Big Gun Burger Shop and Bar in Charleston: Craft Burgers and Local Atmosphere

What Big Gun Burger Shop and Bar Offers

Big Gun Burger Shop and Bar is a casual burger restaurant in Charleston's Upper King Street neighborhood that builds its menu around hand-crafted burgers, craft beer, and a neighborhood bar atmosphere. The restaurant focuses on quality beef, house-made toppings, and seasonal specials rather than a massive menu. You'll find a mix of locals, tourists, and families during lunch and dinner service, with a bar scene that picks up in the evening.

The space itself reflects Charleston's blend of industrial and casual—exposed brick, dim lighting, and a working bar that anchors one side of the room. It's the kind of place where you can order a burger and beer for a quick lunch or settle in for a longer evening with friends. The staff tends toward friendly and knowledgeable about both the food and the drink list.

Key Takeaways

• Big Gun specializes in hand-formed burgers made with quality beef, not frozen patties, with toppings that change seasonally.
• The bar program emphasizes craft beer and cocktails, with a rotating selection that reflects what's available locally and regionally.
• The restaurant sits on Upper King Street, a walkable stretch of Charleston with other restaurants, shops, and bars within a few blocks.
• Lunch and dinner service run most days, though hours vary by season and day of the week, so calling ahead is worth the minute.

The Burger Menu and What to Order

The burger list changes with the seasons, but the foundation stays consistent: beef ground in-house or sourced from a local supplier, formed by hand, and cooked to order. A basic cheeseburger comes with your choice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and house-made condiments. From there, the menu builds out with combinations like bacon and egg, caramelized onions and blue cheese, or whatever the kitchen has decided to feature that month.

Beyond burgers, you'll find sandwiches—fried chicken, pulled pork—and sides like hand-cut fries, onion rings, or a simple salad. The kitchen doesn't try to do everything, which means what they do make tends to be solid. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, the staff can usually work with you on modifications.

The Bar Program and Drink Selection

The bar at Big Gun takes beer seriously. You'll find local Charleston breweries on tap alongside regional and national craft options. The selection rotates, so what's available in summer may not be there in winter. If you're not sure what to order, the bartenders can point you toward something that matches what you like—hoppy, smooth, light, dark, whatever your preference.

Beyond beer, the bar makes cocktails using standard spirits and house-made syrups and bitters. The cocktail list is small and changes seasonally, designed to pair with food rather than overshadow it. If you prefer wine or non-alcoholic drinks, those are available too, though beer and cocktails are clearly the focus.

Location and Getting There

Big Gun sits on Upper King Street in Charleston, a neighborhood that has transformed over the past decade into a dining and entertainment destination. The restaurant is walkable from downtown Charleston—roughly a 15-minute walk from the Historic District—or a short drive if you're coming from elsewhere in the city. Street parking is available but can be tight during peak hours, especially on weekends.

The area around Upper King has other restaurants, bars, and shops, so you can make an evening of it if you want. The neighborhood tends to be busier on Friday and Saturday nights, quieter on weekday lunches.

Hours, Reservations, and What to Expect

Big Gun operates for lunch and dinner most days of the week, though hours shift seasonally and by day. Lunch typically runs midday, and dinner service extends into the evening. The restaurant does not always take reservations—it depends on the day and how busy they expect to be—so calling ahead to ask about wait times is a smart move, especially on Friday or Saturday nights.

The space is casual, so there's no dress code. Expect a mix of ages and backgrounds, from business lunches to date nights to groups of friends. The noise level picks up during peak hours, particularly when the bar is full, so if you're looking for a quiet meal, aim for an off-peak time like a Tuesday lunch or early evening on a weeknight.

Parking and Accessibility

Street parking is the primary option on Upper King Street, and availability depends on the time of day and day of the week. Weekday lunches are usually easier to find a spot; Friday and Saturday nights can require circling or using a nearby lot. The restaurant itself is ground-level and accessible by foot from the street.

If you have questions about accessibility or specific needs, calling ahead gives the staff a chance to help you plan your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation to eat at Big Gun?

Reservations depend on the day and expected crowd. Call ahead to ask whether they're taking reservations and what the wait time looks like. On quiet weekday afternoons, you can usually walk in; Friday and Saturday nights often have a wait.

What if I don't eat meat?

The menu includes non-burger options like fried chicken sandwiches and salads, and the kitchen can work with you on modifications. Call ahead if you have specific dietary needs so the staff knows what to expect.

Is Big Gun good for a group?

Yes, the casual atmosphere and bar setup work well for groups. For larger parties, calling ahead to let them know you're coming helps the kitchen and staff prepare.

What's the price range?

Burgers and sandwiches fall in the mid-range for Charleston dining—not fast food, but not fine dining either. Expect to spend $12 to $18 on a burger and fries, more if you add drinks or appetizers.

Can I watch sports or events at Big Gun?

The bar has television, and depending on what's happening that day, they may have a game or event on. Call if there's a specific game you want to watch and want to make sure they'll have it.