9 Most Romantic Restaurants in Charleston You’ll Fall in Love With
Charleston is one of the most popular destinations for romantic couples. From its cobblestone streets and pastel-colored homes to flickering gas lanterns, the city offers a charm that goes beyond surface beauty. With delicious food and wine offerings—and some of the most romantic restaurants in Charleston—it creates the perfect setting for love. Whether you're planning an anniversary, honeymoon, or just a weekend getaway, Charleston is the ideal place to reconnect.
The city's cuisine is recognized nationwide, and the experience doesn’t end with dinner. Imagine closing your evening in a quiet, private space—just blocks from where your favorite memories were made. CHC Vacation Rentals gives guests beautifully furnished places to stay in Charleston’s most walkable and romantic neighborhoods. These rentals offer the comfort of home, the luxury of design, and the privacy couples want after a dreamy night out. When every step matters, staying close matters too.
Most Romantic Restaurants in Charleston | 9 Top Picks
Let this guide lead the way to the restaurants where romance blooms and memories last.
1. 82 Queen | A Courtyard of Classic Southern Charm

It offers one of the city's most striking spaces—twinkling lights, blooming magnolia trees, and soft gas lanterns help make each evening feel special. While the atmosphere speaks directly to the heart, the food does too.
Start your visit with She Crab Soup—thick, creamy, and full of flavor—followed by crispy Roast Duck, and finish with a decadent slice of Bourbon Pecan Pie. It’s an experience brimming with tradition and love, drawn straight from the heart of Southern cuisine. Every bite tells its own tale. If a restaurant could capture the feeling of slow dances and whispered promises, it would be 82 Queen.
2. Chez Nous | A Secret Spot for Two

Romance often hides in quiet places. Chez Nous is tucked into a classic Charleston single house—narrow but elegant, complete with porches and charming interior design—creating an intimate dining experience perfect for two. Candlelight and gentle jazz set the mood indoors, while outside, the courtyard offers peaceful serenity beneath the stars.
What sets this spot apart as one of the best romantic restaurants in Charleston, SC, is its ever-changing menu. Each morning, they share a handwritten menu on Instagram—featuring just two appetizers, two entrées, and two desserts inspired by the culinary traditions of Southern France, Spain, or Northern Italy. That sense of surprise keeps each visit exciting. Couples don’t just come here for food; they come to share something new together.
3. Circa 1886 | Romance with a Historic Touch

It’s an exquisite dining experience, situated within an 1886 carriage house behind Wentworth Mansion. Soft lighting, polished wood tables, and cozy booths invite couples to linger over their meal—evoking memories from over a century ago, when horse-drawn carriages arrived and stories were shared at this very doorway.
Service here pays close attention to every detail, making it an ideal location for special evenings. In fact, many proposals take place just before sunset atop the mansion’s rooftop cupola.
4. Le Farfalle | A Cozy Slice of Italy in Charleston

Le Farfalle offers all the charm and ambiance of an Italian bistro, paired with elegant décor. Soft lighting, close-set tables, and a relaxed, refined atmosphere make it an excellent spot for both first dates and anniversaries.
As one of the most romantic restaurants in Charleston, SC, Le Farfalle encourages sharing. Couples often begin with whipped ricotta and honey before moving on to duck-confit agnolotti or one of the house-made pastas. The wine list complements each dish beautifully, and the cozy setting makes genuine connection feel easy.
Some say first dates here have even turned into wedding proposals—proof that romance thrives in this inviting space.
5. Sorelle | A Balcony View with a Taste of Italy

Sorelle first entered Charleston’s dining scene in 2023 and quickly made a name for itself with a blend of Old World Italian charm and Southern flair—becoming a favorite among both locals and visitors. Situated near the iconic “Four Corners of Law,” Sorelle offers more than just delicious food; it delivers views, elegance, and a touch of magic.
Couples especially appreciate the balcony seating overlooking Broad Street—an idyllic city escape, perfect for long conversations over candlelight. Inside, rich burgundy tones, velvet seating, and elegant tableware create an ambiance that’s both intimate and luxurious.
6. The Caviar Bar at Zero George – A Hidden Jewel of Luxury

At Zero George, nestled in Charleston’s peaceful piazza, lies The Caviar Bar—an exclusive and intimate dining experience. Couples stroll down an inviting garden path before reaching candlelit tables where time seems to slow.
The menu centers around caviar, paired with bubbles, crème fraîche, and tiny blinis—an indulgent yet understated experience that exudes quiet elegance. The setting feels like a mix between a private lounge and an art gallery.
Anniversaries and proposals often take place here, and it’s easy to see why. This chic space is the perfect setting for special celebrations—or for those simply seeking privacy with a little sparkle.
7. The Watch Rooftop | Love on the Skyline

For those who appreciate city lights and high views, The Watch at The Restoration Hotel offers something special. Situated atop the hotel, this rooftop restaurant provides breathtaking panoramic views of Charleston’s steeples and rooftops.
Here’s what couples can expect:
- Arrival toast with a glass of chilled Prosecco
- Creative seasonal dishes like fresh crab cakes or roasted vegetables
- Petit fours or a light dessert to end the evening
Whether you arrive at golden hour or stay late into the night, The Watch creates a cinematic atmosphere. It’s more than just dinner—it’s a memory waiting to be made.
8. FIG | Southern Simplicity at Its Best

FIG stands for “Food Is Good,” and this Charleston classic proves it with every dish. Open since 2003, it has earned praise for both its wine program and its focus on local ingredients. The chef has earned the title of Best Chef Southeast, and the wine team received a James Beard Award.
The interior feels quiet and thoughtful—perfect for couples who want to talk and enjoy food that tells a story. Seasonal produce, delicate sauces, and inspired Southern flavors demonstrate how simple food can express deep care. For those who believe less is more, FIG delivers deeply satisfying meals in an understated setting.
9. Vern’s | A New Favorite Full of Heart

It has earned a spot on The New York Times’ list of the 50 Best Restaurants in America. Such praise doesn’t come easily: this neighborhood bistro combines vintage charm, candlelight, and seasonally inspired dishes that feel familiar yet showcase gourmet flair.
Highlights at Vern’s include:
- Testaroli pasta with mushroom-truffle ragù, finished tableside with a rich egg yolk
- Natural wines and rotating small plates made for sharing
- Old records and vintage lighting that give the space a romantic glow
Vern’s offers couples seeking something casual yet thoughtful an oasis of comfort and creativity. Conversation flows freely, laughter comes naturally, and time seems to slow down more here than anywhere else.
Why CHC Vacation Rentals Complete the Romance
A romantic dinner is only part of the story; where couples stay helps create the mood, and CHC Vacation Rentals understands that well. These properties offer more than just a bed for the night. They give a place to rest, reflect, and relax.
Top reasons to choose CHC:
- Walkable locations near Charleston’s top romantic restaurants and landmarks
- Private spaces where couples can enjoy comfort and peace after a special evening
- Stylish interiors that match the charm of the city, with touches that feel like home
After a night of good food and warm moments, CHC gives couples the space to savor it all.
| Restaurant | Location / Setting | Popular Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| 82 Queen | Historic courtyard on Queen St., Charleston | She‑Crab Soup, Roast Duck, Bourbon Pecan Pie |
| Chez Nous | Intimate antebellum single house, Downtown Charleston | Rotating menu (e.g. duck breast, scallops, red snapper, pork chop) |
| Circa 1886 | Carriage house behind the Wentworth Mansion | Elevated contemporary Southern cuisine; tasting menus |
| Le Farfalle | Cozy, elegant Italian bistro in Downtown Charleston | Duck-confit agnolotti, handmade pastas, whipped ricotta & honey |
| Sorelle | Italian-Southern fusion on Broad Street | Modern Southern Italian dishes: wood?fired pizzas, fresh pastas |
| The Caviar Bar at Zero George | Garden courtyard setting at Zero George boutique hotel | Caviar with bubbles, crème fraîche & blinis |
| The Watch Rooftop | 7th-floor rooftop at Restoration Hotel, panoramic views | Crab cakes, shrimp & grits, shareables, seasonal small plates |
| FIG | Downtown Charleston, modern American (“Food Is Good”) | Seasonal Southern cuisine, award-winning wine program |
| Vern's | Neighborhood bistro, corner of Bogard & Ashe | Testaroli with mushroom-truffle ragù, natural wines, small plates |
FAQs
What’s the most romantic restaurant in Charleston?
It depends on the moment. Circa 1886 offers classic elegance. The Watch provides unforgettable rooftop views. Chez Nous delivers cozy privacy with a daily surprise menu.
Do these restaurants take reservations?
Yes. At Circa 1886, Sorelle, Le Farfalle Peninsula Grill & FIG, we highly advise making reservations in advance - particularly on weekends or for special events or celebrations.
Are there romantic restaurants near the water?
Yes. Charleston Harbor Fish House brings diners right up to the edge of Charleston Harbor for picturesque harbor views. Here, you can enjoy seafood dishes, sunset views, and fire-pit s'mores!
Do any hotels in Charleston offer romantic dining?
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