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Wine Down At One Of These Awesome Charleston Wine Bars

Sip, sip, hooray! Let’s enjoy a glass of rosé!

Uncork Charleston

This self-serve wine bar is located on King Street and is a great place to grab a drink and a bite to eat. They have a full-service restaurant and offer small plates, tapas and charcuterie that pair well with any wine! You have the option to serve yourself a 1-oz taste, a 3-oz half glass or a 6-oz full glass of wine. Come enjoy special deals during “power-hour” Tuesday-Sunday 7-8pm & 9-10pm!

Joséphine

Originally opened as a wine bar, this charming little spot on Spring Street is now considered to be a modern bistro. Their wine list focuses on small production wines from France and all over the world. Josephine prides itself on serving wines from small, family operated wineries that are farmed sustainably or biodynamically. Dishes are made from locally sourced ingredients and their wines are all chosen to add to the dining experience, pairing nicely with the flavors and seasonings of the food.

Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar

 

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Current Mood = 😍. #loveyoubunches #postflirtation

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Graft doubles as both a wine shop and wine bar! Come in and buy a bottle of wine from their large selection or sit and enjoy some wine by the glass at the bar. You can even buy a bottle off their retail shelf and drink it there for a $15 corkage fee! Small snacks are also available on the menu to eat while you sip.

Bin 152

 

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Late lunch at Bin 152! Open daily at 2pm! All the food groups clearly represented…

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This casual, rustic wine bar has an extensive wine list and a great selection of cheeses. Bin 152 offers 40 different types of wine by the glass, over 200 wines by the bottle and 40 different types of cheeses! The staff is knowledgeable and helpful and will ensure that you find a wine that is just right for you!

Wine & Company

Another cool wine bar and shop that is a great spot to enjoy a glass of wine or come in to buy a bottle! Wine & Company is a laid-back bar and also a shop, offering a retail selection of wine and craft beer, too. You can even come in with a group of friends and enjoy a private wine tasting! This experience includes 5 hand-picked wines and a selection of cheese and charcuterie. Snacks are also available if you choose to come in for just a glass of wine or a beer.

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7 Things To Do In Charleston This Month

Mark your calendars! Check out our list of upcoming events in Charleston that will keep you and your family busy the rest of the month. 

Protect and Conserve

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition is the largest wildlife exposition in the United States and is back for another epic year. The event takes place from February 16-18th and is filled with a variety of conservation-based events the whole family can enjoy. Be sure to get your tickets soon!

Shuck It

The Good Catch Oysterfest is taking place on Saturday, February 21st at the South Carolina Aquarium. The event includes all-you-can-eat oysters and an open bar – not to mention a stunning backdrop of the Charleston Harbor. 

Let the Good Times Roll

“Party with a purpose” at the 16th annual Mardi Crawl on Shem Creek on Saturday, February 29th. Proceeds benefit the Lowcountry Parrot Head Club (LCPHC), a local club that volunteers and donates money to organizations around the Lowcountry. 

Take a Stroll

Venture out to Middleton Place for the famous Camellia Walks, which are taking place throughout the month of February. Bask in the beauty of these beautiful flowers and don’t worry about spending a dime – it’s free to the public!

Be a Spectator

Check out the South Carolina Stingrays, Charleston’s minor league hockey team, at one of their home games this month. This is an outing that the whole family will love!

 

 

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South Carolina Sunday Liquor Laws

Hottest Restaurants in Charleston Right Now

Of the many things we love about Charleston, the local restaurant scene always makes the short list. Check out our list of recent favorites – you won’t be disappointed, but you may have a hard time choosing!

 

Mesu

 

 

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Something for everyone! 🍣+🌮=❤️

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Ever craving tacos and sushi at the same time? Well, now you don’t have to choose one!
Mesu is located on upper King, and is the first Mexican + Asian Restaurant to come to Charleston. Mesu is known for their bold flavors and exotic plates, so get ready to drink sake and eat some tacos!

Chubby Fish

 

Hidden off Cannon and Bogard in the historic Elliotborough neighborhood of Charleston, this new seafood spot is a fan favorite. Serving fresh, locally caught lowcountry seafood and sustainably sourced ingredients, Chubby Fish has become a new go-to spot for locals. The menu changes daily and keeps customers coming back to try something new and flavorful!

Coquin

 

 

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Monday means it’s charcuterie & wine time!

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New to Charleston, this space has been transformed from a small bakery to a charming Parisian-style cafe and bar. Coquin is the perfect place to enjoy some French wine, charcuterie, and many of their other small bites! Already have plans for happy hour? Come enjoy the quaint atmosphere in the morning over coffee and pastries!

Workshop

 

 

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Meet us @mansuetasfilipinofood, it’s going down 📸: @andrewcebulka

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With a continually-rotating selection of food, you won’t be disappointed while paying a visit to Workshop! There is always something for everyone in this high-quality, food court style space. Restaurants often use these spots as test kitchens, eventually moving into their own permanent establishments. The current selection of restaurants includes a Jewish deli, taqueria, sushi spot, and many more! It’s also a great choice if you and your crew can’t agree on where to eat.

Melfi’s

 

 

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devouring Mrs. Melfi’s Pie waits for no photo, as depicted by our friends at @chswineandfood. #melfis #mrsmelfispie

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Looking for an amazing Italian meal? Look no further than Melfi’s! Melfi’s is a classy, upscale Italian restaurant, serving fresh pasta, pizza, and large plates. The ambiance at Melfi’s is amazing; though a new restaurant, it boasts an old, clubby feeling, transporting customers back to the 1960s. The food here is nothing short of perfection and has customers raving.

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Charleston bagel shops

These 3 Bagel Shops Have The Best Bagels In Charleston

Featured Image: Blondies Bagels & Cafe/FB

Sure, Charleston isn’t known for its bagels like NYC is, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have some great bagels right here in the Holy City. From Daniel Island to James Island, here are the bagel shops offering the best bagels in Charleston.

BAGEL NATION

Making a list of bagel shops in Charleston without Bagel Nation would be a crime. This Charleston favorite is one of the city’s best bagel spots and we’re not the only ones who think so. Bagel Nation has been voted ‘Best Bagels in Charleston’ by Charleston City Paper readers for three years in a row! Their made-from-scratch bagels, specialty cream cheeses, and bagel breakfast sandwiches are a favorite among locals and visitors.

520 Folly Road #60, James Island or 1975 Magwood Dr. Unit N, West Ashley

BLONDIES BAGELS & CAFE

Located in Daniel Island, Blondies is a gourmet bagel shop offering a selection of housemade bagels and cream cheeses, sandwiches, baked goods, and coffee drinks. Originally from New Jersey, the Turners, owners of Blondies, know a thing or two about good bagels. Go for the bagels and coffee, stay for the atmosphere, service, and affordable prices.

245 Seven Farms Drive Suite 130, Daniel Island

EASTSIDE BAGEL

As their website states, Eastside Bagels doesn’t offer “just another bagel sandwich”. Home to Charleston’s original steamed bagel sandwich, Eastside Bagel was founded by longtime pals, Eric Mills and Jesse Warnock, who decided to bring the NYC-originated steamed bagel to Charleston. If you don’t believe us, maybe you’ll believe pretty much everyone else who has tried this unique bagel shop. Seriously, just look at all the awards they’ve received.

8 Line Street D, Downtown Charleston

What’s your favorite bagel shop in Charleston?

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Guide Day In Mount Pleasant

Your Guide To A Perfect Day In Mount Pleasant

Featured Image: Experience Mount Pleasant/Facebook

Just on the other side of Charleston, across the well-known Ravenel Bridge, is the town of Mount Pleasant. Whether you’re from the area and want to remember all the reasons why people are flocking to the coastal town or you’re a tourist looking to explore like a local, we’ve got you covered. Here’s your guide to exploring Mount Pleasant.

START THE DAY BY WALKING THE BRIDGE

Start your day off with a bit of exercise and a gorgeous view by walking the iconic Ravenel Bridge. The walking and biking path is 2.5 miles from one side to the other, but if you’re not up for walking the entire 5 miles back and forth, many people walk to the halfway point and turn back. Either way, you can take in the beauty that is the Charleston Harbor from above and even get a look at the USS Yorktown.

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The only upside to exercise is this view

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EXPLORE OLD VILLAGE

Dating back to the 18th century, Old Village is one of the area’s oldest waterfront communities. It was once a neighborhood for wealthy Charlestonians to retreat to during the summer, but now it’s home to a mix of people, families, and businesses. Visit Pitt Street to shop boutiques, like Out Of Hand, or stop by Rudi’s Old Village Wine Shop for a glass of wine. Then head down to Pitt Street Bridge to take in some SPECTACULAR views of the Charleston Harbor.

GRAB LUNCH AT SHEM CREEK

After working up an appetite with all the exploring you’ve done so far, head over to Shem Creek and grab a bite to eat. Shem Creek is home to some of the most picturesque views in Charleston and the best restaurants in Mount Pleasant. Try out Saltwater Cowboys for local seafood and BBQ, Tavern & Table for the BEST pimento cheese and oysters, or Water’s Edge for a variety of seafood and an extensive wine list.

SPEND THE AFTERNOON AT WATERFRONT PARK

Right around the corner from Shem Creek and at the base of the Ravenel Bridge you’ll find Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. Here you can grab ice cream at River Watch Cafe, enjoy even more views of the Charleston Harbor, and walk along the 1,250-foot-long pier. You can also experience the local culture at the Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Pavilion and go back in time at the War Memorial.

WATCH THE SUNSET AT THE BEACH

The good thing about Mount Pleasant is no matter where you are, it’s likely to be a beautiful sunset. But if you’re looking to enjoy the sun while taking in some ocean air and listening to the waves then head over to Isle of Palms or Sullivans Island and watch the sun set on your adventure-filled day.

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Good looks

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Of course, this is only a bit of what Mount Pleasant has to offer but enjoy, relax, and take in all the views.

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Cluster Shuck Frothy Beard Brewing

A Cluster Shuck At Frothy Beard Brewing

What’s better than an oyster roast with beer? How about oysters in your beer?

Frothy Beard Brewing Company, known for its awesome taproom and creative concoctions, has just re-released our favorite named Charleston beer – Cluster Shuck.

Head brewer Joey Siconolfi says the briny, silk and toasty beer is a 6% stout with flaked barley and oats. The oysters are from Ebb and Flow Oysters in McClellanville. You can get the beer at their West Ashley taproom and in to-go growlers, half growlers and crowlers. Unfortunately, Oyster Shuck isn’t being canned for distribution in 2020 but we sure are hoping for it in 2021. Trust us… it’s worth the trip to West Ashley.

Frothy Beard isn’t the only brewery experimenting with everyone’s favorite low country delicacy. You can typically get an oyster stout this time of year at Coast, Holy City, Low Tide, and Freehouse breweries.

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Upcoming Charleston Oyster Roasts

Upcoming Charleston Oyster Roasts That Will Be A Shucking Good Time

As it continues to cool down in Charleston, perfect oyster roast weather draws closer. Shucking oysters and sitting by the fire is one of the signature late fall activities in the Lowcountry, so we put together this list of upcoming local roasts you can enjoy with friends and family:

Bushels & Bids Oyster Roast and Auction – November 9th

Enjoy live music, fresh local oysters, silent auctions, games and cocktails at this annual oyster roast benefitting the Charles Towne Montessori School.

Oysters For Autism – – November 10th

Savor all-you-can-eat oysters for a cause! Venture to Bowens Island Restaurant for this special fundraiser that will benefit the Lowcountry Autism Foundation.

Fam’s Brewing Co. Veteran’s Day Oyster Roast – November 10th

Hosted by Fam’s Brewing Co. and benefitting the Warrior Surf Foundation, this brewery is celebrating the release of their new stout beer with live music and pop-up shops in addition to delicious steamed oysters.

The Inaugural Shuckin’ in Nature Roast – November 17th

Held at Tradesman Brewing Company, this fundraiser benefits the South Carolina Shellfish Growers Association and will feature live music, raffles, a food truck and pop-up shops in addition to the oysters.

Cistern on the Half Shell – November 23rd

Located under the oaks in the Cistern at the College of Charleston, this fundraiser benefits the College of Charleston’s Alumni Association programs and scholarships and will feature live music from the Bluestone Ramblers.

Mingo Point Thanksgiving Oyster Roast – November 29th

Kickoff your Thanksgiving weekend with an oyster roast! Located on Kiawah Island along the banks of the river, this oyster roast will feature live music, a Southern BBQ buffet, kids activities, and local vendors.

Bohemian Bull Fall Oyster Roasts – Thursdays in November

Starting on November 7th, Bohemian Bull will be hosting an all-you-can-eat oyster roast every Thursday from 6pm-9pm. Each event will feature a different drink special and local musician.

Let us know which event you’re planning on checking out!

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Five Signature Charleston Cocktails

When it comes to food and beverage, Charleston has plenty to talk about. With world-class restaurants serving some of the best food there is, it’s no surprise that Charleston yields some world-class cocktails as well. Take a look at these five signature Charleston cocktails:

The Charleston Fizz

Likely the most refreshing drink on this list, this gin cocktail combines fresh tarragon, Ruby Red grapefruit juice, St. Germain, simple syrup, club soda and, of course, gin. Originally inspired by Cannonborough Beverage Company, a Charleston-based soda company, their Grapefruit Elderflower soda can be used to add some extra flavor to this cocktail in place of club soda.

The Charleston Light Dragoon Punch 1792

Sean Brock, Husk’s executive chef, has created the perfect signature Charleston cocktail with this punch that uses tea, raw sugar, lemon juice, brandy, rum, peach brandy and soda water. The recipe was actually adapted from antebellum militia recipe that Brock received from the South Carolina Historical Society, making this drink a true Charleston classic.

Planter’s Punch

Rumored to have been created at Charleston’s own Planter’s Hotel in the nineteenth century, it’s unclear where exactly this recipe came from. While this cocktail isn’t necessarily a Charleston signature, Garden & Gun gives Peninsula Grill in downtown Charleston credits for making one of the best versions of this punch that you can get. With the ingredients of rum, freshly squeezed orange juice, pineapple juice and grenadine, this summer cocktail can help anyone beat the heat.

The Charleston Breakfast Coffee

Athens-based bartender Jerry Slater came up with this cocktail recipe during the Charleston Wine + Food Festival using local whiskey from High Wire Distilling Co. This drink, made to match the mood of the cold and rainy weekend it was created on, is perfect for any day that you’re stuck indoors. All you’ll need is High Wire’s sorghum whiskey, simple syrup, dark roast coffee and heavy cream.

The Charleston

Last, but not least, is an elegant drink worthy of being created in the high-scale food scene of Charleston. This signature cocktail uses bourbon, madeira, Angostura bitters and an orange peel for garnish. The Charleston is similar to a manhattan with its bourbon base, but uses madeira as they did in the early 19th century to give it that classic Charleston feel.