July 18, 2025

Magnolias Earns Spot Among Top Fried Chicken Restaurants

News Summary

Charleston’s Magnolias restaurant has been recognized by Yelp as one of the top fried chicken joints in North America, ranking No. 47 on their prestigious list. As the only restaurant from South Carolina to feature on the list, Magnolias is celebrated for its elevated Southern cuisine, including its renowned fried chicken. With a rating of 4.4 stars, patrons commend its excellent customer service and inviting ambiance, solidifying its reputation in the local dining scene amidst a competitive culinary landscape.

Charleston, South Carolina – Magnolias, a well-known restaurant in Charleston, has received recognition as one of the top fried chicken joints in North America, ranking No. 47 on Yelp’s esteemed list of the top 50 fried chicken restaurants in the United States and Canada. This ranking was published on July 14 and highlights the restaurant’s excellence in culinary offerings.

The ranking reflects Yelp’s evaluations based on ratings and reviews from Elite users who are actively engaged on the platform. Notably, Magnolias is the only restaurant from South Carolina to be included in this national list, underscoring its prominence in the fried chicken category.

Located in the historic heart of Charleston, Magnolias has established itself as a beloved landmark over the years. It is celebrated for its elegant take on classic Southern cuisine, providing diners with elevated comfort food. The menu features an array of dishes, including its famous fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and a selection of decadent desserts. Fans often applaud the fried chicken, describing it as both crispy and juicy, a true hallmark of the restaurant’s culinary prowess.

Beyond the traditional fried chicken, the restaurant offers several innovative variations, serving it on salads, within sandwiches, and as part of dishes like pan-fried chicken liver and buttermilk fried chicken breast. This diversity has played a role in attracting a wide range of customers, increasing its appeal within both the local community and visitors alike.

According to Yelp, Magnolias boasts an impressive overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, reflecting positive customer experiences. Patrons frequently highlight the excellent customer service and charming ambiance that the restaurant provides, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all diners.

Magnolias opened its doors in 1990 and has since contributed significantly to the culinary renaissance in Charleston. Over the years, it has not only garnered attention for its cuisine but also helped elevate the city’s profile as a premier destination for food lovers. Charleston has been recognized in various circles as one of the best cities for gastronomes in the United States, further enhancing the city’s reputation.

In recent years, Magnolias has navigated challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and a kitchen fire that impacted operations. In 2022, the restaurant worked diligently to recover from staffing shortages and operational disruptions, responding to the evolving needs of its staff and customers.

For context, last year Charleston’s Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack in Greenville was ranked the best for fried chicken in South Carolina, establishing a competitive food scene within the state. Meanwhile, Howlin’ Ray’s in Los Angeles earned the title of the best fried chicken restaurant in the U.S. and Canada, showcasing the fierce competition among fried chicken establishments across the nation.

The acknowledgment of Magnolias by Yelp as a top fried chicken destination further cements its status within the culinary landscape. As locals and visitors flock to the restaurant, its reputation as a purveyor of exceptional fried chicken is likely to continue flourishing, contributing to Charleston’s vibrant dining culture.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.