Tasting menus are all the rage in big cities like New York and Chicago, and while Charleston isn’t a destination specializing in this type of dining, there’s no shortage of options for guests looking to have a fancy night out. Sure, these prix fixe meals can be on the expensive side, but it’s worth the price of admission to be fully immersed in a meal and dining experience built by the chef. Heck, some of these options actually offer the desired chef-driven meal for less than $50, providing the chance to sample the menu without breaking the bank. Leave the choosing out of the equation when dining out next time, and let the chef decide what’s for dinner at one of these ten Charleston restaurants offering tasting menus.
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Let the Chef Choose at These Ten Charleston Destinations
From an omakase Indian feast to an elaborate 12-course tasting menu

Tu
Executive chef Josh Walker serves up an omakase Indian feast for just $45 per person. This menu is truly up to the chef on a nightly basis, but look for crispy crepe-style dosa, three types of naan, and creative curries with proteins like lamb or fish.
Trattoria Lucca
Some tasting menus have a tendency to leave guests a little hungry — not the Monday family-style meal at this downtown Italian staple. Patrons are served four shareable courses for just $36, providing a more casual and affordable experience.
Indaco
Indaco offers a “For the Table” three-course family-style meal for $45 per person. With pizza, pasta and reasonably priced libations, there’s sure to be something for everyone at this buzzing King Street eatery.
Wild Common
Head to Wild Common to test out chef Orlando Pagán’s globally inspired tasting menu. This $65 per person meal starts with small bites before offering patrons the chance to choose their two main courses prior to dessert.
Sorghum & Salt
This quaint Coming Street restaurant offers a $75 seven-course tasting menu courtesy of executive chef Christian Hunter. Try to grab a seat at the chef’s table facing the open kitchen. Guests looking to add a wine pairing can upgrade for an additional $50 per person.
R. Kitchen
Simply put, a meal at R. Kitchen is a one-of-a-kind experience. The five-course meal changes nightly at both the downtown and West Ashley locations, and each spot combines superior cooking with the feel of dining in a close friend’s home. Be sure to book ahead, as each R. Kitchen only seats about 20 guests per service.
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Zero Restaurant + Bar
Chef Vinson Petrillo serves his take on a modern American tasting menu experience at Zero Restaurant + Bar. The seven-course meal is $135, and wine pairings from advanced sommelier Ashley Broshious are included in the price. Those looking for a little extra can opt for the after dinner tableside whiskey service or a madeira flight.
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Charleston Grill
Charleston Grill gives patrons the option to have four, six or eight courses from their menu split up into four categories. This menu will please the masses, as entrees range from Colorado lamb or sea scallops to mushroom and truffle risotto.
Circa 1886 Restaurant
Circa 1886 is housed in the original carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion, providing the ideal setting for a romantic night out. As for the food, find executive chef Marc Collins’ take on elevated Lowcountry cuisine.
McCrady's
McCrady’s has undergone a lot of changes in the past few years, but it’s still one of the premier tasting experiences in Charleston. One thing which sets this 18-seat tasting room apart is the open kitchen, allowing guests to feel completely engaged throughout the meal. Currently, find a fall inspired 12-course menu from executive chef Ben Norton, with items like mussels with pumpkin and yuzu and grouper with black truffle.