Review ⋆ Small Plates and Big Flavors at The Grocery in Charleston

The Grocery in Charleston – a flavor-packed adventure with a market-inspired menu of shareable plates and hearty mains, friendly service, and a cozy vibe

Tucked just off King Street, The Grocery in Charleston delivers the eclectic menu and laid-back vibe you’d expect from a top foodie destination.

The menu: The restaurant’s menu takes a fun, market-style approach, organized into three columns: produce, seafood, and meat. Unlike traditional menus that separate dishes by appetizers, salads, and mains, here you’ll find a mix of smaller, shareable plates and heartier options—perfect for customizing your dining experience.

The atmosphere + service: We loved the warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. Each dish arrived at a steady pace, making the evening feel like a flavorful adventure with surprises at every turn. From light bites to more filling mains, every plate added something unique to the table. The combination of good company, creative cuisine, and seamless pacing made for a fun, memorable night out.

What to order: We shared everything. You have to order the crispy chicken wings, which were a flavor explosion of Kung Pao Sauce, Togarashi Peanuts, Scallions. We also loved the fish dip and the carrots. Do not skip the French Onion Hash Brown, which is covered in beef jus, onion marmalde, gruyere, and a pile of chives.

Should you make reservations? We made reservations and showed up right at 5pm like an old couple at their early bird special spot because we had a show at Charleston Music Hall that started at 7pm. (we walked to it from the restaurant!) The restaurant was not busy at 5, but it steadily filled up in the hour and a half we were there. You should make reservations if you’re planning on going at a normal dinner time!