Saltwater Cowboys

Stopped for lunch at Saltwater Cowboys while visiting Charleston. The service was lackluster and slow. The restaurant was expectedly very warm due to the hot day, but tolerable. The best part of our visit was the FOOD!!! Everything we tried was DELICIOUS! Kudos to the kitchen for knocking it out if the park on a hot summer day! Overall we would certainly recommend Saltwater Cowboys, and will be returning ourselves soon.

Nice place on the water to grub. The food was excellent, and the Pussers Rum Margarita was good as well. If it's not hot as Hades, then I would recommend to eat outside.

Dined tonight with a group of five and we were able to be seated right away. The food was okay. The apps (fried green tomatoes, street corn dip, and fried pickles) were delicious. Our server, Omar, was the highlight of the experience. He is knowledgeable, funny, and very accommodating. The restaurant was out of the entree I wanted, but he checked with the kitchen and did his best to make up for it (which was definitely above and beyond)! Omar’s exceptional service is the reason I am even writing a review. He is the best! Thank you!

We met friends on a Sunday late afternoon on the patio covered by umbrellas. The live music was very loud but set nicely to the background of Shem Creek. Unfortunately, it was hot and the shade wasn't cutting it. I wish there were more fans or we were located closer to the big fan. The bathrooms were located upstairs and in the process we were able to see a view of the restaurant. There are different levels and locations to dine here, including multiple bars. The bar menu was loaded! Lots to choose from! 🍸🍻🥂 It was kind of a let down that all of the frozen drinks were premixed though. The kids wanted a cocktail so we opted for a strawberry lemonade. $6/each I had the Cucumber Mint cocktail, which was ok. Nothing to write home about and wasn't as refreshing as I had hoped. I couldn't really taste the cucumber. The kids shared the Peel n Eat shrimp and they were a decent size. I liked the flavor but my daughter hates any kind of spice and struggled to eat it. Hubby had the Creek Bowl with shrimp and was extremely underwhelmed. The cilantro lime rice was overshadowed by the crazy amount of beans and jalapenos. Not many peppers and onions. 6 grilled shrimp. I had the pulled pork plate. Again, very meh. The pork really didn't seem fresh and was lacking in flavor. At least the BBQ sauce was good though! The sweet potato fries were the freshest things on my plate. I also had the cucumber tomato salad, which seemed over a day old. The cucumbers were very soggy and lacking in flavor. The service and atmosphere was nice, but overall we felt this was a 3.5⭐ meal.

We found this place on our last night in town and it was perfect! The atmosphere was amazing with love music and being able to look out over the water. The food was fantastic, drinks were great and the staff was very friendly! There were several spots to watch the sunset over the water which made for a great last night in town!

The best food and experience we had on our trip! Fresh watermelon slices were so refreshing on a hot day and the fish sandwiches were top notch!! We can’t wait to return!

Our first stop in Charleston! The Brussels sprouts were super tasty, but the calamari was a bit too chewy. I ordered grilled mahi sandwiches — the fish was dry and overly salty. However, the service was great and the atmosphere was really nice. Friendly staff and good vibes overall!

Food and drinks were delicious - ambiance on the water is a perfect location with nearby parking. It was extremely busy and we were sat with another table which we weren't expecting but wasn't an issue. The live music was top tier and enjoyable. A must-see in Charleston area!

Been here several times! The food is always great. Ambiance is as good or better than the food, depending on if the dolphins are out in the creek. If you can manage to get a table right alongside the creek you'll have a great view of them and all the watercraft coming through. The service is mostly just ok. We've had one server there that was memorable because of how above and beyond he went. Other than that, everyone seems kind of bothered by all of their diners' presence. Side note: there was a special item the last time we went. Cajun shrimp and sausage. It was out of this world.

Located on the fun Shem Creek Boardwalk, my wife and I just stopped here to get a dessert to go. They recommended their coconut cake and it was a seriously awesome recommendation! The cake was moist & delicious and the slice was incredibly huge enough for three people. Seem like a fun, yet laid-back place. Looking forward to a return visit for dinner sometime.

Saltwater Cowboys has really gone downhill. First, they have a C rating!!! We almost left, but my cousin had really wanted to try it so we stayed. I tried the rice bowl which was okay, but had very little flavor. I think it's definitely a good spot for views and drinks, but I would not recommend the food. Our server was very good and kept up With our drinks and regularly checked on us. I do not plan to return and would only advise you go here if you are looking for drinks and tourists. The food is not an option.

Love this spot! Sit outside on the rail and watch the dolphins in Shem Creek Food and drinks are always on point but make sure you make a reservation!

Memorial Day Celebration at Saltwater Cowboys. It was great thank you Wade! Warmly Greeted by Michael & served Most Excellently by Stefani It was a beautiful day on Shem Creek to only be complemented by great food. We started with Stone Crab Claws, Calamari & Deviled Eggs all were yummy. The snapper entree was greatly enjoyed along with multiple adult beverages and Jell-O shots. The day was a perfect celebration with family and also in honor of those who sacrificed their all for our FREEDOM Come and enjoy the patio and creek watch! Soak up some sun. SWC has inside and outside seating. FREE Parking on Shem Creek and handicap friendly.

Our last night in the area we decided to have dinner with a view. Although we got there right before sunset it was still beautiful. While you wait to be seat there are 3 bars where you can get cocktails and will around waiting for your table so that makes it nice. I should have known how busy and loud it would be on a Friday night but I didn't let that ruin my time. The service was exceptional for how busy it was. Live Dj played good mixes, drinks and food were good. The people watching was even better.

Came back for quick dinner and everything was delicious!! We love this place! Every time we come to Charleston we visit this place! The service and food was 1000% exceptional. I wanted a souvenir and the bartender was able to get a manager to open gift shop back up for me to take a shirt home w me. thank you!! I would have left so disappointed if they didn't open back up for me to buy something. The ambiance on a Wednesday night was nice. We sat in patio area - only place I love to sit. I have never sat inside when visiting. Our waitress was really nice too and make sure we had everything we needed. You must visit this place if in the area. I think I prefer this over Reds for sure.

In my quest to try all of the nachos in Charleston, I had lunch at Saltwater Cowboys to try their trashcan nachos. I was really impressed with the nacho quality - well portioned, good topping coverage, fresh ingredients. I had the smoked turkey as an add-on and it was definitely worth it. The views of the water were nice as well. Live DJ music was a bit loud for a lunch but they moved us to a quieter part of the restaurant and everything was fine from there. I'll definitely be coming back to get these nachos again.

Salt water cowboys is a must go to when visiting Charleston! We ended up going there twice in one day for lunch and back for dinner when walking around the line of restaurants! Food was great, service was great, and the live music was perfect! Great place to go with a bachelorette party!

We were looking for a local restaurant with music, good food and cocktails, and seating on the water during our girls' trip to Charleston. Saltwater Cowboys didn't disappoint! The drinks were amazing, food was fantastic, and our server, Gabe, was knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. My daughter enjoyed the shrimp tacos and I got the shrimp and grits, which was amazing. The view of the water is spectacular, with fishing and sailboats passing by. Festive music completes the coastal Carolina vibe. Highly recommend!

We had a nice dinner on the patio at Saltwater Cowboys. The waitresses were great and the food all came out fairly quickly. The food itself was good but not amazing. My shrimp po boy was mostly bread, but the few shrimp that were in it were great. The pulled pork on the "trash can nachos" was tasty, but the nachos as a whole were kinda meh, mostly because this trend of dumping nachos out of a can means that all the toppings land in one spot.

When we walked up the hostesses just looked at us and we had to ask for a table. They sit community/shared tables here, which is fine but it was a little bit hard to hear each other. There was a live musician, which was great but also pretty loud. We got the fried green tomatoes as an appetizer, which was absolutely delightful. I had a Painkiller and my husband had a local beer. It was a busy night so our server was not as attentive, but she was nice and made good suggestions. I got the tacos, the menu said 4 but the serving was only 2 - they were decent.

I enjoy Saltwater cowboys for what it is. Fun bar with great eats and awesome drinks. There is generally a DJ or live music. Great spot on Shem Creek. This place is usually PACKED so just be prepared to grab a drink and wait for a table. Parking is free but can fill up quickly. Service is generally pretty good here and again, the location on the creek is amazing and I love watching the boaters, paddle boarders and even dolphins go up and down the creek.

Nice place to sit by the water while enjoying a good meal. Grace was our server who was very personal and professional. We didn't have to wait long for our order. The live music was great

Delicious and wonderful experience. Being GF is tough but our server was very knowledgeable. The view of the water was beautiful.

Food was ok. Service was just ok. Of course, the view at Shem Creek is wonderful. This place does have a a cool, waterfront bar, vibe.

A very popular establishment on Shem Creek, especially for younger/middle-aged professionals. It is very lively on weekends and can be pretty loud. It's nice to sit outside and watch the creek view. Would not recommend the creek bowl, it is basically just rice with some condiments on top. Fried flounder and grits were nice.

If you're looking for a nice place by the water to grab food and drinks, I would recommend here! We came here on a Sunday in January....it was 60s which is warm in the sun. We waited 20min for a table. Super dog friendly, great water views. Music was loud but otherwise fun atmosphere. Got wine, the flounder with mac n cheese and sweet potato fries. My fiance got the brisket with collards and cowboy beans. Idk what that other person was saying, I tried some of the brisket and it was tender and delicious. The flounder was decent, couldve been fried a bit more. Sweet potato fries were on point, mac n cheese was OK have had better ....have also had worse. We will come back, but watch out for the birds they will try to sneak some of your food away lol We walkes the boardwalk after to burn some calories. Was a great day!

Waterside restaurant. Sit outside not inside. We ended up fighting flies for our food. The drinks were great!! The food was mediocre. Also they allow dogs inside soooo yeah, won't be back.

I'm all about location and Shem Creek is perfection with its beautiful views. The food at Saltwater Cowboys was just meh. I ordered the Sashimi Ahi Tuna Poke bowl which is listed as a favorite and it was very mediocre. I also wasn't impressed with our waitress who didn't check in to see how the meal was or if we needed anything else. Very sub par for the price.

Nice view of the water and fun music. Go for drinks and a view. The service was also really great, our server was very attentive.

The food is pretty good, but honestly overrated. We ordered the trash can nachos to start and the poke. The nachos were the highlight of the meal. The poke was very average. I would recommend coming here just for drinks and maybe nachos on the rooftop at sunset. Skip the main entrees.

Nice location with outdoor and indoor seating right on Shem creek. I've gotten a plate with grouper fingers and the brisket - both items were so tasty. Fries were good but the mac and cheese was lackluster being bland and dry. I would get the meal again with different sides next time. I've also gotten the coconut cake. Their desserts are not publicly displayed which is odd considering HOW INCREDIBLE THE COCONUT CAKE IS. It is a large portion to share between 2-4 people. I would come again just to get this cake. Priced well for the portion you receive. I will sing praises to this cake.

Recently went here while on vacation at the recommendation of several people. Was absolutely worth it. Food was delicious tons of outdoor seating. It's really nice to watch the sunset there. food came out extremely quickly as well. Frozen drinks were very refreshing. Our waitress was very friendly as well. Strongly recommend stopping by this area if you were on vacation in Charleston.

Ordered the brisket creek bowl as well as the nachos w brisket for the table. The brisket is extremely tough, couldnt even eat 90% of it. We sat with empty drink cups for a long time. Ordered the burger tht comes with caramelized onions, they forgot the onions. We asked for them, they charged us an additional $2. Waiters dont know the menu and are argumentative when meals are incorrect. Fun ambiance though for our bachelorette party.

Great service, atmosphere, and views! Love this place, have brought many people to it!

The wife and I split their stone crab special appetizer. If you are familiar with how expensive Stone crabs are, getting 2 nice size claws is very reasonable for the price of this dish The mustard lime sauce was very good. We both ordered the fried grouper sandwich. The grouper was a very large filet on a large Brioche bun served with tomato, shredded lettuce, and a dill tarter sauce. The issue with the sandwich is the fish was not crispy at all. This was likely exacerbated by the fact that the Stone Crab appetizer came out at the same time as the main dish, so the sandwich sat on the table in the humid heat while we ate the claws. I doubt this was a kitchen issue, as the claws should pretty much be ready, and it did not arrive until the main dish was cooked and served. As always, the restaurant is packed, with a great vibe. I am not sure how they manage to keep enough staff to keep this place running as smoothly as they do, but they seem to manage.

The bartender Liam is AWESOME! 10/10 service. Made our time memorable! Will 100% be back!

Super busy but seated quickly. Food arrived not long after placing our order and was delicious. The pretzel was amazing. We enjoyed sitting on the patio and watching the boats coming in. I'm not sure if today was their typical day but they were packed on the patio. Even though they were busy service was great.

This is some of our favorite food in Shem's Creek! Most of the food is as all similar pub style but we love it the most at this location. The service was really attentive and our water was always full which is key. Not to mention the seating is right on the water so it makes for a beautiful view.

Great water side location. The food was marginal at best. Ordered salmon special with rice. It was like chewing dry spaghetti either overcooked and dried out or not cooked at all couldn't tell. Our server was cool, seemed like alcohol sales was there main push and food was just an add on. For the menu prices would have expected better quality.

This place is a party on the weekends. The energy was wonderful and the drinks flowed freely. If you come here you must get the trash can nachos. You can choose a protein and it feeds so many. I had the chicken tacos and what impressed me most was how moist it was. The flavor was awesome and the fries were tasty and crispy. The server we had was very attentive given how busy it was. She was happy to help us with any questions and our party of 10 was well taken care of!

Today was surely a day to be enjoying the great weather and view on Shem Creek! This casual fun restaurant serves a nice meal at a reasonable price with a view! My server was friendly and helpful. Fried oysters topping my salad were just ok.

Good Food. Nice Vibe, and cold Drinks...Attentive Bar staff. Check it out and sit by the water.

Good vibes!! Love this place! Food was good service was great and drinks were flowing! Only complaint, the sun was scorching hot This place is a must try!

I went there for lunch with a party of 5 adults and one baby. Every one of our dishes was excellent, and we were all raving about how good the food was. The huge soft pretzel appetizer was added fun! The service was attentive and friendly. We'll be going back for sure.

The atmosphere was the main attraction of this place. The drinks were incredibly watered down and the service was very slow. When we finally got our food, the meat was overcooked and lacked flavor. Would say I mainly ate fries for dinner.

Amazing spot in Shem Creek - been here a couple times and knew I had to bring my sister back to experience it. We got there at dinner time & had to wait 30 mins for a 2 person table. The views didn't disappoint! We grabbed a drink at the bar on the first level and walked up to the upper third level to watch the boats come in & out. The trash can nachos were HUGE, we couldn't even finish them. It would be nice if the chicken was cut up a little smaller. The food overall was great and the views sold it for us! Can't wait to continue to come back.

We went to lunch here on our last day in Charleston and it was the perfect way to end our trip. The views of Shem Creek from Saltwater Cowboys is really great and there is a ton of seating both inside and out if you get there before it gets overly crowded. We actually opted to sit inside in the A/C but the windows are huge so you still have a great view. I loved everything...the music, drinks, food, and the service. Our kids did as well. We could see the dolphins swimming in Shem Creek while we sipped on our adult beverages and had good food. Not bad at all.

Definitely a must when visiting the area, great views and feel for the town. We stopped in around lunch and ended up having an appetizer as we had other restaurants on our list for lunch. It was crowded for lunchtime although it was week of Christmas. They have multiple different seating options, indoors and out. We sat at a high top facing the water. The menu had a wide variety of options. We ordered the family crab dip which was ok, there were shells and fins throughout but you could tell it was authentic. I would return for the atmosphere and live music if I was in the area again.

Looks cool when you see the video of the nachos but really pass on this place. The horrible trash odor should be enough to scare anyone away. It smells like a trash dump. Bar bugs everywhere. This place puts the dump in dumpster dive. Even the inside smells like a porta potty. The food is soggy, slippery, stale, and gross. Far from fresh. Brisket is dry and likely microwaved. At least it tasted that way. If you can get past the smell you will be disappointed yet again. You are better off licking the floor. Don't think the service is enough. The staff is simply untrained and the managers not phased by your complaints. There are a few better restaurants in that area. The crab place isn't bad and Nico's is pretty decent as well.

The view from the deck is amazing, we even saw a few dolphins during our lunch! I highly recommend the frozen painkiller, definitely the best painkiller I've ever had. The pulled pork plate gives good servings but I thought the best part of the meal were the baked beans so you should definitely try to get an order of those. We also ordered the bang bang shrimp which were great, but the rice bowl with brisket and mac and cheese lacked some flavor. Overall, would still recommend for the range of offerings and great drinks!

Came here for dinner on our second night and didn't have to wait super long, which was nice. We got seated on the rooftop which was an amazing view! We ordered the Bang Bang Shrimp (BOMB), fried pickles (as a fried pickle enthusiast, these were just okay. Not bad, but not my favorite), and shrimp and grits (meh). The bang bang shrimp were definitely the star of the show, they had so much flavor. The shrimp and grits were kind of bland. Not terrible, but not like world shattering. The service was great and it seems like a great place to listen to music as the night goes on.

Went at 4 pm on a cooler Monday; got a seat right away inside on the second floor. Great views of the water, plenty of people sitting outside. Huge bonus: open on Mondays. Kid friendly: has high chairs but no kids menu (just order from the sides). In my opinion SWC has the best vegetarian options on Shem Creek. I got the creek bowl which was super filling (went hungry and couldn't finish it) but didn't leave me feeling like junk. Rice, beans, veggies, and you can add meat chicken or fish if you want. Husband had buffalo dry rub wings and fried shrimp, loved both. My two year old son had the salt and pepper fries which he responded "good" after finishing them all so for him, that's mind blowing deliciousness. I was able to sneak one fry and yeah, it was really tasty. Drinks we had were just canned beer and cider so good but nothing to review

The service went by really fast, the nachos were so so good. The view was pretty right on the water. Everyone enjoyed their food and the atmosphere.

We had an amazing meal and service tonight. Everything was perfect. I highly recommend the fried green tomatoes! All three of us enjoyed our food. The manager even stopped by our table to see how everything was. That's not something you see everywhere. We will be back if we're in the area again!

We came here twice on our trip to Charleston! The vibe is great and it's such a nice spot to watch the sunset. We split the crab dip and the loaded nachos and they were phenomenal!

We think this is a must stop for an afternoon lunch, early afternoon dinner prior to sunset! You just can't beat the location, the vibe and if they don't have live music, they have a DJ that's pumping music while you sit and watch the sun set and look for dolphins riding Shem Creek. The food is above average, with multiple varieties, especially good seafood.

Delicious food. Amazing view of the Shem Creek area from the upstairs inside dining area. The summer salad and salmon was delicious! Good service and a place I'll definitely go to again if I'm in the area.