If your cravings point to creamy grits piled with plump, peppery shrimp, you are in the right place. South Carolina does comfort in a bowl like few places on earth, and these kitchens prove it one spoonful at a time.
From century-old porches to breezy waterfront decks, every stop brings a slightly different spin on tradition. Get ready to plan a delicious Lowcountry crawl that tastes like home with every bite.
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Husk – Charleston, South Carolina
Husk treats shrimp and grits like a love letter to the Lowcountry. The kitchen leans on heirloom corn for grits with a buttery, slightly nutty backbone, then layers in perfectly seasoned shrimp.
A smoky ham or bacon note grounds the dish, while bright herbs land the finish with a clean lift.
You will taste a careful balance of creaminess and snap in every forkful. The bowl arrives looking humble, but the textures are composed like a symphony.
Sit on the porch, breathe in the live oak air, and let the flavors unfold slowly.
The menu changes with the day, so timing matters. Ask about the stock base and chili heat if you are spice-sensitive.
Either way, it is comfort that lingers.
Poogan’s Porch – Charleston, South Carolina
Poogan’s Porch serves shrimp and grits that feel like Sunday supper on a charming veranda. The grits are silky and rich, supporting tender shrimp kissed with garlic and a tomato-bacon gravy.
Each spoonful carries a savory depth that sticks to your ribs without feeling heavy.
You can sit outside under fans and watch Charleston stroll by while the bowl steams. The biscuit on the side makes a perfect mop for the last glossy streaks.
Ask for extra gravy if you are sauce-leaning, because it is the star here.
Service is friendly and quick, even during brunch rush. Pair with sweet tea or a light bubbly to keep things balanced.
It is a classic for a reason.
Page’s Okra Grill – Mt Pleasant, South Carolina
At Page’s Okra Grill, portions are big, the grits are plush, and the shrimp come lively with Cajun warmth. Expect a peppery butter running through the bowl, plus green onions for crunch and color.
It is the kind of comfort that makes you smile before the first bite lands.
You can customize heat levels easily, which helps if you prefer gentle warmth over full tingle. The kitchen does not skimp on shrimp, so every scoop hits balanced.
A squeeze of lemon brightens everything and cuts the richness just right.
Come early for brunch because lines form fast. The vibe is family-friendly, energetic, and welcoming.
Bring an appetite and leave happily satisfied with leftovers.
Early Bird Diner – Charleston, South Carolina
Early Bird Diner turns shrimp and grits into playful comfort with diner soul. The grits lean creamy and lightly cheesy, supporting juicy shrimp seasoned with a gentle kick.
A touch of sweet heat often sneaks in via honey or pepper butter, giving the bowl a memorable wink.
The place is casual and beloved by locals, so it feels easy to relax and linger. You will find friendly staff and bottomless coffee keeping tempo.
The plate photographs beautifully without trying too hard.
Portions are fair, prices kind, and the flavors nostalgic yet fresh. Ask for hot sauce if you like extra sparkle.
It is a dependable stop that never feels fussy.
The Ordinary – Charleston, South Carolina
The Ordinary approaches shrimp and grits with polished seafood finesse. The grits are smooth, almost custardy, while the shrimp arrive sweet and perfectly snappy.
Shellfish butter forms the backbone, creating a glossy sauce that coats without overwhelming.
The room is lively and chic, with a bar that hums as plates glide by. You can taste the ocean in gentle whispers rather than shouts.
Herbs and citrus zest brighten, adding layers that keep each bite interesting.
For a splurge night, this bowl fits the bill nicely. Pair with a crisp white wine to underline the briny notes.
It is sophisticated comfort that still hugs you warmly.
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar – Charleston, South Carolina
At Fleet Landing, shrimp and grits come with a harbor breeze and postcard views. The grits are creamy and stable, built to hold saucy toppings without collapsing.
Shrimp are plentiful and paired with smoky sausage or bacon, yielding a savory tide that rolls through each bite.
Sit outside and watch boats drift while the bowl warms your hands. A splash of tomato in the gravy brings gentle acidity.
The setting makes the flavors feel larger, like the sea is seasoning your plate.
Service keeps pace even on busy weekends. Order a citrusy cocktail to brighten the richness.
Comfort tastes better when the water is right there beside you.
Magnolias – Charleston, South Carolina
Magnolias gives shrimp and grits the white-tablecloth treatment without losing heart. Expect velvety grits and tasso ham gravy that crackles with smoky depth.
The shrimp are tender, seasoned with restraint, and nestled so every spoonful feels composed.
It is a place for celebrations, yet you will feel comfortable in business casual. The flavors build slowly, revealing pepper, garlic, and butter in sequence.
Green onions and a hint of cream create balance and lift.
Reserve ahead for prime evening slots. A glass of sparkling wine adds a lively counterpoint to the richness.
It is classic Lowcountry elegance translated into pure comfort.
Marina Market – Isle of Palms, South Carolina
Marina Market surprises with a coastal-casual take on shrimp and grits that tastes straight from the dock. The grits are hearty, lightly salted, and ready for a buttery shrimp tumble.
You will catch a whisper of lemon and herbs that keeps the bowl bright and easygoing.
Grab a seat after the beach and refuel without any fuss. The atmosphere is friendly, relaxed, and perfect for sandy flip-flops.
A cold beer or iced tea rounds everything into vacation mode.
Ask about daily catches for the freshest shrimp possible. Portions are generous without going overboard.
It is the kind of simple comfort you remember after a sunsoaked day.
The Glass Onion – Charleston, South Carolina
The Glass Onion serves shrimp and grits that taste like a hug from your favorite aunt. Creamy, stone-ground grits meet juicy shrimp in a tomato-bacon gravy with gentle heat.
Every bite feels layered but never fussy, thanks to clean seasoning and careful texture.
The room is bright and upbeat, great for casual lunches or early dinners. You can lean spicy or mild by asking for hot sauce on the side.
A sprinkle of scallions brings crunch and freshness at the finish.
It is comfort-forward, dependable, and priced kindly for repeat visits. Pair with a crisp salad to keep things light.
You will plan a return before your bowl is finished.
Bowens Island Restaurant – Charleston, South Carolina
Bowens Island is where shrimp and grits meet marsh breezes and rustic charm. The grits are straightforward and satisfying, ready to soak up a smoky, savory gravy.
Shrimp come fresh and plentiful, tasting like they were pulled from the water moments ago.
You will eat with a view that makes everything taste better. The casual vibe encourages second helpings and sticky fingers.
Expect paper plates, friendly chaos, and pure coastal comfort.
Time your visit for sunset and let the sky do the seasoning. Add hot sauce if you want extra kick, otherwise enjoy the natural sweetness.
It is a Lowcountry postcard served steaming.
Leon’s – Charleston, South Carolina
Leon’s brings a cool, laid-back swagger to shrimp and grits. The grits are creamy with a delicate corn perfume, and the shrimp snap with perfect bite.
A savory butter sauce ties in subtle spice, making each mouthful rich but not heavy.
Sit at the bar for quick service and people-watching. The vibe is upbeat, with playlists humming and conversation rolling.
You can pair the bowl with bubbles or a cold beer for an easy win.
Consider adding a side of greens for contrast and crunch. Portions are satisfying without going overboard.
It is casual comfort that turns into a habit quickly.
Hall’s Chophouse – Charleston, South Carolina
Hall’s Chophouse might be known for steak, but the shrimp and grits hold their own. Expect decadent grits with buttery depth and shrimp seared for a sweet, snappy bite.
A pan sauce pulls in steakhouse richness, adding pepper and wine notes that feel luxurious.
Service is famously warm, and the mood leans celebratory. You can split the bowl as a starter or make it your main.
Either way, it delivers the comfort you came for with polish.
Pair with a bold red if you love intensity, or choose a crisp white to cut richness. Reserve ahead on weekends to avoid a wait.
It is indulgent and deeply satisfying.
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