8 South Carolina Restaurants Known For Shrimp And Grits
Shrimp and grits stands as one of the most defining dishes of the South, embodying the flavors and traditions of coastal life. Creamy, stone-ground grits provide the foundation, while freshly caught shrimp bring the taste of nearby waters to the table.
In South Carolina, chefs transform this humble pairing into something remarkable, blending heritage techniques with modern flair.
From historic Charleston kitchens to roadside favorites and beachside dining rooms, each restaurant adds its own touch to a dish that has become both comfort food and cultural icon.
1. Husk (Charleston)
Located in a beautifully restored Victorian-era home, Husk celebrates Southern ingredients with care and precision.
Their shrimp and grits showcases heirloom corn varieties and fresh-caught local shrimp, often accompanied by seasonal vegetables and house-cured pork. The dish changes regularly based on what’s available from nearby waters and farms.
2. Poogan’s Porch (Charleston)
Named after a neighborhood dog who adopted the restaurant as his home, Poogan’s Porch serves comfort food with soul.
Poogan’s shrimp and grits feature plump shrimp in a rich gravy with sausage and bacon, a hearty version that has become a signature dish. Housed in a charming 1888 Victorian building, the restaurant offers this signature dish in a setting as authentic as the recipe itself.
3. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar (Charleston)
Housed in a converted 1940s naval building, Fleet Landing pairs waterfront views with Lowcountry classics. The shrimp and grits arrives topped with a flavorful tasso gravy that locals rave about.
While enjoying this coastal classic, diners can watch boats glide by on the harbor, creating a quintessential Charleston dining experience that engages all senses.
4. 82 Queen (Charleston)
Tucked within a series of connected historic buildings and courtyard spaces, 82 Queen feels like Charleston’s secret garden.
Their award-winning shrimp and grits combines stone-ground goodness with jumbo shrimp, applewood bacon, and garlic cream sauce. Enjoying this dish beneath the shade of a centuries-old magnolia makes for a memorable Lowcountry meal.
5. Magnolias (Charleston)
A pioneer of upscale Southern cuisine since 1990, Magnolias transformed how people view traditional Lowcountry dishes.
Their menu often reimagines shrimp and grits in creative ways, including a crispy appetizer version wrapped with collard greens and tasso ham. For purists, the classic version appears on their dinner menu, elevated with scallions, mushrooms and a light cream sauce that enhances without overwhelming.
6. Page’s Okra Grill (Mount Pleasant)
Don’t let the casual diner atmosphere fool you – locals know Page’s serves some of the most satisfying comfort food around.
Shrimp and grits arrives in generous portions with a Southern accent – blackened shrimp nestled on creamy grits with andouille sausage, peppers, and onions. The restaurant’s friendly vibe and reasonable prices make this a favorite spot for families seeking authentic Lowcountry flavor.
7. Bowens Island Restaurant (James Island)
Perched on marshland with stunning sunset views, this no-frills seafood joint has served locals since 1946. The shrimp for their rustic grits dish comes straight from nearby waters, often caught the same day they’re served.
The restaurant’s weathered walls covered in decades of graffiti tell stories of generations who’ve gathered here for simple, honest seafood prepared with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
8. Sea Captain’s House (Myrtle Beach)
What began as a seaside cottage in 1930 now stands as one of Myrtle Beach’s most beloved restaurants. Their shrimp and grits come with a unique twist: grits formed into a golden cake, topped with shrimp and cream sauce.
Ocean views complement each bite, making breakfast here a peaceful start to beach days or a soothing end to vacation evenings.
