August, 2015 - Charleston Daily

Food & Bev

From their family to yours: Hyman’s Restaurant Brings Southern Cuisine with a Smile

August 27, 2015

by Charleston Daily 2 Comments

It was an average Wednesday afternoon when some friends and I were walking around downtown Charleston, looking for a place to get some authentic Lowcountry seafood at a reasonable price. While on our search, we came across Hyman’s Seafood on Meeting Street. When we arrived, there was a short wait, but the restaurant’s gift shop gives us something to do in the interim. It is full of unique items, all showcasing parts of the Lowcountry. Once inside the restaurant and seated, we begin to fall in love. When we were sat, I noticed that there was a plaque at my place setting that said “Oprah Winfrey sat here”. Unbeknownst to my friends and myself, Hyman’s has attracted a number of celebrities visiting Charleston. All over the restaurant there were pictures of celebrities who have eaten at Hyman’s and still come back when they visit Charleston.

As we waited for our server, I began to look around and noticed all of the history within this restaurant. Hyman’s has been in the same location for over 112 years beginning as a dry goods store and evolving into its current state of Lowcountry dining. Hyman’s is also family-owned and operated. All throughout our time there; the “Ambassadors of Goodwill” were coming around to make sure every customer was enjoying their visit.

Our server was very polite and knowledgeable of the menu and the fish board. I ordered the pick three for $19.95. There are over ten items on the pick three menu for guests to mix and match to their satisfaction. I had fried shrimp, the Carolina Style shrimp & grits with creamy white Parmesan sauce, and Hyman’s famous salmon croquette, which is a Southern specialty.

For an appetizer, while we waited, we ordered the Wadmalaw Delight: fried green tomatoes served on grits with a creamy cheese sauce. I’m not a huge fan of tomatoes, but these fried green tomatoes were one of the best parts of my dining experience. We also had boiled peanuts, which are one of my favorite things to munch on and they did not disappoint.

The food was presented well on the plates and the portions were ideal. My shrimp was fluffy and fried to a golden crisp, along with my salmon croquette, topped with Cajun sauce and lightly fried onion rings.

What impressed me the most about my meal was the Carolina-Style shrimp and grits. It wasn’t what I usually expect when I receive shrimp and grits. The parmesan sauce was definitely what puts this shrimp in grits plate in its own category. The grits were cooked to perfection and mix perfectly with the lightly sautéed shrimp, which were then covered in this creamy Parmesan sauce. I have to say that was the best shrimp and grits I have ever had in a Charleston restaurant.

While we were eating, general manager Chad Walker, came to our table to make sure that our food was cooked to our satisfaction and we were enjoying our visit. He also gave us Hyman’s stickers and a coupon for a free scoop of ice cream in the general store downstairs.

Overall, I was extremely impressed with my visit to Hyman’s Seafood, from the minute we walked into the door. I loved my meal and every piece of food I came in contact with sent my taste buds on a roller-coaster ride full of flavor.

I also love the fact that the restaurant is family oriented and they care about their customers. Hyman’s embodies every piece of southern hospitality and local fresh food here in Charleston. You will not leave unsatisfied, because Hyman’s aims to please and in our experience didn’t miss.

Quirkiness of Historic Ravenel – Just a Stone Throw Away

August 23, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

When was the last time you got in your car and drove 30 minutes out of town just to explore. In case you didn’t know, South Carolina is filled with unique and quirky little towns, marshes, residents, and traditional quaint living. There is so much to see if you just take yourself off the main stretch and let yourself be free.

We spent a few hours outside the Charleston city limits to see what we could discover in the town of Ravenel, SC. Here is what we found in this town of 2465 people.

Built in 1842, this Baptist Church is no longer in service, but look what we found inside.

This was the highlight of the morning finding this organ piano. I true piece of history.

If two words can bring a tear to your eyes, this tombstone did it.

Wonder where Scarlet was hiding all these years?

We have cactus in South Carolina and they are situated right on Scarletts Retreat

Maybe a quirky roadside antique shop is more your speed.

We encountered some turn of the century photos.

A flea market filled with true old treasures is always a great way to spend some time.

Maybe you want to feel like you are part of the old west.

Make sure you go to the creek and catch an nice summer breeze.

All this less than 30 minutes from your doorstep right in Charleston County. Next time you are thinking, what should we do? Go explore and maybe catch a bite at Angel Oak Restaurant on the way back to Charleston.

A Charleston Adventure Awaits: Great Activity Spots in the Lowcountry

August 21, 2015

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

Is your blood flowing?

Are you ready for an activity filled day?

Is your Goonies side about to burst?

Look no further Charleston. Charleston Daily wants to recommend a few places where you can let loose, have a blast and create lasting memories and maybe event a few sore muscles. Sit back and enjoy these recommendations and then get out and do them.

Skyzone Indoor Trampoline Park – 411 Wando Park Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC – Whether it is a few friends, a big birthday party of a couples bounce around, this indoor playground will have you hopping, bouncing and flipping all day long.

Wild Blue Ropes – Rope Courses / Team Challenge – 1595 Highland Avenue, Charleston, SC (James Island) – Are you looking for a great corporate team building event, overcoming your feel of heights or always wanted to feel like Indiana Jones? This is the place for you. With over 20 unique challenges ranging in difficulty level, you can test your own personal limits with an incredibly knowledgeable and warm staff. Make it a day on the ropes.

Coastal Climbing – 708 King Street, Charleston, SC – Who is in the mood for some rock climbing? This indoor facility with a staff itching for adventure will help you feel as if you are hiking some of the steepest mountains in the world. Come and get a day pass and see how high you can go.

Climbing Wall – James Island County Park – 861 Riverland Drive, James Island, SC – Maybe outdoor rock climbing is your thing. At the James Island County Park, you can climb until you touch the clouds. Enjoy a day of rock climbing and if you need to unwind after, there is a challenging disc golf course right next door.

Climbing Wall – Joint Base Charleston – Arthur Drive across from softball fields. If you live in the Goose Creek or North Charleston area and driving to James Island or Charleston peninsula is too far to climb, there is an option for you.

Charleston Rush – Go Karting / Laser Tag – 3550 Ashley Phosphate Road, North Charleston, SC – Where can I kart and play laser tag and maybe slip in a little air hockey. We got you covered at Charleston Rush.

Carolina Ice Palace – Ice Skating – 7665 Northwoods Blvd, North Charleston, SC – Want to stay cool in the heat of the summer? Escape the heat and humidity and pop on your best ice skates. Whether it is skating, figure skating or hockey, this is the place to get your ice on.

Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark – 8888 University Blvd, North Charleston, SC – Maybe water sports, rides and a whole lot of slipping and playing is your style. This is fun for the entire family.

Charleston Hanger Skatepark – 1549 Oceanic Street, Charleston, SC – This is the future of boarding in Charleston. This state of the art complex will raise the bar for skate boarding talent in the Charleston area.

I think we have your activity calendar covered. Enjoy the thrills.

From Graceland to Charleston: Pour House Brings The Music of Paul Simon to Life

August 20, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

“Music is forever; music should grow and mature with you, following you right on up until you die.” – Paul Simon

One Band; Ten Members; One night; All Paul Simon

“The way the camera follows us in slo-mo” showered through the microphone at 9:50 PM on Wednesday night as ten musicians banded together to pay homage to the legendary Paul Simon. From the first note of Boy in the Bubble to the final encore and reprise of Call me Al at 12:45 PM, the night was filled with a collaborative tribute to the man who has donned us with iconic, thought provoking and get up and dance lyrics and music for over 50 years.

Paul Simon has evolved and re-defined his music over the years from the harsh brutal streets of New York with a comforting sense of home to the struggles of Africa. The pure honesty in his lyrics have given generations fuel for thought and change.

The first set was a unique concept bringing the entire Graceland album to life from The Boy in the Bubble to All Around the World (Or The Myth of Fingerprints). Each musician, including some special guests, lent their vocals to some of their personal favorites. The crowd was won over immediately and maintained a level of energy well into Thursday morning.

The second set brought us back to our familiar classics including Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Still Crazy After All These Years, 50 Ways to Leave your Lover and Obvious Child.

The final two performances of the act took us down a sentimental path with Mother and Child Reunion and Slip Slidin’ Away.

As the words, “you know the nearer your destination, the more you’re slip slidin’ away” came from the stage, we observed fans swaying, eyes closed absorbing the power of a song that defines the notion of lost opportunity and love. It was a poignant way to end the set.

The band did return for one final reprise of Call Me Al to showcase the individual instrumental talents of these fine musicians that came together for this tribute. The ensemble included guitar, accordion, symbols, drums, keyboards, base, bongos, trombone and saxophone. Each member of that band brought a tremendous amount of talent and a truly spectacular tribute to Mr. Paul Simon.

Throughout the concert, the Pour House complimented the music with strobe lighting and images of Paul Simon and pictures related to the mood of the songs.

During a musicians life, to be recognized with rewards and honors is a beautiful symbol of your achievements, but when fellow musicians pay homage to the embodiment of your life’s work, there are no words to define the importance of such an act.

Tonight, was a memorable act of kindness from the musicians of Charleston to the great Paul Simon.

Great Charleston Escape: Edisto Beach – Botany Bay Plantation

August 18, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Just 45 minutes outside of Charleston lies a natural preserve that is saturated with beautiful birds up above, millions of shells in all shapes and sizes, trees and huts mounted into the soft white sand, a fresh ocean breeze and the sound of soft waves crashing. After a half mile walk on the pier, you will find this re-energizing site.

Before we take you on a Charleston Daily photographic visit to Botany Bay Plantation and Edisto Beach, we wanted to share a few facts with you.

From entrance to exist, you will drive seven mils through the park which consists of 4687 acres and two plantations.
On the land is a house, pasture and barn built in the 1930’s. Its last resident was Margaret “Peggy” Meyer Pepper. We just love to say the name.
In the 1850’s Admiral Perry brought a Chinese gardener by the name of Oqui who laid out a fine oriental garden consisting of olive, citrus and spice trees as well as poppies, sugar can and many flowers and vegetables.
Among the wildlife on the preserve are wild turkeys, deer, doves, fox squirrels and songbirds.
Indian Point was a community of Cusabo Indians (Edisto) that inhabited the area in 2500 B.C.
On the upper end of Jason’s Lake, there is a brick beehive well that was built in 1825 and once stood 12 feet high
There is a 470 dollar fine if you remove any shells or life from the beach preserve

Enjoy this visual journey with us…

Entrance to the park - Spooky — Entrance to the park – Spooky

Dedication stone near the still algae filled lake

We hope you enjoyed this journey and we urge you to make a day trip soon.

Botany Bay Plantation Information

Food & Bev - James & John's Islands, SC

Wild Olive – Makes You Crazy about Food in Charleston

August 14, 2015

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

It is often said an adventure can lead to an unexpected treasure. John’s Island has a rich tradition of natural beauty, untapped natural preserves and a very illustrious collection of fine restaurants to whet the appetite. Names you may be familiar with include Sweeney’s, Fat Hen, Southern General, Sunrise Bistro Xpress, Seanachai and the soon to be opened Tattooed Moose. One name has defined itself for its warm inviting staff, enriching Italian cuisine and fine wine selection. That is Wild Olive.

Among the list of some of the top restaurants in Charleston, it may surprise some to know that one that lies hidden on Maybank Highway on John’s Island is one of the best dining experiences in the area.
We were welcomed with “Ahoy Mateys” as we entered the restaurant and approached the hostess stand on Tuesday evening. The walls were ordained with crayon portraits from young fans. To our left was the bar area and community table and all around were three sectioned off dining areas to meet any group or intimate couple’s needs.

The wine rack just behind the hostess stand gave us a good indication that the selection offered would entice all our palates.

We chose to sit at the bar, engage in banter with our bartender Chris and enjoy a sampling of entrees and appetizers. We were pleasantly surprised to learn that on Mondays and Tuesdays, Wild Olive offers a selection of red and white wines for $19.00 by the bottle. We took heed of a recommendation from our new friend behind the bar and were very satisfied. A rich bold red with just a hint of spice that lingered along with the undertones of cherry and currant. This complimented what would be a perfect medley of sharable cuisine.

We opened with the Agnolotti stuffed with orange braised duck, ricotta, natural braising sugo, parmesan and scallion. The sauce was mild with an explosion of flavor. The rich thick ravioli style pasta had a juicy texture and a healthy portion of braised duck. We had to admit that the sauce was so good that we scooped up the remainder with our bread. Not classy, but so yummy.

Next we moved from entrée to appetizer. A bit non-traditional but our thought process led us to this path. We ordered the Suppli al telefono risotto fritters stuffed with sausage, spinach, parmesan, mozzarella along with a side dish of smashed fried potatoes with truffled aioli, scallion and parmesan. I must start by saying the fried potatoes took us to another place. This is a must. Regardless of what you order, include this side. It is an explosion of amazement in your mouth. The fritters were perfectly round and quite a filling starter. Don’t get misled by the small size. Each ball is about five fork bites. Don’t try and eat it in one bite. There is too much flavor and you will waste the moment.

We did manage to close the bar and the restaurant, but at no moment did we feel rushed to leave. The staff was truly welcoming from entrance to exit.

Wild Olive is a dining attraction for both Johns Island and Charleston. If you are new to the area or a local that has never experienced this cuisine, we strongly recommend a night out.

From the Office to the Water: Burton Swain Makes a Paddle boarding Dream a Reality

August 14, 2015

by Charleston Daily 2 Comments

Article by Juliette Cheatham - Photo provided by Juliette — Article by Juliette Cheatham – Photo provided by Juliette

It’s a story everyone can relate to: attending school for years, paying thousands of dollars for a Bachelors Degree, then several thousand more for a Masters. Signing away all of your hopes and dreams to work for whichever nondescript corporation offers the highest paycheck. Of course it sounds glamorous at first; a contract with potential bonuses, savings plans, and benefits. It feels like all the hard work and money was worthwhile and everyone is so proud of your accomplishments.

Then reality sets in… Day after monotonous day in an office cubical you crunch numbers under fluorescent lighting and white walls as you sit next to Bob, or is it Rob? It doesn’t even matter; it’s not like a corporate office job allows for any freedom of expression. Is the pinnacle of life really be a 401k and dental insurance? It certainly wasn’t for Burton Swain.

Swain, a graduate of UNC Wilmington moved to Charleston, SC six years ago for a logistics job right out of school. After a few too many years being unhappily employed and left feeling unfulfilled from his work environment, he decided it was time for a change.

“I was working seven to seven, six days a week and I was completely miserable doing it. I kind of had this epiphany. I deiced to quit and spend a few months back packing around Europe rediscovering what was important to me.”

While traveling abroad, he started trying to identify what in life was most important to him and how to create a life with happiness as the center. Going to school in Wilmington, Burton was always drawn to the Charleston for it’s similar laid back feel and close proximity to the ocean.

An idea struck him in Interlaken, Switzerland during a day of whitewater rafting through the Alps. His favorite memories were always on the water, “whether it was wake boarding, surfing, kayaking, or skirfing. I spent most of my time with my friends outside on a boat.”

That was essentially how Swain’s idea for a mobile standup paddle board company, Chuck SUP, was born!
“My business partner and friend from college has a very similar company in Wilmington. His idea combined with my own passions inspired me to create a like minded business in Charleston.”

There are many SUP companies already in the area, but Burton’s offers a level of accommodation to tourists that has yet to be utilized. Instead of having the paddle board company be the destination, Chuck SUP brings the paddle boards to the customers. Travelers on vacation can call the company and have the boards delivered to their house, the ocean, or an area on the marshes they want to explore. Customers may keep the boards for a few hours or for the entire week if they are vacationing for an extended period of time. Burton offers lessons to those who are new to the SUP game as well as guided tours.
The company is driven by Burton, seven paddle boards, and a dream with ambitions to grow and thrive further in this community. Swain with his calm, cool, laid back, persona makes him the ideal paddle-boarding guide. Whether you’re up for some exciting dolphin watching or just want to take in the calming sights around the ocean, Burton’s got you covered.

Swain says that he’s happier now that he’s working closer to nature and more often on the water doing what he is passionate about. “Although it’s a seasonal job, I think this is a step in the right direction for me.”

We live in a society of pressures to follow a fiscally stable path and often lose sight of our true passions. Burton Swain has taken a tremendous risk to pursue a level of happiness that carries on to his customers and into the Charleston community.

If you want to learn more or talk to Burton about creating an adventure go to his website and his contact number is 843.352.3365.

Photography

The Art of the Surf – A Charleston Photographers Vision

August 13, 2015

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

Article by Jennifer Baker - Photo provided by Harley Manney — Article by Jennifer Baker – Photo provided by Harley Manney

Could there be a better training ground for photographers than Charleston? Nearly everywhere the eye lands is a candidate for a memorable photograph, and it is hard to think of a part of Charleston that has not become subject to some talented person’s abilities with the camera.

Charleston photographer Harley Manney agrees with how ideal Charleston is for photography. “You really have any setting you could want. We have the beach, beautiful parks, historic landmarks and industrial spots. I love the variety and the ability to match the mood of my shoots to the locations.”

Manney’s photographs of young surfers on Folly Beach took our breath away. They allow us to gaze upon and ponder the agility and bravado of surfers, as if (by some impossibility) time could stop the waves.
Philosopher Vilém Flusser wrote that the purpose of a photograph is to signify something “out there,” that makes that thing “imaginable for us, by abstracting it, by reducing its four dimensions of space-plus-time to the two dimensions of a plane.”

Is there a better representation of four dimensions than surfing? What better way to think upon and reflect upon the rhythms of life itself than through gazing on these photos?

The overall effect of Manney’s photographs is that these surfers look right at home, as much a part of the ocean as any other. Or as Manney puts it, “Photographing surfers in action really conveys the grace and physical ability of the surfers themselves. The ocean can be so frightening and mysterious but surfers show no fear. They jump in and patiently wait for the perfect wave and the thrill of the ride. It’s a beautiful thing to watch and capture.”

When it comes to surfing photos, it takes “a lot of patience” and “knowledge of the water” to get a great surfing shot. “You have to be able to read the waves and anticipate when the surfer will go for it. Once he or she is up, you only have a few seconds to snap the perfect shot, so you have to be ready for it!”

Whether they are in the water or not, Manney always aims to bring out her subjects’ emotion. She wants to represent authentic moments so that her clients can relive them. Her work makes moments of our lives, ones that rush by, “imaginable” for us.

For more about Manney’s photography, please go here: Haley Manney Photography
Or see her Facebook page: Facebook.com/harleymanneyphotography

A Week in Charleston…Without Breaking the Bank

August 12, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Charleston is a rich city that combines the traditional elements of Southern hospitality, historic preservation, fine dining, arts, entertainment and even ghosts. This is a city with rewards and splendors stretching outside the peninsula and throughout the neighboring communities. One thing is certain, we have many options to fulfill our interests and curiosities.

With so many rewarding options at our fingertips, sometimes we lose sight of some wonderful things that don’t get the recognition they deserve. We thought we would take you with us for one week in Charleston and offer up some “not so well known” ideas to enjoy.

Monday:

East Bay Meeting House Open Mic Poetry – Located at 160 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC, the Monday Open Mic Poetry, hosted by Jim Lundy, is a cultural mix of emotion, insight and creative expression. The performance begin at 8:00 PM, but if you want to share your talents music or poetry, come at 7:00 PM to sign up for the evening. The event is free, but we welcome you to have a cocktail, glass of champagne, wine or tea.

Wild Olive Monday and Tuesday Wine Specials – If you have not indulged in one of the finest restaurants in Charleston, you must take a trip to John’s Island on Monday or Tuesday to enjoy a selection of red and white bottled wines for $19.00. It is a perfect way to start or end your evening. Wild Olive is open until 10 PM. Head to the bar area and enjoy great wine and conversation for $19.00 a bottle. Wild Olive is located at 2867 Maybank Highway, Johns Island, SC. Make sure you go early to Johns Island so you can see the awe inspiring Angel Oak.

Tuesday:

Palmetto Brewery Open Mic and Craft Beer – Located at 289 Huger Street, Palmetto Brewery offers an outdoor stage and indoor watering hole for some of the best local craft beer. On Tuesdays, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, locals and visitors showcase their talents while the rest of us enjoy a cold frosty brew.

The Drawing Room Artist Performance and Half Price Wine – Every Tuesday, local artist Fred Jamar will paint right before your eyes while you enjoy half price bottles of wine. Quite an artistic way to spend a Tuesday in the French Quarter. If you are still wanting to enjoy the night air, head in the elevator to the Vendue Rooftop Bar. You can find this at 19 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC.

Wednesday:

Improv Comedy at Theater 99 – Every Wednesday at 8:00 PM for $5.00, you are treated to two Improv comedy shows. Great local comedy for a laughably cheap price. Theater 99 is located at 280 Meeting Street.

Thursday:

Free Historic and Civil War Walking Tour – There truly is a free walking tour in Charleston. A free two hour tour with each tour being a different focus. Did we mention Free (Which means you have to sign up early). At 9:30 AM, there is a Historic Charleston Tour and at 1:00 PM if you are feeling like more exercise, join the Civil War History Tour.

Friday:

Mace Brown Museum of Natural History – This one is for kids and adults alike and free of charge. The College of Charleston is home to one of the most remarkable collections of natural history artifacts from sharks skeletons to a prehistoric bear. This is a truly educational and fun way to spend a Friday morning or afternoon. They are only open to 4:00 PM and located at 202 Calhoun Street. School groups or other public groups that would like to visit the museum should call (Geology Department Office), or email museum@cofc.edu to schedule their visit.

Magnolia Cemetery – You want to feel the spirit of ghosts in Charleston? Forget the ghost tours. Head just north of the peninsula and walk through the final resting places of patriots, soldiers and citizens that founded and built this great area. The cemetery does lock its at 5:00 PM in the winter and 6:00 PM in the spring and summertime and they are located at 70 Cunnington Avenue, Charleston, SC

Saturday:

Walk the Arther J. Ravenel Jr. Bridge / Hit Up the Charleston Farmers Market – Start your Saturday morning right with a beautiful 5 mile walk to both ends of the Arthur J. Ravenel Jr. Bridge / Cooper River Bridge. Enjoy views of the Charleston Harbor from up above and then head over to Marion Square for the Saturday Farmers market. Don’t get there too late, many vendors begin to wrap up shortly after 1:00 PM. Get some fresh fruit or a smoothie or just lie in the park.

Caw Caw Interpretive Center / Wildlife Preserve – What you will see in a two plus hour walk – Hundreds of species of birds, alligators resting on the edge of the water, snakes, swamps, marsh, rice fields and open skies for miles. All for $2.00 a person and only 15 miles outside the city limits.

Sunday:

Prohibition Swing Dancing / Free Lessons – Every Sunday at 6:00 PM Prohibition offers free swing lessons with open swing beginning at 7:00 PM with the V-Tones. It is a dance party set in the backdrop of the 1920’s.

Jazz at the Pier starring the beautiful Starr Acheson – Every Sunday from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM on the Folly Beach Pier is live jazz music starring local singer Starr Acheson. Enjoy jazz and the ocean waves as you watch the final hours of the weekend slip away in style.

Photography

Edwin S. Taylor Folly Beach Fishing Pier – Ageless Symbol

August 9, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

The Edwin S. Taylor Folly Beach Fishing Pier is a symbol of ageless beauty. Situated at the “Edge of America”, the pier has been a symbol for Charleston for generations. The current pier was built in 1995, but the first Folly pier was constructed in 1931 (84 Years ago)

From Gershwin to Murray, the pier has been an important part of our lives. Folly Beach is a home for surfing, weddings, proposals, shagging, jazz, fishing, camping and reflection. It is a complete escape and party with the pier being the pinnacle of it all.

It is a landmark of worth celebrating and admiring. We wanted to provide a photographic journey for you with some of our favorite Folly pier images.