82 Queen
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We visited 82 Queen during our 35th anniversary trip to Charleston, SC, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our dining experience in the city. I started with the she-crab soup, a Charleston staple that 82 Queen advertises as an award-winning dish. During our five days in Charleston, it seemed like just about every restaurant had she-crab soup on the menu, but I waited until visiting 82 Queen to finally give it a try. I don't have any other she-crab soup to compare it to, but I can say it was absolutely delicious. Consider me a fan. After five days of enjoying Charleston's incredible food scene, we were looking for a lighter lunch since we were planning to splurge later that evening at Halls Chophouse. My wife and I split the southern tomato pie and the chicken salad wrap, and the combination was perfect. Both dishes were fresh, flavorful, and exactly what we were looking for at that point in our trip. We chose to sit inside because of the humidity, and from our table we had a wonderful view overlooking the courtyard. Surrounded by mature trees, brick pathways, and historic Charleston charm, it provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxed and enjoyable lunch. The food was excellent, the service was top-notch, and the ambiance was outstanding. Everything came together to create a memorable experience. 82 Queen delivered exactly the kind of classic Charleston lunch we were hoping for. If you're visiting Charleston, it's well worth a stop and was easily one of the standout dining experiences of our trip.
82 Queen was another new restaurant my family and I got to try while on Spring Break this year. We had reservations for Easter dinner at 6pm. We were a little early for our reservations and were told that they are seating exactly on time, which was totally fine. We strolled around a bit and returned at our designated time. We were seated on the first floor in a room near the street. We loved how each room had a different ambiance to it! It really is a beautiful restaurant with a lot of charm to it! Our waitress was very nice! She was very helpful with her recommendations and very attentive. My husband and I both ordered drinks and my daughter ordered a Shirley Temple. Her Shirley Temple was extremely grenadine heavy, which I think they assumed they were doing her a favor, but she was a bit overwhelmed by how sweet it was. They serve it with a Sprite instead of Ginger Ale, just FYI. For dinner, I of course had to order the She Crab soup. Believe the hype! It was the best She Crab soup I had in Charleston. It was sheer perfection. I ordered the Skillet Chicken Cutlets and my husband had the Braised Beef Short Ribs. His dinner was delicious, the short ribs were so soft and tender and just melted in your mouth. I enjoyed the few bites of his more than my chicken, even though my meal was still good. There was A LOT of corn with my meal, but everything had such a great taste to it. We rounded the dinner off with a piece of Pecan Pie and vanilla ice cream which was very good as well. This restaurant is definitely on the more expensive side so be ready to drop a pretty penny. Overall, it was pretty darn good, and we will probably be back!
Went for their Easter brunch and had a really nice experience. Once you walk through the little walkway alley, the restaurant is actually huge. We walked through a garden filled with tables, then were taken to another building and seated on the second floor, which made it feel really unique. The service was super friendly, and our server even gave us great recommendations for coffee spots to visit after, which I loved. The food felt more elevated than a typical brunch, and everything came out nicely presented. Portions were on the smaller side but yummy. My biscuit was really good, and the cheesecake was definitely a highlight for me. Overall, a great spot for a nicer brunch or special occasion.
This is my go to breakfast or brunch location. We have lived here for many years and they are just as good now as they were 20 years ago the first time we went. I have never had anything but great service so it's something you can always count on, and inside or out in the garden you will have a wonderful experience. When weather is permitting I suggest the garden outside for the best ambiance.
The food and drink were amazing! I ordered the pork chops with sweet potato and collard greens. Chef's kiss! It was nice to sit outdoors and I also loved the ambiance. My server was great and very attentive. I tried the She Crab soup for the first time and it was good but just not enough. I do, however, feel that the menu was very overpriced.
82 Queen has been on my "must-try" list for over a year, and visiting during Restaurant Week could not have been a better introduction. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by Prince, and all I can say is wow. Smart, funny, and incredibly personable, he made a fantastic first impression and is a wonderful representation of the restaurant. We walked through a beautiful outdoor courtyard before heading upstairs to a charming and inviting dining space, where Dylan seamlessly took over. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive throughout the evening. We opted for the Restaurant Week menu to sample dishes we might not normally order, and every single plate impressed--one better than the next. Everything was beautifully plated, generously portioned, and expertly seasoned. To start, we had the BBQ Shrimp and Grits and the Queen's Salad. The shrimp and grits were outstanding, and while a salad might sound simple, the addition of corn and field peas made it truly memorable. We also shared a cup of the award-winning She-Crab Soup. It's award-winning for a reason--rich, comforting, and absolutely delicious. On a chilly night, it's a must-order. For entrées, I chose the Jambalaya, which pleasantly surprised me with shrimp throughout, along with crawfish and Tasso ham. It was perfectly executed. My husband ordered the Braised Beef Short Rib, which was cooked to perfection--rich, tender, and full of flavor. We added the Truffled Asparagus as a side, and it did not disappoint. The asparagus were cooked just right and finished with the perfect touch of truffle. Dessert was the perfect finale. We shared the Churro Cheesecake and the Limoncello Mascarpone Cake, and both were excellent--sweet, balanced, and a fitting end to an incredible meal. We will absolutely be back. Don't sleep on 82 Queen. With its rich history, outstanding food, and exceptional service, there's a reason it has earned the reputation it has--and it lives up to it.
Make a reservation. We didn't, and would have had about a 90 minute wait for brunch but we were offered the option to dine at the bar. We took the only two adjacent seats at the end of the bar, which we later learned from the bartender were the worst because the floor is on an incline. Our seats were at the lowest point so the bar seemed really high. That made it difficult to eat. (We also realized much too late that we could have sat at one of the open tables by the window at the end of the bar, which weren't being held for reservations.) The bartender did double duty as our server. Kudos. I ordered the Lowcountry Breakfast Bowl and my daughter had the Crab Cake Benedict plus a bowl of the award winning She-crab Soup. All of the food was very good. I did ask for my egg fried hard and they sent it Sunnyside up so I had to carefully pick it off the plate. We also had a special drink which I can't find now on their menus. It was a Magnolia something made with pear puree and elderflower liqueur and lemon something and it was really good. My daughter also had the pomegranate mimosa which she said was slightly too sweet for her. It's very pretty inside, and especially in the courtyard patio.
What a delightful little outdoor spot. It was so Very Charleston. In my best Southern accent. We made reservations because we had our puppy with us on Christmas Eve and wanted to make sure we could eat outdoors. They easily accommodate us when we called to double check. Our table was perfect we could soak in all the goodness of the garden atmosphere. Our waiter was amazing! So personable and was right on top of everything. He told us about some of his favorites and they did not disappoint. We picked the shrimp and grits, a crab cake and have a delicious Lemon Cheesecake. I would highly recommend this cozy spot. In the hustle and bustle of downtown Charleston this quiet little garden made you feel so relaxed and maybe even added a little longer draw in my words. It's Southern People- GO!
I am not as impressed with 82 Queen as everyone else. I was out with some friends on a Saturday night and after shopping all day we were looking for a place to eat. It was around 540pm and they said the next available table was around 630pm. We were hungry so we decided to wait. It was for outside , but it was heated so that was fine. Someone called and said they would late so we got sat earlier then planned. The outdoor area is really nice and there's a lot of space. It was also the end of restaurant week when we went so they had a special 3 courses for 55$. I decided to go with that and got the "award winning' she-crab soup. The short ribs, and the cheesecake for dessert. I am allergic to soy, so I did appreciate that there was no soy in any of these dishes. But that was about it as far as being impressed. I also ordered a glass of Pinot grigio with ice on the side and never got the ice. Aside from that the she crab soup did not taste award winning to me. The flavor was meh, it tasted like it was reheated out of a bag. The short rib , mashed potatoes and hericot ver was also meh. Tasted like bland buffet food....the short ribs were also very fatty. The dessert was for my husband and I didn't bother eating it either the waiter said the desserts come from a box that they order so it's not even housemade. I personally think it's way overrated and overpriced. Maybe I just had a bad experience, but I don't think I'll be coming back.
First things first, our waiter Scotty definitely made our experience here! He was awesome!! We got the she crab soup that everyone raves about and it was good but in my opinion I don't see the hype. It was also really filling! We got the shrimp and grits for our entree and it was delicious but we were extremely full after a few bites!! The vibes were amazing and the patio was super cute!
We were not disappointed in this restaurant, it had the feeling of an old historic house which it probably was now that I think of it. We loved the portraits of the dogs on the wall, but that was only a fraction of how the vibe of this place just made you feel really chill. Caroline was our server and she was amazing. The food was never late and the drink drinks were delicious. We had the Cristini special, the jambalaya, and the chicken bog. Very delicious indeed, and I even had to top the night off with the lemon raspberry cake. From what I hear you have to make special request to eat out on the patio as that fills up quickly. We did not do that that we're perfectly happy to sit inside.
We came in on a Monday night, so it was fairly quiet. The ambiance inside the restaurant is very nice and traditional, and their patio area also looks very charming. I ordered the Creole Spiced Grouper, which was slightly overdone but still had great flavor, and I genuinely enjoyed it. The Southern Tomato Pie was absolutely delicious! We also tried the She Crab Soup, which is something they are known for. My soup wasn't quite hot, but I still enjoyed it and understood why it is award-winning! The 82 Queen hot sauce added a perfect kick, and you can buy a bottle of it for $6. Service was good. Will return again.
Dining under a massive Southern magnolia tree hits different. It's aggressively charming. The fried green tomatoes and mandatory. They are crispy, tangy, doing everything they're supposed to do and the presentation is chef's kiss. The crab cake showed up hot and soft. This place knows exactly what you came for. Honestly, if it leaned any harder into the Southern aesthetic, someone would hand you a monogrammed hand fan. Ha!
3 months ago
My daughter picked 82 Queen for her birthday dinner. We've been there before over the years and it's always been good. We started with the fried green tomatoes, which were served over grits and topped with pimento cheese. They had a little more time in the fryer than necessary, but were still good. The downside, only two slices, which makes it a really small portion if you plan to share. Our orders included the grilled salmon and fish and grits, BBQ shrimp and grits, and the Queen salad with a side of she crab soup. Bottom line all delicious selections in their own style. There used to be a restaurant in the Old Market called the Ice House which served a very similar she crab soup, so that brought back memories from long ago. The flounder flakey and subtle in flavor, the salmon a well-rounded choice with orza pasta and veggies (zucchini, squash, tomatoes and spinach), the BBQ shrimp sweet sauce and contrasted grits, the salad a fresh summer meal with the soup. Limoncello proved a nice close to the meal. Service generally good. Not a fan of having the iPad handed at end of meal with all high-end tip preselections and then having the wait staff hover. Stop the tip-shaming and leave the device there for a minute, we aren't going to steal it - give your customers some space. read more
6 months ago
3 months ago
1 year ago
Food was delicious and beautifully presented. Drinks are strong. Service was great. Ambiance is quint and cozy. It nestled in a beautiful neighborhood. We sat on the patio, which is so cute. read more
3 years ago
Beautiful and delicious. It's known for the she crab but all the seafood is worth a try. It's centrally located in downtown but feels like you are inside an old home with a garden. Enjoy the experience but be prepared for the humidity if you opt to sit outside. read more
2 years ago
This is such a quaint and cozy restaurant in the heart of Charleston. The food was absolutely amazing! I had the gumbo and the combination of flavors just popped in your mouth. Just the right amount of okra, because I will tell you I have had some with WAY too much okra that it isn't even enjoyable to eat. The tomato attack was in a bed of polenta and was very tasty. Top the meal off with pecan pie and vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel and it was a perfect meal. Jason was our server and he was very attentive and had such an enjoyable and witty personality. Great experience all around! read more
2 years ago
I came here for restaurant week and this will definitely be on my list to go again. The she crab soup was by far my favorite! The barbecue shrimp and grits was delicious and very flavorful. The jambalaya was a little too salty, but the portion size was huge! They have a cute little courtyard outside and the restaurant reminds me of a home. When you sit upstairs, try to get a window seat and you can look down on the street. read more
3 years ago
This was a great, last minute decision! We were searching for lunch. The line at Poogan's porch was so long and this restaurant had okay reviews so we decided to try it! We are so glad we did! The host stand is down an alley so it's a little hard to find but so worth it. We sat upstairs and based on server recommendations and limited availability of the soft shell crab we spilt a soft shell carb sandwich and had the tomato pie. Both were very good, fresh piping hot and not in need of any additional seasonings! We didn't sample as many things as usual because we had dinner reservations for "earlier " in the evening but we will be back for sure to try more on their menu. This is a charming house converted to a restaurant. It's lovely and I'm sure dinner here is also a pretty sight to see. The weather was rainy so we couldn't but I think a meal out on the patio would be charming. read more
I first started eating here in 1982 when I was 10 years old and it was a family favorite every year through '85. So, as an adult, every time I visited Charleston, 82 Queen was on the itinerary. Last night's visit brought back some great memories but also a little heartbreak. The ambiance looked the same when we arrived and our server, Sarah, was everything a server should be. Unfortunately, the food was far from the good old days. We opted to try numerous selections on the appetizer menu to get a taste of many things. The she crab soup which is a favorite of mine in Charleston was awful. This soup was so thick it resembled cold gravy. Further, the crab meat was sparse and mere flecks, almost like it was from a can. Next came the fried green tomatoes with some grits, pimento cheese and a bacon jam. Everything on the plate was delicious, except, the tomatoes. If I were told these came frozen in a bag, I wouldn't be shocked. The breading was thick and chewy and no flavor from the tomato. Another thing, the plating on all dishes was abysmal. No care was taken. It was like the food was plopped on and then some chives sprinkled on. The Southern tomato pie was a surprise for me. I did not expect much but my wife wanted it and I was glad she did. A delicious mix of cheese, crust and tomato that all came together very well. I am not convinced that the cheese described on the menu wasn't substituted with pimento cheese, but it worked. The final round was the crab cake, the bbq shrimp and grits, the fried chicken livers and the collard greens. The bbq shrimp was missing the bbq and had melted cheese on the shrimp. I was shocked. That just didn't work. It was sloppy and I would be embarrassed to serve this dish. The crab cake, again, the crab looked and tasted like canned meat and a lot of breading. The chicken livers sounded so appealing but were ruined by a thick brown gravy that looked like it had sat out too long. The livers themselves were cooked nicely, they just got ruined by a sloppy gravy. Finally, the collard greens were very good. They had a delicious sweetness and saltiness. If anything, the salt was almost too much, but compared to everything things else, they were a highlight. So, one of my favorite fine dining memories over the past 40 years has fallen from grace. It felt like no one in the kitchen even cared for what they were playing. It showed in every aspect. I would guess they make soup/sauces in advance and use them all night. That isn't fine dining, but diner dining. The majority of the food probably doesn't warrant three stars, but the service and two dishes and maybe some sentimental memories pushed me for a third star. Unfortunately, I would not recommend this place as I have in the past, nor will I likely return any time soon. I don't even believe tourists can keep it open at this level. So many better options in Charleston these days. read more
8 months ago
Incredible food and service. We sat outside and it was so nice even for mid February. Loved this restaurant and highly recommend to other people. read more
3 months ago
3 months ago
9 months ago
Great brunch at 82 Queen! The only issue I had were the reservations. I looked on Resy and tried to make a reservation however it stated that "reservations were treated as first come first serve" so I thought then what's the point of the reservation! So we went early at opening time. Already a huge line amassed! I got up and wanted a table in the garden, however it would be a 45 min wait! But that the bar area had no wait. I told them that I wanted to make a reservation but it would still be first come first serve, however that was actually NOT the case! Very annoyed by this! Definitely make a reservation. Otherwise the food was delicious! Ordered the crab cake Benedict and the flounder and grits. Both were SO good. Highly recommend. If the reservations were not such a mess this would definitely be my go to! read more
4 months ago
1 year ago
I was very underwhelmed with my experience here. It's a pretty place but service was lackluster. I had been very excited for it but would not return. I didn't care for the tomato pie, but that could be a preference. I'd never had it before and it could be that it just wasn't for me. Shrimp and grits were flavorless and the texture was off. I will never not finish shrimp and grits and I barely touched mine. The server said nothing so they either didn't care or it's a usual issue. I really wanted drinks and dessert but glad I skipped. read more
1 year ago
The Creole Spiced Grouper was seasoned to perfection! Adorable Charleston interior. Loved the outside set up too from just walking through it. All of the food was wonderful. My family and I are not fans of pimento cheese, but love fried green tomatoes- so we took a risk on the appetizer, IT WAS GREAT. Anyone on the fence should definitely order it. read more
I almost always come here for brunch. I don't know why, it just seems to turn out that way. But it's always so delicious. Usually there's a special that is amazing featured for brunch. Anyway, the food is consistently very good. Most recently I got the fish and girts. I tell you what, I haven't had fried fish that good in about a decade if not more. Completely spot on crispy, flaky crust with moist tender founder inside. Perfection! The she-crab soup is known well beyond the walls of the restaurant. Always delicious, so thick you could eat it off a knife. Never disappoints, full of flavor and oomph. It is heavy so a cup is probably enough. The staff is always super kind and attentive and the interior is very pleasing, never noisy. Highly recommend! read more
8 months ago
For a real "taste of Charleston" experience and an "historic kick" I suggest dining at 82 Queen. Take a minute to notice the artwork on the walls throughout the rooms~ done by the late Charlestonian John Doyle. His Gullah -African tradition themed art tells stories in each piece and adds an interesting touch to the property. Since 1982 ~ 82 Queen has been a favorite of locals and tourists~ their signature soup being the "She-Crab Soup." One of the first things your server will mention is the fact that 82 Queen is known for this soup and is one of the best in the city! Take note- comes with a side of sherry! Jason our server was friendly and efficient and made sure our experience was perfect. Loved his attention to detail when refilling the coffee and making sure our "to go" order included fresh dressings as well! Consisting of three historic buildings you will immediately feel the history and appreciate the coziness of each of the rooms once inside. Classic Lowcountry cuisine will be found here inspired by African, French, Caribbean and Anglo- Saxon tastes. I was in the mood for a nice chicken salad and had the kitchen put a scoop on top of the Queen's Salad. The salad portion was way too much so one half was eaten there and the other half was my dinner that same night! Portions are large so beware! read more
1 year ago
Amazing service. Great for romantic date but they accommodate groups also. The food was awesome. read more
2 years ago
How they advertise soup on their website vs the crab soup I received. I realize after seeing this that I could not trust a single dish on their menu and decided to have my birthday dinner somewhere else. False advertising is a major red flag for me when eating out. read more
2 years ago
The ambiance was little dark to try read menu. The special poached Mahi mahi was great. The braised short ribs were dry. And she crab soup lacked crab meat in it I was disappointed especially about the she crab soup since I've had it before and it's always excellent. The waiter did a great job but we didn't say anything to him about the food since you could tell he was ready to get out of there. We got there around 8 and sat in back upstairs read more
9 months ago
We came here for brunch and it was a great experience! We sat at the bar because it was so busy, but it wasn't too loud and still maintained the charm of the rest of the restaurant. The cocktail list was nothing special, so we just ordered mimosas, but the classic southern brunch menu was phenomenal. I the breakfast bowl was like a flavorful bowl of shrimp and grits, but even better because of the bacon and egg on top. The grits were delicious and creamy, and the shrimp was cooked perfectly. I can't wait to come back! read more
4 months ago
I stopped in to try lunch today at 82 Queen in downtown Charleston. I ate at the bar because they had a 45 minute wait for a table - on a Monday, tourist season has arrived! I tried the tomato pie salad, which was very good, and the oysters rockefeller, - just okay. I ordered the she-crab soup to go as they are famous for it. Heated it up a bit when i got home - I didn't care for it. I don't understand. I love she-crab soup. Ive had wonderful, yummy versions in Boston and in Maryland, and I love the creamy sherry crab flavor. This didn't have any sherry, I did get a couple of shells in the broth, no lumps of crab or creme fraiche or anything. It tasted like fish chowder. Kinda gluey. More like pudding than soup. I added cream at home just to get a soup consistency. Maybe I received the bottom of the pan? Maybe it was warmed over from the previous day? The service was just okay. The courtyard is beautiful, but I don't think I'll be back. The tomato salad was really good - thus the third star. read more
9 months ago
5-stars all the way around! We were there for a friend's birthday celebration and everything was perfect. The apps and mains were delectable, drinks paired well with the food, service was amazing (our server Sara was so attentive and personable), and the atmosphere was inviting! I would return here anytime and will recommend this to anyone visiting Charleston! read more
One of our favorite food spots during our time in Charleston! Both the gumbo and jumbalaya were sooo tasty and just the epitome of comfort food. Although not our favorite general cuisine, we left feeling completely content with our experience here. Service was great and we loved sitting outdoors, it was more on the casual side overall. read more
9 months ago
My first meal ever in Charleston... what a great start! Sat at the bar, greeted for brunch with a menu that didn't seem to have any eggs... But started with my coffee and Baileys. but DOH! no Baileys! Instead they had their local Irish cream...Carolina Cream! And it was something fun and similar. I ordered the tomato pie, it came out like a tart. Or a small quiche with a side salad... I had to order a couple of fried eggs on the side so it would really feel like brunch! The service at the bar was very friendly and the food was fantastic! read more
1 year ago
The food was good to service was great. The place has a cozy ambience and we enjoyed our birthday celebration with friends. The crabcakes were a little underseasoned, which is why my rating is what it is this time. Everyone else enjoyed their meals immensely. read more
9 months ago
My mom and I made a reservation for brunch last weekend to celebrate her birthday. What a great spot to celebrate a birthday! We sat outside in the beautiful courtyard and our server was amazing. He had so many tables he was working but still had it under control and able to check in on us enough! We did not order cocktails but they looked great. The tomato pie and chicken and waffles were both delicious. Also the house hot sauce was great so we bought a bottle of it to take home with us. Would love to come back for dinner! read more
1 year ago
My friend and I had a very fun time at this restaurant and had many interactions with the staff. Molly was able to seat us at her favorite table. Really good timing with our reservation. We were able to look out into the garden of this historic home. See attached picture. Jason, our waiter, was very knowledgeable about the menu, had a good sense of humor, and took very good care of us. It was really sweet that Molly came up before her shift ended to check in with us and to say goodbye. She is a true treasure to your restaurant. We also had a few interactions with Sophie at the hostess station. Both of them were good touch points. The food was incredible. I highly recommend the shrimp and grits. I really liked the barbecue taste to it. Also, the salmon with brussels sprouts adorning the mashed potatoes was beautiful and very tasty. This restaurant is a must for anybody who will be in Charleston. read more
5 months ago
More info about 82 Queen
82 Queen St
Charleston, SC 29401
French Quarter
Directions
(843) 723-7591
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Visit Website
http://www.82queen.com/
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Ask the Community - 82 Queen
Where is parking?
There's a parking garage directly across from it. If the restaurant is on your right, go through the light and there's another one on your left.
What is the dress code?
It is really whatever you feel most comfortable wearing! There is an outside courtyard, which of course is less dressy than inside, but you will still see some people dressed up. People tend to go for "celebrations" so they tend to dress up more…
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