Chris' Pizza and Pub in Charleston: Wood-Fired Pies and Local Beer
What Chris' Pizza and Pub Offers
Chris' Pizza and Pub is a casual neighborhood spot in Charleston that serves wood-fired pizzas alongside a curated selection of local and regional beers. The restaurant sits on King Street in the heart of downtown, drawing regulars and visitors who want straightforward, well-made pizza without pretension. The wood-fired oven is the centerpiece—pies come out with charred, bubbly crusts and toppings that range from traditional margherita to combinations built around what's available seasonally.
The pub side of the operation is equally important to the identity. The beer list leans heavily on South Carolina breweries and nearby craft producers, which means you'll find rotating taps from places like Westbrook Brewing, Revelry Brewing, and others based in the Lowcountry. The space itself is designed for lingering—high-top tables, a bar where you can watch the kitchen, and enough noise and energy that groups feel welcome without pressure to rush.
Key Takeaways
- Chris' Pizza and Pub uses a wood-fired oven to cook pizzas with charred crusts and fresh toppings, with a menu that changes based on seasonal ingredients.
- The beer program focuses on South Carolina and regional craft breweries, so the tap list rotates and reflects what's being made nearby.
- The restaurant is located on King Street in downtown Charleston, making it accessible by foot or car in a walkable neighborhood.
- The atmosphere is casual and social, designed for groups, dates, and solo diners at the bar rather than formal dining.
The Pizza Menu and How It Works
The pizza menu at Chris' operates on a foundation of classic styles but shifts with what the kitchen sources. You'll find a margherita made with fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil—the kind of pizza that tests a kitchen's fundamentals. Beyond that, expect combinations that might include local sausage, roasted vegetables, or seasonal proteins. The crust itself is the result of the wood-fired process: the high heat creates char on the bottom and edges while keeping the interior tender, which is harder to achieve than it sounds.
Portion sizes are generous. A single pizza is typically enough for two people, or one hungry person with leftovers. The kitchen also offers appetizers and salads, though the pizza is the draw. Prices sit in the mid-range for Charleston dining—not budget pizza, but not fine dining either. The wood-fired oven means each pizza takes time to cook, so expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.
Beer Selection and Local Brewery Connections
Chris' Pizza and Pub's beer program is one of its defining features. Rather than stocking a massive national list, the restaurant prioritizes South Carolina breweries and producers within a few hours' drive. This means the taps change regularly—what's on today might be gone next week, replaced by something new from another local operation. If you're exploring Charleston's craft beer scene, this is a good place to do it without feeling like you need a degree in beer styles.
The staff can point you toward what's currently on tap and what pairs well with your pizza choice. The bar itself is a comfortable place to sit if you're dining alone or waiting for a table, and the bartenders know the beer list well enough to make suggestions based on what you usually drink.
Location and Parking in Downtown Charleston
Chris' Pizza and Pub sits on King Street, one of Charleston's main commercial corridors in the downtown area. This location means the restaurant is walkable from many hotels, shops, and other restaurants—if you're staying in the historic district or nearby, you can reach it on foot. The neighborhood has the energy of downtown without being in the most congested tourist zone.
Parking is street parking or nearby lots, which is typical for this part of King Street. During busy times, finding a spot can take a few minutes, but the area is not as constrained as some other downtown locations. If you're driving, arriving before peak dinner hours (before 6 p.m. or after 8 p.m.) usually means easier parking.
When to Visit and What to Expect
Weekday lunches tend to be quieter than evenings and weekends, which makes them a good time to visit if you prefer a calmer atmosphere or want to sit at the bar without waiting. Dinner service, especially Friday and Saturday nights, draws crowds—the restaurant fills up, the noise level rises, and the kitchen moves at full speed. This is when Chris' feels most like a neighborhood gathering spot, but it also means longer waits for tables and food.
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner most days, though hours can shift seasonally. It's worth checking ahead if you're planning a specific visit, especially if you're coming on a holiday or during a major Charleston event when the whole downtown area gets busier.
Food and Drink Pairings Beyond Pizza
While pizza is the main event, the kitchen also makes salads and appetizers that work well alongside beer. Roasted vegetables, cured meats, and cheese boards appear on the menu depending on what's available. These aren't afterthoughts—they're built with the same attention to ingredient quality as the pizzas. If you're sharing a table with someone who doesn't want pizza, there are enough options to keep everyone satisfied.
The beer list's rotation means you might discover a brewery or style you hadn't tried before. The casual environment makes it easy to order a flight or try something unfamiliar without feeling pressured. This is the kind of place where people linger over a second beer and another slice, which is the whole point of a neighborhood pub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
Chris' Pizza and Pub does not always take reservations, or may limit them to larger groups. During busy times, walk-ins can face a wait. Calling ahead to ask about current reservation policy and wait times is a good idea if you're planning to visit during dinner service on a weekend.
Are there vegetarian pizza options?
Yes. The margherita is vegetarian, and the kitchen can build pizzas with roasted vegetables and other plant-based toppings. Let your server know about dietary preferences, and they can walk you through what's available that day.
Can I order pizza to go?
Yes, Chris' offers takeout. Because the pizzas are made to order in a wood-fired oven, there's still a wait time even for takeout orders. Calling ahead to place your order can speed up the process.
What's the price range for a pizza?
Pizzas typically range from the mid-teens to the low twenties in dollars, depending on toppings and size. A single pizza is usually enough for two people. Appetizers and salads are priced separately.
Is the restaurant family-friendly?
Yes. Chris' is a casual neighborhood spot that welcomes families, though the bar and evening energy can be lively. Lunch is often quieter if you're looking for a calmer environment with children.