This is one of my favorite places on the Northeast side to drop in, sit at the bar, sip a Manhattan, and have a good meal. The dining room is also nice, although now that our kids are grown we love to sit at the bar. Ironically, we don't usually like to sit at the bar most places we go, but for some reason we really enjoy this one. And a big plus was that the bartender remembered us from one time to the next, even though our visits are usually about six months or a year apart. (Note: Sitting at the bar to dine is currently unavailable due to the pandemic, but put it on your list to do once it reopens!) Charleston's has one of my all-time favorite appetizers, the Shrimp Cargot. It's just like it sounds -- similar to Escargot, but with shrimp instead of snails. It's served in an Escargot dish, with the separate compartments each containing butter, garlic, and an individual shrimp, and it's topped with a copious amount of melted Havarti cheese. Another menu item of note is their Famous French Dip, which is the best French Dip sandwich I've ever had. It's really more like a thin-sliced prime rib dinner served on a French roll. Their Hand Cut Filet (7oz) is also excellent. That's my usual go-to meal there. I get it medium rare, with fries on the side to dip in the juice (instead of the usual vegetable medley side). The prime rib dinner is good, too. And if you're in the mood for soup, try the Baked Potato Soup. It's very good. To me, Charleston's has an upscale vibe with small-town friendliness. I've found both the Castleton and Westfield locations to be this way. It's a little pricier than many of the restaurants in the area, but well worth it. read more

Charleston's - Sitting at the bar, sipping my Manhattan. - American Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I went to Charleston's last weekend with some family and it exceeded expectations. It was my first time there and the service was excellent. We had a beautiful waitress who was very attentive and accommodating. I got the shrimp scampi which tasted so fresh. It also came with garlic bread, which seemed to have cheese that was fried on top of it. (Picture included) My friend got steak that was cooked to perfection with french fries which were very light and airy so you don't have to worry about filling up on those. We also got a bonus dessert which was Key Lime Pie. It was delicious. The restaurant was rather quiet which was a pleasant surprise. I would go back here again and even recommend it. read more

Charleston's - American Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Everything was great food service (Cheyenne is Awesome) and the ambiance ok. Any visit coming soon

No changes really like the music. Also it was easy to move around. Was clean, and it was pleasant meeting the staff. read more

Charleston's - Don't call me baby - American Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

It's a great place to get consistently good food. The ambiance doesn't change , brick and cherry wood is everywhere. The dim lighting allows you to capture every moment. read more

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Great food, enormous portions. Great service. Our server made sure our drinks were topped off. We had right condiments. I think either owner or manager walked around making sure everything was good and we were taken care of. Definitely a go to while in Carmel read more

Food is wonderful, service was great paid attention to my order. Gave me a soda while waiting for my order. Again the service was great the seating was at the bar while I waited. I was given a soda to drink while waiting on my order.T he place was very nice with TV's to look at while waiting for my order. read more

We ordered take out. Since we were staying next door at the hotel, the food blew me away, the chicken sandwich was so good. So the next day, we came back again for lunch, I had french dip, also so good. Excellent service, definitely recommended. read more

Deeeeelicious! Servers are so friendly and helpful- menu is great!!! Lighting and noise levels are so amazing

Our favorite location over the Carmel one. We can usually get open table reservations when we want them here, even though they are quite busy. Steak is awesome as well as other items. We don't tend to do dessert since we are quite full from regular dinner. They have no issue with butterflying a filet here , where Carmel can't or won't do it. Service is always spot on. read more

Best server ever... is Karli V. She is so friendly and makes dining at Charleston's a great experience in every way.

As fellow Yelp Elite Rick G. and I sat down for a meal at Charleston's, we both began trying to think to ourselves "Is this local or a chain or a local chain?" Our general feeling was that Charleston's was a local mini-chain, but once I came home and did a little research in preparation for this review I learned that Charleston's is a 19-restaurant, six-state chain that is part of the Hal Smith family of restaurants that includes everything from Neighborhood Jam to Hefner Grill to Hollie's Flatiron Grill to, believe it or not, Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill along with a handful of others. So, yes, it's a chain but a relatively small one. Despite being a lifelong Indy resident and a resident of the Northeastside for over 10 years, I'd never been to Charleston's before Rick and I decided to make it our place for lunch today so that he could grab a tenderloin review and we both could snag another Yelp review. Located on the edge of Castleton right next to the highway, Charleston's gives off an aura of fine dining and, indeed, it is a definite notch above most of the area joints. In terms of atmosphere, it reminded me of Castleton Grill but I'd place it probably a 1/2 notch above that former Castleton staple. There's plenty of accessible parking. There's a two-sided, double-door entryway with both doors being rather heavy. As you enter, there's a small hosting area with a bar area to the left and a dining area straight ahead. I noticed right away that a good majority of the seating is comprised of booths - all of which have a step up into them and would not be considered accessible. There's a back dining area that is quite beautiful with a couple stone steps up into it. It's also not considered accessible. However, there's a solid row of traditional tables that actually would be considered accessible and this is where we sat. The hostess moved my chair without any awkwardness. Our server, Jenkins, was at our table promptly and took our drink orders. We browsed the menu that was comprised of a selection of sandwiches, entrees, appetizers, desserts, and various alcohol options. Rick was obviously there for a breaded pork tenderloin - you have the choice of fries or cole slaw for a side and he chose fries. I opted for a burger, admittedly boring. I actually ordered the cheeseburger, but requested no cheese as they did not have a BYO option. I also ordered fries. The atmosphere is warm and intimate with low lighting and lots of wood. It feels like a traditional steakhouse and instantly relaxes you. My burger was ordered and received medium well. It was served on a toasted bun that was perfection. The burger, as seen below my review, was thick and tasty and easily worth the higher than usual pricing. I couldn't race through this sandwich. You can also tell that you get a nice stack of fries - thin-cut, similar to Steak n' Shake before the Steak n' Shake quality took a huge downward spiral. Quite honestly, this was a fantastic and filling meal. I would easily order both items again, though I will also say I do think they're a tad overpriced. Rick was happy with his tenderloin - I got a bite of it and it was clearly hand-breaded, pounded out to a perfect size and flavored rather sublimely. We both loved the fries. The service was solid throughout - we both received refills without having to ask. I'd say the service leaned more toward the professional and efficient than the warm and hospitable. However, it matched the decor. I nearly always knock off a star if I think a restaurant has significant accessibility issues. That's arguable here. They clearly have a majority of seating that is not accessible, though they also clearly have accessible options that I'd imagine are always available. Ultimately, I also thought the service was more 4-star than 5-star. Thus, I'm sticking with a 4-star review while acknowledging that this nearly snags that 5th star and I'd say the burger definitely does. Both Rick and I agreed we'd definitely go back, though at the price range I doubt it would ever be a regular stop on my rotation. However, for special occasions, date nights, or simply a quiet meal this is a definite great option in the Castleton area. read more

Charleston's - American Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

The ambiance is warm and inviting. The staff take special care to make sure you are satisfied! The food is so good! I've celebrated birthdays and anniversaries here! And I will be here again for my 60th! read more

Great, consistent food! The key lime pie was fantastic as usual. The service was good but not great. The atmosphere is casual and conducive to talking and celebrating. read more

Food was absolutely great! The meal was warm and comforting as you would want it to be. I stuffed myself this time trying to get to the bread pudding read more

This place has such a great ambience - it just makes you want to curl up and stay a while. Nice music in the background at just the right volume. Rich wood ceiling and columns, brick walls, and cozy booths. We are both sitting here wondering why we don't come here more often. Something we are sure to rectify now. We started with the dynamite shrimp which lives up to its name. The flavor was dynamite with just the right kick - it's hard to not just say okay one more and stop. I ordered the chicken piccata and asked for double vegetables instead of the angel hair pasta that normally comes with it. At the first bite, my palate did a happy dance. I love the combination of artichokes, asparagus, tomato and capers on top. And the vegetables were perfectly cooked so that they weren't too hard or too soggy... they were just right. Goldilocks would have been proud. I also snuck a bite of my husband's ribs and baked beans. Both of those were great as well. The ribs were fall off your bone and had just enough sauce on them. And I was pleasantly surprised by the baked beans as well. A lot of times they are overly sweet but these actually had more of a savory flavor to them. This is not a place to go if you're trying to save money. The prices are a little high. However, the portions are pretty ample and we will both get one if not more extra meals from our dinner. With that in mind, the prices are pretty reasonable. And it wasn't just the food that was awesome. Quia, our server, did a great job as well! She checked on us just the right amount of times and was prompt in following up on any requests we made. Thank you Charlestons for such a nice dining experience! read more

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I love the food here. Big portions and nice atmosphere. We usually go here with an older crowd and it's perfect because it's not really loud and the servers are very good. read more

food was amazing i had the meat love on the sweeter side which i prefer. The WHOLE staff is amazing!

Great food.... Just a little annoying when you make a reservation and they make you wait for a table with MANY OPEN TABLES in the restaurant. read more

Excellent Service, quality presentations, and intereesting choices. When the waitress-in-training misled us about an entree, the manager came out and straightened things out. Don't live in Indianapolis, but we certainly would make this a favorite if we did. read more

Nice restaurant that I wish we had visited sooner on my recent trip to Indianapolis. Staff were very friendly and helpful. I don't think my drink was empty for long, if it ever was empty. Lots of options on the menu here. I ended up choosing the blackened chicken club sandwich with avocado, swiss cheese, and bacon. I did not get the onion, honey mustard, tomato, or sprouts on it. I'll leave those for someone else. To put it simply - It was a great sandwich / choice on my part. One of, if not the, best meal I had on my trip. I chose a side of asparagus, which was a daily (or weekly?) special as my side. It was good, and I would definitely have both of these again. My coworker had the 'famous french dip' and liked his as well. I'll definitely come back here next time I'm in Indianapolis. read more

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We made a reservation for 10 over a week in advance, upon arriving we were notified we had to wait on a table to be finished before we could be sat. After 20 minutes past our reservation time we were offered to be sat but as a split party. Once that table finished then we could be on big party. 45 minutes after being sat the table was finished. so over an hour past our reservation time it took for our entire party to be together. I get you can't do anything about the people at the table, but it would have been nice for management to apologize and offer something for the inconvience. The food was tasty and our server was nice, but our overall experience wasn't great due to our family not being able to be all sat together for this special occasion. read more

Charleston's - Chicken Piccata Okra Fried - American Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I personally have only tried the salmon caesar salad from here the couple of times I've been; but it's a good one so no complaints. My mom got the seafood pasta that's pictured and she really liked it. I'm not sure if it's always on the menu, though, because I believe it was a special when we went. The service was also good so again--no complaints! Xoxo, Is this thing on? read more

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I used to love the Salmon Caesar Salad, nit anymore. Don't waste your money. I hate to send back food but the Salmon was so over done, it was so hard I couldn't hardly chew it. Sent it back and it was returned so underdone. It was obvious it upset the chef. It was barely warm. The manager was the "worst" of the "worst". He was like What? My last time there read more

Charleston's - Excellent Salmon Salad - American Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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The food was so good! I hadn't been in a while, but plan to go back often now. The prime rib was so tender, juicy, and flavorful. I will get it again...and again! Others got the French dip and really liked it. But - Unfortunately their meat was not warm. The server took care of the issue quickly though. Once it was warmed up, they loved it. We would not recommend the bread pudding which was supposed to be a signature dessert. No one like it - and the people at the table next to us said they didn't like it either. read more

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I love the staff and the food at Charleston's. There are so many great entree's and the entire staff keeps your table clean as they pass by. It's very entertaining. The brick, wood and gas lamps create a very relaxing atmosphere. I can't wait to go back. read more

Girlfriend and I went on Valentine's Day and I got the strip steak, asked for medium rare and it comes out almost well done. $50 steak was almost half the bill. I didn't bother to say anything cause it was busy obviously but part of me wishes I did. read more

We love dining here for special occasions. The service is consistently friendly, engaging, and attentive. I have tried something different almost every time and my taste buds love it!! Whether in a large party or just two or four of us, we enjoy our food & cocktails or a bottle of wine in a warm atmosphere that reminds us to celebrate that "life is good". read more

Good food and service. First time here and they have a huge selection of food. I had the pasta and it was good.

The food, the service, and the restaurant all together is absolutely amazing. We went as a family on Easter after church for dinner. No one had not one complaint about the food, drinks, service or the price. Our server was absolutely amazing and come to find out we knew his family. The food was fresh and cooked with love. The restaurant was clean and very inviting. As I looked around the restaurant I saw couples, families, and all different ages. Their menu has something for everyone. We can't wait to go back for Mother's Sad dinner. I have already booked our reservation. My Mom & Fiancée are excited to go back and try something new. I am as well. This is definitely a place that me and my family will continue to support. Worth every penny!!! read more

I went with my partner's family on a Sunday afternoon and it was not terribly busy. We were seated quickly and the staff was friendly. Our waitress was polite and attendant. Overall it was a good experience. I only did a 4/5 stars because the plate presentation wasn't ideal but the food was still tasty! Would of preferred more noodles with the amount of chicken they had given. read more

Charleston's - American Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

We stopped in to this place because of thr reviews. I wanted a nice romantic Meal/Date , It did not disappoint. The atmosphere was so chill and Cozy, The ribs were great and the service spot On. read more

One of our favorite restaurants. Pickup for Togo orders is fast and convent. Best fried catfish in town. Salmon Caesar salad is very good. All fresh fish selections are excellent. Highly recommend read more

Everything was excellent...service, food, and friendliness Reservations ready on time. Only negative - I had requested the round table and when arrived it was not available read more

The food and service were excellent! My husband had the chicken piccata and I had the pork tenderloin sandwich with fries. Both dishes exceeded our expectations. I highly recommend getting a side of ranch, no matter what you order. It is the most delicious homemade ranch we've ever tasted. The lounge was comfy and intimate. read more

Love the food. Always come here when I'm in town. Fish sandwich is my favorite. Very comfortable, warm atmosphere, and the service is always good all around. read more

Nice atmosphere good service The Ribeye steak was thin and overcooked. The onion straws were over the top and I Mean both literally and figuratively. The mashed potatoes were enough for two people. Good flavor overall. I would come back and I do recommend this place read more

I've been coming to Charleston's for over a decade and it's just a consistently good restaurant. As much as I appreciate the places in Indy that frequently change up their menu with different seasonal options, I also like places like Charleston's that keeps the majority of their menu the same so there are no surprises when I get there. No matter what I order, I nearly always get a croissant with it! They're so light and tasty here. For main dishes, I've had pretty much all of the salads, the catfish, the chicken tenders, the 1/2 chicken, burger and the ribs -- I'd highly recommended any of those things! My only gripe is the loss of the Kale Salad from the menu a couple years ago! It was the best salad I'd ever had and was sad to no longer have it as a menu option. read more

The Potato soup is a must order, just get the bowl it's only a $1 more and your going to eat it. Then order the queso dip. You won't be disappointed I promise. Every entree on the menu is soo good. My favorite is the medallions, yum! Shrimp scampi is good too!! You can request a table on open table, great for dates or larger parties! read more

Surprisingly excellent food and service. Comfortable "old school" style booth. Decent draft beer selection. A great stop on our road trip. Close to highway. Will go back on a future trip! read more