Charleston, SC

Entering my favorite Charleston restaurant feels like coming home to a cozy haven where I can leave the hectic day behind me and be replaced by the promise of a delightful evening ahead. The soft lighting casts a friendly glow, setting the stage for an energetic experience.

Halls Chophouse

As I sink into the cushioned bar seat at Halls Chophouse, surrounded by the hum of lively conversation, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. The menu, a treasure trove of familiar favorites, beckons with its promise of culinary delights.

Dirty Martini Halls Chophouse
Dirty Martini Halls Chophouse
Justin Halls Chophouse
Justin Halls Chophouse
French 76
French 76 Halls Chophouse

But before diving into the fantastic meal, there’s the cocktail selection ritual. Each sip is a moment of pure pleasure, whether a classic favorite or a daring concoction. With a drink in hand, the evening takes on a festive spirit with casual conversation and laughter. Justin, my Bartender, adds to the warmth of the atmosphere, ensuring that every moment is infused with hospitality and charm.

A Good Time Had by All - Seafood Tower Halls Chophouse
A Good Time Had by All – Seafood Tower Halls Chophouse
Oysters on the Half Shell - Halls Chophouse Charleston
Oysters on the Half Shell – Halls Chophouse Charleston

As the night draws to a close, the lingering taste of cocktails and the satisfaction of a delectable meal leave me with a sense of contentment, already looking forward to the next visit to this cherished retreat.

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Need a great Cocktail Shaker but don’t know which one to buy? Look no further.

Here is an awesome product to help YOU make the most incredible drinks. Impress your family and friends and be the BEST Cocktail Barista in your neighborhood.

Steel Cocktail Shaker
Easy to Read Measuring Cap – Included

Martini or cocktail, a good shake makes all the difference in the world so buying a cocktail shaker can seriously step up your at-home drink game. Think about it: no more settling for boring mixed drinks when you can whip up bar-quality cocktails in your kitchen. It’s not just about the fancy presentation (although that’s a fun bonus) but also about how it makes mixing drinks easier and more fun. 

I have at least a dozen shakers, but one favorite. The shaker doesn’t leak; you won’t have to hit the shaker against the sink to get the top off, and the cap will measure from 1/2 to 1.5 ounces with clearly marked labels. Measure the perfect amount every time. And it is dishwasher safe!

Plus, once you get the hang of shaking, you’ll feel like a total pro, impressing your friends and yourself with your newfound bartending skills. So why not add a little shake, shake, shake to your life and upgrade your happy hour?

Proof

After an exquisite meal at Halls Chophouse, a short stroll across the street leads you to Proof, a bar known for its impressive selection of bourbon cocktails. As you step inside, the inviting atmosphere and knowledgeable bartenders make relaxing and enjoying the evening easy.

The Bourbon Gold Rush: A Blissful Bourbon Cocktail Guaranteed to Find Pure Gold
The Bourbon Gold Rush: A Blissful Bourbon Cocktail Guaranteed to Find Pure Gold
BB from Proof, Charleston
BB from Proof, mixing a Gold Rush – YouTube

Try the Bourbon Gold Rush; it’s fabulous. You won’t be disappointed.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Old Fashioned or a unique bourbon creation, Proof’s expertly crafted drinks won’t disappoint. The well-curated menu makes it a great spot to continue your Charleston night. It offers a smooth transition from fine dining to an incredible bourbon cocktail experience.

If walking down King Street towards Calhoun, check out the Marion Square Fountain.

Marion Square Fountain
Marion Square Fountain

Do you want to know the secrets to mixing the best cocktails EVER? Get my free printable guide, ‘Mix, Mingle & Marvel: 5 Essential Secrets to Crafting Cocktails That Wow!’ just for joining my mailing list.

Carmella’s Dessert Bar

After enjoying cocktails at Proof, head to Carmella’s Dessert Bar for a sweet ending to your night. Just a short walk away, Carmella’s offers a delightful array of desserts, from decadent cakes and pastries to creamy gelato and refreshing sorbets.

The modern, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax and indulge your sweet tooth. Pair your dessert with freshly brewed coffee or a dessert cocktail for the ultimate treat. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic tiramisu or a slice of rich chocolate cake, Carmella’s Dessert Bar promises to satisfy your cravings and provide a delightful conclusion to your Charleston evening.

Jason, Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar, Charleston
Jason, Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar, Charleston

Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar, Charleston
Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar, Charleston

Have a sweet tooth? I do. Then you’ll love Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar. Need help? Just ask Jason.


With locations on Main Street in Greenville and in the heart of downtown Charleston, Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar combines generationally tested, gourmet recipes with a regional flair. We have a vast array of continually changing desserts, gelato, and sorbet, as well as fresh, organic coffees, sandwiches, pizza, wine, beer, and cocktails.

carmellasdessertbar.com

Love to Travel?

Then you will absolutely need the 16-pack Travel Bottles Set, which is perfect for hassle-free travel. It provides TSA-approved, leak-proof containers in convenient 2oz and 3oz sizes for all your toiletries. Made from BPA-free, squeezable silicone, these bottles ensure safe and easy storage for your shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body wash, making your travel experience smooth and worry-free. I love my set.

Felix

Another noteworthy cocktail establishment in Charleston is Felix Cocktails et Cuisine. Felix is located in the city’s heart and offers a stylish, Parisian-inspired ambiance that sets the stage for a memorable drinking experience.

Lane from Felix
Lane from Felix

Trying a ‘Last Word‘ has been on my bucket list of cocktails since my friend recommended one. I’ve also been fascinated with the purple-colored Empress Gin—not because I’m a gin drinker but because purple is my favorite color, and purple-colored cocktails look like a party in a glass.

The bar features a menu of innovative cocktails, expertly crafted to highlight both classic and contemporary flavors. Felix’s attention to detail and commitment to quality is evident in every sip, whether you choose a refreshing spritz, a bold signature drink, or a sophisticated martini.

So, when I stopped at Felix the last time I was in Charleston, I asked Lane to make me a Last Word, but I wanted her to use Empress Gin. Felix supports local businesses, so they had Nippitaty Aurora Gin instead of Empress.

Last Word, Felix
Last Word, Felix

Empress and Aurora Gins have a hint of floral, with Aurora getting the purple color from butterfly pea flowers. Floral flavored Gin is not typically used to make a Last Word, but I was pleasantly surprised with the flavor of this concoction.

The inviting décor and vibrant atmosphere make it an excellent spot for intimate gatherings and lively nights out, making Felix a must-visit destination on Charleston’s cocktail scene.

Charleston, SC
Charleston, SC

As your time in Charleston ends, you’ll remember the city’s cocktail scene as vividly as its historic streets and charming waterfronts. From sipping cocktails in your favorite restaurants to enjoying drinks with a view, Charleston offers something for every taste.

Whether you’re a cocktail lover or just starting to explore the wide range of cocktail choices, Charleston’s bars and restaurants provide a delightful experience. So, raise your glass and toast to the charm and warmth of this Southern city—until next time, cheers to Charleston!

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