Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. It is home to many Italian restaurants.
Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian dishes or something more adventurous, you’ll find plenty of options in Italian Charleston, sc restaurants.
From traditional pasta dishes to seafood delights, there is something for everyone and all budgets. Here is a guide to some of the best Italian restaurants in Charleston.
10 Italian restaurants in Charleston, SC
1. Fig – Best for its Gnocchi Bolognese
FIG is a well-renowned Charleston Italian restaurant. They specialize in handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and other classic Italian dishes prepared with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
The atmosphere at FIG is warm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for casual dinners and special occasions.
The menu changes seasonally, so there is always something new and exciting.
The chefs at FIG are passionate about bringing their customers the best Italian dishes in Charleston.
Their signature dish is the gnocchi Bolognese made with ricotta cheese, tomatoes, Parmesan, and herbs.
Their chocolate hazelnut cake is a must-try for dessert, and their strawberry frozen yogurt with pistachio cake is refreshing.
The service at FIG is prompt and professional, ensuring that your experience will be nothing less than perfect.
2. Wild Olive – Best for its Excellent drinks selection
Wild Olive is a classic restaurant that serves the best Italian in Charleston. The cuisine here ranges from traditional favorites like pizza and pasta to more creative plates like veal carpaccio and grilled swordfish.
Wild Olive is known for its excellent drinks selection, bruschetta bar, and house-made desserts. The sticky cake is amazing and a must-try dessert.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a cosy fireplace in the corner and white linens on the tables. The service at Wild Olive is outstanding, with the waitstaff being friendly and attentive.
One of Wild Olive’s specialties is its brunch buffet, which is known to draw large crowds, especially on weekends.
Overall, Wild Olive is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a delicious Italian meal in Charleston.
3. La Pizzeria – Best for its Brick-oven pizza
La Pizzeria is the best Italian restaurant in Charleston, sc. This cozy and welcoming spot serves classic Italian dishes, including pizza made in a brick oven.
The menu also features fresh pasta dishes, salads, and daily specials.
Customers have praised the quality and freshness of the food, with many noting the excellent pizzas and pasta dishes.
Brick-oven pizza is a popular dish, with the bolognese being a big hit. The delicious fresh bread and olive oil are served at the beginning of the meal, as well as the generous portions and daily specials.
The restaurant has a cosy atmosphere, with friendly staff to help patrons enjoy their dining experience.
4. Indaco – Best for its wood-fired pizzas
Indaco is an Italian-inspired restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina. The menu offers unique dishes that are sure to please.
The restaurant’s focus on freshness and quality of ingredients make for an exceptional dining experience.
The casual atmosphere at Indaco is inviting and relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a family gathering or an intimate meal.
The specialty of Indaco is its wood-fired pizzas. These thin, crispy pies are loaded with fresh toppings and cooked in a traditional Italian stone oven.
The Italian-style pasta is also a must-try, with handmade noodles and creative sauces that will tantalize your tastebuds.
For the best breakfast in Charleston, sc, Indaco offers a variety of breakfast items. Try their house-made granola with fresh fruit or the egg frittata filled with market vegetables and local cheese.
Whether you’re looking for Italian food in Charleston or a cozy spot to grab a bite, Indaco is an excellent choice.
5. Chez Nous – Best for its Italian and French cuisine
Chez Nous is an Italian-inspired restaurant in the historic city of Charleston, South Carolina.
The menu features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients crafted with expert technique into unique and flavorful dishes.
Specializing in both Italian and French cuisine, Chez Nous offers a changing daily menu featuring two appetizers, two entrees, and two desserts.
The restaurant has a cozy and romantic atmosphere, with a carefully curated beverage list offering natural and biodynamic drinks to complement the food.
Diners at Chez Nous can expect an intimate experience from start to finish, as their meal is prepared by passionate chefs who take great pride in their craft.
6. Carmella’s – Best for its Tea service
Camellias at The Bennet Hotel is a popular Italian spot in Downtown Charleston that serves delicious Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and offers indoor and outdoor seating options.
Visitors have praised the fantastic food, excellent service, and great value for money.
The decor of Camellias is warm and inviting, with rustic furniture and exposed brick walls. The menu includes a variety of sandwiches & charcuterie, classic Italian desserts, drinks, and cocktails.
The specialty of Camellias is their tea service, which includes various tea options, champagne, and delicious Italian dishes. The restaurant offers classic desserts such as tiramisu and cannoli.
Camellias is a great spot for those looking for an excellent Italian dining experience in Downtown Charleston.
7. Magnolias – Best for its parmesan-crusted
Magnolias is a popular Italian food Charleston restaurant that serves delicious food. It has a classy and upscale atmosphere with Southern hospitality.
Customers can find seating at the bar or high-top tables, and the waiters are attentive and helpful.
The restaurant serves various dishes, including blue crab bisque, shellfish over grits, fried chicken, fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese fritters, pecan pie, dill pickled deviled eggs, bananas fosters French toast, Bouillabaisse, and crab cake sandwiches with sweet potatoes.
The creamy tomato soup is a popular starter, and the parmesan-crusted dishes are their specialty.
The restaurant is often packed, and reservations are recommended. The service is good but can be slow at times.
Overall, Magnolias is an excellent dining experience with memorable food.
8. Poogan’s Porch – Best for its Biscuits
Poogan’s Porch is a historic restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina, known for its unique approach to Lowcountry cuisine and Southern hospitality.
Poogan’s Porch is known for its exceptional food, She-crab soup, and brunch options. One of the most popular specialties is their biscuits, freshly baked and served warm with honey butter.
The restaurant also welcomes dogs, keeping Poogan’s spirit alive.
The menu features a range of Lowcountry cuisine, including fried green tomatoes, chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and fried chicken.
Poogan’s Porch also serves up classic Southern dishes with a twist for brunch. From the Down Home Breakfast with bacon, eggs, and crispy home fries to the Chicken and Waffles with a mix of sweet and savoury flavours, there is something for everyone.
Overall, Poogan’s Porch offers a unique and delicious dining experience that celebrates the history and flavours of Charleston.
9. Husk – Best for its Rabbit meat sausage wrap
Located in the French Quarter of Charleston, South Carolina, Husk is a well-established fine dining establishment offering its patrons an impressive culinary experience.
The restaurant is situated within a large house, transformed into a beautiful restaurant, and exudes luxury and sophistication.
The signature dish is a rabbit meat sausage wrapped in ham, served over creamy grits with asparagus and mushrooms. Each bite is a delicious combination of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
It also offers a diverse and extensive menu of mouth-watering dishes. The Chicken Fried Wagyu Beef Tips served with fried scallions, are juicy and flavorful, while the Nashville Hot Lamb Dumplings offer a spicy twist on a classic Chinese-style dumpling.
The Porchetta is also a must-try, offering a variety of expertly cooked flavors.
Husk also boasts an impressive drink menu that features innovative cocktails mixed to perfection.
The restaurant has a warm and inviting ambiance that is perfect for special occasions.
10. 82 Queen – Best for its Crab Soup
82 Queen is a popular restaurant in the heart of Charleston’s French Quarter District, known for its unique and beautiful garden courtyard and outstanding service.
The restaurant offers an extensive menu that features classic dishes with a modern twist.
The restaurant is divided into two buildings with a beautiful patio area. The service at 82 Queen is exceptional, and the staff is knowledgeable and attentive.
The restaurant’s menu offers several delicious dishes that are worth trying. The She Crab Soup is a must-try dish, and the Award-Winning soup. The Carolina Crab Cake is another fantastic starter.
82 Queen’s menu offers a variety of dishes, and some of the other must-try dishes include Barbecue Shrimp and seafood Oyster Salad, and Crab Cakes.it is one of the best seafood restaurants in Charleston, sc
Whether you’re a seafood lover or want to try classic Lowcountry dishes, 82 Queen’s menu has something for everyone.
Italian Restaurants Charleston sc FAQs
Do Italian restaurants in Charleston, SC, offer vegetarian and gluten-free options?
Many Italian restaurants in Charleston, SC, offer vegetarian and gluten-free options. Many menus feature multiple dishes that cater to special dietary needs, making it easier for those with certain restrictions to enjoy the flavors of Italy.
Are reservations required at Italian restaurants in Charleston, SC?
Yes, reservations are recommended at Italian restaurants in Charleston, SC. It is best to make a reservation ahead of time to ensure you can get the seating and dining experience you desire.
Conclusion
Italian restaurants in Charleston, SC, are a great way to experience the flavors and atmosphere of Italy without leaving the South.
From traditional pasta to wood-fired pizzas, these places provide an unparalleled dining experience that will leave you wanting to return for more.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a casual family dinner, Charleston’s Italian restaurants will surely provide a memorable experience.
So if you’re in the mood for authentic Italian cuisine, check out one of the many Italian restaurants in Charleston, SC. Buon Appetito!
