Fuel Restaurant in Charleston SC: Southern meets Caribbean
The exterior of Fuel Charleston
If you’re looking for a unique atmosphere and delicious food, head to Fuel Restaurant in Charleston SC!
This trendy eatery is located on 211 Rutledge Avenue in a vintage filling station—hence, the name.
The gas station decor is a fun contrast to the modern cuisine, which draws on both Southern and Caribbean flavors.
Let’s explore why Fuel Restaurant is one of the hidden gems of downtown Charleston’s food scene.
This post contains affiliates. If you purchase through the links, I will receive a commission at no charge to you.
I was not compensated for my review. I just love food.
Updated 7/2022 | Written 8/2014
The Atmosphere
The Fuel Charleston sign on Rutledge Avenue
The restaurant is in a part of the Charleston peninsula called Cannonborough-Elliotborough.
25 years ago, this area was filled with abandoned houses post-Hurricane Hugo, but the community has worked hard to revitalize it.
Fuel opened in 2008 as part of that revitalization.
Today, this neighborhood is filled with some amazing restaurants like Xiao Bao Biscuit, Sugar Bakeshop, and Pink Cactus Charleston.
Since its opening, the restaurant has been a popular destination for locals, but it exploded on the national scene when it appeared in Season 13 of Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.
>> Learn more about Charleston’s revitalization while trying new restaurants on the Upper King Street Culinary Tour! <<
Fuel Charleston isn’t a big restaurant, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
During lunch and into the early afternoon, grabbing a table isn’t too hard.
However, weekend nights will see a wait.
The food is worth the wait, I promise!
The outdoor courtyard at Fuel Charleston
There's a pretty little courtyard with a covered deck area.
This outdoor space is great for those summer afternoons so you can eat without the last of the afternoon sun beating down on you.
>> Get more Lowcountry travel inspiration with my Discover Charleston digital visitors center! <<
The Food at Fuel
My favorite starter at Fuel used to be the hoecakes, which were fried corn meal fritters covered in sour cream, tomatoes, and cheese. YUM.
Grilled jerk chicken sandwich with plantain fritters
However, they’ve redone the menu semi-recently and took those off, which is super sad.
Thankfully, there are some other great appetizers like the nachos or the roasted corn chowder.
As you move onto your main meal, you can’t go wrong with the the grilled jerk chicken sandwich ($15), which is a chicken breast piled high with bacon, pineapple, lettuce, and tomatoes.
The braised pork tacos ($5/each) are also incredible! They are what happens when BBQ and soft tacos get married and have a kid.
Pulled pork is covered in sweet caramelized onions and a tangy cole slaw for a taco that’s sweet and savory at the same time.
Pulled pork tacos with sweet potato fries
If you’d like to add on a side, the plantain fritters are a delicious version of the Caribbean staple. The sweet potato fries are another great option.
Outdoor bar area at Fuel Charleston
Fuel Charleston has an extensive drinks menu and a happy hour daily from 4-7 PM.
You can explore their cocktail menu with custom drinks, sample a glass of wine, or create your own liquor drink from their collection of rum, vodka, tequila, and more.
If you don’t want to wait for a table, you can always grab a stool at the bar to try their newest cocktail!
There’s indoor and outdoor bar seating.
Opt for the outdoor bar if the weather’s nice as the courtyard is super cute.
Anyway, if you're ever in the Charleston area and hungry, venture away from the more touristy restaurants on East Bay or Meeting.
Instead, head over to Fuel on the corner of Rutledge and Cannon Streets. You really won't regret it!
Do you like Caribbean food or Southern food?
