The season of love is almost here, and narrowing down the list of Charleston restaurants is getting trickier and trickier each year. Are you on the hunt for the best date night meal in Charleston, something that says “I love you” with a perfectly seared steak and a cold glass of prosecco? Needing a cozy restaurant with that ideal ambiance that feels like a warm hug? Our all-inclusive list has just about every type of date night restaurant you could wish for, just in time for Valentine’s Day!
Restaurants Downtown
Marbled and Fin
A classic steak dinner can’t be beat, especially when you’re surrounded by modern architecture, top notch service and a bustling restaurant. Marbled & Fin is an establishment that truly celebrates the finest beef and seafood, while elevating the typical steakhouse experience to greater heights. Every detail is crafted for the guests enjoyment, with craft cocktails, fine food, and a sophisticated ambiance that goes beyond just a good meal. Known for their premium cuts of beef, expansive wine list, and fresh seafood, Marbled & Fin is the perfect place for a romantic evening in Downtown Charleston.
Vern’s
Having recently earned their first Michelin star, Vern’s is a neighborhood establishment that prides itself on its homey atmosphere and high-level dining experience. With a seasonal menu that is ever-changing, the experience at Vern’s is one of a kind and can’t be replicated. Located in a cozy corner of downtown, this buzzy neighborhood restaurant offers eclectic American cuisine, with shareable plates, fresh pasta, and elevated classics.
Sorelle
In case you’re looking for a truly romantic, “movie magic moment” for your date night, look no further than Sorelle! Known in the Charleston area for their delicious cafe offerings and fun weekly coffee options, Sorelle is also home to some of the best Italian food in Downtown. Located on historic Broad Street, Sorelle’s dining experience is just that… an experience. We highly recommend booking a table at the Wood-fire Oven Counter or (if you’re extra lucky), claiming a seat on the outdoor Romeo & Juliet balcony, which boasts views of Broad Street and is the perfect location for people watching.
Malagon
We’ve already shared Italian classics, American cuisine and steak restaurants for our lineup, why not consider tapas? Malagon is another Michelin star awarded market and taperia located in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood in Downtown Charleston. This stunning and atmospheric restaurant focuses exclusively on Spanish cuisine, with small and large plates that include a selection of cheeses, charcuterie, tapas, meat dishes, seafood platters, vegetables and desserts. For a truly unique experience with a shared dining menu, Malagon is the place to be.
Restaurants Near Kiawah and Seabrook
Staying in the Kiawah or Seabrook Island region and need dinner options a little closer to home? Don’t worry! Hege’s is a French bistro located in Freshfields Village, a local shopping center just a short drive from the gates of Kiawah and Seabrook. With a distinctive take on Lowcountry-French-International cuisine, the menu at Hege’s respects the season, the region and the craft, providing only the best five nights a week for dinner service. The welcoming atmosphere paired with their keen awareness of the hospitality of the area makes Hege’s the perfect place for those visiting the area for a trip or locals looking for something fresh!
The Royal Tern
Just a short drive through Johns Island, The Royal Tern is a local favorite, focusing primarily on fresh seafood and steaks prepared with careful curation. With a vast dining room featuring high ceilings, along with a screened-in porch with bistro lights, everything about The Royal Tern boasts fancy and festive flair. We highly recommend ordering Fran’s Yeast Rolls (we can’t stop dreaming about the garlic chive butter) paired with any of their seafood-focused entrees. You won’t regret it!
Wild Olive
Tucked away among the grand oaks of Johns Island lives Wild Olive, the sister restaurant to the widely acclaimed The Obstinate Daughter of Sullivan's Island. This remarkable Italian restaurant focuses solely on providing only the highest quality, seasonal Italian dishes. While the restaurant's house made pasta is the heart and soul of their menu, the bounty of the Lowcountry’s waterways and farms is the anchor. Located in a cozy home with low lighting and candle-lit tables, this dining establishment is hard to compare when it comes to experience. We may also mention that the Cream of Mushroom soup special may be the best we’ve ever had!
Restaurants Near Isle of Palms and Wild Dunes
Abbracci
Vacationing along the shores of Isle of Palms? Just a short drive over the connector lies Abbracci, a new Italian restaurant that has quickly become the talk of the town! Offering the perfect blend of Italian cuisine and coastal charm, Abbracci is more than just a restaurant. A community hub for local events and an establishment where every meal feels like a warm hug, Abbracci is the place to be when craving Italian near the pristine shores of Isle of Palms. With coastal, luxury design elements inside and a stunning patio (heated in the winter!) outside, Abbracci is a wonderful date night spot for all seasons.
Staying with Sweetgrass Properties? Enjoy 15% off your meal when you mention your booking!
Islander 71
Believe it or not, waterfront dining is remarkably hard to come by in Charleston! But for a standout, waterfront dining experience right on the Isle of Palms, Islander 71 is the place to be. Offering multiple patios with Intracoastal Waterway views, indoor dining and even a rooftop space, Islander 71 boasts seafood classics, both casual and high-level, and an abundance of craft cocktails perfect for sunset meals on the water. We highly recommend the She-Crab Fries! They’re to die for.
The Obstinate Daughter
Paired alongside her sister restaurant Wild Olive, The Obstinate Daughter is just a short drive across Breach Inlet onto Sullivan’s Island. While quite hard to get reservations for, it’s worth trying to get a last minute seat. Located on Middle Street, right in the heart of Sullivans Island, The Obstinate Daughter blends Southern flair with an Italian, Spanish, and French background. Based around the seasonal elements of the Lowcountry, The Obstinate Daughter maintains some favorites that stay on the menu all year long. And trust us, the Radiotore pasta is just as good as it looks in the pictures!
Book Your Romantic Charleston Getaway
Looking to enjoy an intimate getaway in Charleston paired perfectly with your romantic dinner? Sweetgrass Properties offers an abundance of options for every kind of escape. From cozy waterfront condos with stunning views for two to expansive, modern mansions on Isle of Palms for those craving high luxury, we’ve got it all!
Check out properties across islands like Kiawah, Seabrook, Isle of Palms, and Wild Dunes for your next vacation and experience the Sweetgrass difference.