Charleston’s Eat & Drink Guide: Where Lowcountry Flavor Meets Laidback Luxury
An insider’s food and drink guide from the team at Harlestons
Charleston may be known for its cobblestone streets and pastel facades, but any true local—or frequent visitor—will tell you that the soul of the city lives in its food and drink scene. From sunlit cafés tucked behind iron gates to rooftop bars offering panoramic views of the harbor, Charleston has quietly become one of the most dynamic culinary destinations in the Southeast. Whether you're here for a weekend golf getaway or simply soaking up the Lowcountry charm, we've put together a curated guide to some of our favorite spots to sip, savor, and settle in. This isn’t just a foodie checklist—it’s a roadmap to the Charleston lifestyle that inspired the essence of Harlestons.
Morning Rituals: Coffee, Pastries, and Coastal Strolls
Charleston mornings are best when they start slow, with an espresso in hand and the promise of salt air not far off. For coffee and casual pastries, head to Vintage Coffee in Mount Pleasant—a local favorite that's as kid-friendly as it is delicious. On the peninsula, La Patisserie, nestled inside the Hotel Bennett, offers Parisian flair with buttery croissants and strong cappuccinos, perfect for easing into your day. A few blocks over, Clerk’s Coffee Company serves up sleek interiors and cold brew worth lingering over. Planning a morning walk along the Battery? Grab a latte from Sorelle Cafe and wind your way through the shaded streets of South of Broad. And if you're in the mood for something heartier, Mercantile & Mash inside the Cigar Factory delivers a killer breakfast biscuit and an elevated market vibe.
Brunch & Beyond: Lowcountry Classics and Rooftop Views
Brunch in Charleston is a rite of passage, and Poogan’s Porch—set in a restored Victorian home on Queen Street—is a must for flaky biscuits and shrimp & grits done right. For skyline views and Southern-fusion plates, make your way to The Watch, perched atop The Restoration Hotel. It's the perfect place to linger over mimosas and plan your next round of golf or shopping on King Street. Whether you’re craving classic brunch fare or something with a coastal twist, Charleston’s morning menus reflect the region’s deep appreciation for both tradition and creativity—values we echo in every stitch at Harlestons.
Midday & Dinner: Italian Gems, Local Seafood, and Southern Comfort
Come lunchtime, the decision isn’t where to eat—it’s how to choose. For a refined Italian experience with a side of scene, try Melfi’s or Frannie and The Fox inside The Emeline Hotel. Le Farfalle offers house-made pasta with the kind of attention to detail we appreciate in both food and fabric. If you’re headed to Sullivan’s Island, The Obstinate Daughter serves up wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood in a space that blends surf and sophistication. For Lowcountry seafood, it’s hard to top Chubby Fish or 167 Raw—both known for ultra-fresh oysters and creative small plates. And if it’s comfort food you’re after, Leon’s (think fried chicken and oysters) or Little Jack’s Tavern (don’t skip the burger) provide the perfect blend of casual and craveable.
Sundown Sips: Rooftops, Cocktails & Coastal Vibes
As the sun dips behind the steeples, Charleston’s cocktail culture shines. Rooftop favorites like The Citrus Club at The Dewberry and Fiat Luxe at Hotel Bennett offer breezy elegance and unmatched city views. For something more intimate, La Cave and Roseline bring refined cocktail craftsmanship to cozy, candlelit spaces. Wine lovers should head to Bin 152 or The Tippling House, while Little Palm at The Ryder Hotel combines poolside vibes with craft cocktails that feel straight out of a resort weekend. Much like our approach to menswear, Charleston’s bar scene favors quality, atmosphere, and a touch of elevated ease.
Coastal Cool: Breweries, Beach Bars & Nightlife to Remember
Craving something cold after a long day in the sun? Revelry Brewing Co and Edmund’s Oast offer bold brews in relaxed environments, while The Co-Op’s famous frosé—available both downtown and on Sullivan’s Island—is the unofficial drink of Charleston summer. Over on Shem Creek, bars like Red’s, Shelter, and Tavern & Table pair waterfront views with fresh seafood and laidback energy. For live music and late-night fun, Windjammer on Isle of Palms delivers local bands and ocean breezes. Wherever you land, Charleston nightlife balances energy and elegance—just like the Harlestons man.
Charleston isn’t just where we’re from—it’s who we are. From the layered charm of historic downtown to the breezy energy of the islands, this city’s rhythm informs the way we design, create, and live. So next time you’re in town, explore it like a local. And if you happen to be wearing a Harlestons polo while sipping on frosé or digging into oysters, we won’t blame you for feeling right at home.
