The Gin Joint
182 E Bay St #2169, Charleston
(843) 577-6111
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Great little place tucked minutes away from the Pineapple. Cozy European-style outdoor patio. Great and knowledgeable staff. Our second visit here. We both enjoyed the vibes of the place: not touristy, great selection of gins, creative small provisions (egg appetizer and pretzels are awesome) I had a gin flight (4 smalls and I let Lucy pick because she did great last time; I just specified the destination) and she did not disappoint. If you are a gin lover or just want to try a new specialty small venue, please do. Cheers!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We stopped by around 8:00 pm and noticed a cute outside seating area with about five wrought iron tables — three were taken. It was muggy out, so we put our names on the waiting list (10 minutes) hoping to cool down inside. When we stepped inside, the vibe was cozy and seemed like the perfect spot for a quick cocktail before our walking ghost tour. The hostess who greeted and seated us was friendly and welcoming.
Once seated, however, the room felt just as warm as outside and quite crowded. We were given a small plates menu, a specialty menu, and a large liquor menu — plus a bottle of room-temperature water with two glasses. No one explained whether the warm water was intentional, and after being seated, no server ever approached our table. After waiting more than 10 minutes without service, we decided to leave.
We left a few dollars on the table and let the hostess know. The atmosphere and concept are appealing, but the lack of service really soured the experience for us.
Service: 2
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to cap off your evening, The Gin Joint is a great choice. I stopped by after dinner for a drink and loved the relaxed yet vibrant vibe. The space is beautifully decorated with both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a solid pick for couples or small groups.
Instead of ordering from the menu, I sat at the bar and let the bartender work her magic based on the flavors I like. She nailed it not just once, but twice. My first drink was spot-on, and the second kicked things up a notch in the best way. The service was warm and intentional, which added to the experience.
If you’re in Charleston and enjoy craft cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting, I’d definitely recommend making time for The Gin Joint.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We had a great night at the gin joint! Sat at the bar for some cocktails and a bite-and this place did not disappoint. Veronica was the bartender and she was a master of her craft! The menu was approachable but innovative (that includes cocktails and food). They have a cool concept where you can pick two flavor combos and the bartender surprises you will something yummy! Both myself, and the person sitting next to us, said it was the next cocktail that we have ever had. Bravo Gin Joint! We will be back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Fantastic cocktail joint with awesome cozy vibe. Sat at the little bar in the back and had some of the best cocktails we've ever had. Bartender was very knowledgeable and in tune to serving drinks to suit our specific taste, even offering a name 2 adjectives cocktail. If you go we would recommend asking for the Tokyo Rose made with a Japanese Rye whiskey. The small bites of food were excellent as well.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Walked into an empty bar with a group of 6 (all over 40, well dressed, etc ..) and they refused to seat us. Hostess was very rude and has no interest in figuring out how to let our group enjoy a drink. We even offered to split men and women to different tables and they called it a loop hole and told us to go elsewhere. If you don't have a group of exactly 4, don't bother; if you do, probably shouldn't bother anyway. Go to Peacock across the street where they treat you well and have a great rooftop.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
I rarely leave negative reviews, but this experience was unacceptable. We came in for drinks and were never welcomed or even acknowledged by our waitress—no eye contact, no greeting. After sitting for almost 30 minutes without service, we finally asked if we could order. The response we received was nothing short of dismissive, with clear attitude that she was “too busy” and that we’d just have to wait.
A cocktail bar should be about hospitality as much as drinks, and unfortunately The Gin Joint failed on the most basic level of service. With so many great spots in Charleston, I will not be coming back here again.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Phenomenal. Food and drinks delicious, and service was amazing.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Excellent adventurous cocktail experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
10/10 got the bartender to make a “mystery drink, describing and spicy” and he crushed it.
Great bar
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Lucy was angry we ordered a 2nd round (I think she wanted to leave or something) and after complaining to the manager within earshot of our table, she came back to the table and told us we would be “cut off” afterward. We tried to ask why but she ignored us. We never saw her again as Sammy had to take over. He was a lot nicer. Ordered a hamburger that was apparently premade. It wad lousy.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 2
Service: 1
Great craft cocktail bar! Stopped by tonight just before they closed and sat at the bar for a cocktail before last call. The bartender was amazing! What I was craving was not on the menu so I told him tequila, spicey, lime and cucumber and we created a delicious drink that always well balanced! The drinks are not cheap but they are good! Will be back for sure on my next visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great speakeasy vibe. The best craft cocktails in town. I didn't eat here, but the drinks and service were fantastic.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
We were in Charleston for 6 days and we never got in. They were closed for private parties and one day they were even closed because the A/C was out. Now I understand why they don't take reservations.
Could not be happier! These guys are top notch, the food, the cocktails the service were perfect. Special thanks to Wells for all the work put in coordinating the event with me. - Above and Beyond
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