What locals are saying
82 Queen is a long-standing Charleston institution best known for its she-crab soup and courtyard ambiance, and most diners — including many locals — find the experience worthwhile at least once. However, a recurring local gripe is that it skews heavily tourist-facing: prices are steep for portion sizes, some signature dishes (shrimp & grits, jambalaya) are considered merely solid rather than exceptional, and longtime Charleston residents note that competitors like Husk or SNOB now outperform it on pure food quality. Its climb back to the top of TripAdvisor rankings has drawn local skepticism, with regulars questioning whether the ratings reflect tourists more than discerning repeat visitors.
On socials
Posts and comments consistently point to the she-crab soup as the non-negotiable order — bloggers call it 'creamy, indulgent' and a signature Lowcountry must-try — with BBQ shrimp and grits a close second that creators specifically tell followers not to skip. The twinkly-lit courtyard drives a steady stream of date-night and birthday-surprise content, with captions calling it 'one of the best' in Charleston and dishes described as living up to the hype.
Who it’s for & what you get
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Vegetarian options
- Coffee
- Beer
- Wine
- Cocktails
- Kids menu
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Reservations
- Outdoor seating
- Live music
- Good for groups
- Wheelchair accessible
- Restroom
Frequently asked
Is 82 Queen one of the best restaurants in Charleston?
82 Queen is ranked #199 restaurant in Charleston by community votes.
What is 82 Queen best known for?
A swanky bar and intimate courtyard help make this refined Southern spot a special occasion favorite.
Who should go to 82 Queen?
82 Queen works well for both locals and visitors looking for a quality restaurant in Charleston.
Where is 82 Queen located?
82 Queen is located at 82 Queen St, Charleston, Charleston, SC.
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