Refrigerated Trailer for Rent in Downtown Charleston, SC

Guests wait for a table at one of the Lowcountry's hottest new bars in a courtyard between two Charleston single homes.

Inside the one to the left, inventive cocktails infused with distinct ingredients take center stage. To the right is a kitchen churning out grilled oysters with crab fat curry, caviar sandwiches, whole rainbow trout with ginger scallion sauce and other seafood-forward plates that earned the restaurant a James Beard Award semifinalist nod in January.

Both establishments, Seahorse and Chubby Fish, stand on their own by delivering experiences patrons can’t find elsewhere. The former offers never-seen cocktail creations and riffs on familiar classics. At the latter, patrons sit down for a transformative, inspiring dinner service with food most could only dream of producing themselves.

Seahorse and Chubby Fish are owned by chef James London and his wife Yoanna Tang. Each no-reservations destination operates most nights with a waitlist, even though they’re located side-by-side on Coming Street.

The pair always planned to add more restaurants — just not necessarily in such close proximity. But the convenience eased the opening process while increasing storage space for the 1,250-square-foot Chubby Fish.

“The chips fell in the right place, and now I'm so glad we were able to do it next door,” London said.

London and Tang are the latest Charleston operators to debut a bar steps away from their restaurant.

The owners of nightlife hotspot Uptown Social just opened a low-key bar, By The Way, around the corner.

Those who can’t get a table at Jason Stanhope's Lowland can order their Cheryl Day biscuits and crispy quail across a driveway at The Quinte.

And just last month, the owners of Graft debuted a pizzeria beside their popular wine bar.

The openings have come as more of the Lowcountry's most notable restaurants hire top-notch beverage directors to curate seasonal and star cocktails. The result has been a boon for both customers and restaurateurs who are adding revenue streams and space for food and drinks that stray from what they’re known for.

Natural evolution

Felix Landrum had already made plans to open a second restaurant concept when the space beside Félix Cocktails et Cuisine became available after the February 2023 closure of OddFellows Ice Cream Co.

The 1,600-square-foot Upper King Street venue offered Landrum a rare opportunity: he could send those who couldn’t get a seat inside his popular namesake French eatery next door for oysters, caviar and a beverage list highlighted by classics with a twist.

“I thought, ‘Well, wow, I could grow into the space next door,’ ” he recalled. “It was important that I didn’t hurt the integrity of Félix because I think it works well the way it is.”

Those who step inside Le Cave, which opened in 2024, will not just notice a different menu, but also a distinct setting. Dim lighting, comfortable seating and a stunning U-shaped bar make this a place for a moderately quiet cocktail, as opposed to the more boisterous brasserie feel next door.

The ambiance at 167 Raw and Bar 167, which opened around the corner from the no-reservations seafood spot in 2022, feels similar. But the two food and beverage offerings continue to stretch further apart.

That wasn’t the intention from the onset.

Owner Jesse Sandole announced he would be taking over the restaurant space around the corner from 167 Raw in 2020. He discussed the former Fulton Five space’s proximity to the raw bar, which draws lines of customers clambering for lobster rolls, daily changing crudos and fish tacos.

“We’re excited to physically walk guests around the corner and set them up with some drinks and snacks,” he told The Post and Courier at the time.

When Bar 167 (5 Fulton St.) debuted, it was more of a sidekick than a star. Curated bites and beverages catered to those waiting for a table at 167 Raw, just a three-minute walk from its counterpart.

Now, diners in the know are making Bar 167 the main event by reserving seats for a full lunch or dinner, when tables fill with wagyu carpaccio, salt-roasted beets, arroz con negro and house-made pasta.

“The place kind of began as just an overflow and now has evolved into its own thing,” said Bar 167 chef Bailey Campbell.

As I wrote in a December 2024 restaurant review, my order rarely strays from crispy oysters and the hot honey garlic-draped, beet purée-drizzled scallop po’boy at 167 Raw. Around the corner, though, where balance meets accessibility and ingenuity, I find myself ordering something new every time.

Complement, not compete

Sibling establishments have opened outside of downtown Charleston, too.

Angel Oak Restaurant in West Ashley operates a speakeasy in a small structure behind the Southern-leaning eatery. Inside, patrons will find a hip neighborhood hideout with specialty cocktails, live music and the option to order from most of the restaurant’s food menu.

In the I’On neighborhood of Mount Pleasant, Warren Johnson, Chad Besenfelder and chef Eric Milley in 2023 took over the pint-sized space next to their Mount Pleasant restaurant, The Shellmore.

The trio set out to create a wine bar that would offer patrons a place to grab a drink before or after dinner. With a curated glass and bottle list, refined aesthetic and neighborhood vibe, Saint Urban’s has become a destination itself since its debut.

The establishment’s aesthetic was meant to feel European, drawing on the group’s travels to places like Spain, France and Portugal, where cafés and wine bars occupy a small footprint. Saint Urban’s, for its part, only counts 360 square feet to its name.

On any given Tuesday through Saturday, guests crowd into the tight, candlelit space, draped in European leathers and fabrics. They slide into banquettes with velvet pillows and converse over Aperol spritzes, negronis and bottles of wine. Cars mosey by outside, where chatter echoes from more tables on a gravel brick-lined patio.

Saint Urban’s food program, tight and curated, is headlined by charcuterie and cheese, stored in an Italian chiller that’s 18 inches deep. More substantial bites like pigs in a blanket and chicken croquettes are also available for snacking.

It’s enough to piece together a full meal while not distracting from what’s occurring next door, where Milley’s daily-changing menu highlights local seafood and luxurious plates of duck, steak and pasta.

As Johnson put it: “(Saint Urban’s) just compliments (The Shellmore) so well.”

That's a common theme among the sibling bars that have recently spawned in the Charleston area.

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Natural-born teachers + mentors

If you want to stay in your home

If you're a mental health advocate

If you’re on a tight schedule

The artsy types

If you’re interested in healthcare

If you're an animal lover

If you want to be there for abuse victims

If you have a passion for supporting disabled community members

For the outdoorsy types

If you’re passionate about supporting local community groups

If you live + breathe Charleston

Self-proclaimed bibliophiles

For the social butterflies

For the handy individuals

If you want to help your neighbors in need

Maybe you have some extra time on your hands, or maybe you’re just in the giving spirit. All we know is there are more than enough great causes in Charleston to support with your time. Whether you’re an animal lover, an artsy type, a natural mentor, or a healthcare enthusiast — there’s a nearby volunteer opportunity for you. Here are several ways to get involved in Charleston.

I've called Charleston, South Carolina, home for nearly two decades.

It's a great place that's often voted one of the best cities to visit on travel guides and lists — in part for its renowned historic charm, vibrant culture, and incredible food scene.

It draws a lot of visitors, and I've seen many of them make common mistakes or miss out on incredible opportunities in the city.

Here are a few things I want visitors to know before they head to Charleston if they want to have a great trip.

The humidity here is no joke.

Charleston can get incredibly humid, especially during the summer months. Be prepared for thick, muggy air and pack accordingly — light, breathable fabrics are your best friend.

Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and don't underestimate the impact of the heat.

Charleston's culinary scene is about much more than just seafood.

Although seafood is a staple in Charleston's cuisine, the city offers much more than just fish and oysters.

From classic Southern comfort dishes like fried chicken and collard greens to globally-inspired options like Thai, Italian, and French cuisine, there's something for everyone.

Be sure to explore the city's diverse culinary landscape when you visit.

You can't walk around with open containers.

South Carolina has strict open-container laws, meaning you can't drink alcohol in public places like streets or sidewalks.

I've seen too many tourists strolling with a beer in hand, only to be stopped by local law enforcement. Keep your beverages confined to bars and restaurants to avoid fines and frustration.

Don't miss a stop at the nearby Isle of Palms.

Although downtown Charleston receives much of the spotlight, a trip to the Isle of Palms (about 15 miles away) is well worth your time.

With its pristine beaches, great dining options, and opportunities for paddleboarding or kayaking, it's an escape that balances the historic charm of downtown with a laid-back coastal vibe.

In my opinion, Wild Dunes Resort on Isle Of Palms is also worth a visit for a night or two. It combines Charleston's charm with private beach access, golf courses, a spa, pools, and more.

Leave your heels at home.

Charleston's historic cobblestone streets may look charming, but they can be a nightmare for anyone in heels.

Wedges or sneakers are a much better choice for strolling through the city if you want to feel comfortable and safe on uneven terrain.

Make sure you know the beach-access and parking rules.

The city's surrounding beaches are beautiful, but accessing them comes with some rules.

In particular, pay close attention to parking signs — some areas require all four tires to be off the road, and failure to comply can result in a ticket.

Plan ahead and know the regulations to avoid any hassles.

There's almost always a festival or event happening, so do your research before you visit.

Charleston's sense of community and celebration makes it feel like there's always a festival taking place.

And, in reality, the city's calendar is packed with events year-round, from the Charleston Wine + Food Festival to Spoleto Festival USA, which is all about performing arts.

Check out the city's event schedule before you visit — you might stumble upon a unique experience.

It can get cold here even though we're in the South.

Although Charleston is in the South, don't assume it's warm all year round.

If you're visiting in January or February, be prepared for chilly temperatures that can dip into the 30s. On rare occasions, you might even see snow.

It's not poolside weather during these months, so pack accordingly and plan indoor activities just in case.

Mentally prepare yourself for the city's slower, laid-back pace.

Charleston operates at its own relaxed rhythm, and it's part of the charm. Take your time, enjoy leisurely meals, and stroll through the historic streets without rushing.

Also, remember to be polite and courteous — holding doors open for others is a common practice and a great way to show Southern hospitality.

Try not to huff and puff if you're used to hustle and bustle, as that's not the vibe here. Charleston invites you to slow down and soak in its tranquil, easygoing atmosphere.

Book your dining reservations in advance.

If you're hoping to dine at one of the many popular restaurants in Charleston, it's definitely wise to book your table early.

However, keep in mind that some local favorites, like Chubby Fish, don't take reservations, so be prepared to wait in line for a table.

Read next

Shrimp and grits have long since been a staple in Lowcountry kitchens. Ask a local who has the best, and they are likely to answer that they, or their mother, makes it best. Restaurants eventually adopted the combination of sea and land and can now be found in almost every establishment that claims to serve Southern fare. Some menus keep it simple with just crustaceans and grains, but others fancy it up with peppers, sausage, tomatoes, or tasso ham.

Read More

Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.

Start with some Geechie wings at Nigel’s Good Food and then go for Grandma Fred’s shrimp and grits with onions, bell peppers, bacon, and sausage.

Of course a restaurant named the Grit Counter will have a shrimp-topped option — this one comes with smoked gouda grits, peppers, onions, scallions, and tasso ham red-eye gravy.

Mount Pleasant staple Page's puts Ashleigh's “famous” shrimp and grits on the dinner menu. Chef Ashleigh Page makes her plate with lightly fried grit cakes and an andouille cream sauce.

Step into the stunning dining room at the Darling for brunch on Sunday and order the shrimp and grits with cheddar grits, crispy Brussels, country ham, and fennel — add a fried egg for $1.

Perpetually packed diner Early Bird gives patrons a choice of shrimp sautéed with tomato bacon gravy or fried with sweet and spicy jelly — that is, if customers can resist the famous chicken and waffles.

Seafood stop Delaney Oyster House offers shrimp and grits at brunch on the weekends. This version offers blackened crustaceans over cheesy Jimmy Red corn grits.

Using only East Coast seafood, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen offers multiple variations of shrimp and grits on the menu. Choose from plates like jerk shrimp with peaches and cream grits and pineapple salsa or more traditional sauteed shrimp, with tasso ham, peppers, onions, and red eye gravy.

The Southern food masters at the Glass Onion provide a substantial plate of shrimp and grits with Creole tomatoes on the regular and brunch menu. For those feeling extra hungry, start with one of the restaurant's signature deviled eggs before the main course hits the table.

Cozy up in a booth and stare at the water at Marina Variety Store, as you wait for your fried green tomatoes and shrimp over creamy grits with two eggs.

The Husk menu changes every day, so check before heading in for a plate of shrimp and grits (it's on heavy rotation though, so you'll likely find it). Recently, the dish was shrimp in a New Orleans-style barbecue sauce and collards.

Plan a nap after eating 82 Queen’s bowl of creamy, buttery grits topped with shrimp tossed in barbecue sauce and sprinkles of cheese and bacon — it’s more than hearty.

Popular brunch spot Millers All Day serves its Jimmy Red corn grits with shrimp, tasso ham, local mushrooms, scallions, and toasted benne seeds.

Start with some Geechie wings at Nigel’s Good Food and then go for Grandma Fred’s shrimp and grits with onions, bell peppers, bacon, and sausage.

Of course a restaurant named the Grit Counter will have a shrimp-topped option — this one comes with smoked gouda grits, peppers, onions, scallions, and tasso ham red-eye gravy.

Mount Pleasant staple Page's puts Ashleigh's “famous” shrimp and grits on the dinner menu. Chef Ashleigh Page makes her plate with lightly fried grit cakes and an andouille cream sauce.

Step into the stunning dining room at the Darling for brunch on Sunday and order the shrimp and grits with cheddar grits, crispy Brussels, country ham, and fennel — add a fried egg for $1.

Perpetually packed diner Early Bird gives patrons a choice of shrimp sautéed with tomato bacon gravy or fried with sweet and spicy jelly — that is, if customers can resist the famous chicken and waffles.

Seafood stop Delaney Oyster House offers shrimp and grits at brunch on the weekends. This version offers blackened crustaceans over cheesy Jimmy Red corn grits.

Using only East Coast seafood, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen offers multiple variations of shrimp and grits on the menu. Choose from plates like jerk shrimp with peaches and cream grits and pineapple salsa or more traditional sauteed shrimp, with tasso ham, peppers, onions, and red eye gravy.

The Southern food masters at the Glass Onion provide a substantial plate of shrimp and grits with Creole tomatoes on the regular and brunch menu. For those feeling extra hungry, start with one of the restaurant's signature deviled eggs before the main course hits the table.

Cozy up in a booth and stare at the water at Marina Variety Store, as you wait for your fried green tomatoes and shrimp over creamy grits with two eggs.

The Husk menu changes every day, so check before heading in for a plate of shrimp and grits (it's on heavy rotation though, so you'll likely find it). Recently, the dish was shrimp in a New Orleans-style barbecue sauce and collards.

Plan a nap after eating 82 Queen’s bowl of creamy, buttery grits topped with shrimp tossed in barbecue sauce and sprinkles of cheese and bacon — it’s more than hearty.

Popular brunch spot Millers All Day serves its Jimmy Red corn grits with shrimp, tasso ham, local mushrooms, scallions, and toasted benne seeds.