Unearth The Voyage
Ready to trade kitchen chaos for twinkling lights and unforgettable flavors? South Carolina’s dining scene is dressed to the nines, serving festive menus that make holiday memories easy. From Charleston’s cobblestone charm to Greenville’s mountain glow and Columbia’s cozy spirit, these spots bring sparkle, comfort, and serious culinary joy. Book early, bring your appetite, and let the season shine on your plate.
1. Poogan’s Porch – Charleston
You feel the holidays before you even sit down at Poogan’s Porch. The historic Victorian house is wrapped in greenery, ribbon, and soft lights that make the porch glow. Inside, low candles and polished wood make every table feel like your own.
Expect Southern comfort elevated for the season. Think she crab soup, bourbon glazed ham, and buttery biscuits that vanish fast. Service is warm, pacing is relaxed, and every plate tastes like tradition with a little sparkle.
2. Little Palm – Charleston
Little Palm turns holiday glam into a breezy coastal party. Palms wear fairy lights, pastel ornaments pop against rosy tile, and the bar shakes up jewel toned cocktails that taste like vacation with a festive twist. It feels playful, stylish, and surprisingly cozy.
Shareable plates bring the vibe together. Citrus kissed crudo, gilded deviled eggs, and spiced rum desserts land like gifts. Grab a cabana seat, lean back, and let the music and sparkle handle the rest.
3. Peninsula Grill – Charleston
Peninsula Grill is holiday finery done right. The room glows with classic garlands, soft candlelight, and hushed conversation that feels celebratory. Every detail whispers luxury, from polished silver to the final ribbon tied around the dessert menu.
Start with oysters and champagne, then lean into expertly roasted meats and refined Lowcountry sides. The famous coconut cake arrives like a white snowdrift, impossibly tall and perfectly tender. Dress up, toast big, and savor every elegant bite.
4. Slightly North of Broad Restaurant – Charleston
At Slightly North of Broad, holiday energy buzzes like a friendly dinner party. Brick walls, wreaths, and an open kitchen set the stage for Lowcountry flavors with seasonal flair. You can feel the kitchen’s rhythm and the room’s joy.
Expect local seafood, duck with crispy skin, and vegetables that taste freshly pulled from the market. Cocktails pull in spice and citrus, perfect for clinking glasses. It is warm, lively, and just refined enough to feel special without fuss.
5. Iron Rose – Charleston
Iron Rose drapes its courtyard in twinkle lights and winter greens, turning evenings into soft lit escapes. Inside, the lounge feels plush yet approachable, with fireplace warmth and a polished bar. You settle in and time slows.
Plates tilt seasonal and Southern with a modern edge. Think ember kissed carrots, tender short rib, and flaky seafood with herbed butter. Cocktails lean spice and citrus, balanced and bright. A lovely pick for date night or a refined friends gathering.
6. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits – Charleston
The Watch turns sunset into a holiday show. String lights twinkle against church steeples and the harbor, while blankets and heaters keep the breeze friendly. It is a view forward, filled with cheer.
Order shareables and rich mains that travel well between conversations. Crispy Brussels, crab dip, and warm pie feel right when the temperature dips. Cocktails bring cinnamon and citrus, perfect for a toast. Grab a photo, then just enjoy the glow.
7. The Hollow – Columbia
The Hollow makes holiday dining feel neighborly. Reclaimed wood, garlands, and gentle Edison bulbs cast a cozy glow. You settle into a booth and the bustle melts into comfort.
Plates arrive hearty and thoughtful. Braised short rib falls apart just right, cornbread is buttery and warm, and greens shine. Seasonal cocktails carry baking spice and citrus that brighten each bite. Bring friends, share bites, and linger over dessert.
8. Smoked – Columbia
Smoked blends festive sparkle with serious technique. The raw bar hums, the smoker perfumes the room, and twinkle lights make everything feel celebratory. It is a lively stop for groups and families.
Order oysters, brisket that slices like butter, and sides that mean business. Sweet heat glazes, pickled pops, and rich potatoes keep plates balanced. Cocktails bring aromatic smoke and spice without overpowering the food. Leave room for dessert because they usually surprise you.
9. Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar – Columbia
Tupelo Honey leans playful and generous for the holidays. Think colorful ornaments, buzzing tables, and servers who keep the pace friendly. It feels easy to relax here.
The classics deliver. Hot honey fried chicken sings, biscuits come fluffy and ready for butter, and sides arrive big enough to share. Seasonal cocktails go sweet and spiced, while mocktails keep things inclusive. Perfect for families and friends who want comfort without pretense.
10. Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe – Columbia
Mr. Friendly’s feels like the neighborhood holiday table. Candlelight, art lined walls, and smiling service set a slow, contented mood. The room invites conversation and lingering.
Plates lean classic Southern with fresh market touches. Shrimp and grits come creamy and peppery, pecan crusted fish is flaky and rich, and salads pop with citrus. Desserts echo the season with pie and pudding. It is reliable, delicious, and sincerely welcoming.
11. Bourbon – Columbia
Bourbon turns holiday nights into a spirited celebration. The back bar glows like a jewel box and wreaths add classic charm. It gets buzzing, but the energy feels friendly and warm.
Order boudin balls, jambalaya, or blackened fish, then pair with a whiskey flight. Staff guide choices with ease, from vanilla rich pours to peppery sippers. Cocktails lean balanced and bold. Perfect for a festive night downtown.
12. Between the Trees – Greenville
Between the Trees brings the outside in with floor to ceiling views that sparkle at night. Holiday accents feel restrained and elegant, matching the refined menu. You can hear yourself talk, which feels like a gift.
Expect local driven plates with winter herbs, roasted roots, and thoughtfully sourced meats. Cocktails are precise and clean, often herb forward. Dessert keeps things light and bright. A great pick for diners who love detail and calm.
13. Sassafras Southern Bistro – Greenville
Sassafras wraps the room in brick warmth and holiday greenery. It is the kind of place where servers remember you and make sure the table feels right. Comfort and cheer come naturally here.
The menu leans classic bistro and Southern. Pimento cheese and warm bread start the tone, steaks arrive perfectly rested, and shrimp and grits nail the texture. Cocktails and wine are approachable, with seasonal touches for fun. Easy to love, easier to return.
14. The Retreat: Lake Wateree Dining – Winnsboro
Holiday dinners feel magical by the water at The Retreat. Lights reflect across Lake Wateree while fireplaces keep the room toasty. It blends cabin coziness with clean, modern touches.
Plates favor generous portions and slow cooked comfort. Roast turkey, herb rubbed prime rib, and buttery mashed potatoes deliver that holiday hug. Cocktails nod to cinnamon and cranberry without going too sweet. Save space for pie as the lake turns glassy outside.
15. Abbracci Italian Cuisine and Cocktails – Mount Pleasant
Abbracci leans into Christmas Eve tradition with a Feast of the Seven Fishes. Expect a thoughtful four course, eight dish progression that balances richness and brightness. The dining room glows with candles and gold trimmed holiday accents.
Seafood shines, but non seafood options keep everyone comfortable. Wines are guided with care, and service feels celebratory. At $75 per guest, it is a polished way to mark the night. Book early because seats disappear quickly.
16. Beautiful South – Charleston
Beautiful South turns Christmas Eve into a family style banquet with flair. Cantonese style roast duck anchors the table, joined by bright greens, noodles, and fragrant rice. The room feels sleek and welcoming with glowing lanterns and clean lines.
Gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options make planning easy. Reservations run through Resy, and service keeps courses flowing. It is a lively, communal way to celebrate with flavor and fun.
17. Hotel Bennett – Charleston
Hotel Bennett brings big holiday magic. A soaring tree, marble gleam, and polished garlands set a storybook scene. Families flock for breakfast with Santa and photos that feel timeless.
Gabrielle hosts prix fixe dinners on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, delivering refined seasonal plates with impeccable service. There is also a Night before Christmas Eve celebration that keeps spirits high. Reserve early because the calendar fills fast.
18. Hanks Seafood Restaurant – Charleston
Hanks is a Charleston classic that shines on Christmas Eve. The raw bar sparkles, garlands frame the room, and the menu balances comfort with celebration. You can smell the sea and butter in the best way.
She crab soup, bouillabaisse, and specials like jumbo lump crab cake stuffed flounder hit the table hot. Service is brisk but kind, keeping the pace festive. It is a joyous, seafood forward holiday stop.
19. Kwei Fei – Charleston
Kwei Fei throws a spirited Christmas Eve banquet with customizable, family style heat. Neon glows, music hums, and plates pile high with chilies and aromatics. It is lively, bright, and incredibly fun.
Gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options keep the table inclusive. Expect bold flavors, cold beer, and balanced cocktails to cool the fire. Book through Resy and bring friends who love spice.
20. The Loutrel – Charleston
The Loutrel hosts a holiday tea through early January, perfect for daytime sparkle. Tiered trays arrive stacked with savory bites and petite sweets. Teas, spiced ciders, and polished cocktails round out the ritual.
The setting is chic but relaxed, with evergreen touches and sunlit corners. It is a calm, celebratory pause amid shopping or strolling. Reservations are essential because seats are limited.
21. The Palmetto Cafe at the Charleston Place – Charleston
Christmas Day brunch at The Palmetto Cafe feels lavish and merry. An atrium glow, festive decor, and polished service set the tone. Families and friends gather around a buffet that really delivers.
There is a raw bar, carving station, house made pastries, and thoughtful Hanukkah offerings. Pricing is premium at $150 for adults and $65 for children, but value shows in quality and variety. Reserve early to secure your table.
22. Sorelle – Charleston
Sorelle marks Christmas Eve with a special six course dinner that celebrates Italian elegance. Handmade pasta, pristine seafood, and modern plating make each course feel like a gift. The rooms glow with candlelight and confident hospitality.
Wine pairings guide you smoothly from bright to bold. Portions are balanced, pacing is thoughtful, and the finale is memorable. Dress up and enjoy the ritual of a long, festive meal.
23. The Obstinate Daughter – Sullivan’s Island
The Obstinate Daughter blends coastal ease with holiday sparkle. Subtle wreaths and warm lights meet wood fired aromas and pasta perfume. It feels like a beach town celebration without fuss.
Order shareable seafood, a blistered pizza, and a silky pasta to pass around. Cocktails tilt herbal and fresh, perfect after a winter beach walk. It is relaxed, delicious, and endlessly charming.
24. Hall’s Chophouse – Greenville
Hall’s Chophouse in Greenville goes full classic holiday. Garlands, piano notes, and polished service set a celebratory mood. You are here to indulge and they are ready.
Prime steaks arrive sizzling, seafood sides the plate, and sauces add rich, glossy depth. Cocktails are confident and big flavored. Save space for dessert and a final toast. It is a timeless holiday splurge.
25. The Anchorage – Greenville
The Anchorage keeps the holidays intimate and ingredient driven. Twinkling lights and a thoughtful playlist set a calm mood. It is the kind of place where conversation and flavor lead.
Small plates showcase local produce and clever technique. Expect roasted roots, bright pickles, and tender fish cooked with care. Natural leaning wines and sharp cocktails fit the season without heaviness. A cozy, delicious pause from the rush.
