Costa Charleston stands out as a culinary destination where the vibrant flavors of the Lowcountry meet innovative coastal cuisine. Nestled in the heart of Charleston, this restaurant offers an eclectic menu that beautifully balances tradition with modern flair.
Whether you’re a local seeking a fresh take on classic dishes or a visitor eager to explore Southern flavors, Costa Charleston’s menu promises an unforgettable dining experience. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing the region’s bounty of fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and bold spices that evoke Charleston’s rich culinary heritage.
Exploring Costa Charleston’s offerings reveals a commitment to quality ingredients, creative preparation, and a passion for flavor. The menu is designed to cater to diverse palates, featuring everything from hearty appetizers to indulgent desserts.
Each section of the menu invites guests to savor the essence of Charleston’s coastal lifestyle, whether through a perfectly grilled snapper or a refreshing cocktail inspired by the sea breeze. The atmosphere complements the food, creating a setting where both casual diners and food enthusiasts can enjoy an exceptional meal.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Welcome
The appetizer selection at Costa Charleston sets the tone for the meal with bold, fresh flavors and creative twists on local favorites. These starters are designed to awaken the palate and hint at the culinary journey ahead.
From light bites to satisfying small plates, the appetizers showcase the best of Southern coastal ingredients.
One standout is the Lowcountry Crab Cakes, which blend fresh crab meat with subtle seasonings and a crispy golden crust. They’re served with a tangy remoulade that perfectly balances richness with acidity.
Another popular choice is the Grilled Oysters topped with garlic butter and herbs, capturing the essence of Charleston’s oyster tradition with a smoky twist.
Vegetarian options also shine in this section. The Fried Green Tomatoes come with a house-made pimento cheese dip, offering a creamy, spicy complement to the crispness of the tomatoes.
The menu often rotates seasonal specials, ensuring that each visit presents something new and exciting.
Appetizer Highlights
- Lowcountry Crab Cakes – Fresh crab, remoulade sauce
- Grilled Oysters – Garlic butter, herbs
- Fried Green Tomatoes – Pimento cheese dip
- Seasonal specials – Rotating based on market availability
“Every appetizer at Costa Charleston is crafted to evoke the spirit of the coast—fresh, bold, and inviting.”
Signature Entrees: The Heart of the Menu
The entrees at Costa Charleston are the centerpiece of the dining experience, combining rich tradition with innovative culinary techniques. The menu features a variety of seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes that highlight regional flavors and fresh ingredients.
Seafood lovers will find the Pan-Seared Red Snapper irresistible, served with a vibrant lemon beurre blanc sauce and seasonal vegetables. This dish exemplifies the restaurant’s focus on highlighting the natural flavors of the fish while adding layers of complexity through complementary sauces and sides.
For those craving meat, the Chargrilled Ribeye offers a perfectly cooked cut, seasoned with a house blend of spices and accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. The richness of the ribeye pairs beautifully with the subtle smokiness imparted by the chargrill, creating a memorable dining experience.
Vegetarian options such as the Roasted Vegetable Risotto are equally indulgent, featuring creamy Arborio rice infused with seasonal vegetables, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. The dish is satisfying and layered with flavor, demonstrating Costa Charleston’s inclusive approach to its menu.
Entree Comparisons
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| Pan-Seared Red Snapper | Fresh snapper, lemon beurre blanc, seasonal vegetables | Light, citrusy, delicate | Chardonnay |
| Chargrilled Ribeye | Ribeye steak, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus | Rich, smoky, savory | Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Roasted Vegetable Risotto | Arborio rice, seasonal vegetables, Parmesan cheese | Creamy, earthy, herbaceous | Sauvignon Blanc |
Salads and Lighter Fare
For guests seeking lighter options, Costa Charleston offers a thoughtfully curated selection of salads and small plates that do not compromise on flavor or satisfaction. These dishes are ideal for a refreshing meal or a complement to the heartier entrees.
The Charleston Harvest Salad is a standout, combining mixed greens, roasted pecans, goat cheese, and seasonal fruits with a honey vinaigrette. This salad captures the sweetness and crunch of local ingredients while maintaining a balanced taste.
Another favorite is the Grilled Shrimp Salad, featuring fresh shrimp atop a bed of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and avocado, finished with a citrus dressing.
Vegetarian diners appreciate the Quinoa and Kale Salad, which blends nutrient-dense quinoa, hearty kale, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries. The salad is tossed in a light lemon dressing, giving it a bright, invigorating flavor.
Each salad is crafted to be both nutritious and delicious, emphasizing fresh, high-quality produce.
Salad Ingredients Overview
- Charleston Harvest Salad – Mixed greens, pecans, goat cheese, seasonal fruits
- Grilled Shrimp Salad – Shrimp, arugula, avocado, citrus dressing
- Quinoa and Kale Salad – Quinoa, kale, almonds, cranberries
“The salads at Costa Charleston are a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, designed to nourish both body and soul.”
Seafood Specialties
Seafood is at the heart of Costa Charleston’s menu, reflecting the city’s coastal heritage and the abundance of fresh catch available. The seafood specialties highlight the best of the Atlantic, prepared with care and creativity to deliver unforgettable dishes.
The She-Crab Soup is a traditional Lowcountry favorite, rich and creamy with a hint of sherry and a generous amount of crab meat. It serves as a comforting introduction to Charleston’s culinary landscape.
The Blackened Mahi Mahi offers a spicier option, featuring a bold blackening rub that enhances the fish’s natural flavors, served atop a bed of Cajun rice.
For those seeking variety, the Seafood Platter combines fried shrimp, oysters, and fish with hushpuppies and coleslaw, providing a classic Southern seafood experience in one dish. This platter is perfect for sharing or for those who want to sample several of the menu’s highlights.
Seafood Dish Features
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Cooking Style | Flavor Notes |
| She-Crab Soup | Crab meat, cream, sherry | Simmered, creamy | Rich, savory, slightly sweet |
| Blackened Mahi Mahi | Mahi Mahi, Cajun spices, Cajun rice | Blackened, sautéed | Spicy, smoky, bold |
| Seafood Platter | Shrimp, oysters, fish, hushpuppies, coleslaw | Fried | Crispy, savory, tangy coleslaw |
Craft Cocktails and Beverages
Costa Charleston’s beverage program is crafted to complement the menu perfectly, featuring an array of creative cocktails, fine wines, and local brews. Each drink is designed to enhance the dining experience through thoughtful pairings and innovative flavor combinations.
The Coastal Breeze cocktail is a signature favorite, blending fresh citrus, mint, and a splash of rum to evoke the refreshing feeling of a seaside escape. Another popular choice is the Charleston Mule, a twist on the classic Moscow Mule with added ginger and a hint of peach, giving it a uniquely Southern flair.
Wine selections range from crisp whites to robust reds, carefully curated to pair with the diverse menu offerings. Additionally, local craft beers are featured prominently, supporting Charleston’s vibrant brewing community.
Non-alcoholic options include fresh-pressed juices and artisanal sodas, ensuring every guest finds something to suit their taste.
Recommended Pairings
- Coastal Breeze – Pairs well with seafood dishes
- Charleston Mule – Ideal with grilled meats
- Local craft beers – Versatile across menu items
- Non-alcoholic juices – Refreshing and palate-cleansing
“A great meal deserves a great drink—Costa Charleston’s bar elevates every dish with expertly crafted beverages.”
Desserts: Sweet Finales
The dessert menu at Costa Charleston offers indulgent treats that provide a perfect ending to the meal. Each dessert combines classic Southern sweets with contemporary twists, showcasing local ingredients and artisanal techniques.
The Peach Cobbler celebrates the region’s bountiful stone fruit, baked with a buttery crust and served warm with vanilla bean ice cream. The Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie is a decadent option, marrying rich chocolate with the nutty sweetness of pecans and a splash of bourbon for depth.
For a lighter option, the Lemon Basil Sorbet refreshes the palate with its bright, herbal notes and clean finish. Desserts are portioned to satisfy without overwhelming, allowing guests to enjoy a final taste of Charleston’s culinary charm.
Dessert Options
- Peach Cobbler – Seasonal peaches, vanilla ice cream
- Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie – Chocolate, pecans, bourbon
- Lemon Basil Sorbet – Lemon, fresh basil
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Texture | Best Paired With |
| Peach Cobbler | Peaches, buttery crust, vanilla ice cream | Soft, creamy | Sweet dessert wine |
| Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie | Chocolate, pecans, bourbon | Rich, crumbly | Espresso or dark stout |
| Lemon Basil Sorbet | Lemon, basil | Light, icy | Herbal tea or sparkling water |
Dietary Accommodations and Specials
Costa Charleston takes pride in accommodating diverse dietary needs without compromising taste or creativity. The menu clearly identifies options suitable for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diners, ensuring an inclusive dining experience for all guests.
Gluten-free dishes are prepared with careful attention to avoid cross-contamination. Many seafood and salad options naturally fit this requirement, and the kitchen is happy to modify dishes upon request.
Vegetarian options are abundant, with several entrees and appetizers designed to showcase plant-based ingredients in innovative ways.
Specials rotate regularly, featuring seasonal produce and regional delicacies that highlight Charleston’s culinary evolution. These specials often incorporate dietary accommodations and provide exciting new choices for returning guests.
Communication with staff is encouraged to tailor the meal experience perfectly.
Dietary Highlights
- Gluten-Free – Clearly marked, with safe preparation
- Vegetarian and Vegan – Multiple flavorful options
- Seasonal Specials – Frequently updated with diverse offerings
“Inclusivity is at the core of Costa Charleston’s menu philosophy, ensuring every guest feels cared for and celebrated.”
Conclusion
Costa Charleston’s menu offers a masterful blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the rich culinary tapestry of Charleston’s coastal culture. Each section of the menu—from appetizers to desserts—demonstrates a dedication to fresh, local ingredients and expert preparation.
Whether indulging in the robust flavors of the signature entrees or savoring a light, refreshing salad, diners are treated to an authentic taste experience that honors both the past and present of Southern cuisine.
The thoughtful beverage pairings and attentive accommodation of dietary needs further elevate the dining experience, making Costa Charleston a destination for all food lovers. Every dish is a celebration of place, crafted with passion and precision to delight the senses.
Visitors and locals alike will find that the menu not only satisfies hunger but also tells a story of heritage, creativity, and community.
Ultimately, dining at Costa Charleston is more than a meal—it’s an invitation to explore the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality that define Charleston’s culinary scene. The menu’s balance of comfort and sophistication ensures that every visit becomes a memorable journey through the best of coastal Southern cuisine.
