Author: Charleston Daily

By Mark A Leon

Sullivan’s Island, SC, offers a charming mix of culinary delights, outdoor activities, and historical exploration, making it an ideal destination for foodies and adventure seekers alike. Here’s how to enjoy the best of this coastal gem:

Where to Eat and Drink

1. The Obstinate Daughter: (2063 Middle Street) Known for its nautical ambiance, this local favorite serves standout pizzas, pastas, and Geechie fries. Reservations are essential. Note: As of February 6, the restaurant is temporarily closed. Please follow Instagram on updates on the opening.

2. Mex 1 Coastal Cantina: (2205 Middle Street) Perfect for post-beach bites, offering Baja-inspired tacos and award-winning margaritas in a laid-back setting.

3. The Longboard Seafood Restaurant and Raw Bar: (2213-B Middle Street) Specializing in fresh seafood and craft cocktails, this spot is famous for its Oyster Hours (3–5 PM daily).

4. Poe’s Tavern: ( 2210 Middle Street) A literary-themed eatery serving gourmet burgers and beers in honor of Edgar Allan Poe. Poe’s offers indoor and outdoor seating and sweeps you aware to the poetic dream world of Mr. Poe reflecting on his military service spent on Sullivan’s Island from 1827-28. Trust us on this: The burgers are amazing!!!

5. Home Team BBQ: (2209 Middle Street) A must-visit for slow-cooked meats, Southern sides, and live music in a family-friendly atmosphere.

6. Dunleavy’s Pub: (2213 Middle Street) If you are in the mood for a local hometown Irish pub where you feel like family, the beer is cold and the feeling of nostalgia is all around, this is your bar. Once your enter the island, this location is our welcome mat to a Sullivan’s Island adventure.

Outdoor Activities

1. Beach Days: Sullivan’s Island’s pristine beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring tide pools.

2. Water Sports: Try paddleboarding through marshes or kiteboarding lessons with Sealand Adventure Sports (2120 Middle Street). Surfing and fishing are also popular.

3. Nature Trail: Explore the Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail, a 2-mile path through maritime forests with serene beach views.

4. Fort Moultrie: Dive into history at this Revolutionary War site with panoramic harbor views.

5. Biking: Rent a bike from Sealand Sports to explore the island’s flat terrain and coastal architecture.

Evening Fun

After a day of adventure, unwind with fresh seafood at Sullivan’s Fish Camp (2019 Middle Street Unit A), or grab ice cream at Beardcat’s Sweet Shop (They are also temporarily closed and located with Obstinate Daughter) before catching sunset views at Thompson Park at Breach Inlet.

Sullivan’s Island seamlessly blends relaxation with excitement—whether you’re indulging in local flavors or enjoying its natural beauty.

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding (CATR), located at 2669 Hamilton Road
Johns Island, SC, is a nonprofit organization that has been transforming lives through equine-assisted activities since its founding in 1991. 

By providing therapeutic horsemanship to children and adults with disabilities, CATR empowers participants to lead more active and fulfilling lives while fostering physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Benefits to the Community

1. Physical and Cognitive Improvements – Therapeutic riding mimics the motion of walking, improving balance, flexibility, muscle strength, and coordination for individuals with physical disabilities. For those with cognitive challenges, it enhances focus, problem-solving skills, and motor planning.

2.  Emotional Growth – The unique bond between riders and horses builds confidence, patience, and self-esteem. Horses provide a nonjudgmental space for emotional expression and growth.

3.  Social Inclusion – CATR fosters a sense of community by bringing together participants, volunteers, and families. Riders develop social skills through group activities while forming meaningful connections with others and nature.

4. Educational Opportunities – Riding sessions often incorporate lessons in sequencing, spatial awareness, and even academic skills like math or reading. These lessons are seamlessly integrated into fun activities on horseback.

CATR’s Impact

Operating on a 43-acre farm since 2009, CATR serves over 160 individuals annually with the help of certified instructors and 150 volunteers. Its programs not only improve participants’ quality of life but also enrich the broader community by promoting inclusivity and wellness.

Through its dedication to therapeutic horsemanship, CATR exemplifies how equine-assisted services can profoundly change lives—one ride at a time.

Donate by clicking HERE or volunteer by clicking HERE.

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By Mark A Leon

Boysterous Couture, a Charleston-based luxury leather brand located at 7 Broad Street, seamlessly blends the city’s rich cultural heritage with high-end craftsmanship. 

Founded in 2016 by Nicholas Overstreet, the brand began with an innovative idea—bow ties crafted from oyster shells, inspired by a Friendsgiving oyster roast. This unique start laid the foundation for Boysterous, which quickly gained recognition at Charleston Fashion Week in 2018 and has since evolved into a purveyor of exotic leather goods, including bags, belts, wallets, and watch bands.

Overstreet, a Charleston native, draws deeply from the city’s coastal charm and storied traditions. His boutique on Broad Street reflects Overstreet’s commitment to supporting Charleston’s creative community while showcasing his own distinct aesthetic.

Boysterous has also recently partnered with Southern Ruetz to create a uniquely striking hat that blends Southern and Western culture into a fascinating fashion statement. 

Boysterous stands out for its use of sustainably sourced exotic leathers like alligator, ostrich, stingray, and sturgeon. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, such as the signature Box Bags made with fine Italian leather linings and intricate stitching. These heirloom-quality items underscore the brand’s dedication to luxury and sustainability.

With its roots firmly planted in Charleston and a focus on innovative design, Boysterous has become a symbol of Southern elegance reimagined for modern tastes.

Boysterous is open Thursday – Saturday from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM and located at  7 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401. Stay connected and follow on Instagram.

Photo Credit: Boysterous and Southern Ruetz

Southern Brunch Restaurant Hosting Friday Grand Opening Celebration with Chance at Free Biscuits for a Year, Free Drip Coffee, Giveaways and More

Summerville, S.C. – Biscuit Belly, the Kentucky-based “craft casual” brunch spot known for its large gourmet, scratch-made biscuits and bold Southern flavors, is thrilled to announce the official opening of its first Lowcountry location in Summerville, South Carolina, on Tuesday, February 4th. The new restaurant is nestled in the heart of downtown, at the corner of West Richardson and Central Avenue.

To honor this momentous occasion, Biscuit Belly will host a grand opening celebration on Friday, February 7th that will have guests lining up to welcome the restaurant to the community. From 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., guests can enjoy complimentary drip coffee with purchase, fun giveaways, and a chance for the first 50 customers to win a coveted Free Biscuit Belly for a Year card. 

The Summerville opening is more than a milestone for the restaurant brand – it’s a heartfelt embrace of the Lowcountry’s charm and community spirit. “We fell in love with Summerville’s small-town Southern feel, which continues to draw more families every year,” said Clint Umphrey, Market Partner of Biscuit Belly Summerville. “We knew instantly this community had something special that we wanted to be a part of and share our passion for scratch-made biscuits and inventive brunch favorites with.”   

Biscuit Belly is proud to honor the beauty and history of Summerville and the Lowcountry with a custom-designed mural. Guests will recognize local elements like pine trees, flowers and of course sweet tea. The Summerville location will also be home to Biscuit Belly’s very first shimmer wall, spelling out “Summerville” alongside a palm tree and crescent moon to pay homage to the Palmetto State.

Lowcountry guests will discover quickly why Biscuit Belly has made such a name for itself – from offering high-quality, scratch-made dishes to innovative boozy beverages, all in the comfort of the restaurant’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Guests will also enjoy appetizing, surprise and delights like Tasty Tuesdays, offering the beloved Basic Biscuit for only $6 on Tuesdays, ‘free bonuts’ when you sign up for Biscuit Belly’s loyalty program, seasonal menu items and more.

“Bringing Biscuit Belly into Summerville is an exciting step for us as we grow across the Carolinas,” said Chad Coulter, Founder and CEO of Biscuit Belly. “We’re committed to creating a fun and inviting experience that also reflects the communities we call home, all while sharing our passion for great food.” 

For more information about Biscuit Belly’s Summerville location, grand opening event, or future locations, visit www.biscuitbelly.com or follow @BiscuitBellyBiscuits on Facebook and Instagram.

About Biscuit Belly

Founded in 2019 and franchised since 2020, Biscuit Belly opened its first location in Louisville, Kentucky, where it quickly became a favorite for creative Southern comfort classics and gourmet biscuit sandwiches. The chef-inspired menu, paired with genuine hospitality, creates an upbeat, fun environment perfect for gathering with family and friends. With 14 locations across six states and additional Southeast openings planned for 2025, Biscuit Belly continues to grow its footprint while maintaining its commitment to quality and community. For more information, visit www.biscuitbelly.com.

By Mark A Leon

La Rustica, nestled in the heart of Summerville, SC, offers an authentic Italian dining experience that has quickly become a local favorite.

Located at 315 N. Magnolia Street, this family-owned restaurant is helmed by Chef Giuli Pellegrini, who brings decades of culinary expertise from his Italian roots and time in Seattle.

The restaurant is housed in a charmingly restored old home, creating an intimate and cozy atmosphere complemented by attentive service.

The menu showcases traditional Italian recipes with a modern twist, all made from scratch using fresh ingredients. Highlights include house-made pastas like Fettuccine Bolognese and Squid Ink Linguine, as well as standout appetizers like Calamari in Umido and baked oysters. Desserts such as the Limoncello Tiramisu reflect the passion for authentic flavors that defines La Rustica’s offerings.

Chef Pellegrini’s commitment to homemade recipes is evident in every dish, embodying the rich culinary traditions of Northern Italy. From warm garlic bread to expertly crafted entrees like lamb shank and seafood cioppino, the meals are a testament to the family’s dedication to quality and heritage.

Guests frequently praise not only the food but also the welcoming ambiance, making La Rustica a must-visit for Italian cuisine lovers in Summerville.

È delizioso/a!

La Rustica is only open for dinner from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM and closed on Sundays.

Photo Credit: La Rustica

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