I guess this is it, my favorite season is finally over… Yes I complain the whole summer about how hot it is, but it’s much better than being cold! The only way to deal with the cold is my favorite activity, drinking! Now that it might be too chilly for patio sipping, it’s time to take it inside and cozy up to the bar. These 5 places are my go tos when you are feeling more of a classy vibe and don’t necessarily want to drink PBR all night (but maybe later). Instead, I cozy up in one of these places with a fancy-ish cocktail and sip away the cold.
1. Faculty Lounge
I am pretty much the spokesperson for Faculty Lounge, but at the same time I keep it on the low so it doesn’t get too crowded… By far my most frequented bar in Charleston, Faculty Lounge has the cozy vibes I’m looking for. The bartenders are super friendly and go during happy hour where the most you will pay for a drink is $6… For $6 you can get the Dealer’s Choice where you put your fate in the hands of the bartender and they reward you with a delightful surprise cocktail! If you check it out, there’s a 90% chance you will see me there.
2. Proof
I have to admit my first time going to Proof was not that long ago. I have avoided going because I thought it was super expensive, but turns out they have happy hour every day! They have select $7 cocktails which include classics like the Dark & Stormy and Tequila Sunrise. If you want to venture out from those, the cocktail list is long af, so you are sure to find something delicious to sip on! It’s a pretty small bar which makes it all the more cozy and they even have ramen pop ups for when you’re feeling especially chilly!
3. Gin Joint
I have been to Gin Joint a couple of times now for events and they have some of the tastiest cocktails in Charleston in my opinion. Their drinks change seasonally (love it), so they rarely have the same ones, but I have enjoyed every drink I’ve tried there. I had one that was mostly made from carrot and pineapple juice and it blew my fricken mind! They have $5 cocktail selections Monday-Thursday from 5-7pm, so get cozy at The Gin Joint!
4. Cocktail Club
Another recent find, Cocktail Club welcomes you in with a giant fireplace and mood lighting that makes you want to stay a while! I heard I had to try their Moscow Mule with house made ginger beer and I have to say it lived up to the hype! I love when a Moscow mule gives me a nice kick from the ginger and theirs did that! They have a nice selection of bourbon drinks as well so Chef Christian got his fix.
5. Harold’s Cabin
Is there any place cozier than a cabin? Harold’s Cabin might be the coziest restaurant in Charleston with their log cabin decor and warm welcomes from the staff! Chef Christian and I like to go to Harold’s Cabin to have a drink and maybe some dessert during happy hour Tues-Thurs 4-7pm. My favorite drink is the Salty Raccoon made with tequila (duh), rosemary, lime, and smoked sea salt!
I do love getting cozy, but I’m mostly hoping this cold snap is temporary so I can go back to patio sippin’. Anything is possible is Charleston! Stay tuned!
