Charleston FYI

Menu

New In Charleston

Health and Wellness

Downtown Charleston’s Top Yoga Studios

Featured Image: Charleston City Paper

A full-body workout that helps with strength, flexibility and mental health is hard to come by. But yoga has been, and continues to be, a fitness outlet that provides all three. So it’s no surprise that in the past few years, studio after studio seems to be popping up in Charleston. Take a peek below at five of our favorite local yoga studios all located downtown, and get ready to book your next class!

Urban Yoga

Located on King Street and open seven days a week, Urban Yoga offers a range of classes for all levels. Check out their Candlelight Yin class every Sunday evening for some relaxing flow or their Inferno Hot Pilates class offered a few times a week to really feel the heat.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

“Slow down, rest & heal!” . The message my body has been telling me for some time now, and for the first time in a long time – I listened. ? . Waking up a few months ago, on the last morning of my amazing Portugal retreat with @erinharrington1 , my body had raised her volume on this message – heard in the way of debilitating neck pain, making the rest of my trip and travel home quite difficult and keeping me off my mat for some time now. . Since that time, I’ve been upping my self care game, seeking medical care and trying to allow my body to come back to some version of healthy.? . Factor in a move and some west coast travel to celebrate my 40th bday, I’ve been a bit MIA. I’ve truly missed seeing the tribe and practicing next to all my students and fellow teachers, so I’m happy to say I’ll be back in action – on my mat very soon! ?‍♀️ . Lesson learned: our bodies give us signals, but if we don’t listen when they tell us that they are tired or stressed, then the imbalance increases and a stronger message is required, one that is generally expressed by illness and/or pain. The first step to regaining equilibrium involves slowing down, nourishing your body, getting more rest, and seeking treatment if necessary (acupuncture, massage, chiropractic work, etc.). Once we have nurtured ourselves with these things, we can begin to examine our illness for the message. Only you have the knowledge of your thoughts and choices that will allow you to interpret the messages from your body. All it takes is time and attention. Your body has all the answers to restore itself to the best it can be. ??‍♀️ . See you in child’s pose very soon, friends! ❤️XO Meg . . . #yoga #charleston #charlestonyoga #yogacharleston #chsyoga #urbanyogachs #yogateacher #yogaeverydamnday #urbanyoga #urbanyogi #practiceandalliscoming #selfcare #slowdown #listentoyourbody

A post shared by Urban Yoga Charleston (@urbanyogachs) on

Charleston Power Yoga

The instructors at Charleston Power Yoga are here to “share the sweaty, challenging and empowering practice of Baptiste Power Yoga” with anyone who comes into the studio. Recently voted Charleston’s Best Yoga Studio, Charleston Power Yoga is also located on King Street, and is giving new clients the opportunity to book as many classes as they would like for just $29 in their first two weeks.

Mission Yoga

Holding their core beliefs of movement, meditation, inquiry, creativity and community at the heart of everything they do, Mission Yoga studio is located on Spring Street. With classes starting at just $12 for students, it’s no surprise that Mission Yoga is a well-loved Charleston studio.

The Works

You can find The Works on Meeting Street, where they blend vinyasa yoga, meditation, breathwork, plyometrics, core and strength work into their five signature classes. Even as a newer addition to the downtown yoga studios, The Works is already making an impact and garnering a loyal following.

These are just a few of our favorites, so be sure to let us know here if we missed your go-to studio!

Featured

The Best Products Made Right Here In Charleston

Featured Image: Lowcountry Cuisine

Even after seven years as Travel + Leisure’s ‘Best City in the United States,’ Charleston still has that small-town feel. That’s because the only thing Charlestonians love more than Charleston itself is keeping Charleston true to its identity, an identity that is centered around tradition, community and loving all things local. So it should be no surprise that Charlestonians love these seven Charleston-made products:

Sweetgrass Baskets
A beautiful and long-standing tradition, sweetgrass baskets are one of the more well-known products that come from Charleston. Once used as winnowing fans to separate rice seeds from their chaffs, sweetgrass baskets have become a highly sought after cultural souvenir – and a symbol of Charleston. Locals and tourists alike can find sweetgrass baskets at the Charleston City Market, or at the many roadside stands in the area.

Brackish
Charleston’s twist on the classic bowtie. Brackish creates handmade, all-feather and sustainably-sourced bow ties and accessories. Since all materials and feathers are picked individually for each creation, no two items from Brackish are exactly the same. Founded by two local Charlestonians, Brackish bow ties and accessories have been worn by celebrities such as Cam Newton and Blake Lively. Find them in stores all over the Lowcountry or check out their website and

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Our job isn’t done until that final feather is perfectly placed. Then it’s up to you to bring it to life.

A post shared by Brackish (@brackishbowties) on

Lowcountry Olive Oil
What started as a farmer’s market business has developed into one of Charleston’s staple shops, with more than 60 different varieties of olive oil and vinegar. Founded by the Benjamin family in 2011, Lowcountry Olive Oil has been proudly serving the Lowcountry’s largest selection of olive oil and vinegar ever since. With stellar customer service as a priority, shoppers are encouraged to sample their specialties of Lowcountry Herb Olive Oil and both Strawberry Champagne and Bourbon Balsamic Vinegars.

The Joggle Factory
Dating back to 1804, joggling boards gained popularity for their calming range of motion, often making users feel at ease with their gentle swaying. Since their inception, joggling boards have become a staple for the spacious porches that are often found in Charleston. To learn more about the history of joggling boards or to purchase one for your porch, you can visit The Joggle Factory’s website or Instagram.

Lillie’s of Charleston
Keeping the traditions (and secrets) of Charleston kitchens alive, Lillie’s offers the best of Charleston’s authentic spices and sauces needed to cook any and every Lowcountry dish. With barbecue and hot sauces, spice rubs and seasoning mixes, Lillie’s of Charleston has it all. You can find Lillie’s products in most specialty shops and markets in Charleston or check them out online on their website or Instagram.

Old Whaling Co.
Creating effective and affordable bath and body products is challenging, but Old Whaling Co. has been able to do this for customers since 2012. Old Whaling Co. proudly sells their soaps, bath bombs, body butters, roll-on perfumes, and salt scrubs, all inspired by the sea. Featuring intoxicating scents such as Bamboo and Teak, Indigo and Rice, and Sea La Vie, Old Whaling Co.’s products are a one of a kind. Visit one of their three Charleston locations, head to their website or check out their Instagram to start shopping today!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

I’ve had this photo saved for some time now. A great shot from a very long time retailer @two_cumberland @twocumberlandspartanburg They have carried our soap for about five years now I believe. We were both quite green when we met, but we had huge ambitions. Jennifer is one of those people you meet and think to yourself – I can’t wait to see where she is in ten years because she’s going to kill it. I’ve watched them grow from a booth at an antique mall to three gorgeous stores – one on King Street and one in Mount Pleasant, and one in the Upstate (what we call the northern part of South Carolina). When I think of hustle and heart they always come to mind. If you’re out shopping today pop in to one of their stores! They carry lots of pretty jewelry + fun summer apparel. ? @two_cumberland

A post shared by Old Whaling Co. (@oldwhalingco) on

J. Stark
With its flagship store located Downtown on Coming St., J. Stark sells aesthetically pleasing, but minimalistic and highly functional bags, wallets and accessories. Made with heavyweight twill, waxed or heavyweight canvas and bridle leather, J. Stark products are designed to last. Though it’s a small shop, J. Stark makes their bags right there in the store, and are highly customizable. Stop by their Coming St. store the next time you’re downtown or check out their website and Instagram!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

We’ve been busy lately. What with new designs alone, you’d think we had our hands full. But the truth is, on top of new design work, we also spend a significant portion of our day sifting through fabric and leather swatches to find new ways to offer you our tried and tested silhouettes. There are several components that factor into our decision making process when it comes to choosing new fabrics and leathers to add to the line. First of all, we look for beauty and uniqueness of texture and tone. We want vivid colors, of course. But we also want those colors to be evocative. We want them to make you feel something, even if you don’t know exactly what that something is, but you know it’s good. In addition to the look, we also focus heavily on feel. How does that fabric feel to the touch? How does the leather feel in your hand? And again, when you know, you know. But perhaps the most important aspect of the materials we choose is the durability. We’ve chosen these twills and bridle leather because they’re built to last, and look good while doing it. So, as we make our way toward fall, we’d like to introduce you to our new heavyweight twill collection. It’s the J. Stark silhouettes you’ve come to know and love, but with new texture and contrast.

A post shared by J. Stark (@starkmade) on

Did we forget your favorite Charleston-made products? Be sure to let us know!

Eat & Drink

An Afternoon in the French Quarter

An afternoon spent in historic downtown Charleston is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re lucky enough to call the Lowcountry home or just stopping by for a visit, downtown Charleston provides the perfect setting for a summer afternoon. Just make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes while out exploring (we’re headed for cobblestone streets!) and get ready to enjoy the French Quarter.

Located on the southeastern corner of the peninsula (and with Broad, Meeting, East Bay, and South Market streets acting as its perimeters), the French Quarter gets its name from the French Huguenots that settled in the area seeking religious freedom. The historical significance of the area is apparent throughout the neighborhood, with well-known and well-loved churches peppering every street, including the French Huguenot and St. Philip’s Episcopal churches.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Good morning from #Charleston

A post shared by Charleston SC official account (@explorecharleston) on

History isn’t the only thing this charming area has to offer. The French Quarter is filled with delicious spots to grab a bite to eat, so start your afternoon by heading to lunch at Minero on East Bay St., where you’ll find a variety of affordable, quality, and casual Mexican dishes. If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you can even try to tackle their biggest menu item, simply named The Burrito, that is packed with flavorful and fresh ingredients. Also in the area are a few timeless Charleston classics such as Brown Dog Deli on Broad St. or Poogan’s Smokehouse on East Bay St. Both places offer quick lunch options so that you can move on to enjoying the rest of your afternoon.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Taco game strong at Charleston Wine & Food. ??: @katkinsman

A post shared by Tasting Table (@tastingtable) on

After lunch, stroll down the cobblestone streets, popping into the countless art galleries that you’ll find on every street within the French Quarter. Narrow streets like Church, Cumberland, Chalmers, and Queen are full of galleries as well as Gallery Row on Broad. (We know, we’re shocked they have art galleries there too.) Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed to find something unlike any other, as many places support a combination of both well-known and up-and-coming artists.

After stopping into a few galleries, be sure to take a stroll over to Charleston Waterfront Park on Vendue Range for a great view of the Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River. Stop for a quick picture, enjoy the swings by the sea, and be sure to keep your eye out for some playful dolphins in the water below!

Finish off your afternoon with happy hour at one of the many bars throughout the French Quarter. The Blind Tiger Pub on Broad St. has $10 mimosa carafes (who says they’re just for brunch?!), but also plenty of cocktails and beers to choose from. For a sky-high view of the Holy City, check out the rooftop bar at The Vendue, which has been named the best rooftop bar every year since 2007 by the Charleston City Paper. For something off the beaten path, The Griffon Pub is your spot. The first thing visitors might be surprised by are the walls covered in dollar bills and the unique feel of the pub, providing an atmosphere that is both comfortable and special to Charleston.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Rooftop on the rocks. Join us tonight for Happy Hour from 4-7pm.

A post shared by The Rooftop Bar at The Vendue (@venduerooftop) on

While Charleston is full of beautiful neighborhoods, it’s hard to beat an afternoon spent in the French Quarter.

Featured

Historic Vote Approves Necessary Funding To Begin Building Charleston’s Newest Museum

Feature Image: Post and Courier

Last Tuesday, July 16 the Charleston City Council unanimously voted to approve a total of $60.2 million to start construction on Charleston’s International African American Museum.

The vote comes after years of planning and fundraising, which was a success in itself. Over $90 million was raised in support of the museum along with contributions from several donors including the city of Charleston.

Since 2000, former Charleston Mayor, Joseph Riley has been working to build an internationally recognized museum on Charleston’s waterfront at Gadsden’s Wharf. This site is specifically important to the African American community as it marks the place where more enslaved African Americans arrived and were sold in the U.S. than any other location in the country.

As reported by the Post & Courier, shortly before Tuesday’s vote, Riley said, “It’s a very exciting moment in the history of the museum and our community.”

However, even with all of the support, there are still community members who are against the current building design. The group goes by the name “Citizens Want Excellence at IAAM” and is opposed to the current building design of the museum. They feel it should be changed to “reflect specific elements of African and African American culture,” and are also concerned with how the narrative of enslavement will be told at the museum.

Michael Moore, the museum’s first president, and CEO, has been heavily involved in the planning and fundraising as well to prepare for the museum’s groundbreaking. A formal groundbreaking ceremony is expected to take place in October of this year with a museum opening in 2021.

Eat & Drink

insta-worthy dishes Charleston

Become A Foodstagrammer With These Insta-Worthy Dishes In Charleston

Feature Image: King Street Dispensary/FB

Who hasn’t ordered a dish just becuase it would make a great IG pic that will cause a serious case of FOMO for all your followers? Don’t worry, us too. And since Charleston is a culinary destination and everyone lives by the cardinal rule of ‘Gramming before grubbing these days we’re picking out some of the most-insta worthy dishes around the Holy City.

King Street Dispensary

Order: The Dispensary Burger

If you haven’t tried this burger, you’re missing out! For only $6 on Wednesday, you’ll get two double bacon-crusted patties topped with melted cheese on a delicious bun and a side of truffle fries (that are quite possibly the most addicting fries you will ever eat) along with a pic that will qualify you as a major foodstagrammer. If your followers weren’t hungry before, they will be after they double-tap this pic.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by King Street Dispensary (@dispensarychs) on

Saltwater Cowboys

Order: The Trashcan Nachos

Trying to up your game from a still image to a fire boomerang or drool-worthy Insta story? Head over to Saltwater Cowboys on Shem Creek and order the Trashcan Nachos. Make sure your phone is ready because when the server lifts the can and reveals the mouth-watering layers of tortilla chips, black beans, pico, sour cream and drizzled queso, you won’t want to miss a beat. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Saltwater Cowboys (@saltcowboys) on

The Daily

Order: The Avocado Toast

Look up the definition of millennial and we’re pretty sure you’ll find the words Instagram and avocado toast somewhere. And, if you want Insta-worthy avocado toast, The Daily is where you need to go. They start with a slice of crunchy sourdough bread and top it with zesty avocado spread, then leave it up to you to add tomato, bacon, or an egg for a tasty Instsa snack. Tip: snap a pic from an above angle for optimal aesthetics.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Daily (@thedailychs) on

Leon’s Oyster Shop

Order: The Char-Grilled Oysters

Even if you’re not an oyster fan, these chargrilled oysters prepared with butter, parmesan cheese, lemon, and parsley are hard to pass up. They’ll have you flagging down your server for another order before you can even finish your first. The presentation of this dish is just as amazing as the oysters themselves.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters (@leonsoystershop) on

We know it’ll be hard to avoid taking a bite of any of these dishes before ‘gramming but don’t forget. ‘Gram before grub.

New In Charleston

Uber's Reward Program In Charleston

Uber’s Reward Program Is Now Available In Charleston

Ubering just got even better! Earlier this week a spokeswoman for Uber announced that their rewards program is now available in Charleston.

Becoming a rewards memeber is free and easy to do. When you open your Uber app, select the “Uber Rewards” option from the menu and you’ll be prompted with a sign-up page. Accept the terms and conditions and start earning rewards.

Once you join the rewards program you’ll earn points for taking an Uber and on any order you place on UberEats.

How exactly does it work?

For every dollar you spend, you’ll earn one point and for every 500 points, you’ll receive $5 Uber cash. Uber cash is redeemable for any Uber or UberEats order. If you’re in a hurry to get 500 points, you can get 2x the points by ordering an UberX, UberXL, or Select or 3x the point for any Black or Black SUV rides.

There are four different levels of rewards – Blue, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Blue members have less than 500 points. Gold members have between 500 and 2500 points. Platinum members have more than 2500 points but less than 7500 points. And, last but not least, Diamond members have more than 7500 points.

Each level has a set of perks which include priority support, flexible cancellations, no delivery fee on UberEats, and so many others.

Learn more about the program here.

Featured

Maui Tacos

Can’t Miss: Maui Tacos Charleston Grand Opening

Image Source: Maui Tacos Facebook 

Aloha Charleston!

There’s a gnarly, new #TacoTuesday spot surfing into town this week. Maui Tacos Mexican Surf Grill is set to have its grand opening this Thursday, January 17.

Located on Meeting Street, Maui Tacos is a franchise originating from the island of Maui. Celebrity chef and restaurateur, Mark Ellman, opened the first Maui Taco in 1993 with several other locations soon following. The restaurant exploded all over the Pacific and is now branching onto the mainland. Charleston will be the restaurant’s second location outside of the islands of Hawaii, the first was in Las Vegas and a third will soon open in Reno.

Bringing the Maui-Mex cuisine to the area is Charleston native Mike and Jen Seltzer. With a combination of Mexican foods and Hawaiian tastes, Maui Taco was once listed as one of the top twenty taco spots in the United States by ZAGAT. Alongside their famous tacos are options including burritos, salads, platters, vegetarian options, a salsa bar, desserts, and other Mexican traditional dishes.

Their drink selections include beer, wine, and unique specialty drinks with a totally awesome happy hour, and when at Maui Tacos, you get a taste of island life which means it’s happy hour all day, every day.

Image source: Maui Taco Facebook

As if we haven’t already talked you into heading to Maui Taco, you could possibly win free tacos! Every Tuesday they pick one winner on Instagram. All you have to do is take a picture of yourself, your friends, or your food and upload it to Instagram, then tag @mauitacos and hashtag the post #mauitacos. Pics or it didn’t happen dudes.

The grand opening will start at 4 pm with $3 frozen margs, $3 draft beer, $3 tacos, and giveaways.

Surfs up, dudes. See you there.

 

Featured

Treat Yourself At The 2019 Charleston Health & Wellness Expo

Image Source: Unsplash

A free event that promotes treating yo’ self? Sign us up.

The annual Charleston Health & Wellness Expo is back next week and expecting over 4,000 attendees. The upcoming two-day event will run from January 15-16 from 10 am – 7 pm each day.

Whether you’re a longterm wellness junkie or looking to make a lifestyle change (New Year’s resolution, maybe?), this FREE expo will have something to offer you.

With over 100 vendors, there will be plenty of screenings, tests, and on-site demonstrations. Health care providers will provide screenings for blood pressure & stroke, sleep & anxiety, and BMI & glucose screenings, just to name a few. Other vendors will be available to offer cooking classes, massages, fitness tests and more. All aspects of health and wellness will be covered and you won’t want to miss it.

Produced by the City of Charleston, Cooper River Bridge Run, and HealthLinks Charleston magazine, the Expo promotes healthy lifestyles that will enhance everyone’s quality of life. You’re guaranteed to learn tips and tricks that will help you establish both healthy eating and lifestyle practices.

In 2018, they made the experience much more interactive for attendees, and we should expect the same for 2019. In attendance will also be MUSC, who is a presenting sponsor of the event and will have multiple booths to educate the community.

Held each year at the Charleston Gaillard Center, parking is available in their parking garage and only $5 per vehicle.

Read more about the Charleston Health & Wellness Expo here.