5 Locally Owned Bistros in Charleston, South Carolina

Known for outstanding cuisine of all types, Charleston, South Carolina has an abundance of small, locally owned restaurants. Whether you are in historic downtown Charleston or on one of the surrounding barrier islands, there are plenty of local bistros to choose from. The bistros listed here combine innovative menu options with fresh local ingredients.

Med Bistro - Mediterranean Bistro in West Ashley

90 Folly Road
South Windermere Plaza
Charleston, SC
843-766-0323
Med Bistro Website

This is a go-to bistro for Charleston locals. The atmosphere is inviting, casual and friendly. In business for more than 50 years, Med Bistro has created a well-honed niche for themselves. The bistro is decorated with oversized oil paintings from local artists. Local musicians play laid-back live music on weekend evenings. In fact, everything about the restaurant is relaxed.

The menu at Med Bistro is diverse, with interesting daily specials available. The black bean soup is excellent and my husband raves about the burgers, served with homemade potato chips. Their vegetarian plate changes daily, depending on what local produce is in season. The veggie plate is good but heavy on the starches for my taste; it's always anchored with a generous serving of risotto. The chef will prepare special orders if asked.

Free parking
Handicap accessible
Casual attire

Hours of Operation:
Open Daily - 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sunday Brunch - 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Wild Olive Cucina Italiana - Italian Bistro on John's Island

2867 Maybank Highway
John's Island, SC
843-737-4177
Wild Olive Website

For rustic Italian cuisine in sleek yet comfortable surroundings, Wild Olive is the place. Nestled into a beautiful location, this Italian bistro is flanked by ancient oak trees. There are herb gardens and olive trees lining the path to the front door. Inside, the restaurant is divided into 3 distinct areas, each with its own cozy ambiance.

Wild Olive skillfully combines fresh, local ingredients with imported Italian wares. Furthermore, they make in-house pasta and salami. The baked rigatoni with marinara, ricotta, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, fried eggplant, and arugula is wonderful. My neighbors are wild about the tagliatelle alla Bolognese. Wild Olive offers a variety of beef, chicken, fish and pork dishes in addition to traditional pasta selections.

Free parking
Handicap accessible
Smart casual attire
Dinner only

Hours of Operation:
Sunday - Thursday 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Bar menu available from 4:00 p.m. until close

39 Rue de Jean - French Bistro in Downtown Charleston

39 John Street
Charleston, SC
843-722-8881
39 Rue de Jean Website

Reminiscent of a lively Parisian bistro, 39 Rue de Jean has a chic French vibe. Located in downtown Charleston, Rue de Jean has earned the title of Best French Restaurant by the Charleston City Paper for many years running.

With a focus on authentic French brasserie cuisine, the menu is extensive (I've heard some people say the menu is intimidating). The Daily Plats du Jour is a popular selection, as are the Mussels (Moules). There are six different preparations for the Mussels and I've tried them all (except the bacon blue cheese). It's my favorite dish at Rue de Jean. Served with traditional crusty French baguettes, this is classic French bistro fare

Rue de Jean offers sushi in addition to French food. The presentation of the sushi plates is stunning but this locally owned bistro is not my first choice for eating sushi in Charleston.

Parking in city garage
Smart casual attire
Handicap accessible

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., Bar open until 2:00 a.m.
Sunday Brasserie Brunch 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., limited menu until 5:30
Sunday Dinner 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Bar open until 12:00 a.m.

Mondo's Delite - Italian Bistro on James Island

915 Folly Rd
Charleston, SC 29412
843-795-8400
Mondo's Delite Website

Nothing on the outside of this bistro tells the real story. Located at the end of a shopping mall, Mondo's exterior gives the impression of a generic, microwave-spaghetti joint. But as the cliché goes, don't judge a book ... This locally owned restaurant is fabulous. Inside, the décor is warm and unassuming and the food is consistently delicious.

Their homemade foccacia bread is addicting, whether dipped in extra virgin olive oil or enjoyed as a sandwich. Many locals go to Mondo's for their nightly specials but I can't force myself to order anything other than the Eggplant Parmesan. The best. My husband always enjoys the Shrimp Picatta. Every time we go we say we're going to try something different, and then we order our favorites anyway. According to my friends, everything on the menu is outstanding.

Free parking
Handicap accessible
Casual attire

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Saturday Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Monday - Saturday Dinner 5:00 p.m. until (call for last seating)

Hominy Grill - Classic Southern Bistro on the Charleston Peninsula

207 Rutledge Ave
Charleston, SC
843-937-0930
Hominy Grill Website

A list highlighting small, locally owned restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina would be incomplete without mentioning Hominy Grill. A media darling, Hominy Grill is true to its name and its roots. Here you'll get fresh, locally raised ingredients cooked in a creative yet traditional southern manner.

Hominy Grill manages to feel hip and old timey. In a narrow room full of closely placed tables, the unfussy restaurant has a retro southern feel. During peak dining hours, the noise level can get high.

Celebrated for classic shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes, Hominy Grill deserves the national recognition it receives. Nothing comes from a can; the food is prepared from scratch. The seafood selection is fresh and inventive and the pork chops are a local favorite. I recommend finishing off your meal with a generous slice of the buttermilk pie.

Free parking
Handicap accessible
Casual attire

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

For menu options and price ranges, visit the local bistro websites embedded within the article.

Sources:
Personal Experience
Individual Bistro Websites

To learn more about the gastronomic delights in Charleston, South Carolina:
Best Wine Bars in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina
Most Romantic Fine Dining Restaurants in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina
3 Best Bars in Charleston, South Carolina with a View
Top 3 Locally Owned Coffee Shops in Charleston, South Carolina