12 Must Not Miss Charleston, SC Area Food Deals

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Every day is an adventure in Charleston, South Carolina.  In a foodie wonderland such as we are in this little Southern Slice of Heaven, finding that truly great food deal is a treasure.

Like any great pirate treasure, it must begin with a map.  Your map has arrived.  Here is a list of nine (9) great food days you cannot miss here in Charleston.

Twelve (12) Great Charleston, SC Area Food Deals

Downtown Charleston

  • Fast and French – 98 Broad Street, Charleston, SC – Fondue Thursdays – Choice of 6 types of fondue with choice of soup or salad and assorted breads – $15.50 – $16.00 – Great for sharing
  • Tommy Condon’s Irish Pub – 160 Church Street, Charleston, SC – $12.99 All You Can Eat Fish and Chips every Friday
  • Bay Street Biergarten – 549 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC – Half Price Burger Night on Mondays
  • Rutledge Cab Company – 1300 Rutledge Avenue, Charleston, SC – $5.00 Burgers All Day and Night every Monday
  • Edmunds Oast – 1081 Morrison Drive, Charleston, SC – Sundays and Mondays – Half Price Bottles of Wine (Even the Big Bottles
  • Brown Dog Deli – 225 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC – Half Price Burgers Every Friday

North Charleston

  • Sake House – 4952 Centre Point Drive #112, North Charleston, SC / 9770 Dorchester Road, Unit 103, Summerville, SC – Selected Sushi Rolls and Appetizers – Half Price after 3:00 PM every Tuesday

Mount Pleasant

West Ashley

  • Early Bird Diner – 1644 Savannah Highway, West Ashley, SC – $5.00 All You Can Eat Pancakes every Friday (Note:  They are open until 3 AM on Friday, but the special ends at midnight)

Folly Beach

  • Snapper Jack’s – 10 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC – Half Price on All Sushi Rolls and Special Appetizers on Thursday

James Island

  • The Lowdown Oven & Bar – 967 Folly Road, James Island, SC – Half Price wine and half price specialty pizza pie every Wednesday all day long

Summerville

Daily Charleston Deals

Charleston Brunch Guide

Enjoy these great deals, Charleston style

Why Seanachai Whiskey and Cocktail Bar on Johns Island has one of the Best Happy Hours in the Lowcountry

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Perhaps some of your have never heard of Seanachai.  Or maybe you have but don’t know why.  Maybe, just maybe you said to yourself, I’m not going to John’s Island for a drink.

Maybe it is time to rethink your stance on any of these possibilities and head over to what may be the best happy hour in the Lowcountry.

Here is why:

  • Happy Hour is everyday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • For the foodie in you:  Crispy Tots or Fries (Pimento Cheese Aoli), Wadmalaw Oyster Mushroom Flatbread or Fried Chicken Sliders are $4.00 each
  • For the drinker in you:  Donny Brook Stout, Clontarf Irish Whiskey (neat or rocks) or Moscow Mule are all $4.00 each
  • One of the finest selections of whiskey’s anywhere in town
  • From Fish and Chips to Meatloaf, the food is out of this world.
  • A true Irish culture from the dim lights, hardwood tables to authentic Irish bar table top games
  • All Cocktails are $8.50 and Drafts $5.50 – $6.25

This is truly and experience you want to repeat.

Official Website

Full Bar Menu

Full Cocktail Menu (All Cocktails – $8.50)

Full Whiskey Menu

8 Must Have Appetizers / Snacks in Charleston, South Carolina

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By Mark A. Leon

How often is the appetizer the must indulgent part of the meal?  The savory essence of a truly amazing dining experience.  Often times, restaurants will offer up a preamble that outshines the meal, a piece of culinary heaven let us say.  There are some appetizers/snacks in the Low country that truly define the culinary arts in this foodie haven we call Charleston, SC.  We want to offer up some of the most indulgent, flavorful starters to whet your appetite.

We spoke to a number of locals and got their opinions and they were enthusiastic and ready to spill the beans on some of the best starter dishes.

This list is a keeper.  Spoiler alert, some of these items may raise your calories or cholesterol intake levels for the day.  You have been warned.

  • Oysters RockefellerOak Steakhouse: 17 Broad Street, Charleston, SC – Guests are fortunate to be able to purchase a single Oyster Rockefeller for $3.00 each.  Whether you order one or six, each order is treated with dignity and pride.  These oysters are large and robust and deserve to come with an audience.  This indulgent treat is a must to begin your dining experience at Oak.
  • Tuna LollipopsSol Southwest Kitchen: 1101 Stockade Lane, Mount Pleasant, SC – This dish is prepared with sushi-grade tuna, panko breaded, spicy

    Lobster Mac n' Cheese - Halls Chophouse
    Lobster Mac n’ Cheese – Halls Chophouse

    ponzu, creamy ginger cilantro sauce.  A regular offered up this to say, “They melt in your mouth.  They are crunchy and yummy.  I can’t get enough.”  This starter will cost $12.00.

  • Lobster Mac n’ CheeseHalls Chophouse:  434 King Street, Charleston, SC – This accompany side dish at $20.00 is a rich and succulent addition to any meal at Halls.  Known for fine steaks and customer service along with an award winning menu, there are no bad selections, but if you only order one add on, make it this marriage of two of the most wonderful foods in the world.
  • Fried CalamariGrill 225:  225 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC – The lightly fried calamari is prepared with sauteed peppers, white wine and garlic.  As a very proud Charleston foodie explained, “the garlic provides the zest that sets it apart.”  This starter is $14.00
  • Sweet Potato Fries at Sesame Burgers and Beer: 3 Area Locations  – Who doesn’t love sweet potato fries?  I certainly do.  If you have the ability to prepare a mouth watering batch, you have my vote.  These soft and only slightly crunchy pairings to many of the main dishes offers unique flavoring and topped to perfection with a dusting of fresh parmesan.
  • GyozaCo: 340 King Street, Charleston, SC – The pork and ginger gyoza sided with a soy scallion sauce set the Co gyoza apart from the fine offerings of Ichiban and Basil.  When asked why, a local resident replied, “It reminds me of ravioli or stuffed pastas which I love and when dipped, the flavors pop.”  This dish will start your evening at $5.00.
  • Ceviche167 Raw:  289 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC –  This $14.00 dish changes daily.  So that being said, how can we add it to the list of some of our favorites if it changes?  Very simple, quality of ingredients and masterful understanding of how to make a truly memorable ceviche.  Starting with the homemade chips that are lightly toasted with the thickness and texture of pita and then add some of the freshest seafood and ingredients Charleston offers and you will walk away so very happy.
  • Beet SaladMaybank Public House: 1970 Maybank Highway, James Island, SC – Fresh Roasted Beets, Warm Pecan Encrusted Goat Cheese, Harit Coverts, Arugula, Maple Vinaigrette.  This is a insatiably refreshing and zesty salad at any time of day

There are more.  So many more.  Why rattle your brain risking the potential of a bad start to your evening.  Use this list.  Use it wisely as it comes with great power to satisfy.

Bon Appetite

Gyoza - Co
Gyoza – Co

Young actors find a home at the Charleston Performing Arts Center on James Island

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By Mark A. Leon

Yesterday, the James Island Junior Theater opened the stage to a sell-out crowd for their inaugural performance of “The Little Mermaid Jr.”  With a cast of youth actors up to age 18, parents, friends, siblings and loved ones smiled, laughed, and felt complete admiration as these talented and often brave young actors performed 20 scenes of the beloved classic “The Little Mermaid Jr.”.  With a constant flow of set changes during this single act performance, I was amazed at the level of talent and discipline of these young aspiring talents.

Scott Pfeiffer, Director and Operating Manager of the Charleston Performing Arts Center grew up surrounded by the arts and found his home early in his career performing youth theater in California.  His connection with the live stage and passion for helping to develop the talent of actors at all ages, lends itself to the remarkable achievement this Junior Theater has found.

With a generous team, including Savannah Schoenborn on choreography, Andrea Roule, music director, Kirk Pfeiffer on costumes and wigs, Shawn McIntosh leading scenic construction and painting, Jordan Benton on lighting and Derek Alverson on sound, we were taken to an underwater paradise where 25 humans, mermaids, crustaceans, fish and ocean life led us through a musical journey of love and fantasy.  All around the audience of eager fans were blue lights shot to the ceiling creating the illusion of the ocean while on stage painted canvases of teal and green made the transformation complete.

The show was highlighted by a spirited performance from Madelynne Burt as Sebastian with her humorous accent and nervous demeanor.  She was charming, energetic and nailed her vocals and dialogue with poise.  Lucy Dixon brought an innocence to the stage as Ariel.  She had a natural curiosity and awkwardness in her journey to find true love and you can’t help but want to see end up with her prince.

The two primary male leads, Joshua Tolbert as Prince Eric and Leo West as King Triton, were both strong and pronounced.  Both characters resided in extremely different places, but find parallels in their place in society with one holding a royal role under and one above the water.  Each must tackle a major challenge that tests their souls to find what they truly seek in life.  These were two excellent and heartwarming performances.

The remainder of the cast elevated the show with large ensemble musical numbers, keen supporting roles and a natural ability to remove their human skin and become one with their fantasy bigger than life characters.

Live theater is achieved when the collaborative efforts of a group of people both in front and behind the scenes come together in a passionate and cohesive exercise of love.  It takes hard work, rehearsal and a vulnerability to take on a character and become the embodiment of them.  Only a rare individual with inner strength and confidence to step out in front of hundreds of people and entertain can take on such a position.  I witnessed a great deal of talent on that stage and expect to see many of these performers for years to come.

The Charleston Performing Arts Center on James Island is making a selfless commitment to the Charleston area community to harness and shape the future of live performing arts in the Lowcountry.  We were honored to be part of the inaugural performance and season.

Including remaining shows for “The Little Mermaid Jr.”, the company will be performing “The Wizard of Oz”, “Peter Pan” and “Hairspray” to usher through this 2017-18 season.

Learn more today – Ticket and Audition Information

 

O2 Fitness Clubs Unveils Flagship Facility on James Island

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28,000 square foot gym is O2’s largest facility to-date

JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (Oct. 13, 2017) – O2 Fitness Clubs is pleased to enhance and expand its footprint in the Lowcountry with the unveiling of the company’s largest, flagship facility on James Island. Now open for memberships, the 28,000 square foot club features state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor functional training turf, Kids Club, a robust set of fitness classes and a Mind-Body studio for yoga, barre, pilates and stretching.

“As the largest of 24 facilities across the Carolinas, this new club is a major step towards our mission of making a healthy lifestyle more attractive and accessible in the Lowcountry,” said O2 Fitness Clubs CEO Michael Olander, Jr. “Whether you’re looking for an energizing group fitness class, one-on-one session with a personal trainer or child care while you get your ‘me time’ in, this new facility has more options than ever for all ages and fitness levels. The most important aspect of this club to note though is the welcoming, inclusive and fun fitness community that anyone who walks in our doors will experience. That’s what matters.”

In addition to indoor and outdoor turf areas, there is a dedicated cycle studio, TRX, functional training space, Mind-Body studio, unlimited group fitness classes and a cyber lounge with free Wifi. The club also offers luxurious locker rooms, towel service, Kids Club and two free Program Design sessions (fitness assessment, goal setting and a path for success) with a personal trainer.

The O2 Fitness Club is located at 848 Folly Road on James Island and offers memberships starting at $49 per month with access to all 10 other locations in the Lowcountry. For more information on joining, call (843) 641-7773 or visit www.o2fitnessclubs.com/gyms/james-island/.

About O2 Fitness Clubs

Home to more than 20,000 members in the Lowcountry, O2 Fitness Clubs offers access to state-of-the-art equipment, more than 250 weekly classes and customized personal training services at 11 South Carolina locations. The club is dedicated to offering the ultimate fitness experience, providing something for everyone, including tailored programs to help meet health and fitness goals. O2 Fitness is a company that cares about giving back and will often be seen out and about supporting local events and charities. Learn more at www.o2fitnessclubs.com.

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Charleston Memories: Photographic Archive of Vintage Charleston, SC

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Charleston Harbor - Late 1800's

We have loved to take a step back in time and see how generations before us lived their lives in Charleston, SC.  The evolution of our country and the Southeast has taken on so many dimensions, so it is exciting to see images of the past come to life and remind us of the long journey this area has led.  We are thrilled to share more captivating imagery of Charleston, South Carolina’s yesteryear.

Enjoy this expose:

Meeting Street - 1908
Meeting Street – 1908

 

Snow in Charleston (The Battery) – Circa 1899

 

King Street Christmas Eve 1937
King Street Christmas Eve 1937

 

 

King Street 1960
King Street 1960

 

Construction of Cooper River Bridge 1929
Construction of Cooper River Bridge 1929

 

Rainbow Row 1920's
Rainbow Row 1920’s

 

Charleston, SC 1910
Charleston, SC 1910

 

Broad Street 1910
Broad Street 1910

 

Old Market House 1865
Old Market House 1865

 

Civil War soldier
Civil War soldier

 

Slave Family on SC Plantation
Slave Family on SC Plantation

 

Vintage Folly Beach Postcard
Vintage Folly Beach Postcard

 

Charleston Evening Post 1913
Charleston Evening Post 1913

 

Orpheum Theater 1892
Orpheum Theater 1892

 

Photo by Hank Walker 1956 Charleston Bus
Photo by Hank Walker 1956 Charleston Bus

 

Broad Street, Circa 1930's
Broad Street, Charleston, SC

 

Gullah woman, Johns Island, 1950's
Gullah woman, Johns Island, 1950’s

 

Race Track Clubhouse, Charleston 1865
Race Track Clubhouse, Charleston 1865

 

Francis Marion Hotel - Circa 1960's
Francis Marion Hotel – Circa 1960’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘Sweet Belgium’ Brings the Taste of Old Europe Home to Charleston

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By Mark A. Leon

Step inside this small unassuming shop, on Folly Road in James Island and be greeted by Sergio, Audrey and staff.  With authentic Belgian music playing gently all around, black and white photos of the European experience, and the savory smell of the sweet delights of Old Europe, Sweet Belgium is bringing an exciting and scrumptious experience to the people of the Lowcountry.

Sergio and Audrey Tosi arrived in Charleston in 2016 to bring the authentic taste of their homeland to Charleston and they have introduced us to an explosion of culinary delight.

As I sat quietly enjoying my large fresh Belgium Waffle with powdered sugar and coffee, I took in an ambiance of family and traditional European value.  A young couple from Russia and Belarus enjoyed a savory breakfast while they beautiful young blonde baby walked curiously over to me and gazed at me with those ambitious eyes.  After admiring the music, the couple spoke to Sergio and for a few brief moments, each felt a sense of family.  Sergio spoke of his journey with his family and dreams of expanding, while all the customers listened and shared their own experiences.

Soon, a couple came in from church, a local neighbor on his bike ordered a dozen for some house guests and a group of six stopped by before heading to the beach.  It was so satisfying to see a mix of patrons that desired this unique and fresh experience.

Sergio and Audrey have created a model that caters to the masses both small and large.  Offering a simple menu that allows for specialty or customized creations for one single appetite or a whole party, Sweet Belgium has a bright future.

Their small special varieties include:

  • James Island Coconut Style
  • Tasty Almond
  • Fun Orange
  • Lemon and Lime
  • Strawberry Love
  • Dark Belgian Chocolate Rainbow or Walnuts
  • Belgian Black and White Chocolate

I, being a bit of a traditionalist, enjoyed a steaming hot fresh plain Belgium Waffle with powdered sugar and it exceeded all my expectations.  I am already eyeing the dark chocolate with sprinkles for my next visit to help complete my frequent diner rewards card.

Charleston is the home for the Annual Spoleto festival, where the entertainment and talents of Europe are brought to our coastal home.  So, finding a family owned spot that offers a fresh look at the life and taste of Belgium is a refreshing delight and one that will be many smiles.

We hate to be the spoiler of your excitement if you are eagerly ready to hit this spot first thing in the morning, but they are closed on Mondays.  You can make you way Tuesday – Saturday, 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM and Sunday, 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM.

Though this location has only been open for six months, there is already some chatter of expansion to other Lowcountry locations.

Sometimes you find a place that offers exceptional service and fine culinary treats.  At Sweet Belgium, you get so much more.  You get an opportunity to feel like you are in the small Belgium town of Ghent, street performers are playing classical compositions and the smell of fresh Belgium Waffles are tickling your senses.

Come experience a little of Old Europe right here in Charleston.

Sweet Belgium Menu

Sweet Belgium Official Website

Press Release: Premier One Launches the Easiest Online Map Search for Charleston SC Real Estate

Finding the most suitable Charleston home for sale is no more a hassle, as the premier real estate firm in the area announces their interactive map search feature in their website. With the help of this online map search, it’s now a lot easier for a buyer to find a real estate in his/her preferred location throughout Charleston.

Whether someone is relocating to Charleston, or wants to buy a new home in the area, Premier One is the professional and trustworthy real estate firm to rely upon. The real estate firm has a vast listing of Charleston homes and other types of properties. They also offer an advanced search feature that precisely matches the search criteria of a property buyer to suggest the best homes for sale in the area. Besides, their new and interactive map based search feature allows buyers to find properties in their preferred location.

According to the spokesperson of the firm, the location based search covers a number of locations throughout Charleston, including Goose Creek, Isle of Palms, James Island, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Folly Beach, North Charleston, Summerville, West Ashley, Daniel Island, and Edisto Island. Besides the online search, the firm has a team of experienced real estate professionals who are committed to finding the best properties throughout the area that can best meet a buyer’s requirements.

Premier One deals in a wide variety of properties in Charleston, available in different budgets. Based on the budget of a buyer, they can shortlist the most suitable properties in the area that a buyer can choose for their own living or for investment purposes. The spokesperson reveals that they can guarantee the best prices for both buyers and sellers, because of their local presence. They know the local real estate market in Charleston and have a good reputation among homeowners in the area. This is the reason why can rest assured of the best prices when completing a real estate deal through them.

To know more about their interactive search feature or to search a property in Charleston, one can visit the website http://gopremierone.com/.

About Premier One

Premier One has evolved over decades of real estate service to bring an enhanced level of commitment to their clients that is truly “Premier”. Each agent of the firm has undergone extensive training to meet clients’ needs. They have affiliations and contacts nationally and in the local market so that they can give clients an access to premier resources with an advantage of buying or selling homes, land, or commercial property. They maintain up to the minute listing detail on every home in the area and syndication through dozens of the major real estate search engines.

For Media Enquiry –
Contact Person: Tom Wingard
Telephone: 866-337-3127
Email: Info(at)GoPremierOne(dot)com
Website: http://gopremierone.com

Link to Original Press Release

Maybank Public House Offers James Island’s Solution to Late Night Dining

By Mark A. Leon

Late night dining on James Island.  A phrase often reserved for pub food, comfort food, modified menus filled with carbs and fried delights.  That is what we have come to expect from James Island late night edibles.  Don’t get us wrong, there is an appreciation and market for late night urges with Paisano’s, Smoky Oak, Marco’s and Huddle House accommodating the needs of the night owls.

What about the patrons whose day has gotten away from them and before they know it, the time is 10:30 PM and they want a really good salad or pan seared chicken?  Maybank Public House has answered your prayers. (1970 Maybank Highway, James Island, SC)

Seven days a week, this eatery offers a full menu in the bar area until 12:30 AM.  Whether you are catching a late movie at the Terrace or a show at The Pour House, they are ready to please.

In a recent visit, we were taken back by the exception quality of customer service, food offerings and overall hospitality.  We wanted to take a moment and provide you a visual of what our experience entailed.  Upon arrival, we were offered to take a seat where we were comfortable and greeted immediately with two menus, napkins and silverware.  It was a five star hosting experience.  After two glasses of water arrived a few moments later, we learned of some of the great dining options.

We took a few moments with the menu and decided to shared the Smoked Gouda and Pecan Smoked Bacon Mac and Cheese and and the Arugula,  Beet, Green Bean and Goat Cheese Salad.  These two dishes were exceptional with fresh local ingredients and flavor that remained on the pallet after each bite.  Yet, even before we ordered, we had a challenge determining our appetizer and salad selection.  From lamb sliders to blue crab and spinach dip, steamed clams, fried green tomatoes or BBQ shrimp, there were no bad options and that posed quite a challenge.  We feel we made the right choice for this visit.

Smoked Gouda and Pecan Smoked Bacon Mac and Cheese

The Mac and Cheese was a virtual explosion of intense flavor, soft pasta and well blended mix of cheese and bacon to ensure every fork full was filled with the right mix.  This dish alone was a meal for two so expect to not leave hungry at the end of your evening.  The salad can compete with any of the five star downtown restaurants in presentation and taste.

This eclectic menu, offers an array of soups, salads, flat breads, burgers, and features including Shrimp and Grits, Fish N’ Chips, Pan Seared Chicken, Seafood Linguini and Red Curry Rubbed Salmon.

During our stay, we paced out meal with some long conversation.  During that time, our services was exceptional.  There was proper spacing between the appetizer and salad and we never felt any rush during our entire stay.

If dining isn’t your goal and having a cold beverage or glass of vino is more your preference, Maybank offers 18 craft beers on tap and a full menu of red, white, rose and bubbly wine selections.

Though the air was brisk, most nights are ideal for outdoor dining.  There are available tables if you wish to dine under the stars.

The dining area closes at 10:00 PM leaving only the bar area open, but during the day, the restaurant is in full operation and we love the design of the building offering a separation point between the dining area and bar area so patrons have the option of fun conversational bar crowd or quiet intimate dining room ambiance.

Stumbling on this gift of late night dining got us in the door, but the warm and professional customer service, exquisite flavor packed food and complete experience is what wants us coming back.

Arugula, Beet, Green Bean, Goat Cheese Salad

Amazing Aerial Drone Photography and Video of Charleston, SC

We have compiled some of the finest in drone photography and video of the Charleston area to share with you.  Enjoy these remarkable looks from up above.

Photography

Kiawah Sanctuary - East Coast Aerial Productions
Kiawah Sanctuary – East Coast Aerial Productions

 

Cooper River Bridge - Nicholas Skylar
Cooper River Bridge – Nicholas Skylar

 

West Ashley Bridge - East Coast Aerial Productions
West Ashley Bridge – East Coast Aerial Productions

 

Seabrook - Lowcountry Aerial
Seabrook – East Coast Aerial Productions

 

James Island - East Coast Aerial
James Island – East Coast Aerial Productions

 

St. Michael's Church - Vanessak
St. Michael’s Church – Vanessak

 

Marion Square - Indagare.com
Marion Square – Indagare.com

 

St. Philips Church - Fololia
St. Philips Church – Fololia

 

Middleton Plantation - Onlyinyourstate.com
Middleton Plantation – Onlyinyourstate.com

 

Morris Island Lighthouse - Vive-Media
Morris Island Lighthouse – Vive-Media

 

Charleston Peninsula - Videoblock
Charleston Peninsula – Videoblock

 

Charleston - Vive-Media
Charleston – Vive-Media

Video

Charleston Aerial Provided by Bat Aero

Westfall Fun Videos Presents Aerial Charleston

DJI Phantom 3 Charleston Aerial Footage

Will Milz Aerial Drone Charleston, SC Footage

Kiawah, Summerville and Charleston Drone Over – Unique of Charleston