Restaurants

Dining Overview

Charleston International Airport (CHS) packs 34 dining options into an easy-to-navigate terminal, ranging from quick counter service to bar-and-grill sit-down meals. You’ll find familiar fast food alongside Southern comfort dishes and grab-and-go markets. Featured picks include Brookwood Farms BBQ, 1897 Market, Burger King, Jersey Mike’s, Chick-fil-A, and Whisky River—plus 28 more options spread around the terminal. The main “clusters” are concentrated before security in the main terminal area and after security along the concourse gate corridors, where most travelers eat while waiting to board.

Before vs After Security

Landside (before security), you can meet arriving passengers or grab a meal without a boarding pass at places like 1897 Market (American/eclectic; typically $$) and quick favorites including Burger King ($), Jersey Mike’s ($), and Chick-fil-A ($). Whisky River (Southern comfort; $$) is a strong choice when you want a full meal and a drink before heading through TSA.

Airside (after security) is best for variety near gates: look for burgers at Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar ($$) or Smashburger ($), seafood at spots like Phillips Seafood ($$), sushi at Hissho Sushi ($$), and bakery/café staples at Panera Bread ($) or Ciao Bakery & Cafe ($$). For last-minute boarding, stick to grab-and-go cafes and sandwich counters closest to your gate.

Traveler-Specific Recommendations

• Families: Chick-fil-A, Burger King, and Panera Bread are reliably kid-friendly, typically with simple menus and quicker service (helpful when traveling with strollers). Sit-down spots like Whisky River can be easier for groups who need space and a longer break.
• Business travelers: Choose a quieter, longer-stay meal at Whisky River or Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar ($$) when you want table service and time to work between meetings.
• Budget travelers: For the lowest prices ($), look to Burger King, Jersey Mike’s, Chick-fil-A, and coffee/bakery counters. Ask for free tap water at any counter to avoid bottled-water markups.
• Dietary needs: Vegetarian-friendly choices are easiest at Panera Bread (soups/salads), 1897 Market (salads and mixed plates), and sushi spots like Hissho Sushi (veg rolls). Gluten-free and allergen needs vary by vendor—ask for ingredient lists; halal/kosher-specific outlets are limited, so plan ahead.

Practical Dining Tips

For early departures, aim for coffee, pastries, and sandwiches from café-style outlets; some full kitchens may open later than grab-and-go counters. For late arrivals (around/after 10 p.m.), options can thin out—1897 Market is often among the later-operating choices when open (hours can change). 24-hour dining is not typical at CHS, so eat before you arrive if you’re landing very late. Many quick-service brands support mobile ordering (where available) and grab-and-go is common in markets and cafés—ideal if TSA lines are moving fast. CHS offers WiFi, and most dining areas near gates have access to nearby charging; if you need power while eating, pick gate-adjacent seating rather than standalone corridor benches.

Local Flavors

For a taste of the region, prioritize Carolina-style barbecue at Brookwood Farms BBQ (think hickory-smoked meats with classic sides like slaw and baked beans). Pair it with a Southern-style meal and a drink at Whisky River for a Charleston-area sendoff. These locally leaning options are your best bet for something beyond standard fast food while still staying airport-convenient.