Tucked away on John’s Island, just a short drive from downtown Charleston, The Royal Tern is a sophisticated yet inviting seafood and steakhouse that strikes the perfect balance between refined dining and coastal comfort. With a menu centered around pristine seafood, wood-fired meats, and expertly prepared sushi, it’s a go-to destination for everything from date nights to family gatherings.

The Vibe

Airy, modern, and effortlessly stylish, The Royal Tern blends sleek coastal aesthetics with Lowcountry charm. High ceilings, warm wood accents, and soft lighting create an inviting atmosphere, while the open kitchen and wood-fired grill add a lively, interactive element to the dining experience. Elegant but never pretentious, it’s a spot that feels special yet totally approachable.

What to Drink

The Royal Tern’s beverage program is all about balance—refreshing cocktails and a well-curated wine selection designed to pair beautifully with seafood and steak.

🍸 843 G&T – Nippitaty gin, Jack Rudy elderflower tonic, soda. Light, floral, and incredibly refreshing.

🍹 Hemingway Daiquiri – White rum, Luxardo Maraschino, grapefruit, lime. A crisp, balanced, and citrus-forward classic.

🍸 The Wolfe Martini – Grey Goose, olive juice. A dirty martini done right—simple, smooth, and perfectly briny.

What to Order

Raw Bar & Apps

Start with a selection from the raw bar, then round things out with a few shareable appetizers:

🦪 Oysters – Served with house mignonette and cocktail sauce—fresh, briny, and perfect.

🦞 Shellfish Tower – A showstopper featuring oysters, shrimp, crab, and lobster. Ideal for sharing.

🐟 Royale – Oyster, tuna, jalapeño ponzu. A vibrant, flavor-packed bite.

🐠 Ahi Tuna – Coconut, lime, avocado, crispy wontons. A refreshing, creamy, and tropical dish.

🌊 Scallop Carpaccio – Yuzu kosho mignonette, smoked trout roe, microgreens, citrus salt. Delicate and citrus-forward.

🦀 Lump Crab Poke – Seaweed salad, chili crisp aïoli. A rich, savory dish with a subtle heat.

🥖 PEI Mussels – Steamed in white wine, leek and garlic cream, served with crusty sourdough for dipping.

🦪 Wood Grilled Oysters – Topped with garlic butter, parmesan, and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Entrées

Seafood and wood-fired meats take center stage here, with thoughtfully crafted dishes that highlight top-quality ingredients.

🐟 Salmon – Grilled broccolini, patatas bravas, red pepper, piccata sauce. A bright, citrusy, and flavorful dish.

🐠 Yellowfin Tuna – Peanut crust, fried rice, bean sprouts, green peas, curry peanuts, prik nam pla, house chili sauce. A bold, well-balanced mix of crunch and spice.

🍤 Scallops – Sweet potato gnocchi, butternut squash purée, red onion, kale, oyster mushrooms, bacon lardons, pecorino, pumpkin seeds, chives. Deeply satisfying, rich, and seasonal.

🥩 Ribeye – 14oz. cut, grilled over an open flame and finished with maître d’hôtel butter. A perfectly executed steakhouse classic.

Sides You Can’t Skip

🥦 Grilled Broccolini – Fried garlic, lemon oil. A smoky, citrus-kissed addition to any meal.

🥔 Scalloped Potato Gratiné – Leek and garlic cream, gruyère. Creamy, cheesy, and utterly indulgent.

Service & Experience

The service at The Royal Tern is attentive and knowledgeable without feeling overly formal. Whether you need help navigating the extensive wine list, choosing between seafood options, or deciding between sushi or steak, the staff is happy to guide your experience.

What’s the Real Reason to Visit?

The Royal Tern is one of John’s Island’s top dining destinations, offering a polished yet laid-back atmosphere, top-quality ingredients, and flawlessly executed dishes. Whether you’re craving fresh oysters, wood-fired seafood, or a beautifully marbled steak, this spot consistently delivers.

📍 Pro Tip: They take reservations, so book ahead—especially on weekends!