Charleston Daily Seeking all the beauty that is Charleston, South Carolina

$70 million investment will create 130 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – ALLTAPE Adhesive Manufacturing Inc. (ALLTAPE), a manufacturer of adhesive products, today announced it selects Lexington County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $70 million investment will create 130 new jobs.

Part of ATP Group and founded in Germany, ALLTAPE specializes in developing and manufacturing sustainable and solvent-free adhesive products. The company’s water-based adhesives are used in a variety of industry segments including automotive, transportation, foam, plastics and more.

ALLTAPE’s new facility, located in the Saxe Gotha Industrial Park, will include 125,000 square feet of production and office space.

Operations are expected to be online in July 2026. Individuals interested in joining the ALLTAPE team should contact Daniel Heini (daniel.heini@atp-ag.ch).  

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $600,000 Set-Aside grant to Lexington County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

QUOTES

“Launching our first production site in Lexington County, South Carolina marks a significant milestone in our expansion into the U.S. market. This substantial investment reflects ATP’s commitment to growth and innovation, and we are excited to commence operations in the South Carolina region.” -ATP Group CEO Daniel Heini

“ALLTAPE Adhesive Manufacturing’s decision to invest and create 130 jobs in the Midlands will have a major impact on South Carolina. Our business-friendly environment and skilled workforce make Lexington County the perfect location for ALLTAPE’s new manufacturing facility, and we look forward to the company’s success in our state.” -Gov. Henry McMaster  

“We are proud to welcome another international manufacturing company to South Carolina. This $70 million investment in Lexington County will create even more opportunity for our people and help continue to move our state’s economy forward. Congratulations to ALLTAPE on this exciting announcement.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Lexington County is proud to welcome ALLTAPE and their significant investment of $70 million to our community. This commitment, along with the creation of 130 new jobs, demonstrates the strength of our business climate and the opportunities available here. We look forward to the positive impact this project will have on our local economy and workforce for years to come.” -Lexington County Council Chairman Todd Cullum

“We are thrilled to congratulate ALLTAPE Adhesive Manufacturing Inc. On selecting Lexington County as the ideal location for their first operations in South Carolina. Their innovative adhesive products are poised to strengthen our region’s thriving industries, seal new opportunities for growth and create a lasting bond of success across our vibrant business ecosystem.” -Central SC Alliance Chairman Matthew Shaffer

FIVE FAST FACTS

• ALLTAPE Adhesive Manufacturing Inc. (ALLTAPE) selects Lexington County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation.
• The $70 million investment will create 130 new jobs.
• ALLTAPE is a manufacturer of adhesive products
• The company will be located in the Saxe Gotha Industrial Park.
• Individuals interested in joining the ALLTAPE team should contact Daniel Heini (daniel.heini@atp-ag.ch).   

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina, has been home to many trailblazing women whose contributions shaped history. Below are four remarkable figures born and raised in Charleston who made lasting impacts in their fields.

Septima Poinsette Clark (1898–1987)

Known as the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement,” Septima Poinsette Clark was a pioneering educator and activist. Born in Charleston, she studied at the Avery Institute and became a teacher at private rural schools, as Black educators were barred from teaching in public schools at the time. Clark advocated for legislative change, successfully pushing for Black teachers to work in public schools by 1920.

Her most notable contribution was developing “citizenship schools,” which taught literacy and civic engagement to disenfranchised African Americans. These schools became instrumental in the Civil Rights Movement. 

Despite facing setbacks, such as being fired for her NAACP membership, Clark remained steadfast in her activism. Her efforts earned her numerous accolades, including an honorary doctorate from the College of Charleston, the “Living Legacy” award from President Jimmy Carter, and South Carolina’s highest honor, the “Order of the Palmetto”.

Laura Mary Bragg (1881–1978)

Laura Bragg was a pioneer in science education and museum leadership. Though not originally from Charleston, she moved there after earning a library science degree from Simmons College. Bragg became the first female director of a museum in the United States when she assumed leadership of the Charleston Museum in 1920.

Bragg championed accessibility in education and culture. She founded the Poetry Society of South Carolina, added a children’s library to the museum, and opened its doors to Black visitors one day a week during segregation—a bold move at the time. Her advocacy extended into civil rights and public education, leaving a legacy of inclusivity and innovation.

Sarah Campbell Allan (1860–1933)

Sarah Campbell Allan broke barriers as South Carolina’s first female physician. Born and raised in Charleston, Allan initially faced rejection from the Medical College of South Carolina due to her gender. Undeterred, she pursued medical studies at the Women’s Medical College of New York.

After earning her degree, Allan returned to Charleston in 1894 and excelled during her medical board examination, scoring higher than all other applicants. She dedicated her career to patient care and teaching at the South Carolina Hospital for the Insane. Her perseverance paved the way for women in medicine across the state.

The Pollitzer Sisters: Anita, Carrie, and Mabel

The Pollitzer sisters—Anita, Carrie, and Mabel—were suffragists who left indelible marks on Charleston’s history. Raised at 5 Pitt Street in downtown Charleston, they worked tirelessly for women’s rights.

• Carrie Pollitzer was instrumental in opening the College of Charleston to women in 1918. She also established free kindergarten programs to improve early childhood education.

• Mabel Pollitzer advocated for civic causes and education reform. She helped establish Charleston’s first public library and served as its director.

• Anita Pollitzer, a radical feminist, played a key role in securing women’s suffrage through her leadership in the National Woman’s Party. She also maintained friendships with influential artists like Georgia O’Keeffe.

These sisters collectively advanced women’s rights locally and nationally.

These six women exemplify resilience and leadership across education, civil rights, medicine, and activism. Their legacies continue to inspire generations in Charleston and beyond.

Take some time and read more about these and other remarkable women who have shaped our Charleston and national landscape.

From The Harbinger & Harken Cafes, the book features over 40 beloved and classic recipes

CHARLESTON, SC (March 12, 2025) – Owners of cherished Charleston, S.C. cafes, The Harbinger and Harken, just announced the release of their first-ever cookbook, available now for pre-sale, officially launching on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Packed with more than 40 of the cafes’ beloved recipes, each inclusion will bring unique and special flavors to home kitchens nationwide. Woven throughout are tales from co-owner and head chef, Greer Gilchrist, as she dives into the ideas behind each dish and the ingredients that bring it all to life. Priced at $33, the cookbook will be available for purchase in the cafes, The Harbinger and Harken websites, Amazon, and in select Charleston, S.C. bookstores.

“These are the recipes that have built The Harbinger and Harken and nourished our communities for years now,” says Gilchrist. “I am honored to have written it for those who have been asking for it. My hope is that these recipes become as beloved to readers as they are to me—finding their way into family dinners, celebrations, and everyday moments. This cookbook is a way to relive our favorites and bring a piece of our bakeries home.”

This debut cookbook features The Harbinger and Harken’s signature dishes, from vibrant salads to melt-in-your-mouth cookies, sandwiches, bars and more. Beyond the dishes themselves, Gilchrist shares her story, weaving in personal anecdotes told in her signature zesty voice, offering readers a deeper connection to her creative culinary vision. Chapters are anchored by the cafés’ iconic cookies, and unfold into a mix of savory and sweet recipes. Gilchrist’s knack for blending unexpected ingredients shines through as readers discover seasonal flavors thoughtfully combined to create unforgettable dishes that reflect the connection between food and memory.

Since opening The Harbinger Café and Bakery in 2017 in Charleston’s North Central neighborhood, Gilchrist and co-owner, Cameron Neal, have delighted locals with inventive pastries and a welcoming atmosphere. The pair expanded just two years later, opening Harken Café & Bakery in 2019, nestled in Charleston’s historic French Quarter, surrounded by cobblestone streets and old-world charm. Much like the thoughtfully curated experience at the cafes—where every detail is intentional—this cookbook is a celebration of food’s ability to foster connection and community while eating well.

The cookbook will be available online and in-store. To celebrate its release, a special weekend event will take place just ahead of Mother’s Day weekend, where the public is invited to come out and experience the flavors of The Harbinger and Harken firsthand.

For more information about The Harbinger and Harken, and to purchase the cookbook, visit theharbingercafe.com/cookbook or harkencafe.com/cookbook. 

ABOUT THE HARBINGER & HARKEN CAFES

Founded by Greer Gilchrist and Cameron Neal, The Harbinger and Harken cafes are beloved Charleston, S.C. gathering places, well known for their unforgettable food and warm ambiance. The Harbinger, on King Street, offers veggie-forward bites and bold flavors in a cozy, vintage-inspired setting. Harken, nestled on Queen Street, serves up creative treats and comforting classics in a peaceful, Old Word-influenced space. Both cafes draw crowds with their irresistible pastries, thoughtful drinks, and inviting interiors that spark connection and inspire creativity.

Vibrant Outdoor Art and Nature Exhibition Opens Memorial Day Weekend on May 23

CHARLESTON, S.C./ — Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, one of Charleston’s most treasured historic sites located at 3550 Ashley River Road in Charleston, is bringing a bold new experience to the Lowcountry this summer with Nature POP!®, an awe-inspiring exhibition by acclaimed artist Sean Kenney. Opening May 23 through August 15, 2025, this highly anticipated exhibit will feature more than 40 larger-than-life sculptures made entirely of LEGO® bricks, celebrating the beauty of nature through an exciting pop-art lens.

Produced by Imagine, Nature POP!® brings together art, science and innovation in a fun yet thought-provoking way, offering a playful spin on traditional sculptural art. Constructed from over 800,000 LEGO® pieces, these gravity-defying sculptures will be strategically placed throughout Magnolia, where their highly stylized and colorful designs will create a striking contrast against the garden’s historic beauty.

“We are thrilled to bring artist Sean Kenney‘s Nature POP!®: Made with LEGO® bricks to Magnolia,” said Susan Shallo, CEO of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. “Just as our historic gardens offer something for everyone, this exhibition merges art, innovation, and nature to create a truly dynamic and immersive experience. Whether you’re a family discovering the wonders of nature, an art enthusiast drawn to creative expression, or simply seeking a scenic escape, this newest addition to the gardens offers a fresh and exciting way to experience the wonders of Magnolia in an entirely new light.”

From a majestic fox standing tall in bright hues to vibrant birds frozen in mid-flight, the exhibit invites guests of all ages to explore the interconnectedness of nature—just as LEGO® bricks fit together to create something greater. Each display highlights relationships within the natural world, from the delicate balance between predators and prey to the nurturing bonds between species and humankind’s impact on the environment. Interactive content enhances the experience with scientific facts, deepening visitors’ understanding of these natural connections.

“I’m super excited to bring Nature POP! to Magnolia Plantations & Garden,” said artist Sean Kenney. “Magnolia’s beautiful landscapes are the perfect backdrop for my sculptures, which use the bold color of LEGO® bricks to show the amazing world of nature. Together, they will let you experience the outdoors in a fun and new way!” 

Guests can explore the installation daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting May 23 through August 15, 2025. Exhibit access is included with general garden admission. General admission tickets are Adults $35; Seniors (62+), Military, and Teachers (with ID) $32; Youth (12-17) $21; Children (5-11) $17; Ages 4 and under free (ticket required).

Tickets are available for purchase at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens and online at https://www.magnoliaplantation.com/magnolia-events.

About Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Founded in 1679, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is one of the most picturesque gardens in the south and one of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks. Rooted in history, horticulture, and nature, Magnolia’s renowned gardens have welcomed visitors for over three centuries, offering an immersive experience that highlights the beauty and biodiversity of the Lowcountry. Committed to conservation, education, and preservation, Magnolia continues to provide something for everyone, offering engaging programs, events and exhibitions that celebrate the intersection of art, horticulture, history and nature. To learn more, please visit magnoliaplantation.com.

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Raphael James is the author of his memoir “I Don’t Want To Talk About It: A Journalist’s Essays on Autism, Dementia, Religion, and God”. In it he describes being the son of a special needs father and the father to a special needs son.

For more than two decades, Raphael James has been a trusted journalist and anchor for WCSC’s Live Five News, bringing the day’s most important stories into homes across the Lowcountry. With nearly 30 years in the field, he has covered historic moments—from exclusive interviews at the White
House to the tragic Mother Emanuel AME Church massacre in Charleston, SC.

A proud graduate of Paine College, Raphael’s journalism career began in radio before transitioning to television, where he quickly rose through the ranks. Today, he and co-anchor Ann McGill have made history as the first Black main anchor team at WCSC-TV.

Beyond the newsroom, Raphael is deeply committed to his community, faith, and family. A member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., he has always woven service into his life’s work. He is happily married to his college sweetheart, Sarena, and they share three wonderful children —Jaydn, Nia, and Grant. With I Don’t Want to Talk About It, Raphael brings his storytelling beyond the screen, offering a powerful exploration of resilience, and courage to give voice to the truths we’d often rather leave unspoken.

• Click HERE to purchase at Barnes & Noble
• Click HERE to purchase on Amazon

About the Book

I Don’t Want To Talk About It is a poignant memoir that chronicles the remarkable journey of an award-winning journalist Raphael James and his family as they navigate the challenges of living with autism and dementia. In this deeply personal and insightful account, James shares his experiences, triumphs, and the strategies he developed to overcome adversity. James is also transparent about how turning to religion and God did not always yield the answers he sought. Through the lens of his unique story readers will gain a profound understanding of the resilience of the human spirit and discover powerful insights into the world of autism and dementia and develop a sense of empathy and understanding for caregivers.

Photo Credit: Raphael James – Facebook

Charleston, S.C. – Hamby Catering & Events has been recognized on the national level, winning Best Hors d’Oeuvre at the prestigious Catered Arts Through Innovative Excellence (CATIE) Awards, presented by the International Caterers Association (ICA). This esteemed award highlights Hamby Catering’s dedication to culinary excellence and innovation, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in the catering industry.

The winning dish, Beet Hummus Rounds, impressed judges with its exceptional flavor, presentation, and creativity—demonstrating Hamby Catering’s commitment to elevating the guest experience through thoughtfully curated cuisine. Created specifically for the launch of their brand-new flagship event venue, The Rutledge Room, in the heart of downtown Charleston, this dish showcased the innovation and artistry that define Hamby Catering’s culinary excellence.

“We are incredibly honored to receive this national recognition from the International Caterers Association,” says Candice Hudnall, President and Owner of Hamby Catering & Events. “Our team works tirelessly to push the boundaries of culinary excellence while staying true to the signature hospitality and quality that have defined Hamby Catering for over four decades. This award is a testament to our passion, talent, and commitment to delivering extraordinary dining experiences, especially for Sous Chef Gabriel Graves, creator of the dish.”

A woman-owned and operated, full-service caterer, Hamby Catering has served the Charleston area since 1979 with signature customer service and innovative cuisine. Hamby Catering provides all food and beverage services, rental coordination, as well as streamlined advice on all event logistics.

For more information on Hamby Catering, visit www.hambycatering.com, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram @hambycatering. For more information on Hamby Catering’s flagship event venue, The Rutledge Room, or to contact them directly, visit www.therutledgeroom.com and follow them on Facebook and Instagram @therutledgeroom.

Click HERE for full list of winners.

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Coming soon…. NaaN At Nexton
Serving Summerville neighborhood soon with Authentic Indian 🥘 ❤️

1288 Nexton Pkwy #407 Summerville Sc 29486

For the latest updates on the opening, follow NaaN on Facebook.

Commandant of Cadets announces new leadership for upcoming academic year

As the Class of 2025 prepares to join The Citadel’s Long Gray Line, the newest cadet leadership for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets is preparing to take over. To earn their positions for next year, these cadet leaders went through a series of rank board engagements, performance reviews and interviews.

The Citadel continues the tradition of developing principled leaders through a 24/7 military structure on campus, positioning cadets to run the Corps by earning increasing rank throughout their time at The Citadel. Rank holders acquire real leadership experience in these roles, by making decisions that contribute to the academic, physical fitness, military training and overall success of the Corps.

The new cadet leadership was announced by The Citadel Commandant of Cadets Col. Thomas Gordon, USMC (Ret.), ’91, during a gathering in Jenkins Hall on March 6.

“We picked the leadership for next year, not based on who you are or what you’ve done up until this point, but on what we think you can do. The selections that we have made have been based on your potential and your character,” said Gordon. “Peer leadership, I believe, is the most difficult type of leadership outside of combat.”

The top-ranking cadets for the Class of 2026 will include:

Regimental Commander – David Ropp

Major – Exercise Science

Hometown – Hartsville, South Carolina

Deputy Regimental Commander – Brody McLaury

Major – Intelligence and Security Studies

Hometown – Grosse Ile, Michigan

Regimental Executive Officer (XO) – Caitlyn Tyson

Major – Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering

Hometown – Summerville, South Carolina

Regimental Academic Officer – Noah Miller

Major – Political Science

Hometown – Camden, South Carolina

Honor Board Chair – William Dow

Major – Political Science

Hometown – Lexington, South Carolina

1st Battalion Commander – Lucy McArthur

Major – Intelligence and Security Studies

Hometown – Somerset, Kentucky

2nd Battalion Commander – Olivia Liquori

Major – Criminal Justice

Hometown – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

3rd Battalion Commander – Tucker Thayne

Major – Mechanical Engineering

Hometown – Hoosick Falls, New York

4th Battalion Commander – Luke Stringfield

Major – Intelligence and Security Studies

Hometown – Aiken, South Carolina

5th Battalion Commander – Mason Shaw

Major – Intelligence and Security Studies

Hometown – Greenville, South Carolina

Regimental Cadet Sergeant Major – Paul Scarpa

Major – Biology

Hometown – Beaufort, South Carolina

The regimental staff will lead approximately 80 cadet officers in the command of the Corps’ five battalions and 21 companies during the next academic year, with positions ranging from battalion sergeant majors to company first sergeants.

1st Battalion

1st Battalion Commander – Lucy McArthur (see above)

A Company Commander – Joseph Gaglione. Mechanical Engineering. Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.

B Company Commander – Claudia Sales. Computer Science. Easton, Pennsylvania.

C Company Commander – Kanjanika Kincaid. Marketing and Business Development. Pleasanton, California.

D Company Commander – Mackenzie Raniowski. Intelligence and Security Studies. Chesapeake, Virginia.

2nd Battalion

2nd Battalion Commander – Olivia Liquori (see above)

E Company Commander – Ethan Clinton. Mechanical Engineering. Clover, South Carolina.

F Company Commander – Jake LaRocca. Political Science. Rockville Centre, New York.

G Company Commander – Michaela Martin. Intelligence and Security Studies. Jacobus, Pennsylvania.

H Company Commander – Aidan Wiseman. History. Independence, Kentucky.

Band Company Commander – Levi Hoegemeyer. Civil Engineering. Fuquay Varina, North Carolina.

3rd Battalion

3rd Battalion Commander – Tucker Thayne (see above)

I Company Commander – Daniel DuBose. Electrical Engineering. Pinehurst, North Carolina.

K Company Commander – Immanuel Suhardi. Political Science. Hillsboro, North Dakota.

L Company Commander – William McDonnell. Supply Chain Management. Bluffton, South Carolina.

M Company Commander – Riley Chadwell. Intelligence and Security Studies. Erie, Pennsylvania.

4th Battalion

4th Battalion Commander – Luke Stringfield (see above)

N Company Commander – Corey Craft. Intelligence and Security Studies. Vernon Rockville, Connecticut.

O Company Commander – Aislinn Crowe. Intelligence and Security Studies. Brielle, New Jersey.

R Company Commander – Joshua Riggs. Intelligence and Security Studies. Lithia, Florida.

T Company Commander – Steven Duff. Intelligence and Security Studies. Treasure Island, Florida.

5th Battalion

5th Battalion Commander – Mason Shaw (see above)

P Company Commander – Andrew Coyle. Intelligence and Security Studies. Charleston, South Carolina.

S Company Commander – Bennett Smoak. Management, Business Administration. Kernersville, North Carolina.

V Company Commander – Mary Charland. Intelligence and Security Studies. Franklin, Tennessee.

Palmetto Battery Commander – Tatiana Demcovich. Modern Language. Ocala, Florida.

Cadets selected for additional positions within Regimental Staff will be added at a future date.

Source: The Citadel

By Mark A Leon

The Pinch Hotel, located at 40 George Street in Charleston, South Carolina, is a boutique hotel that seamlessly blends historic preservation with modern luxury. Opened in 2022, this property is a standout example of Charleston’s architectural charm and commitment to preserving its heritage. It occupies four buildings, including three restored structures dating back to 1843 and a newly constructed three-story addition. Designed by Morris Adjmi Architects in collaboration with Method Co., the hotel offers a refined yet comfortable experience for guests.

What sets The Pinch aside from any other boutique hotel is several unique aspects:

• State of the art staff bringing comfort, elegance and service to the forefront.
• The offering of short-term or long-term stays with full kitchens in every suite.
• Just a stone throw from King Street, but just far enough away from the constant foot traffic.
• Intimate outdoor furniture and fireplace for the evening unwind.
• Luxury dining next door at Lowland.

Awards and Accolades

The Pinch has received widespread recognition for its design and hospitality. 

Additionally, The Pinch has been honored with:

• MICHELIN Keys – The Pinch Hotel received two MICHELIN Keys in 2024. This award recognizes hotels that excel in architecture, interior design, service quality, and consistency. 
• Pro Merito Award – The Pinch Hotel received a Pro Merito Award from the Preservation Society of Charleston. This award is given to preservation projects in Charleston and the Lowcountry. 
• Best New Hotels in the World – Condé Nast Traveler named The Pinch Hotel one of the best new hotels in the world. 
• Hotel It List – Travel and Leisure named The Pinch Hotel to its Hotel It List in 2024. 
• Gold Key Awards – The Pinch Hotel was a finalist for the 43rd Annual Gold Key Awards in the Emerging Hotel Concept category. 
  

Design and Features

The design of The Pinch draws inspiration from Charleston’s rich history while incorporating contemporary elements. Each of its 25 rooms, suites, and residences features full kitchens, Italian marble farmhouse sinks, hand-painted terracotta tiles, and in-room laundry facilities. The interiors are adorned with curated artwork by local and international artists, vintage rugs, and custom furnishings, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance.

Public spaces include a cozy lobby designed to feel like a living room, complete with vintage McIntosh stereo equipment and reclaimed oxblood leather furniture. Guests can also enjoy a landscaped courtyard with an outdoor fireplace. The hotel’s attention to detail extends to its culinary offerings.

Lowland: Elevated Southern Cuisine

Lowland is another gem within The Pinch Hotel complex. Located in the historic Lequeux-Williams House on George Street—a Greek Revival-style building dating back to 1834—Lowland offers an elevated take on Southern comfort food. Designed by Method Studios, the restaurant combines rustic charm with refined elegance across multiple dining spaces.

Atmosphere

The ground floor of Lowland evokes the feel of a classic English pub, complete with exposed wooden beams, taxidermy accents, and an antiqued copper bar. Upstairs, the dining room features an elegant handpainted mural by artist Dean Barger, creating an intimate setting for private gatherings. 

The Quinte is a revival of a historic space that dates to 1918. Originally established as a billiards hall and cigar parlor called “The Quinte,” it served as a social hub for Navy and Marine Corps servicemen stationed in Charleston. These servicemen participated in billiards tournaments for the coveted “Quinte Cup,” making the venue an integral part of Charleston’s social fabric.

A recent transformative evolution has now merged Lowland and Quinte into one incredible dining experience.  “The Quinte” will be an additional room for Lowland’s offerings, menus, and staff. Guests can book a table at “Lowland” or “The Quinte” (across Ellis Alley from Lowland entrance), and the menus remain the same for both reservations.

Whether you choose the historic home décor of Lowland’s bar and two-floor dining area or Quinte, you are guaranteed a 5-star experience in dining.

Menu Highlights

Curated by James Beard-awarded chef Jason Stanhope, Lowland’s menu showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and fisheries. Some standout dishes include:

• Steamboat Creek Oysters: Served with mignonette sauce, these oysters are a must-try for seafood lovers.
• Cheryl Day Biscuit: Topped with farmer cheese and pepper jelly for a sweet-and-savory treat.
• Shells & Seafood Ragu: A hearty dish featuring rock shrimp, lump crab meat, and parmesan.
• Pork Schnitzel + Savoy Cabbage: Served with mustard butter and capers for a tangy twist on a classic dish.
• 24-Hour Short Rib: Accompanied by potato purée and chimichurri for a rich and satisfying entrée.
• Buttermilk Panna Cotta: A dessert favorite paired with pistachio cake and orange curd.

Lowland also boasts an impressive beverage menu featuring craft cocktails like the “Tavern Martini” (gin or vodka with herb oil) and “Pistachio Haze” (rum blended with pistachio orgeat and tropical fruits).

Together, The Pinch Hotel and Lowland represent the best of Charleston’s hospitality scene. By honoring their historic roots while embracing modern luxury and culinary innovation, these establishments offer unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of this iconic Southern city.

Charleston, St. Simons Island, The Peabody Memphis Among Top Winners

Tampa And Annapolis Rank In The Top 20 South’s Best Cities For The First Time

NEW YORK and BIRMINGHAM, Ala., March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Southern Living announces the winners of its ninth annual South’s Best Awards. The annual survey highlights top Southern destinations, accommodations, and experiences, voted on by Southern Living readers. Full coverage of the South’s Best Award winners will appear in the April issue of Southern Living, on sale March 21 and are online now at SouthernLiving.com.

This year’s survey reveals the South’s Best Cities, Top Beach Towns, Top Classic Hotels, Top Resorts, Top Beach Bars, Top Barbecue Joint in Each State, Top Seafood Dives, and for the first time, Top Cruises. St. Simon’s Island, Georgia takes the top spot in the Best Beach Towns category, while Charleston, South Carolinaremains the South’s Best City for the ninth consecutive year, recognized for its rich culture, food, and history.

In addition to the survey results, Southern Living editors have handpicked special features for this year’s awards, including: Vacation of the Year (Outer Banks, NC), Restaurant of the Year (Lost Isle in Johns Island, SC), and a list of Top New Hotels in the South.

“Southern hospitality is more than just a saying–it’s a way of life, and no one knows the best experiences better than the locals. That’s why, year after year, we turn to our readers to share their favorite places that define the South,” said Sid Evans, Southern Living Editor in Chief, “This year, we decided to focus on vacations, which led to the new editor-chosen categories: Restaurant of the Year, Vacation of the Year, and Best New Hotels. We also included the Top 50 Beach Towns because there are so many that our readers love, and now is the perfect time to start planning summer travel.”

Highlights from Southern Living’s 2025 South’s Best Awards survey results are as follows:

South’s Best Cities – Top 10

1. Charleston, SC
2. Savannah, GA
3. Asheville, NC
4. New Orleans, LA
5. Nashville, TN
6. Greenville, SC
7. St. Petersburg, FL
8. Chattanooga, TN
9. Atlanta, GA
10. Lexington, KY

South’s Best Beach Towns – Top 10

1. St. Simons Island, GA
2. Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, AL
3. Hilton Head Island, SC
4. Tybee Island, GA
5. Jekyll Island, GA
6. Sanibel Island, FL
7. St. Augustine Beach, FL
8. Myrtle Beach, SC
9. Fairhope, AL
10. Fernandina Beach, FL

Best Barbecue Joints – Winner in Each State
Alabama: Big Bob Gibson (Decatur)
Arkansas: Wright’s Barbecue (Multiple locations)
Florida: Big John’s Alabama BBQ (Tampa)
Georgia: Southern Soul Barbeque (St. Simons Island)
Kentucky: Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn (Owensboro)
Louisiana: The Joint (New Orleans)
Maryland: Blue Pit BBQ (Baltimore)
Mississippi: The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint (Ocean Springs)
Missouri: Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque (Kansas City)
North Carolina: Lexington Barbecue (Lexington)
Oklahoma: Oklahoma Joe’s Bar-B-Cue (Multiple locations)
South Carolina: Lewis Barbecue (Charleston & Greenville)
Tennessee: Charlie Vergos Rendezvous (Memphis)
Texas: Franklin Barbecue (Austin)
Virginia: Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que (Williamsburg)
West Virginia: Rollin’ Smoke BBQ (Charleston)

For the full results and methodology from Southern Living’s 2025 South’s Best survey, including the lists of winners in every category, visit SouthernLiving.com.

About Southern Living

Southern Living celebrates the essence of life in the South, covering the best in Southern food, homes, gardens and travel. Southern Living connects consumers to the region’s rich culture through a robust multi-platform presence, including print, digital and social as well as its Biscuits & Jam and Ask Grumpy podcasts and licensing partnerships. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Southern Living is part of the Dotdash Meredith publishing family.

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