50 Best Bars near Johns Island

“Great food and atmosphere!“

“One of our favourite spots on the island“

“I stopped in after the lunch rush at around 2. There was no one at the front desk and no one at the bar. In fact there was no one anywhere. I stood there quite awhile before anyone sat me. Once I was seated everything was great. Honestly I do not know how they fry their shrimp so perfectly every single time. Fresh, local fried shrimp. I’ve not had better anywhere.“

“Only tried the coffee and pastries for our first visit, coffee was 10/10 as was the cream puff, hands down the best I’ve ever had (it was overflowing with delicious filling)! With having a small child I really appreciated that they find & bring your order to you! Can’t wait to go back to try the other menu items!
Oh I also have to give a shoutout for the terrific napkins, they’re not the wimpy ones where you need 10 to wipe one finger!“

“The best, freshest seafood! Best fish taco i ever put in my mouth. And love the atmosphere!“

“I have a long, productive day where I celebrating accepting a new job with CPI Security and hanging out with Dad today who lives adlund the corner on Society. Both my parents came here back in the 60's. It was phenomenal and very enjoyable! They staff killer - very friendly. Also, I'm a former craft cocktail bartender with a fairly refined palette and that Manhattan was fire! 🔥✌🏼“

“Always a stop for me while in Charleston to see what new bottles they have on the bar. Neta was lovely. Cheers LS staff 🙏🏻

Edit:
Still my favorite spot to grab a drink and chat with friends. Staff still doing an awesome job“

“Everything was a hit! Cheddar bacon fries with the cheddar dust, amazing. Black and blue burger, fried shrimp, and the Harlow, the best hands down. Then there’s the MASSIVE banana pudding. We live in Summerville, but will for sure be making the trip back!“

“We visited Halls Chophouse for our first anniversary dinner last night. We were greeted by Billy and his staff with open arms! The service combined with the amazing food and atmosphere was a 5 ⭐️ experience. We are already planning our next visit!“

“Absolutely love this place! Zachary’s Daiquiris is one of the best hidden gems in downtown Charleston. The atmosphere is laid-back but lively, and the staff are always friendly and quick to serve. The daiquiris are perfectly mixed — strong enough to feel it, but smooth enough to enjoy every sip. My personal favorite is the Edisto, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of their flavors.

The music’s always good, the crowd’s fun, and it’s the perfect spot to stop by before a night out or just to relax after a long day. Definitely one of my go-to places in Charleston — highly recommend if you’re looking for great drinks and even better vibes. 🍹“

“Tucked away behind an unassuming facade, this spot is pure Charleston magic. Dim lighting, impeccable cocktails, and lowcountry charm create an unforgettable experience. The thoughtfully crafted drinks and a whispering vibe make you feel part of a well-kept secret. A true hidden gem—if you know, you know.“

“Had the steak & cheese eggrolls, pulled pork nachos and pineapple passionfruit marg. All so good! Would def come back and recommend to others! 😁“

“Among the best Keylime pie that I’ve ever tasted! The shrimp Poboy was delicious, and the scallops were amazing. Lightly breaded perfectly prepared!“

“Had a great experience and stay… we enjoyed our time at the pool bar. Bartenders were very engaging and friendly.. great group and they make great drinks. Cozy and quaint.. just wish they played music around pool and not just on the bar side.“

“Leon's is literally in my dreams! My boyfriend and I went there for the first time three years ago. It blew our minds! Affordable, delicious food, and such a fun atmosphere. We returned a couple of times on the same trip. We live in NJ... and set up a trip last year JUST to go to Leons. I am actually scared to post a review because I selfishly want to keep it a secret for my boyfriend and I. Man, if you like chicken and oysters... you cannot go wrong. Damn, now I need to set up another trip. :)“

“Awesome little dive bar! The burgers are some of the best in have ever had! Great prices! You do have to order at the bar and that can be a little hard if they are super busy, there were only 2 people behind the bar and they are doing everything. 10/10 would eat here again!“

“To the owner: the AC is set on 68 and pulling to 79. While the fans in the corners (moving air = imperative), you gotta upgrade the AC. Your staff is great…amazing. But these working conditions should have OSEA in here. Invest in AC…!!!! 😘“

“Atmosphere, food, staff, great place!“

“I LOVE Lowlife bar!! The servers and bartenders are incredible! I came by for lunch and the server brought me all the different dipping sauces for the shrimp sandwich. The customer service is 1000/10 and the food and drinks tasted amazing. Highly recommend!“

“Our server Tiyonna was incredible and we had an amazing time! The decor was so cute and the atmosphere was such a vibe. Drinks and truffle fries were delish and a dj performed started around 9/9:30 which added to the already amazing atmosphere!“

“Dive vibes are off the charts here, such an awesome little gem. There was a live band playing and they were super fun. PBR is mandatory here as they are one of the largest sellers of 12oz cans in the country I believe. Crushed some tots here as well and they were perfectly crispy“

“Great food, great atmosphere, loved everything about this place!“

“I have never had anything less than a 5 star experience at Bar George. The menu, delicious. The cocktails, creative. The vibes, high. Spencer is awesome, he’s very attentive and a great conversationalist. Extra bonus, he never lets empty plates or drinks sit for a while on the bar which I appreciate! Knows the menu very well and can point you in the direction of what you’re looking for. Not to mention the creative, funky decor that definitely adds to the high vibes. Definitely check them out if you haven’t yet!“

“Best comfort food in West Ashley! Daily specials are all homemade and portions are huge! Best deal in Charleston!“

“Get the ricotta gnocchi with the truffle service!“

“Simply perfection! The oyster selection is otherworldly. The chargrilled oysters the best Ive had in my life. (Florida born an culinary chef.) The peel & eat shrimp so plump and served ice cold I have craved them since I had them. The service was above and beyond. The atmosphere encouraged private chatter but also conversation with next table easily. Friendly and cheerful and above all excellent food served with smiles, suggestions, and ease. I will never visit Charleston again without making sure to dine here. (Do not eat the soup. I actually sent it back to the kitchen. Never have I had to do that. ) Highly recommend again and again for everything else.“

“We had our welcome drinks event here for our wedding and if I could give more than 5 stars, I would! The staff was incredible, the drinks were delicious, the atmosphere was so fun and classy. We’ve also been many times for late night drinks and had a blast. We absolutely loved working with them and will continue to sing their praises for many years to come!! Thanks so much to Tatum, Kate and the whole Groovers crew! This is THE PLACE in Charleston to have your event!“

“This was the most amazing experience on our 10 day road trip! We needed "adventures " and they allowed us to put a a sign above their bar for our beloved deceased friend. it stayed up the entire weekend we were there. you have no idea how much we love amd appreciate you amd your kindness!!“

“An authentic neighborhood pub feel!!!!! Very friendly atmosphere!!!!! Nice beer and whiskey selection Wonderful food“

“Had a great time. I’m not someone who interacts with people unless I’m talked to first. But regardless of that they made me feel very welcome. Service was great. People watching was just as great. And I had a gorgeous girl who sat next to me and didn’t make me feel weird for existing. 10/10 recommend. Music isn’t too loud so you can have an actual conversation. And drinks are very reasonably priced. I’ll be back again.“

“I went here with my cousin while visiting Charleston for the first time. We could not have picked a better place to eat. HIGHLY recommend the dumpwings and the pretzel appetizer as well as the Bubba burger. Incredible amazing food coupled with amazing service. Made us feel right at home. If I visit charleston again, I will be coming back.“

“Great ambience and open mics on Wednesdays“

“My kids will never again be able to vacation at a resort with a “regular” pool! This complex is amazing with everything you need for a fun vacation. Besides the pools with kid-friendly water features and slides, the park also has a playground, market and cafe, poolside restaurant with great food and drinks, and fitness center. There are plenty of complimentary towels, lounge chairs, and shaded tables for having a meal. There are family activities throughout the week, and the highlight is the festival every summer Wednesday evening with games, entertainment and $3 ice cream!“

“We stopped in for a cocktail on our way out to dinner and couldn't have been more delighted with what we found.

We sat at the bar and were immediately greeted by Allen and Anna. Drinks aren't the only thing being served at this beautiful speakeasy-style bar. The rapport with our bartenders was top notch. They were friendly, welcoming, helpful, and knowledgeable - truly enjoyable to converse with.

With that said, as much as the service shines, the drinks here are definitely the star. Thoughtfully crafted and oh so delicious, we only wished we had more time to stay for more. So much so that we went back the next evening as well. If we ever find ourselves back in the area, we will definitely be stopping by again.“

“Good vibes! Great beers! Great to have this spot in the neighborhood !“

“This place is awesome in so many ways. Friendly staff, clean, roomy, comfy furniture and I have rarely seen so many beverage choices. They have craft beers of all kinds and its a very posh and hip hang-out! They also have various food vendors on different nights so there isn't boring bar food. Check 'em out!!“

“We went to the Terrace Theatre's special showing of Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me for my birthday and wanted to grab a bite first, but I wanted to stay REAL CLOSE to the Theatre on Maybank Hwy. I asked my foodie group for recommendations and read reviews here and chose this place because they have a Sushi Ninja popup on Wed-Thur-Fri. We LOVE SUSHI! And hubs loves whiskey!

Traffic was SO BAD it took an hour and a half to get to the Terrace from Goose Creek. Left at 4:45, parked at 6:15. Show at 7:30. This is why I stick close to home. But we hit Paddock & Whiskey and had the best time, great drinks, and excellent Sushi Ninja sushi! Best in Charleston? That's a high bar. But wow. This was excellent sushi. I ate a piece before the pic, it looked so good.

We got the Nigiri Mori at the recommendation of the amazing bartender, and I also got her favorite gin and tonic. Local, very fruity and naturally sweet. Lovely! The drink was good too LOL Seriously, though, the Tropical Gin from Beyond Distilling Company is sweet and fruity-good.

The Aburi scallop is not to be missed! I swear I got an almost Bleu cheese taste from it, in the most pleasant and pungent way. The A5 Wagyu was also a hit. The Bluefin Tuna, Hamachi, and regular scallop with smoked sea salt were all so fresh and delicious. It was all so good. The sushi chef came out since he was told it was our first time and was so kind and genuine in his appreciation for the fish. I am impressed.

The sushi was gone in a minute so we ordered another round and hubby was offered a discount dram (or 2) of a special bourbon and of course he couldn't say no. It was worth it.

The space is tight but that makes it cozy and sincere. I would totally hang out all the time if I were local. The outdoor seating is great, too.

This is an incredible locals bar tucked away in an art theater strip mall with an amazing sushi meal three nights a week. Where do I sign up? If you're in the area, check 'em out! If you're on the way, be patient and turn up the music. It's all waiting for you.

Would brave the horrific traffic again for it.“

“Best cocktails in Charleston!“

“A great place to spend the late afternoon. Always good food trucks and dog friendly.“

“Fabulous champagne bar. Great selection of champagne by the glass. You can try things here you can’t normally find by the glass. Fantastic service also.“

“Great food, prompt service. The polenta was wonderful!“

“Great service and food. Live music was awesome. Will be back!“

“Each time I come down to stay at our family’s home in Kiawah, we always end up walking down the beach to The Sanctuary’s Bar to end our evening. This year the staff was A++++. I have to give a special shoutout to Nel, Britney & Mr. Wesley for going above & beyond the entire week, each night we visited. From seeing some of us waiting in line & before we even got to the front of the line, knowing & having our drinks ready or to helping my grandmother onto our golf cart as she is handicap. They made our family have the most fun we have had in years down here in Kiawah. We look forward to being back over Easter. Thanks for everyone who took care of us throughout the week!“

“Awesome Dining Room!! Wonderful food Great Atmosphere!“

“It's a great place to hang out! The bartenders are on point and you can sing karaoke every Friday. I'll see you there.“

“Hotel Bennett is like a Ritz Carlton. Superior in every way.“

“Bar Mash - The Perfect Spot for Charleston Euchre Club! Bar Mash in downtown Charleston is an exceptional venue where our Charleston Euchre Club meets every Tuesday. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere that's perfect for our weekly euchre games. The staff is always friendly and attentive, making sure we have everything we need to enjoy our time there. The bar offers a fantastic selection of craft beers, cocktails, and delicious food, all at reasonable prices, which makes it easy to stay for hours and enjoy the evening. Whether you're a regular or a newcomer, Bar Mash provides the perfect setting for great games, good drinks, and even better company. We highly recommend it for any group gathering or casual night out!“

“Best bartenders on James island“

“My brother surprised me with a visit to the Black Diamondz Lounge for my birthday. I danced, ate all the seafood a woman could want and had a great time! Thank you for a truly special birthday experience.“

“Drinks kind of watered down( well I think the bartender was new and nerves) food great ...atmosphere great....service great....music great....Definitely a nice place to hang out, relax, and sing your heart out( karaoke in full effect always)“