Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the Southeast’s most beloved cities with its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful coastline.
It’s no wonder that rooftop restaurants in Charleston are some of the most sought-after destinations for locals and visitors alike.
From seafood spots to pizzerias, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to dining with a view. Here are some of the best rooftop restaurants in Charleston that you won’t want to miss.
Best Rooftop Restaurants Charleston SC!
1. Hotel Bennett – Best for Southern-style small plates.
Hotel Bennett is one of the best rooftop restaurants in Charleston, SC.
This hotel restaurant offers a unique dining experience with panoramic views of the city skyline and harbor.
The restaurant boasts an extensive menu featuring locally sourced seafood and steaks and a variety of signature dishes from around the world.
Guests can also enjoy craft cocktails and an extensive drink list. The stunning rooftop lounge offers a perfect ambiance for enjoying sunset cocktails or hosting private events.
The specialty of Hotel Bennett is Southern-style small plates perfect for sharing.
Their menu features artisanal dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that showcase a range of flavors and Vietnamese influences.
Hotel Bennett’s rooftop restaurant is ideal for getting together with friends and family and enjoying fresh, delicious food in a beautiful setting.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or celebrating a special occasion, this Charleston, SC, rooftop restaurant is the perfect place to do it.
2. Pour Taproom – Best for rooftop patio
Pour Taproom is a rooftop restaurant in Charleston, SC, that offers an unforgettable culinary experience.
The menu at Pour Taproom features some of the best craft beverages and drinks from around the world.
Guests can sample through various drafts, cans, bottles, and growlers.
There is also a selection of ciders and meads for something a little sweeter. With so many options, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
But the real highlight of Pour Taproom is its stunning rooftop patio, which offers incredible views of Charleston Harbor and the surrounding downtown area.
The expansive outdoor space features a fire pit, comfy seating, and live music on select nights.
It’s the perfect spot to relax with friends and enjoy some of the best rooftop restaurants in Charleston, SC.
3. Citrus Club – Best for Mai Tai
Charleston, South Carolina, is home to the Citrus Club Rooftop Restaurant.
The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with sweeping views of the Charleston skyline and harbor.
Diners can enjoy a variety of culinary delights from Chef Adam Close’s creative menu, featuring Tropical Itch Cocktail, Pineapple Daiquiri, and Tropical Sangria, as well as delectable dishes such as the Lobster Risotto and Local Catch of the Day.
Citrus Club provides a unique, picturesque setting for lunch or dinner.
The restaurant’s popular dish is Mai Tai Quinoa Bowl, made with quinoa, peppers, onions, and your choice of proteins.
Additionally, they serve a wide array of sandwiches, salads, and tacos that are all “locally sourced” from the surrounding areas.
With its stunning views and delicious food offerings, Citrus Club Rooftop Restaurant provides the best lunch in Charleston.
4. Fiat Lux – Best for Southern-style cuisine.
Fiat Lux is a rooftop restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina that offers some of the best views and cuisine in the city.
From its location on top of a historic old building, guests can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Charleston, the harbor, and beyond.
The restaurant boasts a modern industrial-style decor combined with rustic charm, making it a perfect setting to enjoy its delicious dishes.
Fiat Lux specializes in Southern-style cuisine, emphasizing fresh and locally sourced seafood.
They offer a variety of dishes such as oysters, mussels, shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and more.
All ingredients are carefully selected from local markets to ensure the highest quality.
They also offer a wide selection of craft drinks and cocktails to pair with your meal.
If you’re looking for one of the best seafood restaurants in Charleston, SC, Fiat Lux is sure to please.
With its delicious cuisine in a beautiful setting, it’s no wonder this restaurant is so popular among locals and visitors.
5. Red’s Ice House – Best for its Crab Legs.
Red’s Ice House on Shem Creek is one of Charleston’s most popular rooftop restaurants.
Located on a pier overlooking the beautiful marshlands of the Lowcountry, Red’s offers stunning sunset views and a truly unique dining experience.
The menu features traditional Lowcountry favorites like Grouper Sandwiches, Fried Shrimp, Fish and Chips, and Shrimp and Grits.
Local oysters on the half-shell are also served daily.
Red’s specialty is its signature Crab Legs, which can be ordered steamed, boiled, or char-grilled.
The restaurant also offers a full bar with craft beers on tap and an extensive wine selection.
The atmosphere at Red’s is relaxed and laid back.
Customers can relax in the outdoor seating area and take in the stunning views of Shem Creek while enjoying their meals.
The restaurant’s staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to provide helpful recommendations.
6. Charleston Crab House – Best for its She Crab Soup.
The Charleston Crab House, located in the heart of historic downtown Charleston SC, is a rooftop restaurant that offers an unforgettable culinary experience.
At The Charleston Crab House, She Crab Soup is their specialty.
The menu features a variety of local food, such as Crab Legs, Alaskan Snow Crabs, and Crab Pots.
Entrees range from soup to platters, including delicacies like Red Rice with Loons, Charleston Fried Shrimp, and more.
The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks and cocktails to accompany your meal.
The rooftop seating is a bonus of this waterfront restaurant as it allows guests to take in the stunning views of the city skyline and harbor while they dine.
With its cozy atmosphere, casual dress code, and friendly staff, The Charleston Crab House offers a great dining experience.
7. Slightly North of Broad – Best for its Grass Fed Beef Carpaccio.
Slightly North of Broad (SNOB) is a popular rooftop restaurant in downtown Charleston, South Carolina.
This trendy restaurant specializes in Grass Fed Beef Carpaccio, emphasizing quality ingredients and seasonal flavors.
The rooftop deck is the perfect spot for enjoying stunning views of the historic city while dining alfresco.
It’s the ideal place to take in the sunset and watch the boats drift by.
The menu includes a wide selection of traditional dishes such as Heritage Farm Pork Chop, BBQ Tuna, and Duck Breast, all made with fresh ingredients from local farms.
Guests can also enjoy delicious cocktails crafted from an extensive collection of spirits.
8. Henry’s On The Market – Best for its Crab Cake Sandwich
Henry’s On The Market is a rooftop restaurant located in the heart of downtown Charleston, South Carolina.
Boasting breathtaking views of the Ashley River and surrounding cityscape, Henry’s makes for a unique dining experience.
Guests can enjoy classic American fare emphasising fresh local ingredients while taking in the sights from any of their outdoor terraces.
The restaurant was named after Henry Holman, a prominent Charleston businessman, and philanthropist who was the first to open an eatery in the area in 1933.
The menu is classic comfort food with Southern influences.
Their signature dishes include She Crab Soup, Crab Cake Sandwich, Fried Green Tomato BLT, steak frites, Jambalaya, and Pimento Cheese Grits.
The ice cream sandwiches are a must-try for those with a sweet tooth!
Henry’s is also well-known for its extensive drinks selection featuring local and international craft brews.
In addition to traditional favorites, they offer numerous rotating taps of seasonal and limited releases.
9. Church and Union Charleston – Best for its Fried Chicken
The Church and Union rooftop restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Located atop a historic building on King Street, the restaurant offers magnificent views of the city skyline, making it one of the town’s most sought-after dining experiences.
You can enjoy classic American fare with a Southern twist at Church and Union.
Signature dishes include Fried Chicken, Lamb Burger, Chicken BLT, and Crab Cakes. The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks and cocktails.
The restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and inviting atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy their meals in the cozy indoor dining area or on the terrace, with stunning views of the Holy City’s skyline.
10. Bay Street Biergarten – Best for its craft drinks.
Bay Street Biergarten is one of Charleston, SC’s most renowned rooftop restaurants.
This multi-level restaurant on East Bay Street offers a unique outdoor dining experience with unbeatable harbor views and surrounding areas.
The restaurant boasts two spacious roof decks for guests to enjoy while sipping signature craft drinks.
With a menu featuring traditional dishes like Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, Freaky Taters, Pretzel Bun Bratwurst, and Fried Pimento.
Guests can enjoy stunning views of the harbor and nearby historic buildings from the rooftop.
The roof deck is open year-round, making it an excellent spot for special occasions or to take in the scenery.
The staff at Eat are always friendly and attentive, ensuring guests have a pleasant dining experience.
Rooftop Restaurants Charleston SC FAQs
What type of cuisine do rooftop restaurants in Charleston, SC offer?
Rooftop restaurants in Charleston, SC, offer a variety of cuisines, including Southern comfort food, Italian, Asian fusion, and more.
Are rooftop restaurants in Charleston, SC family-friendly?
Yes, many rooftop restaurants in Charleston, SC, are family-friendly and have kid’s menus available.
Conclusion
Charleston, SC, is home to some of the most beautiful and impressive rooftop restaurants.
From trendy bars with great views to romantic outdoor gatherings, these rooftop spots provide a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner or a lively night out on the town, Charleston has a rooftop restaurant for every occasion.
From the festive atmosphere of Vendue Rooftop to the scenic beauty of The Watch, these restaurants will make your visit to Charleston unforgettable.
So enjoy the stunning views and cuisine only Charleston’s rooftop restaurants can provide.
