By Mandi Starcher on May 25, 2026 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Ritual Rooftop & Lounge ended up being one of our favorite spots in Charleston for both the vibe and the food. The rooftop atmosphere was beautiful and lively without feeling too crowded or over the top, and honestly everything we tried was so good.

The highlight of the night was definitely their signature margarita — easily one of the freshest margaritas I’ve had. It was super balanced, crisp, and refreshing without being too sweet.

We started with locally sourced oysters served with a charred lime that added such a good flavor and made them even better. The calamari was light and crispy — not greasy at all and honestly some of the best we’ve had.

For dinner, we ordered the chicken and cheese empanadas with a garlic aioli that pulled everything together perfectly. It felt like comfort food with a fun elevated twist. We also tried the shrimp tacos topped with a fresh mango salad, and they were amazing — light, flavorful, and the perfect mix of sweet and savory with a really fresh finish.

The whole experience felt trendy and upscale while still being relaxed and welcoming. Definitely a rooftop spot in Charleston worth checking out if you want good drinks, appetizers, and a fun night out.

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By Lucy Boyle on May 6, 2026 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Lauren R Was incredible to us, She was enthusiastic, pleasant helpful, helped us choose the best things on the menu this evening, food and drink wise. She made sure we were OK. Every step of the way I never ever had to wait for another drink. She was always on top of it. Her level of service and expertise was duly noted by all that sat here tonight. I hope that she is my server the next time that I come back to the establishment.
-Lucy B.

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By William Wendling on April 3, 2026 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Where should one begin?

With the welcome as cold as the first dishes that reached our table, or with the empty dining room—a quiet mirror of the kitchen’s failings?

Though we were first granted the pleasure of settling onto a rather lovely terrace, rest assured: it would prove the final bright note in an otherwise disastrous composition. Thanks to our party of ten, we are well positioned to recount the insipid marvels we narrowly avoided savoring. Between overcooked meats, charred carrots, and the tomato burrata salad—though I would sooner rename it a “tomato swamp”—we were carried through a succession of sensations, at once vivid and deeply unsettling for our stomachs.

And yet, the performance had not reached its climax. The ceviche made its entrance a full thirty minutes after the other dishes had been served. It is difficult to convey just how thoroughly this plate managed to gather every conceivable culinary misstep: rancid notes, fish far from fresh, more carrots than seafood—and I shall spare you the rest, lest I extinguish your appetite altogether.

This experience has shown that placing one’s name upon a menu as a chef is not always the wisest of choices—especially when one’s true talent seems to lie in ensuring that guests leave scarcely satisfied.

Our thanks, however, go to the waitress, who remained calm and professional despite the errors—so numerous one might almost suspect them of being intentional on the kitchen’s part.

That said, we nonetheless spent a delightful evening, filled with laughter, and upon returning home, we enjoyed some excellent cheese pasta—if only to recover from a bill as steep as the stuffed pepper itself.

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By Addy on March 2, 2026 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Horrible food horrible service. Got the steak tacos and they were overcooked. The brussels sprouts were so sour and in edible. In addition to the horrible food, the service was genuinely the worst I’ve seen downtown. I don’t know if our waitress was having a bad day or what but she will just look at us blankly and not respond. We asked for the check she nodded, didn’t say anything, but acknowledged it and then never came back. 20 minutes later we had to go to the bar to get our check. Also the host was wearing pajama pants that were hanging down so far her underwear were showing… a bit unclassy for a place where it’s $60+ a person

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By cali reese on February 14, 2026 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

The restaurant was very nice the scenery made me felt like I was in Tulum,Mexico. The food was immaculate I had the ritual burger for dinner and every bite I wanted to faint it was delicious & juicy. The Dj had the vibes going with the music, the bartenders made us some enjoyable margaritas and the servers gave great customer service top teir answer our questions gave us the best option on dinner choices since it was our first time there. Highly recommend going for dinner can’t wait to experience the brunch hours.

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By Hunter Blythe on December 31, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Solid spot for cocktails and has a nice view of some of Charleston. They do a lot of fun events.
Lots of different places to sit (inside bar, outside bar, and the garden area)

Restroom is clean and modern, and they actually have more than one stall.

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By Paige Jamison on October 18, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Emily was INCREDIBLE! Super knowledgeable of the menu, super friendly, took extra precautions with one of our friends who has a gluten and dairy allergy, and overall made our experience a truly great one. Food was delicious and the rooftop was the perfect atmosphere. Definitely the perfect dinner experience!

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By Megan Smith on September 2, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

So I’ve been to this particular spot to party but never to have a meal. We chose Ritual being that their menu was light but also had some larger entrees available and you can’t go wrong with the outdoor space to hang out in. Our reservation was set for 5:30 as our plan was to catch the improve comedy show just a couple blocks away at theater 99. The parking was a breeze as it was just behind the Walgreens on the corner (don’t forget to scan that barcode in the parking lot and pay up for that so you don’t get towed) I paid about $16 for 2 hrs)
One thing I love about Ritual is that they have an elevator (thanks yall! My “non Megan knee” definitely appreciates that!) for those of you who love your stair stepper, you can take the stairs up to the top.
The host was able to seat us right away and we were very quickly greeted by our server.
We ordered both espresso martinis, (they have a vodka option and a tequila option) the tequila option was my favorite.
When it came to the food, we went with some tapas. My partner ordered the guacamole and house made tortilla chips (so flavorful and bright with a slight kick & the chips were large and fresh). We got an order of the bang bang shrimp which had a light batter on them and the bang bang sauce was creamy and delicious. We also ordered the crispy brussel sprouts with carrot purée which were also very tasty and beautiful. The last dish we ordered was the charcuterie board and the saltine crackers and jam were a fantastic combination. Everything looked amazing and so fresh and tasted just as delicious.
Once we finished up with the eats we headed to the other side and stepped out onto the rooftop terrace area that was poppin with a live DJ, chill but upbeat vibes and the bar tenders were definitely putting in work. We ordered a carafe of one of their signature drinks and it was sooo good! Not too sweet, not bitter, just perfect and very refreshing.

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By Kim Hein on July 24, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

We visited Ritual for a rooftop dinner with a group of 9! There were tons of bachelorette groups there, so it had a fun, lively vibe. We were seated out on the patio while the sun was still up, and although the rooftop has curtains/shades to block the sun, it ended up trapping a lot of heat since they were down. Once the sun went down and the curtains were raised, the breeze rolled in and it was so much more comfortable.

The food was good overall. I ordered the empanadas, which were much saucier than I expected... not bad, just different. The chips and guac were absolutely amazing! The drinks were good, but because it was so hot up top, they melted super quickly and ended up pretty watered down. This isn't the restaurant’s fault, just something to be aware of. Pork tacos were good!

Our server was kind but seemed a little overwhelmed with the large group. One of the main dishes was forgotten, and after waiting around 15 minutes while everyone else ate, we decided to cancel it. To be fair, the restaurant did mention it’s a tapas-style menu and recommends sharing small plates, so it may be better suited for more casual bites than full dinners.

The atmosphere was fun and trendy, but definitely packed (we were there on a Saturday). On the way out, we overheard the bouncers chatting about how strict the dress code would be for the evening crowd mentioning they wouldn’t let people in with “butt cheeks out” or anyone looking “trashy.” Two of our Uber drivers even told us they had previously been denied entry for not wearing collared shirts. They do make their dress code clear on the website when booking, so just make sure to plan for that!

Overall, the vibe and energy were good, and it’s a cool rooftop setting but I don’t think I’d return for a full meal. I’d come back for drinks and the view but probably not for dinner again.

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By M Louis on July 18, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Food was fine, not bad, but not excellent. The open patio had a good breeze going with a pretty view. The whole area smelled like lighter fluid, which is odd.

Burger was cooked perfectly but under seasoning made it bland. Fries were slightly undercooked but well seasoned. Chimchiri Hanger steak was cooked properly, but chimichirri tasted like straight vinegar and was watery.

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By Robin Bolling on July 10, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Everything was so amazing!! The food, the staff, the drinks. I was so impressed. Likely one of the best meals I have ever had. I was visiting from out of state and since my visit I had suggested it to many friends and they all had the same experience. Exceptional!! Thanks for all you do to make an amazing dining experience.

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By V A Riccasola on May 25, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

We had a reservation for ten people and we were not told ahead of time that we would not be able to split the check according to what each couple individually ordered in groups over six. The waiter did give us the option to split it into five equal payments but that didn't work for us since some of our tabs were literally double of other couples. For me the food was just ok and the service was slow and inattentive. We waited fifteen minutes to order drinks and then it took about twenty minutes to be served them. I ordered calamari which was soggy and greasy and the presentation (the dipping sauce was off to the side of the bowl it was served in and then the calamari was poured into the bowl) left a bit to be desired. I also ordered the grouper tacos... They were a very small portion of fish on top of roasted corn. The flour tortillas were burned on the outside and they came out ICE COLD. My husband had the seared tuna sandwich which had flavor but twice as much bun as contents. The table ordered together and could not split the bill into separate checks but somehow our entrees did not come out together and some of our party were waiting for food while others were encouraged to eat so it didn't get cold. The drinks were tasty (loved the Paloma) but we ordered a "Lean With It" sharable cocktail and expected the experience of a fishbowl drink for the table, but instead four separate cups were brought to the table. The beer selection was lackluster but at least the beers were reasonably priced. Also, we had a designated driver in our group because we are responsible adults and it killed me that they charged her $4 a coke ... Every single coke... And it came in maybe an 8 ounce Collins glass. Who doesn't give the DD free soda? Or at least free refills. Despite the fact we had a table, there were a lot of people standing near the bar... Like four deep... And they kept bumping the people on that side of the table. The views were nice at sunset and I liked the decor. I just think that dinner and a night club is too much for the staff to handle since the "night club people" were able to migrate to the dining side because the night club bar was busy. I don't think the wait staff had a dedicated bartender. I wasn't impressed but I had a really good time with my people. Nothing disastrous, just nothing I'd care to repeat.

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By Rinnie C on April 27, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

We had an amazing experience at Rituals! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Our server, Peter, truly went above and beyond, he was attentive, knowledgeable, and made sure everything was perfect throughout our meal. The food was absolutely delicious, incredibly fresh, and clearly made to order with great care. Every bite felt like it was crafted just for us. We’ll definitely be coming back for more!

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By Susannah North on March 18, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

If you wanna have a good meal, do not come here. Burgers came out burnt as a rock, everything over priced for bad food. Service bad and VERY slow, rude. If you want fish, you’re only getting a piece of fish, no sides for 35 bucks! Chicken tacos, only have chicken on it no other toppings. Had to spend 30 dollars on a caesar salad!!

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By Carly D on March 16, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Ritual is a super fun vibe with good music and drinks. Everyone got a different cocktail and they were all great. We went for brunch and the food was very good, but slightly overpriced for what it was. Only negative about Ritual is they don’t have coffee which I think is a must for brunch - even just adding iced coffee to the menu would make a huge difference. Overall, great service and super fun for bachelorette parties!

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By De'Visha King on February 28, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Service was good. The food was awesome. I’m not from South Carolina, but I wanted to visit for my birthday and I was not disappointed.

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By Brian Lee on February 19, 2025 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Came for Cocktails one Sunday- beautiful day to be outside at the outside bar or on the veranda!
The Espresso Martini was good and then I switched to Tequila Waters :-)

For Dinner we came back in May '24 and though a little pricey, the food was pretty good (My Mom even ordered a second plate of Calamari (the sauce it came with was fire!!) and I personally liked the Brussels!!

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By Thomas B on December 8, 2024 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Cool vibe and fun rooftop, igloos with heaters to fight the cold, and a good DJ. The vibe was fun even though we went at an off hour

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By Ashley Bangle on November 23, 2024 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Food was fresh with generous portions! Great service and atmosphere. We were surprised at how quiet the restaurant was on a Friday night.

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By R Frazier on September 15, 2024 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Great Place for drinks! If your hungry eat before you come. The portions are bar bites but good! The vibes are everything!

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By Carissa Mae on September 2, 2024 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

This was a fantastic experience with our bachelorette party! We got shots, plenty of drinks, and delicious food. Our waiter was super attentive and nice, and the overall atmosphere was beautiful. It's obviously a popular spot for bachelorette parties since we saw several other brides-to-be dining here. I will definitely come back here!

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By Bailee Lewis on September 1, 2024 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Everything about this place is incredible! The atmosphere along with the service and food was outstanding. I got the burger with the crispy potato bravas and it was delicious. The drink was a coconut creamsicle and that was also amazing! This has been one of my favorite restaurant experiences ever, I definitely suggest that you stop here.

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By Terry Barnes on August 30, 2024 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Dropped in for happy hour with coworkers. The rooftop is gorgeous. Very attractive crowd. Bartenders are very talented. I tried one of the specialty drinks and was not disappointed. Ordered a few of my favorites, old fashions, by far the best I've had in a long time. Food was served quickly after ordering. The ceviche and the shrimp tacos were just ok, not very flavorful. Overall, a pretty good place to chill.

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By Crystal Muir on August 26, 2024 Verified by Google Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Very cool place with a nice rooftop view of Charleston. We had a group that went for brunch and we sat inside. Food was really good and everyone enjoyed what they ordered. We have some great specialty drinks. They also have espresso martini flights which looked delicious!

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