Best Restaurants in James Island
Explore exceptional dining options in James Island, Charleston SC
Goodtogosoulfood& catering
Goodtogosoulfood & Catering is a casual, no-frills spot locals hit for fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens and sweet potato pie. Expect home-style portions and friendly service — great for a takeout meal or a relaxed lunch.
The Biscuit Shed
The Biscuit Shed is a casual spot that does exactly what it says: big, flaky biscuits stuffed with things like Sausage, Egg and Cheese or a Classic Chick with their Shed sauce. Locals rave ("It’s no debate" — "I'm giving you praise because you deserve it") and the chicken and sandwich options are the real draw.
Odyssey Bottle Shop
Odyssey Bottle Shop is a casual, quiet neighborhood spot where you can grab a glass of wine, craft beer, sake or even kombucha and snack while chatting with family. People rave about spending time there on trips — it's intimate and low-key, with beer, wine and small bites rather than full restaurant dinners.
Wisconsin Meat & Cheese
Wisconsin Meat & Cheese is a casual spot that’s part deli, part grocery and liquor store — locals love their sandwiches and they’ll even cater events or do charcuterie spreads. Staff are friendly, the sandwiches and desserts get rave reviews, and it’s easy to pop in on a weekday lunch break.
Harvest Market
Harvest Market is a cozy, casual spot on James Island — part grocery, part food shop with a coffee bar where folks rave about the pistachio cold brew, pastries, weekend breakfast burritos, and chef-prepared refrigerated or frozen dinners. They also have a nice wine selection and plenty of grab-and-go snacks for quick meals at home.
Alvin Ord's Sandwich Shop - James Island
Alvin Ord's on James Island is a casual, no-frills sandwich shop/deli where people rave about their big sandwiches on that round, Schlotzsky’s-style bread. Locals love the hearty sandwiches (they cut them in half for you) and praise the owners Jimmy and Sunny for consistently good, down-to-earth service.
The Harlow
The Harlow is a casual, neighborhood spot in Charleston where people rave about the burgers, fries and sandwiches and the friendly, attentive service. Folks say it's great for family dinners or a low-key anniversary — solid food and a relaxed atmosphere.
Jack of Cups Saloon
Jack of Cups Saloon is a cozy, casual spot on Folly Road that locals rave about for its ever-changing seasonal menu. People keep recommending the wraps and soups — it’s unpretentious, full of character, and worth a stop if you want good, fresh food without fuss.
Ray's Pizza
Ray's Pizza is a casual spot in Charleston known for solid, no-frills pizzas and fries — great for pickup or delivery. Locals rave about the pies and prices, so if you've driven past and haven't tried one, you're missing out.
Huriyali Riverland
Huriyali Riverland is a casual little coffee shop/cafe/store spot with a bright, pretty interior where people rave about the sandwiches and nachos. Great for breakfast or a refreshing drink after the beach — service is friendly and the vibe is relaxed.
Charles Towne Fermentory (James Island)
Charles Towne Fermentory on James Island is a casual brewpub/bar with a roomy indoor taproom that’s great on a rainy day. Folks rave about their house beers and the pub snacks — think pretzels and sausages — and the new location has that original brewery vibe with plenty of indoor/outdoor space.
Edisto Hall
Edisto Hall is a casual event space at James Island County Park that folks rent for family reunions and ceremonies. People mention simple hits like chicken and salads when catering the indoor/outdoor space — good for a laid-back group meal.
Millers All Day - James Island
Millers All Day on James Island is a casual, cozy spot with a lively vibe where folks rave about the Hot Honey Chicken, burgers, and their soups. Expect a family-friendly breakfast crowd, cute interior (there’s a $5 photo booth) and potential waits if you show up around 11.
Bar George
Bar George is a cozy, casual spot in Charleston where locals pop in for steaks, salads and the desserts (we go almost every weekend). It’s the kind of bar/restaurant you’d book for a rehearsal dinner or hit up before or after a movie.
Edison James Island
Edison James Island is a casual, cozy spot on James Island known for comforting soup, hearty chicken plates, and good sandwiches — people also rave about their Valentine's Day special. It's dog-friendly with outdoor seating, and locals go for the relaxed neighborhood vibe rather than anything fancy.
The Charleston Pour House
The Charleston Pour House is a casual local spot — part bar, part music venue, part outdoor restaurant — known for live shows and a simple menu with sandwiches and Indian curries. Expect loud music nights, indoor and outdoor stages, and a laid-back crowd rather than fine dining.
Ti-Ney Bangkok Folly
Ti-Ney Bangkok Folly is a casual, friendly Thai spot on Folly Beach where locals rave about the chicken and beef dishes. The staff treat you like family, the seating is comfy, and the food is absolutely delicious without being fancy.
Chow Bella Kitchen & Culinary
Chow Bella Kitchen & Culinary is a casual Italian spot in Charleston that does a lot of catering — people rave about their pasta at showers, baptisms, and even wedding receptions. The owner Monica is hands-on with planning and stays within budgets, so it's a reliable choice if you need Italian food for a group.
El Pollo Guapo
El Pollo Guapo is a casual spot in Charleston where you can grab tacos, fries, a salad, wings or even a sub without fuss. Locals say it's great for a quick meal or to hang out and take your time — solid food, laid-back vibe.
CudaCo. Seafood House
CudaCo Seafood House is a casual-but-slightly-upscale spot on the Charleston scene known for its seafood — think fish plates, tuna items and that gooey melted topping on a few dishes. Service is friendly and helpful (they’ll walk you through ordering), great for a relaxed seafood meal.
Workmen's Cafe
Workmen's Cafe is a cozy, casual spot on James Island known for honest Southern plates — folks rave about the fried chicken and simple home-style sides. It's a clean little joint tucked off Folly Road, great for a down-to-earth meal without any fuss.
Baguette Magic Folly Rd
Baguette Magic on Folly Road is a casual, friendly bakery/breakfast spot that draws locals for sandwiches, avocado toast, the Bep on a croissant, Chef’s Hash, fries and pies. It’s laid-back and dependable — the kind of place James Island folks show visitors when they want good, simple food.
The Connection @ Hope's Treasure Chest
The Connection @ Hope's Treasure Chest is a casual event space in Charleston where folks often bring Farrah's Backyard Catering for things like BBQ plates and sides at family gatherings. Reviews say the staff and owner are friendly and accommodating, great for low-key parties and surprise birthdays.
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar
Muddy Waters Coffee Bar is a cozy, casual spot in town where the barista actually knows how to make a coffee — their chai tea latte gets a lot of praise. It’s the kind of place locals grab a latte or coffee to go before heading out to Angel Oak or to sit and read for a bit.
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Charleston, SC
This is a casual, fast-casual spot in Charleston where plates are big and the salad, chicken and beef bowls feel like real value for the price. Service is friendly and attentive, fries are a crowd-pleaser, and it's exactly what you'd go to when you want solid, simple Greek/Middle Eastern food.
Aji Asian Bistro
Aji Asian Bistro is a casual spot in Charleston known for solid sushi (people rave about it) and cocktails like lychee martinis. Customers also mention dishes like karaage, unagi don, and soupy chicken, beef, or shrimp options.
Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint is a casual, no-frills BBQ spot that's packed for a reason — think wings, ribs, brisket and the brisket sandwich with sweet Dixie sauce. Locals rave ("I've been all over the US...Martins is right up there") and yes, people still go back for the pie.
Locals Sushi & Sports Pub - James Island
Locals Sushi & Sports Pub on James Island is a casual spot where people go for sushi but lots of folks end up ordering burgers, sandwiches, fries and shrimp instead. It’s a relaxed, neighborhood place — decent tuna rolls if you want sushi, reasonable prices for pub food, and locals keep coming back.
Point Break Coffee & Drive Thru
Point Break Coffee & Drive Thru is a casual, friendly spot with a drive-thru where people rave about the matcha and acai bowls and appreciate fast, helpful service when online orders go sideways. It’s a cheap, no-frills coffee shop that’s a solid local alternative to Starbucks.
Girl Nextdough
Girl Nextdough is a casual little bakery on Signal Point Road on James Island known for excellent bagels — people rave about the hummus and tomato confit on a plain sourdough bagel. It’s a laid-back spot to grab a top-notch bagel or grab something from their bakery case.
Pan Garden
Pan Garden is a casual strip-mall Chinese spot people in Charleston order takeout from all the time — think soup, beef, chicken and shrimp dishes done reliably. It’s not fancy, just honest, family-friendly Chinese that’s great for a birthday meal or a regular weeknight.
Randall's Curbside Griddle
Randall's Curbside Griddle is a casual, no-frills spot on the peninsula known for solid burgers, fries, and a surprisingly good Cuban sandwich. Locals rave about the Buster Brown burger and fresh shrimp options, and the service is friendly — great for a relaxed lunch or quick bite.
Maple Street Biscuit Company
Maple Street Biscuit Company is a casual spot known for big biscuit sandwiches — people rave about the fried chicken biscuits and the breakfast combos. Staff are friendly and helpful (they gave great local tips when I visited), and the menu has solid coffee and brunch options without any fuss.
California Tortilla
Casual, fast-casual spot for burritos, tacos and bowls — people rave about the California Screaming burrito (they can swap chicken for beef steak), the Sunset chicken melt, shrimp tacos, and mixed meat bowls. Friendly staff, solid portions, good for a quick, inexpensive meal.
Thai Elephants Restaurant (James Island)
Thai Elephants on James Island is a casual, reliable spot for Thai classics—think shrimp dishes and those little pieces of chicken or pork in well-spiced sauces. Portions are generous, the food is fresh and spiced to order, and the service tends to be friendly.
Mondo's Italian Restaurant
Mondo's is a casual, tucked‑away Italian on James Island where the chicken dishes get a lot of praise and lines can start early. Family‑friendly, intimate seating and friendly staff — a solid spot after a long day of travel.
Maybank Public House
Maybank Public House is a casual, quiet spot on James Island where people go for straightforward burgers, shrimp plates, chicken and salads — great for an easy lunch or brunch with kids. Service gets shout-outs (Gabby and Gretchen were mentioned), and it feels like a relaxed neighborhood bar-restaurant rather than a fancy place.
Dukes Barbecue
Dukes Barbecue is a casual, down-home spot with a solid lunch buffet serving Southern staples like pork, fried chicken, fish and plenty of desserts. Locals rave about the home-style, country-kitchen vibe—great for an easy, no-frills meal.
Krystyna’s Authentic Polish Food LLC.
Krystyna’s Authentic Polish Food is a casual spot serving homey Polish fare — think pierogis, cabbage wraps, cucumber salad and a Reuben or Polish sausage sandwich that locals rave about. Portions are comforting and unpretentious; great for a quick lunch or catered event.
Ellis Creek Fish Camp
Ellis Creek Fish Camp is a casual, laid-back spot known for fried or grilled fish, shrimp plates and hearty seafood sandwiches. Lots of outdoor seating and a friendly vibe — great for a breezy afternoon with family or friends.
Crust Wood Fired Pizza
Crust Wood Fired Pizza is a casual, cozy spot where people go for wood-fired pizza, salads, fries and simple chicken dishes. It’s got a laid-back bar vibe with chalkboard walls and a steady local crowd — good food and a solid atmosphere.
Rio Chico
Rio Chico is a casual James Island spot serving solid Mexican fare — people rave about the chicken and even the cake for celebrations. Service is attentive and it’s a good-luck choice for group lunches or low-key birthday nights.
Locklear's
Locklear's is a casual, hole-in-the-wall spot in Charleston doing straightforward seafood — think shrimp, fried fish and crispy fries. Service gets good notes and locals say Lolo’s vibe is still the same year after year.
Lowdown Oven and Bar
Lowdown Oven and Bar is a casual, slightly run-down spot locals stop into for cheap comfort food like pasta, salads, clubs and Philly-style sandwiches. Great place to hang during a rain shower, though extras like added bacon can be skimpy despite a small upcharge.
Grumpy Goat Seafood Cantina
Grumpy Goat Seafood Cantina is a casual, no-frills spot in Charleston known for tacos — people even order one of everything — plus shrimp, fish and chicken plates. It’s friendly, busy, and feels like a neighborhood place with solid seafood and good mixed drinks.
The James
The James is a casual spot in Charleston known for solid soups, shrimp, ribs, pasta and a standout prime rib sandwich. Service can be great (Logan got praise), though the dim lighting and some portion complaints mean it’s not for anyone wanting a formal experience.
Great Wall
Great Wall is a casual, family-run Chinese spot locals have been coming to for decades — expect simple, hot dishes like chicken and pork, often ordered to go. Service is efficient and friendly, and it's the kind of place where regulars know what they want.
The Break
The Break is a casual, divey bar in Charleston with pinball, skee‑ball, air hockey, pool and lots of TVs — great if you want games and a loud, laid‑back vibe. People come for wings and chicken sandwiches more than fine dining, and the prices are easy on the wallet.
Casa Fiesta
Casa Fiesta is a casual Mexican spot that locals love for simple plates like beef tacos and big nachos, and the dining room inside is colorful and thoughtful even if the exterior is plain. Staff are friendly, but expect standard cold red salsa and chips that can be a bit stale.
LoLo's
LoLo's is a casual, lively spot in Charleston known for fresh seafood — think shrimp plates, seafood sandwiches, tacos and hearty soups. Locals praise the friendly staff and real-deal flavors, and the 4.4 Google rating reflects a consistently good neighborhood eatery.
Smoky Yolk
Smoky Yolk is a casual, cozy spot in Charleston known for big brunch plates like the brisket Benedict and solid home fries. Locals rave about the variety here—great for a laid-back meal while you're in town.
Paisano's Pizza Grill
Paisano's is a casual, busy spot for pizza, salads and wings that locals go to on a regular night out. Folks rave about the Bees Ferry pizza and the Italian calzone (that crust gets mentioned a lot), and it's a reliable Sunday-night staple.
Bowens Island Restaurant
Bowens Island is a casual, no-frills spot famous for fried seafood — people rave about the fried shrimp. Expect straightforward, all-fried plates and a laid-back vibe; think picnic tables and salty, crispy shrimp and other seafood.
Fam's Brewing Co. featuring Famulari's Pizzeria
Fam's Brewing Co. is a casual spot — a brewery with Famulari's Pizzeria attached where people rave about the pizzas and even the steak and pie. Outdoor seating is nice, prices are fair, and the half-and-half pizza option is clutch when you can't choose.
Pick Thai Restaurant Charleston
Pick Thai on James Island is a casual, quiet spot locals love for things like curry dumplings, pad Thai (they do medium spicy well), and straightforward chicken dishes. Reviews brag it's some of the best Thai around — simple, homey cooking rather than fancy dining.
Coastal Crust James Island
Coastal Crust on James Island is a casual spot locals and tourists hit for pizza, pasta, salads and simple desserts. Folks rave about the pizza here — some even say it’s better than Paisano’s and FAM — and they do delivery and catering too.
Azul Mexicano James Island
Azul Mexicano on James Island is a casual, family-friendly spot where people rave about the tacos, chicken, shrimp and beef options (and plenty of veggie choices too). Service can be great — Valentina got our picky kids fed — and it’s the kind of reliable, neighborhood Mexican spot fans of the chain keep coming back to.
Garage 75
Garage 75 is a casual bar-and-grill on Johns Island known for solid bar food like burgers, chicken and wraps — great for a post-Folly stop. Atmosphere is laid-back arcade-bar vibes; you’ll get decent pub grub rather than fine dining.
Melvin's BBQ - James Island
Melvin's BBQ on James Island is a casual, no-frills spot for classic smoked pork — think burnt ends pork sandwich with fries or green beans on the side. Locals also rave about their sandwiches, pieces, and even pasta offerings from the food truck during soft openings.
New China Wok
New China Wok is a casual, no-frills spot in Charleston where locals and visitors grab dependable Chinese takeout or dine in. The Chef’s Special Seafood with big shrimp, scallops and crab gets a lot of praise, and people say the seafood and shrimp dishes are consistently fresh.
Yous Guys Sandwich Shop
Yous Guys Sandwich Shop is a casual spot in Charleston known for big, messy sandwiches — people rave about the chicken, steak, and the “little strangers” melted combos. It’s not fancy, just solid, honest sandwiches (lots of folks say “if you get it, you get it” and that the food really slaps).
Ladles Soups James Island
Ladles on James Island is a casual spot locals go for hearty soups, salads and sandwiches—people rave about the soups and a lot of reviews mention great salads and sandwiches. It’s a low-key, friendly place (staff get called out by name) with decent prices and reliable comfort food.
James Island Fire Grill hibachi sushi
If you want casual hibachi and sushi on James Island, this is the kind of spot locals hit for quick chicken or steak hibachi (some people skip the veggies) and shrimp dishes. Expect fast, friendly service — I’ve seen chicken bowls, shrimp lo mein and rolls like the Telfair come through the counter again and again.
Pho Saigon
Pho Saigon is a casual, quiet spot on King Street where the pho gets good reviews and people rave about the shrimp, beef, pork and wraps. The place is sparse and low-key, with an extensive menu that includes Chinese-style dishes worth ordering.
Charlotte's on Maybank
My Father’s Moustache on James Island is a cozy, casual British-style pub where folks go for burgers, steak and fries or a hearty pork sandwich and a beer. Service can be friendly — people name-check servers like Tatum — and it’s exactly the kind of laid-back neighborhood spot you’d try with friends.
Athens Restaurant
Athens Restaurant is a casual, no-frills spot for solid Greek comfort food — think gyro pita, chicken pieces, salads and a hearty platter with tasty potatoes. Service is friendly and fast, great for takeout or a simple sit-down meal.
Jiang’s Asian Kitchen
Jiang’s Asian Kitchen is a casual spot in Charleston serving Chinese and Japanese-style plates — think lo mein, spring rolls, chicken, pork, shrimp, and hearty soups. Reviews praise the spring rolls and lo mein; it's a straightforward neighborhood place, not fancy but solid for takeout or a low-key meal.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
This is a casual Dairy Queen on James Island — your typical fast-food/ice-cream spot with Blizzards, chicken sandwiches and those decorated ice‑cream cakes people rave about. It’s simple, affordable, and exactly what you’d expect from a neighborhood DQ.
Wendy's
Wendy's is a casual, no-frills fast-food spot where locals grab burgers and fries without fuss. Expect standard chain quality—some people love the burgers and fries, others complain about consistency and service.