10 Best Shem Creek Restaurants for Waterfront Dining
If you’ve ever strolled down Shem Creek, you’d know that the vibrant hum of culinary magic dances in the air. But with so many options, where do you even start?
Fear not, fellow foodie! We’re about to serve up a feast of insight in bite-sized portions.
Dive into this sizzling list of the best Shem Creek restaurants and discover the flavors that have locals and travelers coming back for seconds, thirds, and… well, you get the idea!
With the clock ticking and your stomach growling louder by the second, don’t you dare wait another moment. Ready to set your food adventure in motion? Let’s go!
1. NICO Oysters + Seafood
Oh, seafood lovers, have we got a treat for you! NICO is the place to be when it comes to devouring fresh oysters and more. This upbeat oyster bar is nestled in the lovely Mount Pleasant waterfront, where it serves an enticing mix of French cuisine.
Their dishes are prepared with care in a wood-fired oven, creating a unique and smoky twist on your favorite seafood classics.
Is your mouth watering yet? Let’s go over some of the legendary dishes that have customers coming back for more.
First stop, the Roasted Oysters! These bad boys are a hit among patrons, and you’ll soon find out why. But don’t stop there; the Plateaux Royal Seafood Platter with crab legs, whole lobster and more is a must-try.
The Lobster Roll is also a fan favorite, boasting heavenly flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.
2. Topsail Restaurant
If you’re craving some delicious seafood with a patio view, then Topsail Restaurant is the spot for you. Nestled in the heart of Mount Pleasant, this restaurant captures the essence of coastal dining.
You’ll be blown away by the selection of customer favorites – their Maine Lobster Tail will have you hooked, while the fried oysters might just reel you in for more.
Once you’ve had a bite of those plump scallops, you’ll wish you’d discovered this place sooner.
Rumor has it that the key lime pie here is so heavenly, it’ll make even the most hardened pirate weep with joy. When you’re charting your culinary course, don’t forget to save some room for dessert!
3. Vickery’s Bar & Grill
Snug on three sides by water, Vickery’s Bar & Grill hosts the perfect setting for a fun and delicious meal. Breathtaking sunset views and good vibes envelop the air at this lively establishment.
But it’s not just the scenery that’ll sweep you off your feet. The menu at Vickery’s is packed with mouthwatering dishes that’ll make your heart race.
Some popular choices include the Seared Lump Crab Cakes, the zesty Jerk Chicken, and the mouth-watering Seafood Jambalaya.
Be sure to try their Fried Green Tomato Tower– an amazing appetizer that’ll make you feel like you’ve found your culinary soulmate!
4. Tavern & Table
Oh, so you’re exploring Shem Creek restaurants, are you? Well, say hello to Tavern & Table, a culinary haven that’ll make you swoon!
This charming spot is known for its picturesque waterfront deck, perfect for relaxing with friends or a romantic date night.
Feast your eyes on Southern specialties like Pimento Cheese, Shrimp and Grits, and Burnt End Mac n cheese. And if that isn’t tempting enough, their Peel and Eat Shrimp is a mouthwatering finale.
5. The Mill Street Tavern
Nestled along the charming banks of Shem Creek, The Mill Street Tavern offers scenic marsh views, sights of the magnificent Ravenel Bridge, and boats gently sailing by.
Picture yourself sitting alfresco, soaking in the rich atmosphere at this unique eatery that pays homage to the world’s first tidal mill.
Tango with customer favorites like the Tavern Burger or the ever-popular Raw Oysters with cocktail sauce and horseradish. Don’t miss the savory Shrimp and Grits, which has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many visitors!
Insider’s tip: try to snag a seat on the deck during sunset – the view is breathtaking. Oh and don’t forget about their $1 oysters from 4 -5pm daily!
6. The Shelter Kitchen And Bar
Let’s talk about a delightful spot called The Shelter Kitchen And Bar, nestled in the heart of Mt. Pleasant’s Shem Creek area.
This cozy restaurant is an all-time favorite, thanks to its mouth-watering dishes, friendly atmosphere, and scenic views.
Now, if you’re curious about what to order, you’re in luck! Their menu has an incredible selection of American and Southern fare, with a modern twist.
For example, patrons can’t stop raving about their hush puppies, scrumptious shrimp and grits, and the all-time classic: Nashville Oyster Po’Boy.
While you’re there, make sure to try the Bloody Mary bar at weekend brunch, a hidden gem to spice up your meal.
The Shelter Kitchen And Bar is not just a place to dine; it’s a place to gather and connect!
7. Water’s Edge
Let’s dive into the magical world of Water’s Edge, a fantastic restaurant on Shem Creek, where downtown dining meets stunning waterfront views.
You won’t want to miss savoring the local seafood delicacies while watching boats unload their daily catches!
Cozy up inside or embrace al fresco dining with fresh seafood dishes, rumored to be the finest on Shem Creek.
If you’re feeling fancy, go for Chef specialties like the 8 oz beef tenderloin or Atlantic Black Grouper that frequently impress customers.
And don’t you dare leave without enjoying a delightful dessert like the southern specialty Key Lime Pie – trust us, they’re worth the calories!
Pro tip: don’t skip a stroll on the scenic dock after devouring your meal.
8. Shem Creek Crab House
Dive into a seafood paradise at Shem Creek Crab House. Located in picturesque Shem Creek, this charming restaurant offers an unbeatable ambiance that’s as refreshing as the sea breeze it’s surrounded by.
Its waterfront setting allows you to take in stunning sunsets while enjoying delectable seafood treats.
Customers rave about their Shrimp Po’ Boy, Lowcountry Crab Cakes, The Crab House Crab Pot and even their painkiller rum drinks. Talk about a match made in culinary heaven!
Their diverse menu caters to seafood lovers of all kinds, but these favorites are definitely worth trying.
9. Red’s Ice House
Get ready to feast your eyes on a waterfront paradise at Red’s Ice House on historic Shem Creek. With breathtaking views and a laid-back atmosphere, this spot is perfect for enjoying a cold beer and fresh local seafood.
Their True South Pimento Cheese, Seafood Platters and Lobster Mac and Cheese are fan favorites. But don’t stop there, dive into their steaming Carolina Peel n’ Eats and Snow Crab Clusters while you’re at it.
Red’s Ice House isn’t just about food and drinks. It’s also a prime spot for witnessing Lowcountry wildlife and watching those mesmerizing Charleston sunsets!
10. Saltwater Cowboys
Get ready to sway your anchor at Saltwater Cowboys, a perfect pitstop offering a blend of delectable local seafood and mouthwatering BBQ.
At Saltwater Cowboys, you’ll find customer favorites like Shrimp Po’ Boy, Grouper Fingers, and Southern Shrimp and Grits that keep people coming back for more.
Don’t just come for the food; enjoy the casual ambiance, too, featuring some of Charleston’s most scenic views.
They also offer a famous Gazebo Bar where you can bask in the refreshing sea breeze while sipping on your favorite drinks.
Final Thoughts
Well, foodies and flavor-chasers, we’ve journeyed together through the mouthwatering maze of Shem Creek’s finest dining spots – and oh, what an adventure it’s been!
From savory seafood delights that would make a mermaid swoon, to those tucked-away treasures that serve comfort food like no other, it’s been a culinary carnival.
And while you might be thinking of loosening a belt notch or two, hold onto your forks because next up, we’re elevating your taste buds – quite literally.
Want nibbles and drinks with a view? Say no more; head on over to our virtual tour of the best rooftop bars in Charleston!
