Play Ball: Charleston Sporting Events for Every Season

<alt="Balls"/>Do you love sports? We do!

In Charleston, you have plenty of places to enjoy a sporting event, no matter what season or what sports you prefer.

Here are some of our favorite sporting events you can attend in our great city:

Baseball with The RiverDogs

Every Charleston resident knows where to find family-friendly, affordable (tickets start at $6), and fun entertainment: Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, home of the Charleston RiverDogs. The Charleston RiverDogs are a professional minor league baseball team and Class-A affiliate of the New York Yankees.

Wondering what a RiverDog is? The name says it all. A RiverDog is a dog that lives within a half-mile radius of a river. Makes perfect sense for team in Charleston, right?

Hockey With the Stingrays

Enjoy hockey? Then you’ll love spending time watching the three-time Kelly Cup Champion South Carolina Stingrays play a game. Their home stadium is the Ice Palace, which probably is the coolest name for a hockey stadium—ever.

Family Circle Tennis Center

The Family Circle Tennis Center provides public tennis courts year-round. Owned by the City of Charleston, and operated by Meredith Corporation, it’s also the location of the Family Circle Cup: the largest women-only event in tennis.

Charleston Sports and Social Club

It is possible to get in shape, crave your competitive hunger, and make friends — all at the same time — thanks to the Charleston Sports and Social Club. You don’t need to be a professional to have fun playing sports. There are thousands of active people and professionals in the CSSC who participate in actives like kickball, basketball, flag football, softball, volleyball, dodgeball, bowling, and cornhole. Yes—we said cornhole!

College Sports in Charleston

If you’re a fan of college sports, you can enjoy events of all types with the University of Charleston and the College of Charleston Athletics. Each college has over 20 different varsity-level teams, so you can enjoy watching sports like baseball, soccer, dodgeball.

Always a Place to Play Ball

Some people like to watch sports. Others like to play them. Perhaps you like to do both! In Charleston, there’s a place for you to do it all.

Who’s your favorite Charleston team? What’s your favorite sport to watch or play in our great city? Share with us below.

September: Charleston Events Roundup

<alt="arial act"/>The year is almost over! Time goes by quickly when you’re having fun, right? Thanks to these exciting Charleston events for September, it will be October before you know it. Don’t miss these opportunities to have some fun!

 

September 1: Beating the Surf

Join Capt. Ben Floyd at 6:30 p.m. at the Mt. Pleasant shop, as he covers everything from rod & reel selection, to bait and tackle, to which tides work in your favor. Surf Fishing is a great way to get anglers of all ages catching fish. Whether it’s bull redfish or bull sharks, the surf has it all.

Come enjoy a few drinks, learn some new skills and enjoy 10% off everything during the night of the seminar.

To register, please e-mail jj@thecharlestonangler.com. For more information, please visit this website.  

 

September 2, 7, 9, 14, 17, 21, 26, 30: Sherlock Holmes and the Charleston History Mystery

Join Sherlock Holmes for an Historical City Tour truly for everyone — where without ever leaving your theatre seat you will explore Charleston’s past, present, and … other worlds. Should you choose to volunteer, you may actually participate and play a victim, villain, or vile vision in The Case of Sherlock Holmes and the Charleston History Mystery!

$24 Adults, $22 College/Military, $15 Children 12 and Under.

Please see the website for showtimes and to purchase tickets.

 

September – Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday: Evenings in the Market

The weekly event, designed to showcase local artists, food vendors and designers, is from 6:30-10:30 p.m. every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from March through December.

For additional information, please visit this website.  

 

September 6: Downward Facing RiverDog

Come and enjoy some yoga at the Joe! International Yoga Instructor, Kathryn Budig, will be at the Joe teaching some yoga moves on the field. Gates open at 9 a.m. Yoga on the field is from 10-11 a.m. There will be free parking, live music by Estee Gabay and a cash bar featuring mimosas and bloody marys. All levels are welcome. The class will be playful and enjoyable for all. $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

For more information, please visit the website.  

 

September – Every Wednesday: Fall Wine Strolls

Sip and stroll in a different garden location each week while sampling old and new world wines. The season ends with a Masquerade Wine Stroll Finale on October 29!

Time: 6 – 8 p.m.

Cost: $20/online, $25/gate ($5 off for Foundation members).

For more information, please visit the website.

 

September 14: Dance with Dragons

The 2nd Annual Dance with Dragons offers a beautiful evening of outdoor circus arts performances including hooping, acroyoga, serial silks, slacklining, and juggling playshops. Spectate, play, perform, gawk, share, and make new friends. You might be tempted to run away to the circus afterwards!

This year’s even benefits Dragon Boat Charleston, a non-profit that promotes physical and mental wellness among local cancer survivors and their community.

4:00 p.m .- 8:00 p.m.

$5 for adults, kids attend free.

For more information, please visit the website.

 

September 20: 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Held annually in more than 650 communities nationwide, this inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to reclaim the future for millions. The Charleston walk will take place at the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina.

Registration at 8:00 a.m. | Ceremony at 8:45 a. m. | Walk at 9:00 a.m.

Route Length: 3 miles.

To register, please visit the website.

 

September 19-21: 7th Annual Autumn on the Ashley

The Tri-County Master Gardeners will host the 7th Annual Autumn on the Ashley open-air craft fair Sept. 19-21 at Magnolia. More than 50 vendors are expected to exhibit wood cravings, paintings, textiles, pottery, jewelry, culinary oils, and photographs. The Philip Simmons Artists Blacksmith Guild will demonstrate their craft while dancers entertain the crowd.

Autumn on the Ashley, which is free to the public, opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. A $100 vendor fee will be charged for a vendor booth space to display handcrafted items. No retail items will be allowed. Vendors are responsible for their own pop-up tent, tables and chairs. Vendors who require electricity are encouraged to register early. Eight spaces with electricity are available.

The Master Gardeners will answer gardening questions and provide soil samples. The cost for a soil analysis is $6 each. Call 843-722-5940 to get tips on how to collect a sample. Plants and gardening books will be on sale.

For information and to reserve a booth, call Magnolia’s operations manager Mary Ann Johnson at 843-571-1266, extension 229. You can also visit this website.

Charleston Spas to Refresh Your Mind and Body

Spa

Feeling stressed in your day-to-day routine? Muscles tightening up to the point where you feel “locked up” in certain positions? Wish to simply do nothing and get treated like a Queen (or King) for a long period of time?

Sometimes you just want to scream: “I CAN’T TAKE IT ANYMORE!”

We know how it feels. You mustn’t let yourself get to the point where the pain is unbearable. There’s something you can do to “reset” your body and mind: visit the spa. If you’re in the Charleston area, here are the places you need to check out:

 

Earthling Day Spa

Located in Downtown Charleston, Earthling Day Spa offers massage therapy, facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and wedding packages. To make this place even better, reviews report you get tea, snacks, and everything else required (a robe, soap, towels, etc.) to bathe before and after a massage.

Sweet185

Sweet185 is a sugaring studio and organic boutique. Their website offers many esthetic services, like natural hair removal, facials, and body treatments. They compliment each treatment with sea sponges and other natural skin-care products, so you can enjoy nature’s organically grown gifts during your treatment.

Urban Nirvana

Urban Nirvana is a small, but very relaxing, day spa and salon with Asian-inspired decor. The moment you walk in the door, you will get a warm welcoming. During your treatment, you will likely receive more than you came for. Reviews tell stories of how they received extra tips and advice for their health during treatment. This doesn’t surprise us considering their blog is very active and full of helpful health suggestions and tricks.

Seeking Indigo

Seeking Indigo is a wellness center and urban oasis that invites you to explore, heal, and awaken yourself. You can connect with local vendors, businesses, and artisans; you’ll also find Charleston’s treasures, art, food, and more here. Healing treatments and routines include Pilates, yoga, detoxing, and massaging. Experience meditation, workshops, and more when you visit Seeking Indigo.

The Spa at Belmond Charleston Place

Even though Belmond is primarily a hotel, it offers all the benefits of a day spa. Guests can walk in and use the spa services without booking a room. The Spa at Belmond offers deep tissue massages of all types — including Swedish, deep tissue, and warm stone. Belmond also offers skin care nourishments, like oxygen treatments, facials, and detoxifications.

Take Care in Charleston

Even though the world can be a stressful place, you can find comfort and peace in Charleston. The day spas here provide a place for you to unwind, so you can settle down and enjoy the moment.

Take a spa break in Charleston. You deserve it. What’s your favorite place to relax and recharge in the city?

5 Places to Golf in Lowcountry Charleston

<alt="Golf Course"/>One of the pleasures of golfing in Charleston is enjoying iconic sites while spending time on the course. Between holes, you may find yourself drifting off into the majestic horizon, as it really is that beautiful here. From the views of the harbor to the USS Yorktown to the Bridge—there’s a golf course in Charleston for everyone.

Some of the best places to golf in Charleston include the fine courses on our list below.

Get your clubs ready…
 

1. Patriots Point Golf Course

 
Patriots Point Golf Course places you right on the edge of the Charleston Harbor. This means you can enjoy ocean views while playing a round or two! Here’s a tip if you’re planning to visit this course: be ready to move up a club to deal with the windy conditions.
 

2. Wrenwoods Golf Course

 
Designed within Joint Base Charleston – Air Base, Wrenwoods Golf Course gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “take flight.” As you drive the ball across the green, or gently tap it into the hole, you’ll be surrounded with southern nature and all the beautiful wildlife that lives within it.
 

3. Daniel Island Golf Club

 
Experienced golfers may want to check out Daniel Island Golf Club. The course resembles one you’d see on the US Open, expect with a much lower slope rating. Located on Daniel Island, a historic island town within historic Charleston, this club features dining and amenities  like tennis, fitness, aquatics, and resort-style cottages.
 

4. Turtle Point Golf Course

 
Turtle Point Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a course you’ll enjoy, even if you have your worst game ever. Charming Southern traditions and hospitality surround you on every hole. Did you know this course is one of only four courses in the US to have hosted every major PGA event in the country? Now you do.
 

5. Charleston National

 
Charleston National is a championship course open to the public all year long. The course carves itself out of an intracoastal waterway, so you can take in the natural wetlands and pine and oak tree forest between shots. This 18-hole course is the only Rees Jones design in Charleston open to the public.
 

Unparalleled Views and History

 
The beautiful thing about golfing in Charleston is that every location provides a new experience. Golfers can take in the culture, beauty, charm, and rich history of the city no matter where they go.
 
Whether you visit the courses we recommend, or you play on one of the many we didn’t mention, we’re sure you’ll find what you’re looking for Charleston.
 
What’s your favorite golf course to play in Charleston?

The Best Bars & Brews in Charleston

<alt="Best Bars in Charleston"/>Founded in 1670, Charleston is a fine place to experience American history. When you visit Charleston, you’re treated with Southern charm from the locals while you walk along natural cobblestone-paved streets.

Spending time in Charleston also means you can take part in one of our greatest past times: drinking a nice cold ale (or cocktail, if you prefer) in one of the many restaurants, bars, cruises, or breweries.

If you’re visiting Charleston soon, or if you’re looking to explore somewhere new in your city, below you’ll discover today’s most popular places to grab a drink in Charleston.

Cheers!

Coast: A Lowcountry Bar and Restaurant by the Sea

According to Vacations Made Easy, hundreds of thousands of people visit Charleston each year. Experiencing historical architecture is likely one of the reasons to visit. Another reason is the people.

But let’s be honest here, people love food — especially when it’s down home Southern cooking! And what better way to enjoy a meal with friends than with a refreshing cold beer on the side?

Coast is where you can do exactly that.

Coast describes itself as a Lowcountry bar that services Charleston’s freshest seafood. Open from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Coast serves food with a cost ranging from $11-30. One of the favorites is fresh Escolar, which you can enjoy alongside a selection of eight different sauces. 

Coast also offers a full bar with drinks ranging from dozens of wine options to cold draughts to mixed cocktails.

 The Gin Joint Bar<alt="cocktail"/>

Open from 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., The Gin Joint Bar combines enthusiastic service with a plethora of mixed drinks sourced from local ingredients. Drinks at The Gin Joint Bar periodically change based on the season, so you can expect to try something new almost every time you go. links to http://theginjoint.com/

If you want to mix things up even more, you can have the bartender make you a drink based on two of the following words:

  • Refreshing
  • Fruit
  • Sweet
  • Herbal
  • Bitter
  • Floral
  • Tart
  • Strong
  • Fizzy
  • Vegetal
  • Unusual
  • Smokey
  • Savory
  • Spicy
  • Licorice
  • Nonalcoholic

Personally, a refreshing drink to beat the hot summer heat would be an ideal drink for us. What sounds good to you? With so many options, it will take you more than one visit to find your new favorite.

“Cruisin’ for a Brewsin” in Charleston

<alt="micro brewery"/>If you can’t decide what bar to settle with, the Charleston Brews Cruise is your best bet. Not to be confused with a booze cruise (an actual boat cruise with alcohol) the Brews Cruise is a group-focused bar hopping experience. links to http://www.brewscruise.com/charleston/

With a promise of behind-the-scenes glimpses of the art, science, and passion involved in the craft of beer, it’s almost impossible to turn this opportunity down. The Brews Cruise tours Charleston’s local breweries so you can see — and taste! — some local favorites.

Hop on the bus, and you’ll receive…

  • Four to five 5oz samples of brew at every location.
  • A cooler on the bus to keep a Growler, 22oz Bomber, or 6-pack purchased at a brewery.
  • Plenty of laughs, good times, and friendly people.

Tours run Monday through Saturday.

With so many options to choose from in Charleston, you’ll always have a new place to go. But perhaps you’re not looking for a new place every time? It’s always nice to have a favorite spot, too. Try any of these locations above and see if you enjoyed them as much as we do.

And please always drink responsibly.

Charleston Events for August

<alt="ocean scene"/>Happy August! Looking for something to do this month? Want to have some fun before the kids head back to school? Here are some great events everyone will enjoy this month—and they’re happening in our backyard:

August 2, 16, 23, 30: Charleston Summer Concert Series

This family friendly evening of music is held on Saturdays on the Grand Lawn of The Sanctuary. These concerts will feature local and regional bands. Admission is free and this event is sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island. Guests are welcome to bring beach chairs or blankets.

August 2 – Quiana Parlor & The Shiny Disco Ball Band

August 16 – Common Ground

August 23 – The Travis Allison Band

August 30 – Palmetto Soul

For additional information, call the Lobby Bar at 843-768-6301.

 August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Firefly Friday: Charleston Harbor Dolphin Sunset Sail

Set sail for a dolphin sunset sail with the Palmetto Breeze. Proceeds benefit the Susan G. Komen fight against breast cancer. You’ll set sail from Shem Creek, next to Red’s Ice House on the Charleston Harbor. Admission is $35 for adults, $20 for children 12 and under. Adults will receive a free Firefly Vodka cocktail. Complimentary water and sodas are on board, and a cash bar will serve beer, wine, and margaritas.

For more information or to purchase tickets, check out the website. 

 August 8: Love Painting at The Wells Gallery

The Wells Gallery is the premier gallery of The Sanctuary Resort. Join them for their live painting event, featuring at least one of their 20 nationally renowned artists. Rick McClure and Junko Ono Rothwell will be painting in the gallery on August 8 from 1-6 pm.

For additional information, please visit the website, or call 843-576-1290. 

August 10: Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series

Celebrating its 24th year, the 5-race Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series features a .3-mile swim, 12-mile bike ride, and 5K run. This event has featured over 30,000 athletes over the years, and it has been named as one of the Top 10 Charleston Signature Sport Events.

Single Race Entry Feeds: $60/$50 Charleston County Residents

Entire Race Series: $245/$204 Charleston County Residents

For all racing information, please visit the website

August 12: Crosby Stills & Nash in Concert

Crosby Stills & Nash will be performing live at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center on August 12. Celebrating more than 4 decades since the group formed, its members continue to create music that crosses generations and endures in the music world. Its members have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

For more information and tickets, please visit the website

August 22: Loretta Lynn in Concert

Loretta Lynn has been the “rule breakin’ record setting queen of country music” for over 50 years. She continues to entertain audiences with her distinctive, ground-breaking style. Loretta Lynn will be performing her greatest hits in concert at Boone Hall Plantation. Gates open at 5 pm. Beer, wine, and food are available for purchase.

For more information regarding the series, please visit the website

August 24: 4th Annual Steel Pony Ride and Car Show

Enjoy a great car and truck show to help the Charleston Tea Plantation in its mission to provide counseling and support for our Lowcountry firefighters and their families. This event will have food, music by Eddie Bush, games for the whole family, and cars, trucks, and motorcycles on display. The event will also host a display of antique and modern fire apparatus.

For additional information, please visit the website

August 30: Shrimp and Grits Cook-Off

Finish the summer with the #1 shrimp and grits cookoff where you can eat, drink, and be a food judge! Enjoy the best of local Charleston, and taste our chefs’ interpretations of a Lowcountry classic. Fifteen renowned Charleston chefs will compete to support the Charleston Animal Society, while locals can enjoy food, drinks, and music. Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door, $12 for children 12 and under. The $30 ticket price includes shrimp and grits, alcohol, live music, book signings, and more. Event runs from 7 pm to 10 pm.

To get tickets, please visit the website.

 If you know of any Charleston events happening this month, please let us know below!

 Photo Credit: Ron Cogswell

 

Historic Charleston Hotels for Your Next Visit

<alt="hotel lobby"/>If you’re visiting Charleston this summer, you’ll need a place to stay. We highly recommend choosing a hotel that exemplifies all that our great city has to offer: Low Country hospitality, great amenities and dining, and historic charm.

Known for its stunning historic hotels, Charleston has some spectacular places to stay on your next visit to South Carolina. Here are some of the city’s favorite resting spots:

The Restoration on King

For a real Charleston experience, book your stay at The Restoration on King. This restored boutique hotel features exposed brick, hardwood floors, condo-style suites with full kitchens, and the finest amenities in Charleston. Their one-of-a-kind rooftop terrance and upscale service are renowned throughout Charleston and the South.

Planters Inn

Looking for a hotel that’s unlike any other? Stay at the Planters Inn: an award-winning 64-room Relais & Chateaux hotel located in the heart of downtown Charleston. Getting around to all of the city’s historic places, delicious dining options, and can’t-miss summertime activities couldn’t be easier, as Planters Inn overlooks City Market. Enjoy dreamy four-poster king beds, AAA Four-Diamond cuisine at the Peninsula Grill, and a comfortable and classic hotel atmosphere.

The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel

This famous Charleston hotel was originally opened in 1853. Restored in 2008, this charming hotel combines all of the elegance and style of 19th century Charleston with modern luxury. This hotel is truly a standout choice when choosing an historic hotel to rest your head this summer.

Francis Marion Hotel

Since 1924, locals and visitors alike have enjoyed staying at historic Charleston’s landmark hotel: the Francis Marion Hotel. This historic landmark features a restored marble lobby, crown moldings, and signature wrought iron. Centrally located in downtown Charleston, the Francis Marion sits across from Marion Square and offers breathtaking views of the Charleston Harbor. The Francis Marion is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Elliott House Inn

The Elliott House Inn is a fully restored architectural treasure in downtown Charleston. This gorgeous hotel sits among the prominent homes of historic Charleston and is within walking distance to the City Market, galleries, and delicious South Carolina cuisine. Enjoy a stroll through the hotel’s courtyard, daily continental breakfast, a wine and cheese reception, and complimentary bicycle rentals to pedal through the memorable streets of Charleston.

Do you have a favorite historic hotel you recommend to guests and visitors? Share it with us in the comments below!

The Best Low Country Beaches

<alt="woman at the beach"/>Did you know: Charleston was the winner of the 2013 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award for “Top City in the United States.”

We love our city. It has great shopping, a fun nightlife scene, plenty of delicious restaurant options—and we especially love catching rays on our beautiful beaches!

Summertime is in full swing, so why not spend this weekend enjoying the sand and ocean breezes on one of Charleston’s award-winning beaches? Here are the most popular spots for having some fun in the sun around Charleston:

Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island is known for its family-friendly and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. If you’re looking for a place to take your family and loved ones for a weekend of sunshine, South Carolina history, and Low Country dining. Tourists and locals love Sullivan’s Island for its beautiful scenery, friendly environment, and spacious beaches.

Isle of Palms

If you’re looking for a place that’s one-of-a-kind and full of activities the entire family will enjoy, look no further than Isle of Palms. You’ll find virtually every activity you can think of to enjoy on your vacation or day off on Isle of Palms—and it’s only 12 miles away from downtown Charleston! The Isle of Palms beaches are clean, safe, and even feature a designated swimming area and family park that you and your kids can enjoy throughout the entire summer.

Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a private beach community with undisturbed scenic views, natural beauty, and forests rich with pine trees, magnolias, and oaks. This Island is only accessible to owners and guests of the resort or rental properties, but it also features a publicly accessible beach area at Beachwalker County Park. Travel to Kiawah and you’ll enjoy the 10 miles of stunning beach that Travel Channel has named one of the country’s “Top Ten” beaches to visit.

Seabrook Island 

Seabrook Island is another private destination located nearly 22 miles south of downtown Charleston. Residents and rental guests enjoy Seabrook’s gorgeous, pristine Atlantic beaches. The laid-back atmosphere and stunning shorelines make for an unforgettable South Carolina experience for all who visit and reside on this special island.

Folly Beach

Folly Beach is truly one of South Carolina’s hidden treasures. Conveniently located just 15 minutes away from historic Charleston, this barrier island is the home of surfing, rich Low Country history, the Morris Island Lighthouse, and delicious South Carolina fare. Guests can visit the Folly Beach County Park and enjoy amenities like outdoor showers, restrooms, picnic areas, and much more. Bring the entire family to Folly Beach for a wonderful weekend of sun and fun on “The Edge of America.”

Ready to plan your next beach getaway in Charleston? Click here to get more information about our favorite local vacation spots.

Hot Enough for Ya? Try Homemade Ice Cream

Ice cream makers have come a long way since the days of using rock salt and straining the muscles in your arm to create a small cup or two of ice cream. Today’s makers are automatic and you merely need to put in a few basic ingredients.

In a nutshell, a homemade ice cream maker uses a refrigerated compartment and mixer blades to create ice cream from simple ingredients such as cream, sugar, milk, and flavors. Many of the latest ice cream machines are multifunctional and can make frozen beverages, sorbets, and frozen yogurt.

Ice cream makers come in different types. Countertop machines often need to be frozen before use. The ingredients are added to the machine, and the mixer blades stir the mixture. After half an hour or so, the ice cream freezes. This type of ice cream maker is relatively inexpensive but can make only one batch at a time before being refrozen.

A lesser-known type sits inside the freezer, and every few seconds mixer blades stir the mixture. When the ice cream eventually freezes, the blades stop rotating. This type of machine takes longer to freeze than others, which work by placing the mixing bowl in direct contact with cold to freeze.

A tabletop ice cream maker has a built-in freezing system, which saves time and creates ice cream in less than half an hour. They are more expensive than the others, but for many the convenience is worth the price. They can be used immediately, and they can make larger quantities of ice cream since there is no wait time. The disadvantage is that many cannot be moved for a number of hours after using so the coolant isn’t moved.

Ice cream recipes are simple and inexpensive. Here are two of our favorites from realsimple.com

Lemon Sorbet

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar

2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

2 cups fresh lemon juice

Directions:

Use an ice cream maker.

In a small saucepan, over medium-high heat, combine the sugar and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil and simmer, stirring, until the sugar dissolves, 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and chill over an ice bath until cool. Stir in the lemon zest and juice.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for freezing. Serve immediately or freeze in an airtight container.

Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Ingredients:

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

Directions:

Use an ice-cream maker.

In a large bowl, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for freezing. Once the desired consistency has been reached, stir in the chocolate. Serve immediately or freeze in an airtight container.

Do you have a homemade ice cream recipe you’d like to share? Tell us below!

Raw & Vegan Foods in Charleston

Vegan foodAre you a vegan or vegetarian? Maybe you just love incorporating fresh, raw foods into your everyday diet? Charleston is a great place to find healthy, vibrant foods and some of the tastiest vegan and vegetarian cuisine.

Here are some local spots where you can find fresh and delicious vegan and vegetarian fare in and around Charleston:

Dellz Uptown

This vegetarian restaurant offers vegan-friendly American and international cuisine. Takeout is available upon request. Try the house specialty Thai bowl! It’s a local favorite, plus it’s gluten-free and vegan. All menu items at Dellz can be made vegan.

Address: 511 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: 843-641-0352
Open Mon-Fri 7:30am-3pm, 5-8pm, Sat 8:30am-3pm, 5-8pm, closed Sun.

Dellz Vibez

Located around the corner from Dellz Uptown, this juice bar serves smoothies, juices, hot drinks, and soups daily. There are many delicious vegan options available! Grab something to sip on or eat on-the-go.

Address: 569C King St (at Cannon), Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: 843-577-8900
Open Mon-Sat 7:30am-8pm, Sun 10am-7pm.

Alluette’s Café

Alluette’s offers a friendly atmosphere and tasty vegan and vegetarian options for lunch and dinner. Enjoy American Southern cuisine in the heart of Charleston. Try their vegan desserts, too!

Address: 80 A Reid St (at Meeting St), Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: 843-577-6926

Black Bean Co.

Black Bean Co. is considered an “energy food” restaurant, serving American organic food in a fun, friendly spot. Enjoy breakfast options, Rainforest Alliance brand coffee, vegetarian wraps, gyros, salads, and countless vegan and raw meal options.

Address: 429 King St (near downtown), Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: 843-227-0990
Open Sun-Thur 8am-9pm, Fri-Sat 8am-10pm.

Cafe Paradiso

Address: 51 S Market St (at E Bay St), Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: 678-777-3129
Cuisine: Vegan-friendly, American, Non-veg
Serves meat, veg options available. Lots of sandwiches, salads, breakfast, and coffee. Has veggie burger, veggie sandwich, falafel pita and vegetarian salads. Everything is either vegan or easily made vegan. Has outdoor seating. Inexpensive.

CO

Enjoy a modern interpretation of traditional Vietnamese fare in this warm, inviting restaurant. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, including an entire vegan menu prepared by the chef.

Address: 340 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: 843-720-3631
Open Sun-Thur 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm.

Gathering Cafe

This family-owned restaurant is a favorite in Charleston. You’ll find lots of American and Italian specialties, make from seasonal, organic, and local food sources. There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options available to enjoy!

Address: 1124 Sam Rittenberg Blvd (at West Ashley), Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: 843-297-8380
Open Mon-Sat 11am-3pm, 4:30-9pm.

Earth Fare – Charleston

This healthy supermarket offers local and organic produce, fresh salads and a hot food bar, bulk food staples, vegan-friendly groceries, and natural foods.

Address: 74 Folly Road Blvd (at S. Windemere Shopping Ctr), Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: 843-769-4800
Open daily.

Three Little Birds Cafe

Head to Three Little Birds for all-day breakfast food, a lovely outdoor atmosphere, and vegan and vegetarian options, including burgers, salads, vegan cheese, and spelt breads.

Address: 65 Windermere Blvd (at Folly Rd), Charleston, SC 29407
Phone: 843-225-3065
Open Tue-Fri 7:30am-3pm, Sat 9am-3pm, Sun 9am-2pm, closed Mon.

Are you a vegan or a vegetarian? Know of any great food spots in Charleston? Share them with us below.