16 Hidden Gems for the Best Happy Hour in Charleston

There’s a little-known secret about Charleston that we’re about to spill, and it’s not just about its cobblestone streets or historic charm.

Dive into a world where the clinking of glasses meets Southern hospitality in a dance of flavors and fun.

Charleston’s happy hour scene is an ever-evolving tapestry, from artisanal cocktails to delectable nibbles.

In this article, we’re counting down the crème de la crème of this city’s happy hour spots.

Grab your friends and set your clocks, because it’s time to uncover the best places in Charleston where happy hour is, quite frankly, the happiest!

Rooftop at Vendue Happy Hour
Photo Credit: Rooftop at Vendue

1. The Rooftop at the Vendue

The Rooftop at the Vendue is Charleston’s number one rooftop bar! This lively spot boasts stunning city views that will instantly elevate your mood.

You’ll love the impressive variety of drinks on offer, making it nearly impossible to choose just one.

But don’t worry; their amazing happy hour deals will have you sipping on crowd favorites like signature cocktails and wines without emptying your wallet.

To sweeten the deal, the Vendue hosts special events like their summer tiki party, adding a touch of island vibes to your happy hour experience. It’s also an excellent spot to catch the sunset!

2. Prohibition

The Prohibition is one of Charleston’s swankiest joints for happy hour. This classy cocktail bar takes you back to the 1920s with its elevated cuisine and inventive libations, all served in a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.

Their happy hour from 4-6pm on weekdays has gained quite a reputation among locals.

Sip on delicious cocktails and munch on some customer favorites. From delightful appetizers to mouth-watering mains, Prohibition has something for everyone.

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3. Moe’s Crosstown Tavern

Step into the lively atmosphere of Moe’s Crosstown Tavern, a vintage pub located near Hampton Park.

At Moe’s, you’ll find yourself surrounded by sports enthusiasts cheering on their favorite teams. Their menu is filled with classic American favorites like burgers and wraps, so you’ll never be short on tasty options.

Moe’s is a popular spot for happy hour in Charleston, so don’t miss out on sipping their special Moscow mules or draft beers for a fun-filled evening!

Their happy hour runs from 4-7 pm on weekdays with an array of $5 food specials like onion rings, mac & cheese bites and more.

The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits
Photo Credit: The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits

4. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits

The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits is a magical place that transports you to cloud nine with breathtaking panoramas of Charleston’s architectural beauty.

You will not be disappointed with this stunning view from the 7th floor of The Restoration Hotel.

While they don’t have a traditional happy hour, they do have specials on weekdays including $10 cocktails on Fridays, Tequila + Tacos on Thursdays from 4pm to close and much more.

The incredible view isn’t all – get ready to drool over the soulful menu, boasting a selection of dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss out on the crispy fried chicken and cheeseburger sliders.

If you’re really looking to impress your friends or that special someone, make sure you grab a cozy lounge chair at the rooftop bar during golden hour.

The day’s final light reflecting off Charleston’s historic buildings will certainly set the mood!

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5. Pearlz Oyster Bar

Get ready to be swept off your feet at Pearlz Oyster Bar in Charleston. This eatery boasts unique and delicious options that will leave you hungry for more.

Indulge yourself in their legendary happy hour from Monday through Friday, 4pm-6pm. But don’t stop there – explore their fantastic menu with exciting favorites like their decadent peel-and-eat shrimp or refreshing oyster shooter.

Enjoy these tasty treats at their gorgeous marshfront location with spectacular views.

Pearlz Oyster Bar Charleston
Photo Credit: Pearlz Oyster Bar Charleston

6. Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar

Step right into the cheerful atmosphere of Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar, where you’ll find some of the best happy hour deals in Charleston.

This delightful spot is known for its fantastic seafood, and it’s truly a shrimp-and-oyster-lover’s paradise!

When you swing by during happy hour, which runs from 3:00-6:00 PM, you’ll have the chance to indulge in specials on 1/2 & Full Dozen Oysters.

Other customer favorites include the famous Oyster Shooters and peel-and-eat shrimp. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on these tasty offerings.

What makes Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar truly special is its rich history and charming ambiance.

As a top Charleston destination, this eatery has woven itself into the fabric of the city’s hospitality scene!

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7. The Rarebit

Step into the lively atmosphere of The Rarebit, where Charleston’s happy hour scene takes flight!

This hotspot knows how to put a smile on your face with their beyond-brilliant mix of American and brunch dishes.

From Tuesdays to Fridays, between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm, this buzzing enclave tempts you with $5 drink specials and wines, and $4 freshly poured draft beers.

Secure your prime spot, and while you’re at it, let your taste buds dance to the rhythm of fan favorites: the crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich, the savory Patty Melt, and the zestful Huevos Rancheros.

Peek behind the scenes and you’ll find that what truly sets The Rarebit apart is its dedication to celebrating Charleston’s vibrant culture through flavor-packed dishes and charming ambiance.

Come on down, sip on some discounted libations, and savor the good times in style!

The Rarebit
Photo Credit: The Rarebit

8. Faculty Lounge

Faculty Lounge is a Charleston speakeasy with amazing happy hour delights. Sip away your worries in this neighborhood cocktail bar, which boasts a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere.

Feel the magic starting at 6:00 pm as you treat yourself to their well-curated drink selections.

You’re in for a fantastic ride with the friendly bartenders, who’ll nudge you towards some of their masterpiece concoctions. The charm and quirkiness of this spot are simply irresistible!

Those hunger pangs won’t leave you high and dry either. Faculty Lounge has got you covered with their Asian market snacks, or you can always savor some delicious pizza from their neighbor, Renzo.

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9. Blind Tiger Pub

All aboard to the Blind Tiger Pub in Charleston, SC. This delightful spot offers a historical ambiance combined with modern twists. Prepare to be charmed by its unique character!

You’re in for a treat when it comes to their happy hour selections. With options like $5 local drafts, $5 house liquor, and $5 draft wine, your wallet will be saying, “Thank you!”

Don’t forget to try out the customer favorites, as these mouth-watering choices will redefine your taste in pub food.

This pub is not only known for its libations and savory bites but also has some live music to dance the night away!

10. Herd Provisions

Herd Provisions is a friendly spot that serves a feast of cocktail, beer, and wine specials, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to unwind after a long day.

Not to mention, their daily happy hour is from 4 pm to 6 pm, available at the bar or on their welcoming patio.

This is where you’ll find an array of customer favorites like the HERD Burger and Make Your Own Mule.

Indaco Charleston
Photo Credit: Indaco Charleston

11. Indaco

Indaco is where high spirits and fine dining collide! This charming Italian eatery nestled in charming Charleston offers something for everyone with a taste for rustic Italian cuisine.

Your eyes will sparkle with delight as you treat yourself to Indaco’s wood-fired pizzas and hand-crafted pastas.

You haven’t lived until you savor the flavors brought to you by their house-made salami and cured sausages.

Indaco doesn’t just dazzle with food, they also host a happy hour that will make your heart sing.

Available Monday- Friday, 5pm – 7pm, you’ll find it hard to resist the magic of discounted drinks and snacks.

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12. John King Grill & Dueling Piano Bar

With live music and a happening atmosphere, John King Grill & Dueling Piano Bar is the perfect spot to unwind during happy hour, running daily from 4pm-7pm with $4 special shots.

At this lively establishment, you’ll be treated to their famous smashed burgers and signature cocktails. The dueling piano bar is a hot spot every Wednesday to Saturday night from 8pm to 1am, so make sure to swing by and catch the unforgettable show.

Besides the scrumptious food and drinks, John King Grill offers a plethora of entertainment options like sports screens upstairs and downstairs ensuring you never miss a game during your visit.

Uptown Social Charleston
Photo Credit: Uptown Social Charleston

13. Uptown Social

Step right into the fun and lively atmosphere at Uptown Social, a popular happy hour spot in Charleston!

This bustling bar is known for its unbeatable half-price deals from 4-7 pm, Monday through Thursday.

What makes Uptown Social truly shine, however, is their fantastic mix of entertainment, cozy seating, and communal spirit.

But don’t you worry about food and drinks! Customers rave about their tasty wings and pizza – perfect with a chilled beverage.

And, of course, there’s a wide variety of drink specials to make your happy hour even happier.

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14. Barsa Tapas Lounge & Bar

Dive into the rhythmic beats of Spanish flair right in the heart of downtown Charleston at Barsa Tapas Lounge & Bar! From 4-7pm, their daily happy hour tempts with a tantalizing $2 off tapas.

And if that’s not enough, prepare your palate for an exhilarating dance, from the succulent Local Shrimp to the sinfully delicious Cheese Stuffed Dates.

For the veggie lovers out there, don’t you worry—you’ll find scrumptious dishes like Broccolini and Roasted Olive Mushrooms ready to knock your socks off.

Barsa also offers a lip-smacking Sunday brunch from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Plus, they’re super accommodating to diverse diets like vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options—now that’s a well-rounded experience.

The Gin Joint
Photo Credit: The Gin Joint

15. The Gin Joint

Get ready for a swanky joint in Charleston that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a speakeasy! The Gin Joint is known for its vintage ambiance and superb libations.

When it comes to their happy hour, it doesn’t disappoint. Running Monday through Friday from 5-7 pm, you’ll find delicious cocktails that are simply irresistible.

Don’t miss their signature “Bartender’s Choice” – where they craft a unique concoction specially tailored to your taste!

What makes The Gin Joint extra special are some of their small plates like house-made pretzels and charcuterie boards, which make the perfect accompaniment to your cocktails. Cheers to finding your new favorite Charleston haunt!

16. The Cocktail Club

When it comes to Charleston’s finest, you can’t miss The Cocktail Club. Why, you ask? It’s an upscale lounge boasting a classy atmosphere and meticulously crafted libations!

With an array of delicious drink options, picking just one favorite is near impossible. But if you must start somewhere, their Old Fashioned or Moscow Mule should not disappoint.

Happy Hour at The Cocktail Club awaits you Monday – Thursday from 5 to 8 PM with some irresistible deals on select craft beers, wines, and their featured cocktail.

Final Thoughts

From frosty mimosas that play hide and seek with the sun to cocktails that make you wink twice, this city truly knows how to let its hair down.

Now, if you’re itching to elevate your evening adventures even further, why not take it to the skies?

Slide into our next read and discover Charleston’s best rooftop bars that promise dizzying views and drinks to match!