradise. From their exquisite raw bar selection to their succulent whole fish dishes, every bite is a delicious adventure. The lively atmosphere and knowledgeable staff only add to the experience. Don't skip the oysters Rockefeller - they're a marvelous indulgence.

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Delaney Oyster House

Delaney Oyster House in Downtown Charleston is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. The fresh oysters were out of this world, and the selection was impressive. From the perfectly shucked shells to the briny, plump meat inside, every bite was a delight. The service was friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience. Don't miss out on this seafood extravaganza.

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The Establishment

The Establishment in Downtown Charleston is a seafood lover's paradise. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a lively atmosphere and a menu filled with tantalizing options. The dishes were not only beautifully presented, but bursting with flavor. With each bite, I could taste the freshness of the seafood. The service was top-notch, with staff that were knowledgeable and passionate about the cuisine. Whether you're a seafood connoisseur or just looking for a memorable dining experience, The Establishment is a must-try in Downtown Charleston!

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Chubby Fish

Chubby Fish in Downtown Charleston is a hidden gem that offers a playful and creative seafood experience. With a menu that changes daily, their commitment to sourcing fresh, local seafood is evident in every bite. From the tender octopus to the succulent lobster, each dish is a culinary delight. Don't miss their addictive oysters, guaranteed to make you drool.

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Rappahannock Oyster Bar

Rappahannock Oyster Bar in Downtown Charleston is a seafood gem that truly delivers on flavor and freshness. Their oysters are a delicacy on their own, but the raw bar and charcuterie options are equally impressive. Don't let the cozy atmosphere fool you, this place serves up some seriously phenomenal seafood.

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