Downtown Charleston Dining: Ashley’s Favorite Spots

by Ashley Walsh

One of my favorite parts about Downtown Charleston is the food — it’s a lifestyle all on its own. As a Charleston real estate agent, I often tell my clients that choosing a home here isn’t just about the architecture or neighborhood — it’s about the experiences you can enjoy. And for me, that includes some truly unforgettable meals. Here are a few of my personal favorite Downtown spots.

Number One Date Night Spot:
Marbled and Fin – If you’re looking for true fine dining in Downtown Charleston, Marbled and Fin is unmatched. From the moment you walk in, the service is impeccable — attentive, polished, and genuinely welcoming. The menu features some of the best cuts of meat you’ll find in the city, cooked to perfection and paired with thoughtfully prepared sides. It’s the kind of restaurant where a night out feels like an occasion, whether it's date night, or celebrating a new home or hosting friends. Situated toward the back of the lot at 480 East Bay Street, it's out of the way, but easy to find.

Number One Fun Night Out Spot:
167 Raw & Bar 167 – Known for fresh seafood and lively energy, 167 Raw is a Downtown favorite. Their tuna tataki is a personal must, lightly seared and bursting with flavor, and the oyster selection is always fresh and varied. They’re so popular that they opened Bar 167 just around the corner, where you can sip cocktails and enjoy small plates while waiting for a table. It’s casual yet elevated — the perfect mix of Downtown Charleston sophistication and fun. Located in the mix of shops on lower King, 193 King St, and Bar 167 is just around the corner at 5 Fulton Street.

Quick Lunch or Easy Dinner Spot:

Basic Kitchen – For a healthy, flavorful option in Downtown Charleston, Basic Kitchen never disappoints. I love their Basic Bowl with perfectly cooked salmon, fresh vegetables, and a nutty, satisfying grain base — it’s simple, vibrant, and packed with flavor. And the fresh-pressed juices taste like sunshine in every sip, bright, refreshing, and full of life. It’s the kind of spot that reminds you Charleston living can be both nourishing and indulgent. An easy walk from King St, located at 82 Wentworth Street.

Best Sweet Treat Spot:

Off Track Ice Cream– Sometimes, you just need something sweet, and Off Track Ice Cream is my go-to treat destination. Their flavors are playful, unexpected, and completely irresistible, but my absolute favorite is the chocolate chip oatmeal cookie — rich, creamy, and packed with comforting, nostalgic flavor. Walking around Downtown Charleston with a scoop in hand is pure bliss.

Nighttime Bar Spot:

Felix – Felix is one of my favorite spots for a fun night out in Downtown Charleston. While the food is solid, it’s really the ambiance, upbeat energy, and good vibes that make it stand out. The stylish interior, lively crowd, and carefully crafted cocktails make it the perfect place to unwind with friends after a day exploring the city. You’ll find it at 550 King Street, right in the heart of Downtown.

If You Don't Mind a Wait:

Chubby Fish – If you’re looking for a true Lowcountry seafood experience in Downtown Charleston, Chubby Fish is a must-visit. Founded by Charleston native Chef James London, this cozy 1,000-square-foot restaurant specializes in fresh, seasonal seafood sourced locally from the Atlantic and Lowcountry rivers, prepared with creativity and care. Chubby Fish has been named Best New Restaurant by Bon Appétit and ranked as the No. 7 Restaurant in the U.S. by Food & Wine Magazine. There is usually a line of people waiting nightly for one of the 40 seats as soon as the doors open. No reservations are accepted. he menu changes regularly and there's always something new and exciting to try. Located at 252 Coming Street, and sister world-class cocktail bar, Seahorse, is next door.

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