Table of Contents
Looking for a tasty, local lunch spot that doesn’t break the bank? We’re here for you, Charleston. Check out this list of 25+ places where a lunch for one costs $15 or less.
We know cravings are key when it comes to a midday meal, so we’ve broken up these spots into their respective food groups.
Fast and casual
- Fast and French | 98 Broad St.
The name speaks for itself, but if they ever decide to undergo a name change we’d suggest Fast, French, and Delicious. You’ll agree once you try the open-faced croq’ monsieur. - Cafecito | 471 King St.
From King Street to Cuba, this sandwich and coffee shop will make you feel like you have teleported for a delicious hot-pressed sandwich. - Palace Hotel | 525 Meeting St.
The Hit the Street Corn Skillet sounds like just the thing to spice up a midday lunch break. - Fire Grill Asian Fusion | 293 King St.
We had so many reader recommendations for this downtown spot — we’ll definitely be trying the hibachi chicken.
Lowcountry specialties
- Ellis Creek Fish Camp | 1243 Harbor View Rd.
There’s nothing more Lowcountry than lunch on the water, we recommend the shrimp po-boy. - MOMO Riverfront Park | 1049 Everglades Ave., North Charleston
We can’t wait to try the kettle-cooked turkey sandwich. - Dave’s Carry-Out | 42 Morris St., Ste. C
This local spot offers Southern classics and seafood galore.
Local grocers + deli spots
- Brown Dog Deli | 225 Calhoun St.
There are so many options at this popular spot, and next time we’re in, we’re ordering Megan thee ITALIAN. - Legend Deli | 41-A George St.
You can never go wrong with cold cuts, but if you’re looking to mix it up, the chicken Caesar wrap looks delish. - Cold Shoulder Gourmet | 1684 Old Towne Rd.
Try the B-FAST, which features applewood smoked bacon, truffled everything spread, ham, parmesan, and bottarga. - Goat Sheep Cow | Multiple locations
Meat + cheese... yes, please. We’ll have charcuterie for lunch any day. - Queen Street Grocery | 133 Queen St.
Choose a crepe, sandwich, or salad to take to Colonial Lake for a picture-perfect picnic lunch. - Burbage’s Grocery | 157 Broad St., Ste. A
Try the original smoked chicken salad and treat yourself to a cookie while you’re at it.
Burgers + hot dogs
- Smash City Burgers at Fair Deal Grocery | 47 Cooper St.
This local spot knows how to do American classics with a Lowcountry twist. - Johnny’s Hot Dogs | 883 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Mt. Pleasant
The best doggone deal in town, with extra emphasis on the dog. This hidden gem serves up hot dogs all kinds of ways. - Boxcar Betty’s | Multiple locations
Burgers, chicken, and salads are offered at this quaint eatery. - Skoogies | 840 Coleman Blvd., Ste. C, Mt. Pleasant
This spot was recommended by reader Bailey H. — we’re eyeing the Skoogie Dog, which has kraut and a slice of mozzarella cheese. - Heavy’s Barburger | 1137 Morrison Dr.
This place is legit — we recommend Uncle Gene’s Ranchero + the BLT. Here’s a little preview.
Check out this Impossible burger.
Photo provided by @jackofcupssaloon
Vegan and vegetarian options
- Jack of Cups Saloon | 34 Center St.
This Folly Beach restaurant serves up comfort food for vegetarians, vegans, and meat eaters alike. Try this: Pad Thai burger with an Impossible patty. - Verde | Multiple locations
Try The Bowled Buddha or the Unbeanlievable Burger at this local salad and bowl spot. - Five Loaves Cafe | Multiple locations
Try the vegan citrus tofu sandwich or vegetarian Portobello goat cheese burger at this local spot. - Bon Banh Mi | Multiple locations
Add the five spiced tofu to a sandwich, taco, salad, or bowl — just ask for vegan mayo or no sriracha-lime cream if you’re vegan.
Barbecue
- Melvins BBQ | Multiple locations
You’ve got options. This spot, known for its mustard-based barbecue, offers several items for less than $15. Try a burger, a barbecue sandwich, or half a dozen wings. - Home Team BBQ | Multiple locations
Freshen things up with a salad or try the quarter chicken platter. - Lewis Barbecue | 464 N. Nassau St.
Try the pulled pork, sliced turkey breast, or pulled port El Sancho sandwich. - Rodney Scott’s BBQ | 1011 King St.
All of the sandwiches, most of the salads and potatoes options, and even a few of the plates are offered for less than $15.
Unable to leave your office or house today? You can also take advantage of many of these deals with a food delivery service.
