If you find yourself holiday shopping downtown and in desperate need of a bite and drink, we’ve got you covered. While most bars and restaurants around town will be getting into the holiday spirit, there are a few standouts that we’ll be frequenting, from chic oyster bars to cozy pubs. The best part? These spots do not require reservations.
(Make the day even better by using the city’s free 2-hour parking voucher.)
Emeline’s Winter Courtyard
181 Church Street
Open daily
New this year, Hotel Emeline’s winter courtyard features a tree-lined yurt village. While you and your pals can rent a yurt through Resy, we’d keep it simple by cozying up on the reservation-free couches in front of the outdoor fireplace. Order drinks and bites from Frannie & The Fox and you’re all set for a festive day out.
The Quinte
36 George Street
Open Thursday through Monday
Earlier this month, former FIG chef Jason Stanhope joined hospitality company Method Co. to re-open the oyster bar, the Quinte, located in the Pinch hotel. Described as a “casual, inventive” oyster bar, the Quinte is open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Belly up to the (very chic) bar, order some fresh-shucked oysters and take a load off.
Bumpa’s
5 Cumberland Street
Open Wednesday through Monday
If there’s something cozier than a pub during December — Charleston’s balmy weather conditions, be damned — we have yet to find it. Tucked off of East Bay Street, Bumpa’s doesn’t take itself too seriously, offering guests everything they want and need from a pub, from hot wings to a robust cocktail menu to plenty of TVs for watching sports games.
Bin 152
152 King Street
Open daily
It’s a classic for a reason. Step into Bin 152 and take a deep breath; the quaint space is just the spot to refuel with a glass (or two) of wine and a cheese board shared with friends or enjoyed all by yourself.
Husk Bar
76 Queen Street
Open daily
We recently visited Husk Bar and were impressed by the spot’s renovated outdoor patio (hello louvered pergola). Whether you sit outside or not, you don’t need a reservation to snack on snapper ceviche and country ham and cheese beignets. Wash the snacks down with one of Husk’s inventive cocktails, and you’ll be ready to conquer the rest of King Street.
The Living Room at The Dewberry
334 Meeting Street
Open daily
We’re suckers for classy holiday lights and the front of the Dewberry really draws you in with its display. Walk through the doors to the lobby bar, The Living Room, and relax in the reading library. Sure, you could make your way up to the rooftop bar, the Citrus Club (which is divine!), but we personally prefer the classic Mid Century Modern vibes of The Living Room. From experience, we can promise that the pommes frites pair perfectly with The Living Room Martini.
Source : charlestoncitypaper.com
