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Big Gun Burger Shop & BarB+Worth Trying
137 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
· Bar, Hamburger restaurant, Bar & grill
· 4.6/5 Google (1013 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Small, lively burger bar with standout burgers and bar-order service; great value for downtown, but space and service can be inconsistent during rushes.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Big Gun Burger Shop & Bar delivers excellent burger quality and strong value for downtown dining, earning solid neighborhood credentials. However, inconsistent service during peak times and a cramped layout that makes seating difficult when busy prevent a higher grade. Best experienced during off-peak hours when the friendly bar vibe and juicy burgers shine without the operational friction.
Restaurant Summary
A compact burger bar with a bit of edge, Big Gun hums with dive-bar charm and a friendly crowd near Marion Square. Diners talk about juicy burgers and hot fries and the ease of ordering at the bar. One guest summed it up: "Came for a drink, stayed for the food." Space is tight and it gets lively when events let out, but the energy feels warm and unpretentious. The cooking leans classic American—think well-seared patties, a house Big Gun sauce, pimento-cheese-topped chicken, and crispy sides. It is comfort-first cooking with a few Southern twists like peach jalapeno mustard. Not haute cuisine, just satisfying plates that suit pre-show bites, casual dates, or a solo seat at the bar. If you crave creative/fusion theatrics, look elsewhere; here it is about flavor and value. Families do fine here if you time it right. Kids will gravitate to the Classic burger, hot dog, and fries, and you can go bunless for gluten-avoidant orders. There is no kids menu, seating is limited, and late-night crowds can be intense, so earlier visits are the safest bet.
At a Glance
- Juicy, flavorful burgers with a standout house sauce
- Strong value for downtown; happy hour deals praised
- Fun bar vibe with music and a pool table
- Very small space; tough seating during peak times
- Bar-order model leads to occasional service lapses
What Sets It Apart
- house Big Gun sauce
- pimento cheese on sandwiches
- pre-event hangout by Marion Square
What People Love
- That first bite of a well-seared burger
- Crispy fries with Big Gun sauce
- Friendly bartenders when not slammed
- Reasonable prices for the location
Points of Concern
- Space is limited; finding seats during events can be difficult
- Service can slip when crowded, including forgotten orders
- Delivery and online ordering have caused issues for some guests
- Kitchen closing times can be earlier than expected near last call
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$28-36 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For vegetarians, try the Dirty Gardner or fries and Bibb salad
- For vegans, the Vegan Taco and fries work well
- Gluten-avoidant diners can order burgers without a bun and load add-ons
Perfect For
- Pre-show burger and a beer near Gaillard Center
- Casual night out with bar vibes
- Solo bite at the bar
- Late-night comfort food run
Location Insights
Area: Downtown near Marion Square and College of Charleston; student and event traffic with lively bar scene.
Safety: Generally safe, busy pedestrian area with good lighting and foot traffic.
Nearby: Close to Hotel Bennett, Gaillard Center, campus venues; strong pre-event crowd.
Charleston Historic DistrictThe Charleston Historic District offers a lively dining scene with a blend of upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and bars. The atmosphere is a mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy, attracting both visitors and locals looking for diverse culinary experiences.
French QuarterThe French Quarter is known for its art galleries, live music venues, and eclectic dining options, making it a hotspot for nightlife and casual dining with a creative edge.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–02:00
Tuesday12:00–02:00
Wednesday12:00–02:00
Thursday12:00–02:00
Friday12:00–02:00
Saturday12:00–02:00
Sunday12:00–02:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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