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French Quarter

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.

 

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Good morning from #Charleston

A post shared by Charleston SC official account (@explorecharleston) on Dec 4, 2013 at 4:56am PST

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.

 

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

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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.

 

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Loving this new piece from @karinjurickarts featuring an homage to the legendary @waynethiebaud_ “Wonder Women” 9 x 12” oil on panel #oilpainting #karinjurick #peoplelookingatpaintings #theladies #collectart #homage

A post shared by Robert Lange Studios (@robertlangestudios) on Jun 22, 2019 at 4:41pm PDT

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.

 

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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 Jul 25, 2019 at 11:55am PDT

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

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Eat & Drink

The Best Sandwich Shops In Charleston

Featured Image Credit: Persimmon Cafe Facebook

Nothing beats the perfect sandwich. People search far and wide for their favorite take on the classic bread-meat-bread concoction. And Charleston has no shortage of great sandwich spots on and off the peninsula. Whether you’re looking for a new flavor or an old favorite, the best sandwich shops in Charleston will fulfill your cravings.

Image Credit: Bon Banh Mi Facebook

Bon Banh Mi

Bon Banh Mi is one of the best sandwich shops in Charleston because of the delicious Vietnamese banh mi they serve. They serve it three ways: the classic sandwich, tacos, or a salad. It’s their take on the classic banh mi sandwich that puts them on this list of the best sandwich shops in Charleston. The pork sandwich is a favorite among diners but all varieties are delicious.

Image Credit: Tattooed Moose Facebook

Tattooed Moose

The Tattooed Moose may not be an actual sandwich shop, but hear us out on why it belongs on this list. The reason we’re calling it one of the best sandwich shops in Charleston is because of the famous duck confit club. This rich duck sandwich has gained a reputation and diners from out of town make sure to get to the Tattooed Moose during trips to Charleston for that reason.

Image Credit: Persimmon Cafe Facebook

Persimmon Cafe

Sharing space with a laundromat, Persimmon Cafe is one of the best sandwich shops in Charleston with a plethora of paninis. There’s a little something here for everyone including vegetarian and gluten-free options. And once you’ve had one of their great sandwiches, save room for homemade custard or baked goods.

Image Credit: Ted’s Butcherblock Facebook

Ted’s Butcherblock

Ted’s Butcherblock is more than just one of Charleston’s best sandwich shops, it’s also a great place for dinner or some quality cuts of meat (it’s a butcher shop after all).  But it’s the sandwiches that put them on our list. Paninis like the wagyu beef are favorites among fans, as are other sandwiches like the bacon of the month BLT. Diners also say their gouda mac and cheese is a must as a side. You can eat it cold or hot.

Image Credit: Baguette Magic Facebook

Baguette Magic

This West Ashley bakery is also one of the best sandwich shops in Charleston. With baguettes baked on site and quality ingredients to fill them, it’s no wonder this spot is top notch. Breakfast sandwiches on croissants are a favorite as well.

Image Credit: Brown Dog Deli Facebook

Brown Dog Deli

This spot in Charleston’s French Quarter is a favorite among sandwich enthusiasts. They even have vegan options so just about everyone is covered when you go to the Brown Dog Deli. Diners love the Dictator Cubano sandwich or the Pawley’s Pimento Dog. The soups and sides are to die for as well.

Image Credit: Circe’s Grotto Facebook

Circe’s Grotto

Circe’s Grotto is another great sandwich shop in the downtown area. It’s a college hot spot for a good reason. People rave about the big sandwiches and the atmosphere here. Paninis and sandwiches with all sorts of available fillings will hit the spot.

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Guest Columns

Wonderful Wedding Night Stays In Charleston

Featured Image Credit: French Quarter Inn Facebook 

There is no doubt that Charleston is a wedding hot spot. The number of picturesque venues in our area is unparalleled. But what happens after the vows have been said and the reception is over? Where does that car with the “just married” sign go at the end of the night? The bride and groom deserve to have the perfect day, and that includes the perfect accommodations for the wedding night. If you’re getting married in Charleston, check out the places below to get the down low on where to stay for your wedding night in Charleston.

Image Credit: Wentworth Mansion Facebook

Wentworth Mansion
The Wentworth Mansion should definitely be one of the top contenders for where to stay for your wedding night in Charleston. This historic home-turned-hotel is just blocks away from the heart of downtown so it’s close to the city’s attractions if you plan to spend the next day exploring. Guests rave about the luxurious rooms, the exceptional service, and the romantic atmosphere.

Image Credit: French Quarter Inn Facebook

French Quarter Inn
This Church Street inn is right in the middle of the action downtown, making it a great place to stay for your wedding night in Charleston. The location will draw you in but the southern charm will have you wishing for a longer stay. The well sumptuous rooms are large in size and well kept by the staff. Guests can enjoy afternoon wine and cheese, evening cookies, and nightly chocolates with turndown service.

Image Credit:  Governor’s House Inn Facebook

Governor’s House Inn
One of the best bed and breakfasts in Charleston (https://www.charlestonfyi.com/2017/11/13/6-charleston-bed-breakfasts-wont-want-check/) is also one of the best places to stay for your wedding night in Charleston. With plush rooms and an excellent full breakfast the next morning, you’ll be glad you chose to stay at the Governor’s House Inn.

Image Credit: The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel Facebook

The Mills House
Another great hotel with another great location downtown, the Mills House is a favorite spot for visitors and is a wonderful place to spend your wedding night in Charleston. You’ll feel welcomed by the staff and you’ll feel right at home in the splendid guest rooms. Request a room with a view and enjoy Charleston’s scenery.

Image Credit: Francis Marion Hotel Facebook

Francis Marion Hotel
This historic hotel next to Marion Square in downtown Charleston is great for couples who want a bit of old school charm and a lot of convenience. The hotel features a grand lobby and comfortable rooms with great views of Charleston. If you plan on sightseeing the day after the wedding, then this is one great place to stay for your wedding night in Charleston. There’s also an onsite restaurant, The Swamp Fox.

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