The Best Bars in Charleston, South Carolina

 

Nothing goes with Charleston’s warm weather quite like a cold drink. From vibrant social clubs with great music to watering holes with low lighting and plush seats, the Charleston nightlife scene is ready to accommodate. Whether it’s a craft beer or clever cocktail, there’s a tasty drink out there just for you, and a beautiful space to enjoy it. Toast to the good life at The Best Bars in Charleston – you don’t need a reason to celebrate. 

 

The boutique Hotel Bennett is home to many surprises, but the most eye-catching has to be the champagne bar, bathed in pink from head to toe. The decadent drinks are paired with a lavish selection of caviar, charcuterie, and fresh pastries to keep the lavish vibes flowing. With such an incredible photo op surrounding the festivities, Camellias is the perfect place for a girl’s night out. 

 

Charleston is a coastal city, and this poolside bar takes that fact in stride. The fruity cocktails and seasonal small-plates are served in a breezy open-air space, ideal for luxuriating in the golden sun. Don’t miss out on the “Green Light”, a delightful frozen drink with white wine, pear brandy, and honeydew melon. 

For the discerning reveler, Proof might be one of the most inventive bars in Charleston. The dark wood walls are home to drinks like “The Battle of Trafalgar”, made with Pimm’s, St. Germain, Batavia Arrack, honey, and lime. Grab some friends and make your way down Proof’s long list of unique cocktails. 

With an utterly immense collection of beers from around the country, this contemporary casual restaurant is the de facto destination for beer lovers. The massive wall of beers on tap might seem intimidating, but the knowledgeable staff are more than prepared to find the perfect bubbly beverage for you. Grab a plate of the house-cured charcuterie, and dig into the offerings at Edmund’s Oast.

Sequestered away from the hustle and bustle of King Street is a quaint little cafe with carefully pulled espresso and sandwiches in the mornings. But by night, Babas on Cannon becomes a boozy watering hole with an impressive wine list and delicious craft cocktails, all while maintaining its breezy European vibe. Definitely snag the gin & tonic, served with an adorable side of olives and potato chips. 

A charming homage to the 1920’s speakeasy, Prohibition is the place for bespoke cocktails and live jazz. The drink menu is organized by spirit, with tons of tasty options once you pick your poison. Keep an eye on their website to see what hot musical acts are in store. 

This new spot to tie one on operates out of the chic Dewberry Charleston, and as the name implies, is an incredibly inviting space for some evening excitement. The sumptuous digs offer contemporary twists on all your favorite classic cocktails, available to enjoy from a plush armchair or loveseat. Take your evening to the next level by stopping at the hotel’s rooftop bar, the Citrus Club.

The Alley has proven itself to be one of the best bars in Charleston, or at least, one of the best bowling alleys. Ice cold beer, addictive cocktails and a host of activities make sure there’s never a dull moment. Check out the calendar on their website for info on the frequent theme parties and trivia nights. 

Occupying the space of what was formerly the iconic Upper Deck Tavern, Bangkok Lounge holds onto that nostalgic atmosphere, combining it with an all new tropical drink menu, and what is sure to be the main attraction: Karaoke, 7 days a week. The drinks are cold, the mics are hot, and the crowd is always ready for a good time. 

Cocktail enthusiasts will love this cozy little watering hole, which was one of the first cocktail bars in the area, and has been dedicated to the craft of bartending ever since. Vodka has been off the menu since 2010, so guests will have to peruse the extensive list of innovative drinks featuring obscure ingredients. Ask for the bartender’s choice for a surprise that will never disappoint.