2019 BEST BARS and CLUBS in CHARLESTON SC
Bar
Peninsula Bar at Planters Grill
Escape to one of the most romantic dining places in Charleston for a night of luxurious service and taste. Take a seat at the bar or among the lighted trees of the elegantly-decorated courtyard and rekindle old love or indulge in a new crush. Pour a glass of Chardonnay or champagne and toast to Southern charm. Surrounded by greenery and lanterns, the atmosphere will surely turn surreal. This Historic District site is calling your name so come stay a night at Planters Inn—serving the area 175 years—and make unforgettable memories over bar favorites.
Club
Republic Garden & Lounge
Turn up the volume and let loose on the dance floor—or if you’re extra special, you can reserve a spot in the VIP area just for you and close friends to let your hair down and sip cocktails all night. Enjoy late night pizza and other small plates to please your appetite before catching your second wind to keep the party going. Whether it’s a 21st birthday, single ladies’ night or much-needed downtown getaway to revel in a carefree setting at one of the hottest Charleston nightlife spots, choose this upscale club to cut a rug.
Cocktail
Voodoo Tiki Bar & Lounge
There’s certainly no place in Charleston quite like this eclectic nook, where all are welcome and celebrated; and each day of the week is unique—how about half-priced gourmet tacos on Monday to pair with the bar’s famous cocktail selections? Swing by 4-7 p.m. on a weekday and drink at a discount. Tuesdays offer extra vivacious vibes with Drag Queen Bingo and live jazz entertainment; you just might find yourself ordering round-after-round of the bar’s popular selection of sake, tequila or tiki drinks—a combo of fresh squeezed juices, island rum and housemade ingredients.
Craft Brewer
Holy City Brewing
Since 2011, craft beer aficionados from near and far have flocked to this North Charleston site. From humble beginnings that entailed brewing beer in a garage, the operation now boasts a top spot among Charleston’s prevailing craft beer culture. Find dozens of beers on tap, finger foods and housemade sodas for underage customers. To supply its heavy demand for beer, the company even opened a nearby brewhouse, which contains 30 barrels, four boilers, 120-barrel fermenter vessels and brite tanks.
Happy Hour
Pearlz Oyster Bar
If you’re craving a post-work, liquid pick-me-up, then pop by Pearlz in downtown Charleston or West Ashley. Remove the blazer, loosen the tie and order a spice and pepper vodka Oyster shooter, or pay for a round for the office cronies. And if the smell of fresh, local seafood hits your nose, feel free to indulge in raw bar staples, appetizers or simply more alcohol—most items discounted during the 4-7 p.m. happy hour. So no matter what weekday you want to unwind, this front door is open.
Late Night Menu
Gene’s Haufbra
Since the 1950s, this Savannah Highway hangout has kept the Holy City’s night owls properly fed. When most eateries around the area have closed shop for the evening, kitchen staff at Gene’s are just getting started—the kitchen is open until 1 a.m. Choose anything on the menu. Last call for alcohol is 1:30 a.m. Whether it’s a late dinner, fourth meal or a simple snack you crave, walk in and grab a seat and see if a juicy burger, artichoke dip, corn dog, loaded fries and more will hit the spot.
Pub / Tavern
My Father’s Mustache Eatery & Pub
Futbol-loving fans have a safe space in the Lowcountry to yell at livestreamed games and clink beer glasses over good plays. That’s because the Mt. Pleasant pub, named after the facial hair of the owner’s great-grandfather, has European roots—as evidenced by the international flag décor covering the walls. Five generations have kept the family business in operation, where patrons can munch on bangers and mash, fish and chips and other satisfying fare. Also, challenge a friend or stranger to a friendly competition of pool, bocce ball, darts and more.
