33 Best Cafes in Charleston

“Not sure why this location has a lower rating than the other. I had a great time at both locations and I’m glad I went out of my way to pop into this one. If I was local I’d be a regular for sure! I sat at the bar top and enjoyed my coffee and people watching. The team work and way the staff interacted with each other made it known that it was a well run establishment. Great job, Babas!“

“Great atmosphere and super friendly staff. Limited seating inside and outside but it seems like a hot spot!
Their sandwiches and salads looked amazing as I saw them going out but I thoroughly enjoyed my cortado with their house made syrup. The vibe is lively and it seemed like a good place for a date, to study or grab something to go. I look forward to coming back to try their food!“

“I asked my fiancé to find a nice coffee shop that also sells beer in Charleston. After her google search, she asked our friends at The Lucky Luchador and they also recommended your establishment. I was definitely impressed with the atmosphere and selection of beer that was available. I will be coming back soon and will be your ugliest ambassador!!! 😊“

“Came for lunch today and the food, service and portions were great! Highly recommend the Buttermilk Catfish Sandwich with the sauce that comes with truffle fries instead of mayo!“

“The Grasshopper Toast was an amazing blend of flavors!“

“Harken was a great experience. The staff was friendly and enjoyed interacting with our baby daughter, which brought smiles all around. We had a delicious vanilla latte and an amazing fresh chocolate chip cookie. The ambiance was pleasant, with seating available inside and outside. Overall, I highly recommend Harken.“

“A charming, authentic coffee shop in Charleston’s historic district. The coffee is of good quality. The design is very simple, but bright and clean. It’s a bit cramped, but the great coffee makes up for it. I recommend stopping by if you’re in the area.“

“Love the place you just have to go check it out. Definitely get some food while you’re there. It’ll keep you going back.“

“EVERYTHING = TODO! From the food and drinks, to the atmosphere, and the people :)“

“Such a fun and cozy place to be with the best coffee and pastries! Will definitely be back! I highly recommend😁“

“Food is fairly priced, healthy options and looks great.“

“Outstanding! When I booked this experience we were looking for a fabulous backdrop as we explored the city. What a hidden gem! The location, service and facilities made our experience memorable! The staff was very attentive to our party and we had to wait for nothing. The menu is top notch and offers different items than nearby establishments. Do yourself a huge favor and taste the grit bowls for starters. The crispness puts the fresh in their fresh fruit. We shall definitely return!“

“Alcove Market absolutely blew us away. Hands down the best hamburger in Charleston—perfectly cooked, juicy, and packed with flavor. The fried chicken sandwich? Also top-tier. Crispy, tender, and just the right amount of kick.

We also tried the wraps and they were fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care. And let’s talk about the wine prices—unbelievably reasonable. It’s rare to find a place where you can grab a great glass without breaking the bank.

On top of all that, the service was warm, welcoming, and fast. This place is a gem—a must-not-miss when you're in Charleston. Can't wait to go back.

Oh, and DOG FRIENDLY patio!

Go here.“

“5.0 the best to go breakfast I've ever had. Locally sourced and organic. Amazing staff too.“

“Great healthy food options! Small place tucked away so you’ve got to look for it. Serves breakfast and lunch from 9am-2pm. Menu includes sandwiches, wraps, fresh pressed juices, smoothies plus baked goods from Mabel Mae’s (also healthy, gluten, and vegan options). We went for lunch and got it to go along with a cookie for dessert. The sandwich and wrap were huge. They were fresh and full of flavor. The chicken salad wrap was like no other Ive ever had. It had a sweet curry taste and filled with chicken, tomatoes, pickled red onions, and greens. My husband got the “Stoopid Good Sammy” which came on sourdough bread and had smoked turkey, spicy mayo, bacon, avocado, and Munster cheese. Also fresh and tasty. For dessert we shared a sandwhich cookie made up of 2 gaham masala cookies filled with a lemon cream. SOOOOO good. The cookies were soft and chewy and reminded me of a molasses cookies and the lemon filling was a good compliment. No seating indoors but there are a few tables outside. Also have grab and go items premade available.“

“Got the peach tea with strawberry popping boba. Sooooooo good!!!! one of the best i've had. Friendly & fast service. Will definitely be back!“

“We had the best time visiting PCC last Sunday making lots of kitty friends! 🐈🐈‍⬛ I wanted to take them all with me back to Richmond! One in particular, Lucas was so sweet and loving! I'm going to miss him.!💜“

“Excellent customer service! Had an issue with my online order and they called right away to offer a refund or replacement. Oh and the food and coffee is great, too! Had the nut butter oatmeal, was not overly sweet which I prefer, and very filling! Would definitely recommend!“

“I discovered this place this week while here for a visit, and I have eaten here two mornings in a row. It has such a cozy vibe, and the food and service are both great. I wish I had known about this place when I lived here until last year. I Would have definitely been a regular.“

“Lovely atmosphere, convenient location, friendly staff.“

“We were traveling from out of town, and stumbled on this cafe. Had the Holy Caprese on ciabatta bread. It was all so fresh with great flavor. Also had an oatmeal cookie which was delish. Highly recommend visiting this cute place for breakfast or lunch - yum!!“

“Great fresh food attractively prepared. Super gluten free selection. Quick, friendly and helpful service. Love the sauce on the side for those with high blood pressure or other special needs. We look forward to coming back! Recommend💯%“

“Always fantastic. The owner and staff are always so nice and friendly. :)“

“Amazing coconut cake, thank you!“

“I had a breakfast burrito. It was more than what I can eat, but it was so tasty.“

“Very good Açaí bowls! I had the Beech Bowl and my wife had the Nutella bowl! Only thing I could see that they could improve upon is the Acai was frozen hard. Maybe they premake the base and then put in the freezer? Anyways after it melted some and softened up it was great!!!“

“Upon our visit to Charleston we stoped in your Cafe and had the most delightful young lady named Brooke wait on us. She was very sweet and helpful (what a great sales person) the coffee 😜 and desserts are wonderful. We love the place and will return. Highly recommend.“

“Highly recommend the espresso martinis!!! Sonny’s customer service is phenomenal and our drinks were too! Highly recommend! 🙌🏼“

“Best vegan desserts I’ve had“

“$45 to park legally for 4 hours is money I would've spent at the market. Somebody's making a killing on the parking. Love Charleston but will not be returning as much anymore.“

“Lowcountry Local First ordered Ted's Butcherblock for a monthly networking event and everything was delicious! The quality of ingredients and preparation is unmatched. Ted's is a long-time supporter of Lowcountry Local First and gives back to the community in many ways. I highly recommend supporting this local business!“

“Awesome location and vibe-- coffee and espresso is excellent!Btw, they have espresso martinis on tap!!! Great coffee place inside the Wyndham Hotel!“