5 Gay-Friendly Restaurants in Charleston, WV

Bridge Road Bistro draws a refined crowd of locals and travelers looking for a special night out in South Hills. The vibe is upscale but not stuffy, with a diverse menu that highlights steak, seafood, and locally sourced ingredients. Owner Sandra Call, a 37-year hospitality veteran, has led the restaurant since 2010, and it has earned Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for 20 years. The bistro also features live local musicians three days a week and serves water in locally made Blenko Glass. You'll want to make a reservation, especially for the Walnut Room or Ellis Room if you're with a group. Prime rib is a Monday special, and Wednesday offers a two-can-dine deal for $69. The full bar and outdoor seating make it a comfortable spot for any evening. While Yelp data suggests it may be permanently closed as of now, locals remember it as a top-tier dining choice in Charleston.

Bluegrass Kitchen sits in Charleston's East End, a neighborhood the owners helped revitalize. This family-run spot opened in 2006 after an 18-month renovation of an early 1900s building. It serves elevated comfort food made from scratch with local and organic ingredients. The menu includes a large selection of vegetarian-friendly items. The atmosphere is casual and family friendly, with a full bar and free WiFi. Tuesday through Saturday, Bluegrass opens at 3pm for dinner, with Sunday brunch on weekends. The owners also run Frütcake and Tricky Fish nearby. Note that Yelp currently lists this venue as temporarily or permanently closed, so check hours before heading out.

Lola's stands out in Charleston's pizza scene with its locally-sourced pies and cozy yet hip atmosphere. The Yelp community gives it 4.4 stars from 248 reviews, and one regular calls it the best pizza in the central Appalachians. Beer and wine only, plus free WiFi make it a laid-back spot. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs too. They're open from 4pm Tue-Thu, until 10pm Fri-Sat, and noon-9pm on weekends. The creative pizzeria vibe draws a mixed crowd looking for quality ingredients. If you're craving a slice after exploring, ask a local how to find it off Glen Road in South Hills.

The first thing you'll notice walking into First Watch is the smell of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon. This chain serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch with a chef-driven menu that changes with the seasons. They slice and juice fresh fruits and vegetables daily, and whip French toast batter from scratch. It's a relaxed spot with free WiFi, outdoor seating, and a casual vibe that works for solo diners or groups. You'll find it on Quarrier Street in Downtown Charleston, open every day from 7am to 2:30pm. Regulars appreciate the consistent quality and friendly service. For a quieter experience, try a weekday morning before the weekend rush.

Soho has been serving Italian cuisine at Charleston's Capitol Market since 2002, using original recipes from late founder Bill Sohovich. The owner-operated spot offers a modern take on Italian, Mediterranean, and American dishes in a renovated train depot with an elevated industrial feel. The space is casual and welcoming, with outdoor seating available. You'll find generous portions of scratch-made lasagna, artisan pizzas, and NY-style sandwiches here. The full bar is stocked for a drink with your meal. It's open for lunch and dinner most days, with earlier closing on Sunday. Reservations are accepted, which can help during busier weekend evenings.