Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Sullivan's Island

10 restaurants available nearby

1. The Refuge

4.3

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Isle of Palms

Booked 5 times today

Nestled in the charming Isle of Palms, The Refuge is a standout destination for Contemporary American cuisine that delights both locals and tourists alike. Known for its "phenomenal" food and "wonderful" service, this family-owned gem emphasizes quality and authenticity with every dish. The Refuge's menu, rich with fresh ingredients, offers an unforgettable dining experience, from their "incredible" Maryland-style crab cakes to the "best she crab soup" patrons have ever tasted. With an atmosphere that’s both modern and sophisticated, The Refuge ensures a memorable meal, making it a must-visit for fans of Contemporary American fare. "Highly recommend" this hidden gem for a true taste of excellence.

A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant

2. Church and Union - Charleston

4.5

Awesome(8624)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 131 times today

Church and Union - Charleston is a shining gem of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful culinary experience right in the heart of Downtown Charleston. This vibrant restaurant combines “amazing food, service, and ambiance” to create a memorable dining experience. Executive Chef Doug Watson and Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch craft a menu that seamlessly blends innovation with tradition. Diners rave about the “spectacular” menu, where dishes like the filet mignon and braised bacon & melon are cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s “beautiful setting” and attentive service make every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether for a romantic evening or a celebratory gathering, Church and Union stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Contemporary American flavors.

3. Tempest

4.6

Exceptional(2373)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 18 times today

Tempest in Downtown Charleston is a beacon of outstanding Seafood cuisine, celebrated for its hyper-local and sustainable Coastal Modern-American offerings. Its seasonal menu, masterfully curated by Chef Adam Hodgson and Top Chef alum Jamie Lynch, consistently delights diners with fresh, authentic flavors. Reviewers rave about the “roasted oysters and shrimp,” and many declare the “Swordfish Schnitzel with warm tartar sauce” to be the best they've ever tasted. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity shines through its impeccable dishes, earning it the title of the country’s #1 new restaurant by USA Today’s 10Best readers. Experience seafood like never before at Tempest!

A photo of Bourbon N' Bubbles restaurant

4. Bourbon N' Bubbles

4.2

Awesome(1343)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 13 times today

Bourbon N' Bubbles in Downtown Charleston is a standout in Dining Bar cuisine, offering a perfect blend of culinary artistry and liquid luxury. "The food was amazing," rave patrons, highlighting dishes like the A5 Wagyu Spinalis and blue crab fondue. Executive Chef Mike Watson's menu of elevated sharing plates is complemented by a curated selection of Champagne, bourbon, and handcrafted cocktails, creating a harmonious dining experience. The ambiance is "chic and sexy," with a cozy back bubbles bar providing an intimate escape. With "great service and a fabulous atmosphere," Bourbon N' Bubbles promises a memorable night out for any occasion.

5. The Establishment

4.8

Exceptional(2666)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 13 times today

The Establishment in Charleston's historic French Quarter is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its dedication to sourcing seasonal, fresh ingredients from local farms and fisheries. Chef Elliott Howells crafts a menu that embodies a "clean, focused, and balanced approach," promising a refined dining experience that delights every palate. This American gem is renowned for its exceptional service and ambiance, as echoed by patrons who describe their meals as "possibly the best restaurant experience I've had in years" and "a symphony of flavors." The lively bar scene, complete with an award-winning wine cellar and live music, enhances its vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit culinary destination.

A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant

6. Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett

4.5

Awesome(1128)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 2 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett embodies the essence of South Carolina cuisine with its dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is a celebration of the region's bounty, capturing the authentic flavors that make Southern food so beloved. Reviewers rave about the "excellent and superior level high touch service" and the She Crab Soup, described as "excellent" with a unique hint of roasted tomato. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, complimented by charming views of historic Marion Square, makes dining here a delightful experience for both locals and visitors alike.

A photo of Port of Call - Food & Brew restaurant

7. Port of Call - Food & Brew

4.5

Awesome(18)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 10 times today

Port of Call - Food & Brew in Downtown Charleston is a shining star in the realm of Contemporary American cuisine. This culinary haven masterfully blends Southern classics with a modern twist, capturing the essence of Southern hospitality. Diners rave about the "fantastically prepared" dishes, such as the seafood platter and smothered burger, which highlight the restaurant's innovative approach. The ambiance, paired with "super accommodating" service, makes it an inviting spot for both locals and visitors. With standout dishes like the fried green tomato BLT and crispy fries, Port of Call promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps patrons coming back for more.

A photo of ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston restaurant

8. ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston

4.4

Awesome(1341)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 4 times today

ÉLEVÉ at the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston offers a seafood cuisine experience that is both authentic and unparalleled. Nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston, this elegant rooftop restaurant combines coastal flavors with a touch of southern charm, all prepared using classic French culinary techniques. Diners rave about the exquisite seafood selections like the Sea Urchin Carpaccio, praised for its "superb" quality and innovative presentation. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with stunning views of Charleston’s cobblestone streets, creates an unforgettable dining experience. ÉLEVÉ stands out for its "amazing food," making it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers seeking both quality and creativity.

A photo of Saffire Restaurant restaurant

9. Saffire Restaurant

3.8

Excellent(118)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 1 time today

The bold flavors of Saffire's seasonally inspired menu reflect a belief in "the cuisine of today," healthy, eclectic, imaginative, unrestricted by ethnic boundaries...always evolving. Our chef elevates fresh, organic, carefully chosen ingredients above mere quality...to culinary artistry. The atmosphere at Saffire restaurant and lounge is casually sophisticated, yet warm and welcoming.

A photo of Burwell's Stone Fire Grill restaurant

10. Burwell's Stone Fire Grill

4.8

Exceptional(3630)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston

Booked 35 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, Burwell's Stone Fire Grill is a true gem for seafood aficionados. Renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability, this restaurant offers an authentic taste of the ocean with its locally sourced ingredients. Diners rave about the freshness and flavor, with one delighted guest exclaiming, "The grouper was delicious!" The attention to detail in every dish is evident, as the seafood is skillfully prepared to highlight its natural taste. Whether you are a local or a visitor, Burwell’s promises a memorable dining experience that celebrates the very best of seafood cuisine.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

E
ElaineVIP
Toronto / Ontario •29 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Excellent service, smaller food portions, vibrant but a bit noisy. Great for larger groups.
More info
Church and Union - CharlestonPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown Charleston
•
4.5
A
AkilkennyVIP
Kansas City / Kansas •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Nathan was a great waiter, he had great energy and was very helpful in helping us choose what to order! Everything was delicious
More info
The EstablishmentPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Downtown Charleston
•
4.8
J
Julio H
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined on 25 Dec 2024
If you’re ever in Charleston, this is a must-visit spot! The roasted mushrooms appetizer and the short ribs entrée were absolutely incredible—perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. My family and I also enjoyed an array of other dishes, including the unique Swordfish Schnitzel, the rich and tender Steak Au Poivre, and a perfectly creamy Spaghetti Carbonara. We ended our meal on a high note with the decadent “Some More” dessert. Everything was thoughtfully prepared and delicious. If I return to Charleston, this place will be at the top of my list!
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TempestPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Charleston
•
4.6
A
Alexandra
Orange County •7 reviews
5.0
Dined on 21 Dec 2024
It was our first time in Charleston and we stumbled upon this restaurant. We had a great meal and left happy and full. If you sit in the “bourbon” side you have to make sure to check out the “bubbles” side too! Great contrast while still being cohesive. My husband and I recommend! I had the Sunday Sauce special and it was *chefs kiss*!
More info
Bourbon N' BubblesPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown Charleston
•
4.2
T
Tasha
South Carolina •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 7 Dec 2024
Jeremy was an excellent server. Everyone enjoyed their entrees. Two of us enjoyed the braised short ribs, best I I've ever eaten!
More info
The RefugePrice: Moderate• American• Isle of Palms
•
4.3

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Sullivan's Island

Contemporary american

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Sullivan's Island

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10 restaurants available nearby

1. The Refuge

2. Church and Union - Charleston

3. Tempest

4. Bourbon N' Bubbles

5. The Establishment

6. Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett

7. Port of Call - Food & Brew

8. ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston

9. Saffire Restaurant

10. Burwell's Stone Fire Grill

See what locals rave about

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