Bars and Cafes in Historic Downtown (Charleston)

Cumberlands Pub & Grill

Cumberlands is the kind of place you'll want to go when you just want to hang out with the locals and don't have to worry about getting all dressed up. Blue jeans are the average attire here and the pub is very popular with 20-somethings and local downtown workers. There is live music featured most nights, with bands ranging from blues to rock-and-roll or even club dance mix. The pub also highlights some of the more popular Charleston groups. Performances vary, so it is wise to call ahead for the schedule.

Charlie's Little Bar

A busy buzzing bar loved by the yuppie crowd. Comfortable place, which attracts the intellectual sorts. Stimulating music too.

AC's Bar & Grill

Relaxed and easygoing—that's how this bar can be described. Named after its previous owners, it is a busy, noisy, smoker's joint that's open till the wee hours. Even given its rebellious ambiance, the interiors can be a shock—a picture of Pope John Paul II adorns the walls! Through wisps of swirling smoke, you will spot an old school Frogger arcade game that is quite addictive, if you can get away from the regulars' banter and rugged stories. Sip the USD2 beer and munch on deep fried snacks. The bartenders are said to be the best in town. Quite a spot for an ol' sailor, or a band of buddies!

FIG

Visit one of the most comfortable and affordable restaurants in Charleston—FIG, which is an abbreviation for their slogan, "Food is Good"! This eatery has simplistic interiors, community tables, and a bar serving up fresh farm dishes and excellent sea-food. The menu changes often, but the quality and quantity are consistent. Try the Hakurei turnips, pork shank, and cauliflower with pancetta—everything tastes heavenly! You'll be blessing the chef when you leave!

McCrady's

Housed in a building that dates back to 1788, McCrady's Restaurant in Charleston stands at a quiet corner in the Historic Downtown neighborhood. This sophisticated eatery serves up excellent Progressive American cuisine in inimitable style. The interior is a fusion of both traditional and contemporary essentials, boasting of skylights, leather chairs, bluestone tiles and a bar. The food is prepared from the finest fresh ingredients, and the service is efficient. So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit today!

Shoney's

This cafe serves quick-bites like sandwiches, burgers, desserts and beverages. Located in the Historic Downtown District of Charleston, Shoney's is what fast-food is all about—a great place to hang out with the gang, reasonable prices and great food—try it!

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant

The atmosphere at Wasabi is island-chic, with lots of bamboo and huge paper umbrellas, like the kind you stick in a tropical drink. A long sushi bar runs the entire length of a wall so you can watch chefs prepare your sushi in front of you. Wasabi has won the "Best Sushi" category from the Charleston City Paper numerous times and after dining there it's easy to see why. Rolls are prepared with fresh ingredients in innovative ways. However, sushi and rolls are only a part of the menu. You can also choose from appetizers and a full list of entrees prepared on the hibachi which include filet mignon, chicken, shrimp, scallop, or salmon, as well as a number of teriyaki and tempura dishes. At night, the restaurant turns into a club with DJs, live music, and free-flowing drinks.

Fulton Five

You will find Fulton Five covered in vines and tucked in a small alley off of King Street. Dinner here is usually reserved for a special occasion. The atmosphere is very romantic--think Lady and the Tramp. Pale green walls and candlelight reflecting off of brass accents only add to the charm. The food is mostly Italian, and the menu varies according to season. Dishes like mushroom and goat cheese crostini, pan-seared red snapper, and filet mignon are all impeccably prepared. However, the wonderful atmosphere and food do not come cheap, so bring your credit card. Reservations are highly recommended.

Peninsula Grill

Located in the historic Planters Inn across from the Old City Market, this four-star restaurant prides itself on outstanding, elegant cuisine, traditional Charleston charm and ambiance and attentive service. House specialties include Wild Mushroom Grits with Lowcountry Stew and Bourbon Grilled Jumbo Shrimp. Chef Robert Carter is well known for his creative menus and diners will find it difficult to choose from numerous options. A popular dining establishment with locals and visitors, Peninsula Grill has been awarded accolades as one of America's top 50 hotel restaurants in Charleston. Reservations are highly recommended.

Upstairs at Mistral

Located above the French bistro called Mistral, Upstairs at Mistral is a small L-shaped bar that has become the watering hole for the city's young crowd. The place is owned by Peter and Francoise Duffy who also own the ground floor bistro. Originally an unused space, this red-brick walled hang out has turned into a music lovers paradise. Sit by the window-side table and sip on a chilled beer, while enjoying the live Jazz music playing in the background. The place is also rented out for private functions and parties.

Tsunami

Rounding out the list of sushi joints in Charleston is Tsunami. With other branches in Mount Pleasant and Columbia (and more to come), Tsunami is thriving. Appetizers, hibachi and katsu entrees, udon noodles, and tempura are a few things you can expect to find on the menu, as well as long list of nigiri and rolls. The trendy atmosphere, quality food (if a bit overpriced), and emphasis on drinks (at night the place becomes a club) all have a hand in Tsunami's success. Come for the food, stay for the live music. The club is open until 2:00am.

Hank's Seafood Restaurant

Hank's Seafood Restaurant is located in a refurbished warehouse which is nearly 100 years old! It overlooks the Historic Downtown area of Charleston and serves seafood delights. It also has an old saloon-style bar, and an exhibition raw bar where you can taste shellfish. Hank's is only open for dinner and is hugely popular, so make sure to reserve your table in advance to avoid disappointment. The attire is business-casual, so don't wear flip-flops or shorts!