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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in James Island

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Church and Union - Charleston restaurant
1. Church and Union - Charleston
4.5
Awesome(8500)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 132 times today
Church and Union in Downtown Charleston is a standout destination for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine. The creativity of Executive Chef Doug Watson and Bravo Top Chef Alum Chef Partner Jamie Lynch shines through in a menu that is as inventive as it is delicious. Guests rave about the "Holy Sh*t Breakfast" and the "delicious and beautifully presented" cookie dough ganache, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation. The ambiance, described as "unique" and "very cool with a lot of history," complements the modern-American dishes served. With its vibrant setting and consistently "amazing service," Church and Union is highly recommended as a must-visit for an exceptional dining experience.
A photo of Bearcat restaurant
2. Bearcat
4.6
Exceptional(240)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Ashley
Booked 9 times today
Bearcat in West Ashley, Charleston, is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike. Praised as a "neighborhood gem," this Wine Bar stands out not only for its inviting ambiance but also for its exceptional wine pairings that perfectly complement the innovative American cuisine. Patrons rave about the "distinctive yet harmonious flavors" and the sheer creativity that infuses both the food and the wine selections. With glowing reviews like, "the tasting menu with paired wines was tremendous," it's clear that Bearcat offers a sophisticated yet approachable wine experience that enhances each dish, making every visit unforgettable. Whether you're seated at the lively bar area or enjoying the quieter dining space, Bearcat promises an enriching experience that's bound to impress any wine lover.
A photo of Bourbon N' Bubbles restaurant
3. Bourbon N' Bubbles
4.1
Excellent(1324)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 15 times today
Bourbon N' Bubbles, nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, offers a quintessential Contemporary American dining experience that is both luxurious and inviting. This restaurant is celebrated for its exquisite blend of upscale ambiance and innovative American cuisine with a twist. Patrons rave about the "amazing food" and "great drinks," particularly recommending the A5 Wagyu Spinalis and the cornbread appetizer. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, as one reviewer highlighted, the food and service "exceeded all expectations." Whether it's for a special brunch or a memorable dinner, Bourbon N' Bubbles stands out as a "must-visit" in Charleston for anyone seeking a top-tier Contemporary American meal in a vibrant setting.
A photo of Tempest restaurant
4. Tempest
4.7
Exceptional(2351)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 16 times today
Tempest, hailed as USA Today's 10Best #1 New Restaurant, is a gem nestled on historic Market Street in Downtown Charleston. It's not just the location that captivates but also the exceptional seafood that stands out. Chef Adam Hodgson, alongside Bravo Top Chef Alum Jamie Lynch, crafts a menu that is both innovative and reflective of the region's bounty. The restaurant's raw and roast offerings are a testament to their commitment to quality, with dishes like the Tempest Tower leaving diners in awe. Glowing reviews consistently praise the "out of this world" roasted oysters and shrimp, and the "incredible" flounder, affirming Tempest's status as a pinnacle of seafood excellence. As one reviewer puts it, this place turns dining into "a wonderful southern experience," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and meticulously prepared seafood.
A photo of Coterie- Charleston restaurant
5. Coterie- Charleston
4.2
Awesome(396)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 7 times today
At Coterie in Downtown Charleston, the essence of Contemporary American cuisine is celebrated with a passion for flavor and a keen sense of community. This hidden gem offers an eclectic mix of dishes that capture the vibrant spirit of American dining, with menu items that cater to every palate, including standout dishes like the local fish curry and innovative vegetarian options. Praised for its “electric choices and taste," every meal at Coterie is a delightful surprise, described by patrons as “cooked to perfection.” The charming patio setting enhances the dining experience, making every visit memorable. As one diner raved, it's a place where the “flavors popped and the dishes were all so beautifully presented,” making Coterie a must-visit for those seeking the best in Contemporary American cuisine in Charleston.
A photo of Saffire Restaurant restaurant
6. Saffire Restaurant
3.8
Excellent(117)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
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 The Establishment restaurant
7. The Establishment
4.8
Exceptional(2628)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 38 times today
The Establishment in Downtown Charleston is a gem for seafood lovers, consistently lauded for its commitment to freshness and local sourcing. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one admirer noting, "Every time I come here I think it can’t get better and it does." The menu, crafted by Chef Elliott Howells, is a testament to refined and balanced culinary art, where dishes like the lemon poached grouper and the moqueca de peixe receive high praise. The restaurant also features the highly recommended crab gnudi, described as "little puffs of heaven." With its top-notch service and a vibrant atmosphere enhanced by live music, The Establishment stands out as a beacon of seafood excellence in Charleston’s historic French Quarter.
A photo of Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett restaurant
8. Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett
4.6
Exceptional(1104)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 9 times today
Gabrielle Charleston in Hotel Bennett epitomizes the essence of South Carolina cuisine through its dedication to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and authentic regional flavors. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Charleston, this restaurant offers a culinary journey that highlights the best of the South. Diners rave about the "excellent She Crab Soup" and "standout Scallops," which are just a taste of the boldly flavored dishes that grace the menu. The vibrant atmosphere and historic views of Marion Square complement the dining experience, making every meal memorable. As one diner put it, Gabrielle Charleston is where "the food and ambience were outstanding," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of South Carolina.
A photo of Port of Call - Food & Brew restaurant
9. Port of Call - Food & Brew
4.5
Awesome(14)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Port of Call - Food & Brew in Downtown Charleston is a beacon of American cuisine that expertly blends Southern classics with innovative twists. The restaurant's large and versatile menu receives glowing reviews for dishes like the "out of this world brunch burger" and "phenomenal bok choy," showcasing its commitment to quality and creativity. Guests rave about the "spectacular" atmosphere and "impeccable" service, highlighting staff members like Fagan, who is frequently mentioned for his attentiveness. Combining coastal charm with culinary excellence, Port of Call is celebrated for making each dining experience memorable, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and exceptional American fare.
A photo of ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston restaurant
10. ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston
4.4
Awesome(1331)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Charleston
Booked 1 time today
ÉLEVÉ at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful coastal twist. Praised for its "exquisite food" and "unique marry of flavors," ÉLEVÉ offers an experience where classic French culinary techniques meet Southern heritage, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Guests rave about the "best omelette ever" and the "delicious" truffle infused fries, highlighting Chef Mahdi Naim's expertise in elevating simple ingredients to artful culinary creations. With its "elegant, vibrant" ambiance and stunning rooftop views, ÉLEVÉ is not just a meal, but a memorable dining adventure praised as a "hidden gem" in Charleston.
‘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.

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