Best Upscale American Restaurants in Charleston | Upscale American Food

9 restaurants in Best Upscale American Restaurants in Charleston | Upscale American Food

• Dem 2 Brothers & A Grill — American · rated 5/5: The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating scent of hickory smoke and caramelized sugar, drawing diners into a soulful space where the grill is the undisputed heart of the home. Succulent ribs fall effortlessly from the bone, glazed in a signature "sweet heat" sauce that dances on the palate alongside classic, comforting sides that taste of tradition and backyard celebrations. It is a vibrant, unpretentious sanctuary of flavor where every charred edge and tender bite tells a story of passion, smoke, and the simple joy of a shared feast.
• Ellen's Ice Cream — American · rated 5/5: Ellen’s Ice Cream invites guests into a bright, cheerful space where the nostalgic charm of a classic creamery meets the vibrant, crisp flavors of a modern garden kitchen. Sun-drenched tables provide the perfect backdrop for savoring nourishing Buddha bowls and hearty wraps bursting with colorful vegetables and aromatic curried proteins. It is a neighborhood sanctuary where wholesome, hand-crafted salads and refreshing treats come together, offering a balanced dining experience that feels both indulgent and revitalizing.
• Taylor Books Cafe — American · rated 3/5: Tucked within the shelves of a beloved independent bookstore, this charming cafe invites guests to linger amidst the comforting scent of freshly ground espresso and well-worn pages. Sunlight streams through large windows onto exposed brick walls as patrons enjoy buttery, house-made scones and artisanal brews, creating a soulful sanctuary where the warmth of a perfectly frothed latte meets the quiet inspiration of a gallery-lined space.
• Sugar Pie Bakery — American · rated 3/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of caramelizing sugar and buttery, golden-brown crusts cooling on the counter. This charming neighborhood gem transforms simple ingredients into nostalgic masterpieces, offering everything from flaky, fruit-filled pies with intricate lattice tops to decadent, cream-piled tarts. It is a whimsical retreat where every bite feels like a sweet, handcrafted embrace from a simpler time.
• Barone Brother's Pizza — Italian: The air at Barone Brother's Pizza is thick with the irresistible scent of toasted crust and bubbling mozzarella, drawing neighbors into a space where the classic American pizza parlor tradition thrives. Whether you’re craving the tangy zest of BBQ chicken or the savory comfort of hearty meatballs atop a golden, hand-stretched base, each pie arrives as a steaming masterpiece of melted cheese and vibrant toppings.
• Donut Connection — American: This nostalgic neighborhood sanctuary welcomes the morning with the irresistible scent of warm yeast and sweet, shimmering glazes. Behind the glass, a colorful mosaic of hand-crafted donuts—from pillowy crullers to rich, chocolate-dipped rings—invites guests to linger over a steaming cup of coffee in a space that feels like a timeless community cornerstone.
• Hale House — American: Hale House invites guests into a spirited social atmosphere where the air is filled with the savory aroma of bourbon-glazed shrimp and the satisfying crunch of golden, house-made pork rinds. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic comfort and refined coastal flair, serving up everything from zesty buffalo chicken wontons to delicate angel hair crab cakes that celebrate bold, shareable flavors. It is a warm, energetic retreat where every plate is designed for connection, making it the perfect backdrop for lively evenings spent lingering over inventive bites.
• The Block Restaurant and Wine Cellar — American: Exposed textures and soft, amber lighting set the stage at this sophisticated retreat, where the earthy aroma of a curated wine cellar meets the enticing scent of fire-kissed cuisine. The kitchen transforms premium ingredients into artful, soul-warming plates that find their perfect counterparts in an extensive collection of global vintages, inviting guests to linger over every nuanced sip and bite. It is a place of quiet indulgence and culinary precision, where the gentle hum of conversation and the rhythmic clink of glassware create a timeless backdrop for an unforgettable evening.
• Books and Brews — American: Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves create an intimate labyrinth in this whimsical sanctuary, where the nostalgic scent of aged paper blends seamlessly with the rich aroma of artisanal coffee and craft hops. Whether tucked into a velvet armchair with a rare find or sharing a flight of local brews at the communal table, visitors find a soulful retreat that celebrates the quiet joy of a good story and a perfectly poured glass.