CharlestonRanked
Itineraries4 places

Where Locals Actually Eat

Anti-tourist trap. Real neighborhood spots.

The places that don't make the airport magazine. Some are loud. Some are cheap. All of them are where you'll see people you recognize.

  1. 01
    Restaurants1011 King St, Charleston

    Rodney Scott's BBQ

    Rodney Scott's BBQ

    Pitmaster who actually still tends pits. Whole-hog pork, white bread, hot sauce, that's it.

    4.5 · 250
    4.5250 ratingsRead
  2. 02
    Restaurants464 N Nassau St, Charleston

    Lewis Barbecue

    Lewis Barbecue

    Texas-style brisket in an open pit yard on the upper peninsula. Get the brisket and a Lone Star.

    4.8 · 250
    4.8250 ratingsRead
  3. 03
    Restaurants224 Rutledge Ave, Charleston

    Xiao Bao Biscuit

    Xiao Bao Biscuit

    Asian-soul corner spot in a converted gas station. Okonomiyaki with farm egg is the order.

    4.4 · 233
    4.4233 ratingsRead
  4. 04
    Restaurants252 Coming St, Charleston

    Chubby Fish

    Chubby Fish

    Locals get there at 5. Crudo lineup, walk-in, no fuss.

    4.8 · 142
    4.8142 ratingsRead

Last updated April 26, 2026