Chubby Fish

Chubby Fish is a seafood restaurant in Charleston, SC, specializing in chef-driven, dock-to-table dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal Lowcountry seafood. The restaurant features a daily-changing menu that highlights local catches from the Atlantic Ocean and nearby rivers, paired with innovative preparations and ingredients sourced from regional farmers and fisherman. Founded in 2018 by Charleston native Chef James London, Chubby Fish emphasizes sustainability and seasonality, offering a rotating selection of small and large plates that reflect the best of the region’s bounty. The restaurant has earned national recognition, including a Best New Restaurant nod from Bon Appetit, a ranking as #7 Restaurant in the US by Food and Wine Magazine, and a James Beard finalist nomination for Best Chef Southeast in 2024.

Chef James London brings a diverse culinary background to Chubby Fish, having trained at the French Culinary Institute in New York and worked under notable chefs in New York City and San Francisco. His experience in Southern, Japanese, and Creole cuisine informs the restaurant’s dynamic menu, which features dishes like Triggerfish Ceviche, Wagyu Beef Tartare, and Grilled Oysters with crab fat curry. The restaurant also offers a curated raw bar, seasonal small plates, and a rotating selection of market fish prepared by the chef. Chubby Fish is known for its commitment to quality, local partnerships, and a refined yet approachable dining experience.

Chubby Fish is located in the heart of Charleston, serving as a destination for seafood lovers and food enthusiasts drawn to its innovative take on Lowcountry cuisine. The restaurant’s reputation for excellence, rooted in fresh ingredients and expert craftsmanship, has solidified its standing as one of Charleston’s most celebrated dining experiences.