Romantic Dining in Charleston, South Carolina

The historic city of Charleston, South Carolina is not only beautiful and romantic, but it is home to an amazing number of quality restaurants. The talented chefs, interesting venues, and array of exceptional local ingredients come together to make Charleston a foodie's dream. Choosing a restaurant on an average evening can be a challenge but deciding on the perfect place for a romantic dinner can be daunting. The selections presented here represent a few of the romantic restaurants the city has to offer that will make a perfect setting for your Valentines' Day celebration.

Eighty-two Queen

www.82queen.com

82 Queen Street

Charleston, SC

(843) 723-7591

Eighty-two Queen is located in a heart of the French Quarter in the historic district between Meeting and King Streets. The restaurant is made up of various dining rooms that are located throughout the two-story main house, a guesthouse, and an outdoor terrace and greenhouse. If you are planning an extra special meal, ask for a table in the Veranda Room in the Guest House when you call for reservations. Peppered with Lowcountry favorites such as She Crab Soup, Frogmore Stew, and Carolina Quail and the menu also includes prime cuts of beef, grilled seafood, and roasted pork dishes. 82 Queen has an extensive wine list with something to please just about everyone. Open every day of the year for lunch and dinner and for brunch on Sunday, 82 Queen is an excellent choice for your perfect romantic date.

Fulton Five

5 Fulton Street

Charleston, SC

(843) 853-5555

Fulton Five specializes in Northern Italian cuisine and is known for its excellent risottos and pastas. The restaurant is tucked away on a small street off lower King Street and has a decidedly European feel. The menu includes daily specials that in addition to the expected pasta dishes often include fresh fish entrees such as trout and red snapper. As marvelous as the fish and beef entrees are, the ravioli dishes are especially delightful. The small space has been lovingly appointed and the service staff is knowledgeable and attentive without being over-bearing, which combined with the marvelous food, makes every meal at Fulton Five is a romantic one. Due to the limited number of tables and the popularity of the restaurant, reservations are strongly suggested. Jackets are required for gentlemen.

High Cotton

www.mavericksouthernkitchens.com/highcotton

199 East Bay Street

Charleston, SC

(843) 724-3815

Situated on East Bay Street just two blocks down from the City Market, High Cotton is a jewel in crown of Charleston eateries. The space is true Charleston with brick walls and heart pine floors that gives the feeling of history and grandeur. The menu is a mix of local dishes, fresh seafood, and exceptional beef. From the cream of cauliflower soup with crab meat to beef Carpaccio to Bourbon glazed local pork chops, High Cotton has something for everyone. The service is always professional yet never stuffy. Reservations for dinner seating are recommended but come a little early and enjoy a drink at the popular High Cotton Bar. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list and a to-die-for dessert list.

These are a few of the dozens of excellent restaurants available in the downtown historic district of Charleston. Unique settings, well thought out menus, and outstanding service are the hallmarks for dining in one of the most romantic cities in the country.

Bon appetite.

Sources:

www.82queen.com

www.mavericksouthernkitchens.com/highcotton

Personal experience