50 Best Cafes near Johns Island

“My first time here and the shakes are amazing. I had the salted Carmel pretzel. I don’t live here and was visiting my daughter and she and I came here. The hydration tea was also good and gave me energy that I certainly needed. Lots of flavors to choose from. Suyin was very informative about her products and was very friendly. I will definitely be back.“

“Absolutely love this new cafe!!. It is in such a great location on the way to Kiawah Island. To Go options, smoothies, brunch options, coffee, alcohol, picnic options, indoor sit down dining, and outdoor air down dining options. Atmosphere is super fresh, clean, everyone is so friendly and kind. We were a bit nervous stopping at a new place but absolutely fell in love. We also have two little boys and we did not feel uncomfortable or a nuisance. We often times run into that feeling when eating but that was not the case. They also had a refrigerator full of all local business products from local alcohol to local bagels to local ice cream. We will be definitely stopping by next time we go to Kiawah and also we will be bringing all of our local friends. Such a nice warm welcome change when it comes to places to eat in the Kiawah area.“

“Seriously the best Cuban sandwich I have ever eaten and I spent time in Miami! The pork was tender and delicious and really set the bar high for the rest of the sandwich which was exceptional! Give this a go if you are in the area!“

“Popular, bustling cafe that offers indoor and outdoor seating and always aims to please. Fresh, original, creative dishes along with the usual fare. The staff is wonderful and cares about your experience.. A Johns Island original.“

“Well, after 25 years of visiting the Tomato Shed on a regular basis, you've finally done it. You made a meal that I didn't like. My mother in law (from Michigan) insists on going to the Tomato Shed every time they visit Charleston, which we are always happy to accommodate. This visit, I had the meatloaf. It was well prepared, others at our table thought it was great. I just didn't care for it. No, there was nothing wrong with it. Yes, it looked wonderful, and smelled amazing. I have no valid complaint about it. I just didn't care for it.

So, why am I writing this review? Because it is the first time since moving back home that I didn't absolutely love everything I've had there. Such a rarity needs to be remarked upon.

Our server was awesome (I didn't remember his name, but he was cheerful and fun), the ambience was very pleasant, as always, and the whole experience was excellent. But, for the first time ever, the Tomato Shed was not *perfect*.

Overall, great job. Keep up the good work.“

“No fuss, no muss low country breakfast place. Fast and friendly service. Menu is full of excellent choices for breakfast. When I'm in the mood for something savory I choose the country fried steak benedict. The flavor combinations are interesting. The portion is generous and I like to add a little kick to the gravy by adding some of the local hot sauce that they make readily available. When I want something sweet I go with the crepes with whipped cream, strawberries, and Nutella. Sure I get a solid sugar high and usually try to offset that by drinking way too much of the their French roast coffee but after all breakfast is supposed to be fun, right?“

“We wanted to try your coffee due to recommendations from YouTuber Ryan Trahan and his wife Haley!! Your coffee is amazing! We purchased the cold brew and spiced dirty chia. We are from Austin, Texas and happen to be here on vacay!!“

“Java Java Café is a great spot in Freshfields Village for fresh food and excellent coffee. The ingredients always taste fresh, and the customer service is outstanding—friendly, welcoming, and attentive every time. I highly recommend The Club for lunch; it’s filling and packed with great flavor. Be sure to ask about their seasonal specials, as they often have fun, limited-time options worth trying. A must-visit for breakfast or lunch!“

“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!“

“Service was fast! The drinks and food were incredible. I’m a guy with a big appetite and the sandwich was very filling. I was impressed the quality of the biscuit, the egg, and the added bacon (extra thick!!)

Great aesthetic too. Top tier Cafe, absolutely.“

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

“We loved our breakfast at Lost Dog Café in Folly Beach! I had the biscuits and gravy with a side of cheesy grits — both were absolutely delicious and comforting. The kids got the happy pancakes, which were a huge hit and so fun with the fruit face design. My wife had the traditional breakfast, and everything came out hot, fresh, and perfectly cooked.

The cozy, laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff made it such an enjoyable start to the day. Definitely a must-visit breakfast spot when you’re in Folly Beach!“

“I’ve been in here a number of times for coffee and to do some work. Usually a fairly quiet spot plus their coffee is great. If you have a sweet tooth give the peanut butter mocha a shot, it’s incredible. Friendly staff and great coffee, highly recommend Babas if you’re downtown!“

“It was my first time using blackbird VIP dining rewards along with going to cafe roca ann even while it being busy the cashier lady was the sweetest an very helpful. The size of the bagel for the price it’s sold at is amazing, I was able to save half for later. The wontons are absolutely amazing along with the tacos. I would have never thought to put a breakfast food in a wonton nor an egg taco but the freshness and overall taste together was wonderful. Will continue to go here“

“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.“

“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.“

“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.!💜“

“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.“

“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.“

“My boyfriend and I stopped here after I told him DO NOT take me to Charleston and stop at a Starbucks! 😂 he was so glad I found this coffee shop, which was 4 mins away from the Starbucks. I believe he had one of the energy boosting drinks, which I had a sip of and it was amazing. I don’t even like those normally, but I would buy it on a hot afternoon. I had the Salty Cowboy. I was nervous ordering it hot, because it sounded better cold, but I prefer hot coffee 24/7. It was the best latte I’ve ever had. I’m in Charlotte, so I took note of the flavors to make it at home. I’m sure it won’t taste quite the same, but I NEED that latte every morning now!!!! I would’ve never thought of those flavors for a latte but wow, I’ll remember that one for years.

Also- I am a coffee lover, not a syrup lover. So if you’re worried this latte is too sickly, it is not. It was the perfect balance of coffee, sea salt, coconut and caramel. I also added a pinch of sea salt and cinnamon to the top of mine. I felt this latte was amazing, because the flavors went so well with the espresso. 13/10. I was talking about it all weekend!“

“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!“

“personal service, delicious food. very accommodating, my wife us on a low sodium diet and they were very helpful.“

“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!!“

“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.“

“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. :)“

“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!“

“Lovely atmosphere, convenient location, friendly staff.“

“Amazing coconut cake, thank you!“

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

“The Spicoli and the Redneck....Blackened Fish Tacos. 10/10.“

“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!!!“

“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!!! 😊“

“First time to Folly Beach. Found Center Street Coffee right away. Best blueberry scone ever and my mocha latte was phenomenal! Highly recommend.“

“What do I recommend about Carmella’s? EVERYTHING and EVERYONE! We found this gem last year on our post Christmas visit. And Mandy is simply the best. Love this place!“

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

“$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.“

“Best vegan desserts I’ve had“

“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.“

“We stopped in for Friday night dinner. Being out of town and wanting a great steak without bougie or being super spending. Ted’s tenderloin was melt in your mouth with a great smokey flavor. Service was great and the atmosphere was exactly what we were looking for. Thank you.“

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

“I am giving a combined 4 stars because while this place was good, it is definitely overpriced. I paid $25 for 2 coffees and that just seems outrageous to me. I love coffee and I've tried a lot of different places, none as costly as this. The coffee was also just fine, it wasn't anything special.

The area is very nice though! There's a nature center nearby that had a baby gator, opossum, and much more. While I recommend, just don't plan on finding anything reasonably priced.“

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

“I stopped into Petit Merci yesterday morning to see what they had to offer, and I was absolutely delighted. It’s a charming little French-style market in downtown Charleston, beautifully curated with an amazing selection of fresh breads, cheeses, meats, and other gourmet treats. The focaccia was perfectly soft with just the right amount of chew, the baguette had that crisp, golden crust you’d expect from a true French bakery, and the aged salami paired wonderfully with the fresh cheese I picked up. The roasted chicken sandwich was packed with flavor and felt like something straight out of a Parisian café. And the sea salt chocolate chip cookies? Simply divine—chewy, rich, and with the perfect touch of salt to balance the sweetness.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable, happy to offer recommendations. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a special treat, or ingredients for a beautiful charcuterie board, this is the place to go. I’ll definitely be returning for more!“

“Awesome food! Awesome atmosphere! Awesome service!“

“I come here at least once a week and I do my own laundry. It's the best laundrymat in downtown Charleston, which really isn't saying much. Pros...they are open early, they always have an employee on premises is you have a problem, good location, and $1 cans of soda. Also, its a big place with lots of room and places to fold your clothes. Cons...no matter how many quarters I use in the dryer, my clothes are never completely dry. I use the 4 quarters to get it started, then usually add another 2 more at least. And my loads are really small (that's what she said). The machines where you can buy detergent and dryer sheets are not working properly half the time and are severely overpriced. The building is really old and doesn't have any outlets if you want to charge your phone or tablet or whatever. Overall, its in the middle of the road as far as laundrymats go. Ive been to laundrymats all over the country and I think im qualified to make that determination. Oh also, its near the college and pretty girls are always walking by so there's that too.....“

“Amazing! Everything was delicious! The owners and staff were very professional and attentive! It was a great first experience! We will return soon!“