The Ultimate Charleston Seafood Bucket List: Must-Try Dishes for Every Foodie
Charleston, South Carolina, is a city where history, culture, and world-class cuisine come together. Thanks to its coastal location, Charleston is home to some of the freshest and most flavorful seafood dishes in the country. If you’re visiting, these must-try seafood specialties should be at the top of your list.
Charleston’s Iconic Seafood Dishes
Oysters – The Lowcountry Classic
Charleston’s oyster season runs from September through April (any month with an “R” is prime time). Enjoy them raw, roasted, fried, or in a hearty oyster stew. Don’t leave without trying an oyster shooter—a local favorite.
Soft Shell Crabs – A Seasonal Delicacy
Only available March through June, soft shell crabs are a true treat. These crabs are eaten whole—fried, grilled, or sautéed—delivering an irresistible crunch with a tender, briny bite.
Grouper & Mahi-Mahi – The Fresh Catch
Charleston’s menus feature local, flaky white fish like grouper and mahi-mahi, often grilled, blackened, or pan-seared with Lowcountry flavors. A fresh seafood platter is never complete without them.
She Crab Soup – A Charleston Signature
This rich, creamy bisque made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a splash of sherry is one of Charleston’s most iconic dishes. If there’s one thing that locals and visitors agree on—it’s that She Crab Soup is a must-try.
Shrimp & Grits – The Ultimate Comfort Food
A dish that defines Southern cuisine, Shrimp & Grits combines buttery, stone-ground grits with perfectly seasoned shrimp in a savory sauce. Whether it’s a brunch staple or a dinner favorite, this dish is an absolute bucket list must.
Lowcountry Boil – The Social Seafood Feast
Also known as Frogmore Stew, this dish brings people together with steaming piles of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes—all boiled in a flavorful, spicy broth. Eating with your hands is encouraged.
Your Charleston Seafood Adventure Starts Here
Each of these dishes offers a taste of Charleston’s coastal heritage, bringing together fresh flavors, expert preparation, and rich tradition. Whether you’re slurping oysters by the water, digging into a bowl of She Crab Soup, or enjoying a Lowcountry Boil with friends, these dishes belong on every foodie’s Charleston bucket list. Book a Charleston Culinary Tour to experience the best of Charleston!