Charleston has always had a reputation for its culinary scene, from traditional southern cuisine to fine-dining. A new category that is slowly taking over the downtown peninsula are coffee shops. With so many new coffee shops to try, we’ve created a guide to help you sip your way through the city, one coffee at a time.
Sorelle. Located South of Broad, The Mercato at Sorelle offers casual bites and sips, from coffees and pastries to salads and Sicilian-style pizza. If you prefer a sweeter coffee, check out their weekly latte specials for an extra fun wake-up call!
Harken. Step into an Old World-inspired coffee nook at Harken, tucked away on Queen Street in the French Quarter. Baked from scratch, stop in for a warm coffee and pastry or stay awhile and enjoy lunch.
Babas. Your very own slice of Europe, right in the heart of Charleston. With three downtown locations, one on Cannon Street, Meeting Street and Wentworth Street, Babas offers a variety of coffee, tea, pastries, plates and apertivo. With fresh ingredients and a great atmosphere, you’ll want to return for a midday cocktail or pre-dinner glass of wine.
Island Provisions. Situated in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, Island Provisions has great coffee, smoothies, and breakfast sandwiches. Also open in the afternoons from 3-6pm, stop in and enjoy a drink and sandwich on their traditional Charleston-style porch.
Sightsee Shop. Located across the street from Hampton Park on Rutledge Avenue, Sightsee Shop is the perfect post-walk coffee treat. Order your coffee with 10 minutes left in your walk and grab it right from the counter, hassle-free! While you’re in there, their eclectic variety of clothing, books and trinkets may catch your eye.
Mercantile & Mash. Enjoyed a wide array of coffees, tea and specialty drinks, house-made syrups and seasonal selections at Mercantile & Mash, located on East Bay Street.
Kudu Coffee, Craft Beer & Wine. Located off King Street at 4 Vanderhorst Street, Kudu offers the perfect retreat to beat the heat while you stroll down King Street. With a spacious outdoor patio situated below sweeping trees, Kudu is the kind of place you’ll want to sit and stay for awhile.
Second State. In the heart of Harleston Village, Second State is just steps from the College of Charleston campus and a few blocks from bustling King Street. Stop on in to enjoy a coffee, and better yet, take a bag of coffee to brew at home!
Whether you try just one, or you try them all, we hope you enjoy your time here in Charleston! If you’re looking to call this city home, our agents would be happy to assist you.
