Day: March 24, 2026

By Mark A Leon

Charleston County’s dining and retail scene continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with several highly anticipated restaurants and shops slated to open in April and May 2026. As the Lowcountry heads into peak spring tourism season, these new concepts reflect both national trends and Charleston’s ever-growing appetite for diverse, experience-driven spaces.

One of the most talked-about openings is PopUp Bagels, a popular Northeast-based concept bringing its fresh, small-batch bagels and rotating schmears to downtown Charleston. Expected to open on Mary Street, the shop has built a cult following for its simple, high-quality approach and weekend drop-style service. 

Another exciting addition is Bareo, a Filipino-Japanese concept that blends dumplings, street food flavors, and kakigōri (Japanese shaved ice). This locally driven project highlights Charleston’s increasing embrace of global cuisine, particularly from Southeast Asia, and is expected to draw both locals and visitors looking for something new. 

Spring will also welcome a new Italian dining experience at 465 Meeting Street called V Modern Italian. The restaurant, part of a European hospitality group, is expected to debut in late spring with a modern take on Italian classics, adding to Charleston’s already strong lineup of upscale Mediterranean concepts. 

In the retail and mixed-use space, Odd Duck Market is expanding its footprint with a move into downtown Charleston. Known for its curated grocery offerings and community-focused vibe in North Charleston, the new location is expected to blend specialty retail with prepared foods—continuing the trend of hybrid market-eateries. 

Additionally, several hospitality-driven concepts tied to waterfront developments that began opening in March—such as new café, wine bar, and casual dining spots near Concord Street—will likely see full operational momentum in April and May, further energizing Charleston’s harbor front dining scene. 

Overall, spring 2026 in Charleston County signals a continued shift toward experiential dining, global flavors, and multi-use spaces that combine food, retail, and community. Whether it’s a quick bagel run, an inventive fusion meal, or a curated market experience, the region’s newest openings are poised to add fresh energy to an already vibrant culinary landscape.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

“The Next Best Thing to Shark Week!”

Charleston, South Carolina: The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network’s (LMMN) 9th annual Dolphin Week will be April 20-25, 2026. Events are family-friendly and for all experience levels. Tickets are now available for Charleston events including:

• beach yoga with Erin Gray at sunset on Breach Inlet
• sunset boating with Barrier Islands Eco Tours
• kayak tour with Coastal Expeditions at sunset
• College of Charleston staff and faculty exclusive screening of the documentary ‘Stranded’
• Happy Hour on Shem Creek – Meet the LMMN Team at Vickery’s Muddy’s Dockside Bar

Dolphin Week is one of LMMN’s largest annual fundraising events and proceeds go towards LMMN’s efforts to protect the Lowcountry’s dolphins and whales through science, awareness and conservation.

Dolphin Week culminates with Dolphin Count, on Saturday April 25. During this event, community members will volunteer together with marine mammal experts across multiple Charleston area locations to help collect valuable dolphin population data. These “community scientists” will also learn about Charleston’s local dolphins; how to raise awareness; ways to view dolphins responsibly; and help inspire the next generation of marine stewards.

“Charleston is lucky to have resident dolphins, but without conservation efforts, we all risk the loss of this amazing natural resource,” said Lauren Rust, Executive Director of the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network. “Dolphin Week and Dolphin Count are great ways to engage the community in our work with a common goal of learning about how to protect local dolphins and their environment”.

Dolphin Week and Dolphin Count activities are sponsored in part by Orca level sponsor Dominion Energy and Spinner level sponsor Everything Zen Sailing.

For a full event schedule and more information about Dolphin Week and LMMN, please visit: www.LMMN.org

• More Info on Dolphin Week link: https://www.lowcountrymarinemammalnetwork.org
• More Info on Dolphin Count here:  https://www.lowcountrymarinemammalnetwork.org/dolphin-count-1

About the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network: The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN) is a 501(c)3nonprofit focused on protecting marine mammals in South Carolina waters. Their mission is to raise awareness about marine mammals in coastal South Carolina, educate the general public on federal regulations, and foster young stewards in ways to protect both marine mammals and their environment.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

$17.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – United Composite Materials, LLC (United Composite Materials), an advanced carbon composite materials manufacturer, today announced it selects Greenville County for its first South Carolina operation. The company’s $17.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs. 

The company’s new site is located at 1446 S. Buncombe Road in Greer. United Composite Materials will use the property’s existing two facilities as specialized manufacturing plants to supply the North American sports and leisure composite markets with advanced carbon composite material.

Operations are expected to be online in July 2026. Individuals interested in joining the United Composite Materials team should visit readySC’s recruitment website for more information.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $250,000 Set-Aside grant to Greenville County to assist with the costs of building improvements. 

QUOTES

“We are excited to establish our first South Carolina manufacturing facility in Greenville County. This strategic investment allows us to be closer to our North American customers and leverage the region’s exceptional workforce. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Greer community.” -United Composite Materials, LLC CEO Yunho Cho

“From its site availability to its skilled workforce, South Carolina leads the way in advanced manufacturing. United Composite Materials’ $17.5 million investment in Greenville County reflects the business-friendly environment found in the Palmetto State.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“With the creation of 50 new jobs, United Composite Materials’ decision to establish operations in Greenville County is a win for our state. Economic development in key industries like advanced manufacturing supports South Carolina’s continued growth and success.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are excited to welcome United Composite Materials, LLC to Greenville County and the city of Greer. This investment highlights the collaborative environment we have built to support business growth and reinforces Greenville County’s importance to South Carolina’s economy. We look forward to partnering with United Composite Materials as they grow and succeed here.” -Greenville County Council Chairman Benton Blount

FIVE FAST FACTS

• United Composite Materials, LLC (United Composite Materials) selects Greenville County for its first South Carolina operation.
• The company’s $17.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs.
• United Composite Materials is an advanced carbon composite materials manufacturer.
• The company will be located at 1446 S. Buncombe Road in Greer, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the United Composite Materials team should visit readySC’s recruitment website.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.