Where Are the Best Lunch Spots in Charleston, SC?

While it’s said that breakfast is the most essential meal, many argue that the main feast should happen at lunch for a midday restoration session. Those living or commuting to Charleston, South Carolina, will find ample places to get a good meal. Those looking for the best lunch spots in the city will not want to miss these standout places.

167 Raw

Address: 167 Raw, 193 King St, Charleston, SC 29401

Get the very best seafood hailing from the Atlantic coast at 167 Raw, Charleston’s top oyster bar. It’s a prized hangout for locals and visitors in the know. The chic and low-key ambiance is generally quiet and subdued yet inviting. Cozy nook tables and traditional bar front stools elevate patrons to just the right place to indulge in lobster rolls, blackened swordfish, freshly shucked oysters, tuna tataki, and made-from-scratch key lime pie. The ceviche is arguably the best in town. Rumor has it that the shrimp tacos are an infusion for the palate not to be missed. 167 Raw also has a sushi bar and a bistro in its restaurant family.

Caviar & Bananas

Address: Caviar & Bananas, 51 George Street, Charleston, SC 29401

Craving something unique for lunch in Charleston? Check out Caviar & Bananas, a delightful café, coffee shop, gourmet market, and much more for those on the go. Infusing fresh, savory seasonings and local, sustainable products, diners can choose from sandwiches, garden salads, pasta, and delightful pastries. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, Caviar & Bananas also has a prepared lunch counter, a charcuterie and cheese bar, and a zone dedicated to boutique wines and craft beers. Try classics with a twist, like the Lowcountry Shrimp Caesar salad or the Feisty Feather turkey sandwich. Caviar & Bananas has its flagship location downtown and a second location near the MUSC campus.

Chez Nous

Address: Chez Nous, 6 Payne Court, Charleston, SC 29403

Outside the average lunch spots in Charleston awaits the beautiful Chez Nous restaurant downtown. Housed in a gloriously restored 1835 antebellum home, Chez Nous has a unique ambiance during midday when light beams through the restored cathedral ceiling atop the handcrafted tables and chairs. In fact, there are only 16 seats in the house, and the menu is limited to two appetizers, two entrées, and two dessert dishes daily.

The chefs take pride in providing classic fare from Northern Italy, Northern Spain, and Southern France. Local ingredients ensure optimal flavor and freshness in popular dishes such as spicy Catalan seafood stew, braised veal, and roasted lavender chicken. Consider making a reservation, especially if planning to host an impressive lunch with clients.

Pink Cactus

Address: 100 SPRING ST. CHARLESTON, SC

When the day calls for tacos or Latin-inspired fare, head to the one-of-a-kind Pink Cactus. Opening at 11 am Tuesday-Saturday and 10 am Sundays, Pink Cactus brings the fresh flavors of Oaxaca, Mexico to your Taco Tuesday.  It’s got a chill vibe, and the outdoor patio is perfect for a delicious lunch in a casual setting. Besides tacos, Pink Cactus serves up its take on enchiladas, tortas, and margaritas. And try the tamales, which may be one of the best in town! Note that for dinner, it serves specials on Burritos on Wednesdays and Birria on Thursdays. You may be interested in its awesome Sunday brunch, too.

Cru Cafe

Address: 18 Pinckney St, Charleston, SC 29401

Satisfy your need for comfort food at the charming Cru Cafe near downtown. This intimate restaurant is open Tuesdays-Saturdays in a transformed old Charleston home. The cuisine focuses on Lowcountry comfort food with an Asian-influenced twist. Pick from classics like fried green tomatoes or four-cheese macaroni, or try the Fried Goat Cheese salad or General Tso’s chicken. Daily specials use what’s in season. Pair it with a local craft beer and wine menu for a sumptuous lunch experience. Dine in the beautiful indoors or select outdoor patio seating on those beautiful Charleston days.

Top Lunch Spots in Charleston

Don’t spend all day looking for the best places for lunch in Charleston, SC. These lunch spots offer scrumptious foods ranging from traditional basics to refined gourmet dishes to please even the most refined palate.

Updated February 2024