For Immediate Release, January 2022
What's New in Charleston Winter 2021
From the historical homes and cultural influence to the dynamic hospitality and variety of cuisine, attractions, events and venues, the Charleston, South Carolina region remains one of the nation’s most beloved destinations. It is perennially named a top U.S. city and destination in the United States by leading travel publications thanks to its ability to preserve and protect its unique culture, charm and authenticity while embracing new opportunities and innovation. For the ninth consecutive year, Charleston was voted the No. 1 City in the U.S. and Canada in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards. The city’s legacy, vibrancy, and allure have landed it among the top 10 U.S. cities in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for nearly three decades. Above all, the Charleston area is revered for its people and a genuine welcoming spirit.
The Charleston area is a bustling epicenter of hospitality as illustrated by the following news.
I. Accolades
II. New Restaurants
III. Restaurant News
IV. New Accommodations
V. Retail
VI. Tours + Attractions
VII. Highlighted Special Events
I. ACCOLADES
No. 1 City in the U.S.
TravelandLeisure.com
The 25 Best Cities in the World
TravelandLeisure.com
The Best Cities in the U.S.: 2021 Readers' Choice Awards
CNTraveler.com
20 Most Popular Places to Vacation in America
NewsWeek.com
15 Best Places To Retire in the South
SouthernLiving.com
II. NEW RESTAURANTS
Bull & Finch
1710 Shoremeade Road, Mount Pleasant | thebullandfinchpub.com
Mount Pleasant’s newest gastropub has arrived. Upscale neighborhood hangout Bull & Finch focuses on fresh cuisine such as the Gourmet Mushroom Risotto with charred tomato, local mushrooms and parmesan reggiano. Complete with a twenty seat bar and elevated dining room, this restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere. Opened September 2021.
Dills & Camp Sundries
1234 Camp Rd, Charleston, SC 29412 | dillandcamp.com
Dills & Camp Sundries is where breakfast and lunch meet. From hotcakes to fresh hand-squeezed juices to smoked meats, they offer something for every taste served up Old-Southern Style. When possible, they use only local growers and seasonal produce to deliver a breakfast and lunch experience that will get your jets fueled to make it all day. Opened November 2021.
Charleston Wine Co.
63 S. Market Street Charleston SC |
Charleston Wine Co. is owned by Lindsey Williams and she is part of only one percent of winery owners who are African American. Williams sources grapes from around the globe and processes them at her facility in Davidson. The bottles range from merlot, pinotage, chardonnay, gewurztraminer, petit verdot, and more. Charleston Wine Co. will serve a rotating variety of 18 of Williams’s wine and they will have something for everyone. Opening December 2021.
OddFellows
550 King Street, Charleston | oddfellows.com
Brooklyn-based dessert shop OddFellows has come to downtown Charleston. Known for their out-of-the-box and eccentric ice cream flavors, customers can enjoy flavors such as Chocotorta with sour cream-cream cheese ice cream, dulce de leches swirls and cookie soil mixed in. OddFellows also has a selection of vegan options, soft-serve flavors, milkshakes and ice cream floats. Opened October 2021.
Poke Burri
835 Savannah Highway, Charleston, SC 29407 | pokeburri.com
Poke Burri started with the simple mission of being the best poke in the city. They are bringing poke bowls, sushi burritos, and build your own options to the Lowcountry. The eatery even offers non-traditional sushi dishes on its secret menu, with a selection of sushi pizza, donuts, and a corn dog. Opened December 2021.
Share House
23 Ann Street, Charleston | instagram.com/sharehousechs
Nestled in a renovated train depot, Share House will offer an all-day dining and drinking experience. Serving menu items such as the Buffalo Duck Quesadilla with caramelized onions, smoked gouda and roasted garlic aioli, this eatery will offer a laid back, indoor-outdoor atmosphere. Opening Spring 2022.
Maya
479 King Street, Charleston | mayachs.com
The Indigo Road restaurant group behind Indaco and O-Ku is bringing a regional Mexican eatery to King Street. Inspired by Mexico’s vibrant and diverse cuisine, Maya celebrates the region’s uniquely bold flavors and traditional techniques through an authentic, ingredient driven menu with coastal influences. Maya is complete with an in-house masa program, utilizing a traditional nixtamalization process and corn sourced from Mexico to make chips and tortillas, as well as an open-air patio, a full bar, live music, open-fire cooking on a comal and an authentic griddle used to cook the aforementioned masa. Opened October 2021.
Port of Call Food + Brew Hall
99 S. Market Street, Charleston | portofcallchs.com
Port of Call is not a typical restaurant. Offering a variety of locally sourced food from a wide range of cuisines, and providing a large collection of beer, wine, and spirits, with an emphasis on local craft beers, they focus on partnership with vendors as a source of success. Combined with their vendors, and deliberate hospitality, they work to provide Charleston with a unique dining experience. Opened October 2021.
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill
1405 Folly St Rd, Ste 410 in the Riverland Market Center | thegreatgreekgril.com
An award-winning and rapidly expanding Mediterranean fast-casual concept is opening its first franchise location in Charleston SC. The Great Greek offers a wide variety of customizable options for guests to enjoy, including a classic Greek Salad with a choice of salmon, shrimp, or several other protein choices. Everything is prepared in-house with fresh ingredients that bring traditional flavors from recipes passed down generation after generation. Opened October 2021.
Island Provisions
1803 Crowne Commons Way A2, Johns Island, SC | IslandProvisions.com
A cafe + market located at 1803 Crowne Commons Way on Johns Island — will open a new location downtown at 221 St. Philip St. the new spot will serve guests 7 days a week, offering coffee, breakfast, sandwiches, wine and beer + small plates.
Opening Spring 2022.
Paddock & Whiskey
1074 E. Montague Ave. North Charleston | PaddockandWhiskey.com
Local bourbon bar + restaurant Paddock & Whisky has opened a second location in Park Circle. The eatery is open 11-1 a.m. daily, serving bites like broiled oysters, steak tartare, and seasonal vegetables. You can also enjoy a full bar featuring rare bourbons and whiskies. Opened October 2021.
Ruby Sunshine
171 E Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401| rubysunshine.com
Brunch lovers rejoice—all-day brunch restaurant Ruby Sunshine will debut this winter. Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Charleston, the 5,295 square-foot restaurant will offer a lively and inviting atmosphere for families, residents, area professionals and visitors to enjoy. The restaurant will uphold the charm and inviting atmosphere that the previous concept, Blossom, maintained over the past two decades. Guests can expect all-day brunch and eye-opening cocktails served at Ruby Sunshine seven days a week. The menu will echo the offerings at Ruby Slipper Café, featuring award-winning New Orleans twists on Southern breakfast staples like BBQ Shrimp & Grits, Eggs Cochon Benedict and Bananas Foster Pain Perdu, as well as morning cocktails like a Brandy Milk Punch, Morning Margarita, Mimosas and, of course, their award-winning Bacon Bloody Marys. Opens December 2021.
Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar
40 Grand Oaks Blvd Suite 500 Charleston, SC | thesuckinshack.com
Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar grew out of a vision for a local establishment that would appeal to families of all ages. A place where friends and family can enjoy a great meal of primarily oysters and shrimp, but we’re more than just a seafood restaurant, we serve up fresh, delicious meals and creative cocktails in an environment that exudes relaxation. We cater to locals and tourists, providing them a place to enjoy a good time and watch a sporting event on big screens while taking in some of the local history. Many people have passed in and out of our doors enjoying succulent local oysters and shrimp, shared local fishing or surfing stories and spent time just talking about the friendly beachcomber atmosphere inside. The casual atmosphere with its friendly and helpful staff has made many patrons feel very much at home be they locals or visitors. Opened November 2021.
The Tippling House
221 Coming St. Charleston, SC 29403 | thetipplinghousechs.com
The Tippling House, situated on a quiet street in downtown Charleston is a wine bar brought to you by Matthew Conway and Carissa Hernandez. In a former Charleston single home, The Tippling House lives in a classic 19th century building restored to make guests feel like they’re stepping into a simpler era. From their approachable wines by the glass, to the extensive list of fine wines by the bottle, The Tippling House is a wine bar for everyone. Opened October 2021.
III. RESTAURANT NEWS
Bodega
23 Ann Street, Charleston | bodegachs.com
Bodega will relocate from pop up at its sister restaurant Uptown Social to a permanent space in a renovated train museum in downtown Charleston. The shop will continue to serve New York style sandwiches such as the Grim Reaper with house made chorizo, pico de gallo and Carolina Reaper ranch on a toasted kaiser. Opening Spring 2022.
Crust Wood Fired Pizza
45 Romney Street, Charleston | crustwoodfiredpizza.com
Bringing the brand to the peninsula for the first time, local pizza chain Crust Wood Fired Pizza is opening its third location downtown. Customers can expect pizzas like the J Bird with braised beef, red pepper and caramelized onion as well as an oyster bar and twenty four beers on tap at this new neighborhood spot. Guests will be able to grab a slice while enjoying a cold brew at the bar. Opening January 2022.
Ma’am Saab
251 Meeting Street, Charleston | maamsaabchs.com
Former Pakistani pop-up restaurant Ma’am Saab is expanding to brick-and-mortar. Born out of Chef and Co-owner Maryam’s longing to share the flavors of her home with Charleston, Ma’am Saab serves comfort food from Pakistan, such as kebabs and pakora. Opening Spring 2022.
Gabrielle - Hotel Bennett
404 King St, Charleston, SC 29403| gabrielledinning.com
Hotel Bennett has appointed Robert McGrattan as its new executive chef. The North Carolina native returns to the Carolinas with a focus on continuing to elevate the dining experience at Gabrielle, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Hotel Bennett was recently ranked as the top luxury hotel in the country by readers of USA TODAY, while Gabrielle is Charleston’s only restaurant to open onto Marion Square and features the city’s largest outdoor fine-dining plaza. It can be accessed through the park or via Hotel Bennett. McGrattan’s extensive culinary experience spans a 16-year career at some of the most celebrated kitchens and hotels in the country. McGrattan previously served as Executive Sous Chef at the legendary Peabody Memphis where the fine dining restaurant Chez Philippe achieved a coveted Forbes Four-Star rating. He also redesigned the kitchen and menu at Capriccio Grill, the hotel’s renowned steakhouse.
IV. NEW ACCOMMODATIONS
The Loutrel
61 State Street, Charleston | theloutrel.com
Located in the heart of the historic French Quarter, The Loutrel is a 50-room luxury boutique hotel. With offerings such as The Veranda Lounge, a private club room for guests and a picturesque rooftop with city views, guests are welcome to check in for an escape. The botanical inspiration lends itself to curated decorations, a unique Charleston picnic experience as well as an exclusive history and garden tour led by The Loutrel’s private guide. Opened September 2021.
StayAPT Suites
First-of-its-kind apartment-style hotel, featuring a signature layout with full-size kitchen, living room and separate bedroom. North Charleston, S.C. travelers will soon be able to experience new hotel brand stayAPT Suites, as its latest location is officially under development at 9331 Blue House Road in North Charleston. Ideal for any length of stay, stayAPT Suites’ unique design philosophy abandons the traditional one-room hotel layout in favor of a residential-feeling suite with intentional spaces.
Opening Spring 2022.
The Pinch
36 George Street Charleston, SC 29401 | thepinch.com
At the intersection of King and George Streets in Charleston, South Carolina, The Pinch (from Philadelphia-based Method Co.) will add another address to the city’s luxury hotel scene. The apartment-style rooms come with a full kitchen and laundry facilities.
Opening Spring 2022.
V. RETAIL
Beau and Ro
1242 Belk Dr #101, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464 |beauandro.com
Beau & Ro has expanded into an all-encompassing line that includes dresses, handbags, jewelry and more. Opened October 2021
Little Palmetto Pearl
1218 Belk Drive 24 A, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 |
a Lowcountry-based baby + children’s clothing store will open soon in Mt. Pleasant. The upscale boutique’s name was inspired by the palmetto trees and oysters in the region. The store will open in Mt. Pleasant Towne Centre, so you can visit during the shopping center’s holiday events. Opening Fall 2021.
PlantHouse
832 Coleman Blvd. in Mount Pleasant | planthouse.com
Located in Mount Pleasant, PlantHouse Charleston is our fourth location. Stop by and browse hundreds of premium houseplants, build your own terrarium, attend a workshop, take advantage of our complimentary potting service and more! Opened October 2021.
SkinLab by Mount Pleasant Dermatology
445 King St Suite 101, Charleston, SC 29403 | skinlabdermatology.com
SkinLab’s mission is to take the guesswork out of finding the best skincare solutions for the expert results you want. The team of skin experts aim to give you a multi-faceted approach to great skin with one simple formula: advanced diagnostics, signature aesthetic treatments, and effective skincare. Opened August 2021.
VI. TOURS + ATTRACTIONS
Ashley River Park
An 87-acre park is coming soon to the Lowcountry. Ashley River Park is currently being built on the banks of the Ashley River by the historic Bacons Bridge in Dorchester County and is located near Summerville. Interactive play fountain designed to look like a map of Ashley River. The park will be equipped with two dog parks, open lawn areas, playground and picnic areas, an event space with a pavilion, tiered lawn by a large pond with fishing piers and boardwalks, an upgraded nearby kayak launch and picnic area. Opening December 2021.
TopGolf
Tanger Outlet/ International Blvd Area | TopGolf.com
Construction on the new, two-level, 72-bay venue is set to begin early next year and is projected to open in late 2022. This will be Topgolf's third entertainment venue in the state of South Carolina, as the company is known for its high-tech gaming experience, climate-controlled hitting bays and renowned food and beverage menu. Opening Fall 2022.
Middleton Place from the Ashley- Kayak Tours
4290 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414 | coastalexpeditions.com
Boat Cruise and Kayak Tours in partnership with Coastal Expeditions Thursdays- Sundays. Explore Middleton Place National Historic Landmark where shared history unfolds. America’s oldest and most important landscaped gardens, the Living History Stableyards, exhibits and programs, including Beyond the Fields, together tell the stories and legacies of the generations of both the enslaved and free people who lived and worked on this land. Step onto a boat or kayak with a Coastal Expeditions naturalist to discover the blackwater ecosystem of the Ashley River, including great blue herons, bald eagles, and American alligators along its wildflower and rice–laden banks. Every Lowcountry visit should include time on the water experiencing another side of our history and all the stories it holds.
Opened October 2021.
Music Farm - Reopening
32 Ann St., Charleston SC| musicfarm.com
The 30-year-old local music venue announced that it will officially reopen next year after being closed since the pandemic began. The improved venue will feature the following: New air conditioning, new sound system, updated green room, new lighting, and an updated bar + facilities. The venue’s capacity has been reduced to 650 in order to ensure the comfort of concertgoers. The Royal American will run the kitchen, serving up similar menu items to the eatery’s location on the Upper Peninsula.
Opening Spring 2022.
VIII. HIGHLIGHTED SPECIAL EVENTS
Charleston Food + Wine Festival
Charleston Area | CharlestonFood+Wine.com
Charleston Wine + Food infuses homegrown flavor with top chefs, winemakers, authors, storytellers, artisans, experts, and food enthusiasts from around the globe for a five-day event that spans the first full weekend each March. The organization was founded in 2005 by a group of loyal community leaders with a vision of creating an event to promote + elevate Charleston’s culinary brand. Opening March 3-6, 2022.
Lowcountry Oyster Festival
Boone Hall Plantation, located at 1235 Long Point Rd. Mt. Pleasant | lowcountryoysterfestival.com
38th annual world's largest oyster fest The “rain or shine” event will be held on Feb. 6, 2022, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Boone Hall Plantation, located at 1235 Long Point Rd. in Mt. Pleasant. General parking will be free. There will be buckets of oysters, live music on the main stage, oyster shucking and eating contests, wine and beer, and a food court featuring local eateries. Food and beverage tickets will be available for purchase at the festival. You can also buy oyster knives + gloves at the event. Opening February 6th 2022.
Bulldog Tours- Holiday Stroll Cocktail Tour
Mills House 115 Meeting Street Charleston SC | bulldogtours.com
Bulldog Tours is excited to announce the launch of our newest holiday tour. The Holiday Strolls Cocktail Tour will combine aspects of the popular Christmas-themed history tour with the addition of three stops along the way to enjoy festive craft cocktails created exclusively for Bulldog's guests. The tour, which runs from 3:00 - 5:30pm, will be offered November 26th and Thursdays & Fridays throughout the month of December. Opened November 2021.
Cooper River Bridge Run, April 2
bridgerun.com
Charleston is gearing up for the annual Cooper River Bridge Run this September. Participants can choose to walk or run this 10K, and a Kid’s Run is offered to those 12 and under. Not a fan of running? This event has you covered with a variety of entertainment at the Finish Festival in Marion Square where you can find live music, food and drinks, merchandise and more.
