ol’ Charleston

I like to say that Charleston is Robert and I’d happy place. Its where we both went to college, we got married in Charleston, and we try to go down for little trips as often as we can. Last week we Got to indulge in one of those little trips and it got me to thinking that I should put together a list of everything that I/we love in ‘ol ChuckTown.

First off, a little background. I went to College of Charleston, but it was only for 2 years unfortunately. I was really sick at the end of high school and beginning of college and although I adored C of C, it was a bit too far from my doctors appointments that I had to attend weekly. But with that being said it still feels like how every time we visit.

This last trip was a short one, we were literally there for less than 24 hours but I feel like I packed a lot into it. I’m going to compound a list of Hotels, Places to Eat, Cocktail Hour Spots, and my favorite places to shop, so the next time you get to visit the Holy City, you’ll have a couple new places to check out!

Hotels:

I don’t consider myself a boujee hotel person, I honestly feel like I don’t stay or hangout at the hotel long enough to care, but regardless, here are a couple of ones that I like and enjoy staying at.

Andrew Pinckney Inn:

I think this hotel has to be Robert and I’s Favorite. Its right in the heart of Downtown, beside some really great restaurants and all of the shopping. Its a couple blocks east of King Street so its not right beside but its just a short walk from the main shopping action. On top of all of that, they renovated their rooms a couple of years ago and they are so nice (for a historical hotel). And the Best Part, the prices. I know that’s an oxymoron when you’re taking about prices with a boutique hotel, but seriously, they are cheap compared tot he rest of Charleston Hotels.

Meeting Street Inn:

This is where we stayed last week when we were in CHS. This hotel and the Kings Courtyard Inn are a lot the same, they even share a parking lot. Both are basically right on King Street which I think is so convenient, and dangerous, for your wallet. lol. The rooms are on the smaller side and there’s not a ton of lighting, so if you’re going to relax in your room, these are the places for you.

The Ryder Hotel:

This hotel is honestly so freaking cute. And if you’re going to Charleston to get the cutest pictures, this is the one for you. They have completely renovated this hotel with a retro 70’s vibe and it is darling. That, on top of the bar that is attached to it, is the perfect weekend getaway when you don’t feel like leaving the hotel. The prices are midrange but nothing outrageous. You’ve probably seen pictures before of this beauty, a lot of influencers, brand and boutiques have used their location for photoshoots.

Places to Eat and Drink:

My Favorite. I am such a foodie and really, I LOVE trying out new cocktails and specials. These are a few of my Favorite places to eat and drink.

The Gin Joint:

Anytime someone tells me they are going to Charleston, I always recommend the Gin Joint. It’s a smaller bar ( they do have some delicious small plates, try the oysters) but the drinks are to die for. My favorite is always going to be the Bartenders Choice. It’s an option where you choose two different adjectives, for instance Spicy and Sweet, Fruity and Herbal, Fizzy and Refreshing, the combinations are endless. It has a speakeasy vibe, and its tucked away on East Bay Street, so I feel only locals really know about it.

Hanks Seafood:

Whether its your first time or 132nd time, you know where Hanks is and know its the spot to be at for Seafood. I feel like Hanks as a restaurant embodies Charleston as a whole, between the Coastal vibe, Simple but understated Decor and the Southern and Elegant behavior of the staff. Whether you want quintessential She Crab Soup, Friend Shrimp or Seafood A La Wando, Hanks has it and I guarantee it’ll be delicious.

Bar 167:

This place is a little newer to me, I had seen and walked by it a couple of different time and also heard about it, but had never tried it. Last week, Robert had to go to a meeting so I Decided to take my laptop and go work at the bar. Think Tulum mixed with Greece, when it comes to the decor. The cocktails are very, how do I say this nicely, Herbally. But most of them were decent, its a cute spot if you have an hour or two to kill. Now, I only got the focaccia app, and it was so good, but the rest of their menu did look delicious.

Halls Steakhouse:

What can’t I say about Halls. Halls is the Southern Steakhouse to the core. The Food is always delicious, the place is always stuffed to the gills with locals and visitors and it’s always going to be a good time. I feel like Halls has just as good of seafood as Hanks, if not better. Don’t tell Hanks I said that. Halls is a staple, if you’re looking for a break from eating seafood but still want a fancy dinner, go to Halls, trust me.

Shopping:

Does this even need an explanation?

iiBrunettes:

Although iiBrunettes isn’t in Downtown, its definitely worth the drive out to Mount Pleasant. Their Clothes are perfectly curated, it doesn’t matter what kind of style you have, you’re going to leave with something. They have great staple pieces along with trendy picks that you’re going to need.

Quiet Storm:

Ok, at first glance, I literally thought this was only “surfer” clothes. Boy was I wrong. They have adorable and elemental pieces from really great brands. I feel like every boutique carries Z-Supply these days, But Quiet Storms wasn’t over priced. They also had a really good athleisure section that I snagged a few things from.

M.Dumas and Sons:

This is for all the girls that love to buy things for their man or are a boy mom. M.Dumas and Sons is a gentleman’s store that will have your Man or Little Men dressed to the 9’s. I know when I say Gentleman’s store, you’re thinking tuxes and dress wear, this place is all of that and more. This store is a one stop shop for the men in your life and we never leave Charleston without stopping just to browse. Now, they do have some Women’s clothing pieces so if you’re going on a girls trip or just shopping for yourself, don’t count them out yet!

These are all my favorites, but there are tons of others that I know y’all will love. I feel like Charleston is like an adult candy store, there’s something for everyone! If y’all head to CHS and need more options or opinions, send me a message, I would love to help out. And I would love to hear if y’all try out or visit any of these locations!

Love you, Mean it,

Alex