The Resy Guide to the Best Outdoor Tables in Charleston

Tucked into the Emeline Hotel on a busy corner of Market Street, Frannie and the Fox feels more like a European cafe that invites one to linger than anywhere you might dine in a flash to avoid the crowd. That’s in part due to two things: one, chef Tim Morton’s approachable and well-executed menu of Italian dishes inspired by the Lowcountry seasons; and two, a stellar courtyard.

Surrounded on three sides by the hotel, and the fourth by the restaurant itself, it recalls a restaurant on some quaint town square with its cafe tables, and invites a little luxury into the serene scene with a fireplace for chilly evenings. 

Dining Status: Open for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as takeout.

It doesn’t get more traditionally Lowcountry than this seafood restaurant, on its own hammock island between James Island and Folly Beach. Beyond the local oysters, fried seafood platters, and cold beer and cocktails, this James Beard America’s Classic restaurant also has a view plucked from a painting: a bend of the Folly River that captures a golden light on its shifting tides as the sun sets over the marsh each night. Sunset is a prime time for visitors at this dinner-only restaurant however, so if it’s a front window seat or outside dining you desire, plan ahead. It’s first come, first served in line.

Dining Status: Open for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as order-in-person takeout.

Architectural Digest named its courtyard as one of the most beautifully designed outdoor dining experiences in America, and we couldn’t agree more. Although it’s mere steps from the hustle and bustle of King Street, its serene, dappled shade provided by a large tree — and proximity to downtown parking! — make it a favorite of locals all year round, especially if an Italian aperitivo is in order before the linguine with littleneck clams arrives.

Dining Status: Open for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as takeout.

There are multiple rooftop bars and restaurants to enjoy in Charleston, but if you’re looking for one that is truly more than just a view, then we suggest you follow our lead, and head to the Watch, atop the Restoration Hotel. First, they wouldn’t dream of using extruded plastic cups for cocktails, like some rooftop spots do. Second, there are delicious drinks for those proper glasses — including the 75 Wentworth with Pimms, Prosecco, gin, and thyme — as well as full breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner menus, the latter of which includes a solid selection of snacks and small plates perfect for sharing. (Who likes cheeseburger sliders?)

And third? There’s a view to the west of the city for all those sunset selfies, which you may forget to take because you’re having too much fun sharing small plates and sipping.   

Dining Status: Open for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as takeout.

The crowd shifts from restaurant to bar as evening progresses at this James Island outpost, known for its good beer selection and plenty of snacking options, including a house favorite of fried mac and cheese. But any weeknight will find plenty of families in the Bull’s “backyard,” with children meandering through the wide open space with picnic tables under string lights while mom and dad catch up over cold ones.

Inspired by the laid-back style that is James Island, it’s still anything but lackadaisical about its beer selection; the craft bottle and can selection is organized by style on the menu. 

Dining Status: Open for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as takeout.

This restaurant is part of a collection of buildings that make up Zero George, one of the city’s most chic boutique hotels, but anyone can feel like a celebrity with an evening in its courtyard. Chef Vinson Petrillo wows with his seasonal tasting menus, tucking delicious flavors behind gastronomic sleights of hand — everything from foie gras “peanuts” filled with passionfruit, to wood-coal cooked scallops hiding under hats of mango vanilla crisps.

With such a “sit back and enjoy the ride” kind of meal, the setting matters even more, and this one, tucked under palmetto trees in a private courtyard, is elegantly unforgettable. 

Dining Status: Open for indoor and outdoor dining.

The downstairs little brother to upscale Coda Del Pesce, this oyster bar has coveted ocean views from its casual deck, which is so casual that if you’re walking up from the ocean, you’re still more than welcome, sand and sweat included.

Binky’s has a selection of fresh seafood, and also compelling comfort food, including a spaghetti sandwich and Buffalo chicken dumplings for those who worked up an appetite playing frisbee or playing in the surf. And for those interested in liquid refreshment, the bar doesn’t play around, serving a selection of boilermakers or a fish bowl that serves four and includes six flavored vodkas.  

Dining Status: Open for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as takeout.