Published: Feb. 27, 2025 at 10:01 AM PST|

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - People living in a downtown Charleston condo complex have been told to evacuate due to a potential structural issue.

The Dockside Condominiums were built in the 1970s and are located on Concord Street beside the International African American Museum.

Residents were going in and out of the gated community as they normally would on Thursday as they have until 5:00 p.m. on Friday before they must be evacuated.

Residents were told to pack their perishable items but to leave behind all furniture.

City of Charleston officials shared that this situation stems from a contractor, SKA, inspecting the building back in 2022.

They were renovating a privately owned unit when they found issues with the column and floor connection. Then, after inspecting some other parts of the building, they found the structural issues stemmed from problems with the initial construction. SKA did not deem the building unsafe at the time.

More recently, the Dockside Association hired another engineering firm, WJE, to conduct a more in-depth investigation to assess the load capacity of the floors. This firm sent a letter to Dockside on Tuesday saying the building was unsafe for continued occupancy.

The tower building has 112 units, 60-70% of which are occupied full- time.

Harry Traulsen Jr. has been renting at Dockside for nearly four years and says he was able to find a furnished place in Charleston to rent until this situation is resolved.

“There’s been a lot going on in the building for a long time and I’m surprised we are getting a vacate order but that’s the city and safety is the most important thing that we can do,” Traulsen said.

Dockside’s board of directors said Wednesday evening that they are working closely with residents to ensure a smooth and safe transition out of the building.

It is unknown how long these residents will be out of their homes.

“I’m not paying rent if I’m not here,” Traulsen said. ”Unfortunately, I paid March already because I like to pay ahead but the rent that I would pay here is now going to have to go towards the new place I’m renting.”

Dockise Board of Directors released the following statement regarding the evacuation.

“Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our residents, visitors and staff. This afternoon, we were informed by the City of Charleston that for safety reasons, we have to evacuate the townhomes adjacent to Dockside Condominiums in downtown Charleston.”

City of Charleston officials are working with the engineering firm that deemed the building unsafe to plan the next steps.

Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.

And there's no need to dispute it.

Friends don't let friends eat at chain restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina. Don't get me wrong. I appreciate the dependable fare of an established franchise as much as the next omnivore. But when you're in Charleston, the Holy (Smokes! This Place Has a Lot of Restaurants) City, choosing chains over exploring the local flavor is a transgression as unforgivable as slurping oysters out of season. I'll admit I'm burdened with a substantial bias—I grew up in the area and my family still lives there—but even out-of-towners and one-time visitors won't disagree that Charleston is one heck of a food city.

The 20 Best Restaurants In Charleston, South Carolina

Everyone talks about the explosion of Charleston's culinary scene, and it's true. The city has an increasing embarrassment of riches when it comes to places to eat and hot chefs setting up shop. But what gives substance to Charleston's claim as one of the best food cities in the South is its old-guard restaurants—the places that made the city's food scene cool before everybody really realized it was cool. Fans of FIG's John's Island Tomato Tarte Tatin would probably erect a statue in its honor if given the chance, and were the Peninsula Grill ever to remove the 12-layer Ultimate Coconut Cake from its menu, there would be rioting in the streets. Both time-honored food traditions are as much a part of the Charleston landscape as palmetto trees, Rainbow Row, and that one cobblestone street that shudders your tires out of alignment every time you drive down it.

And if restaurants like FIG and Peninsula Grill put us on the map, it's the steady parade of celebrated eateries that have popped up in the years since that has kept us there. James Beard award-winning chef Sean Brock opened Husk in 2010; restaurateur Brooks Reitz has established a small empire over the past several years with his well-loved trio of Instagramable spots (Little Jack's Tavern, Leon's Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop, and his latest, Melfi's); and pitmasters John Lewis and Rodney Scott have blessed the city with a competitive battle of the barbecues: Lewis serves up Texas-style beef brisket and hot guts sausage at his namesake restaurant in the city's NoMo neighborhood, while Hemingway, South Carolina-grown Scott delivers vinegary, all-night pork at Rodney Scott's Whole Hog BBQ not too far down the road.

Global inspiration abounds here too. Chez Nous, a tucked-away neighborhood favorite with a handwritten menu that changes daily, features flavors from Southern France, Northern Italy, and Northern Spain in surrounds that feel utterly transportive and homey at the same time. Newer on the scene, Sorelle delivers dishes from southern Italy in two magnificently restored historic buildings on Broad Street.

Then, of course, there are those restaurants where scoring a table may require a bit of divine intervention (or at least a healthy dose of patience): Though open since 2018, tiny seafood spot Chubby Fish still inspires folks to line up at the door well before the no-reservations eatery opens at 5. Vern's, which opened in July 2022 with a seasonal menu and biodynamic wine list, is still one of the most coveted reservations in town. Whatever you're in the mood for, Charleston's got it on the menu.

But what makes Charleston a truly special food city in my book is that we haven't yet gotten too big for our britches. Sure, we swell with pride, toast our wins, and wrap our arms around every last accolade that's flung our way, but we love to open those award-cradling arms to anyone who's hungry and looking for a little hospitality. We do that best of all.

It's no secret that Holy City sunsets and Charleston waterfronts are some of the most coveted views around (think of the Instagram likes), but where can you relax with a glass of wine or a plate of food while taking in these sights? There are a few rooftop bars or spots nestled on the water, but many offer seafood, and all offer libations.

This newest update includes Folly Beach restaurant Pier 101. The restaurants are listed north to south.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy.

Lowcountry restaurant Momo sits right on the Cooper River. Stroll around Riverfront Park while waiting for a table at brunch or after dinner. Look for seafood towers, pimento cheese plates, and deviled eggs.

The Kingstide is Daniel Island’s only waterfront restaurant with plenty of patio seating looking out to the Wando River. Aside from the views, there’s oysters, lobster rolls, smoked fish dip, plenty of cocktails, and more.

Beachgoers have a new option for seafood and Southern favorites at Islander 71 Fish House and Deck Bar. The outdoor dining area comes with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Dishes include she-crab fries, ceviche, fried fish sandwiches, crab cakes, and more.

Tucked away at the marina on Immigration Street, off of East Bay Street, sits breezy cafe Island Cabana. Utilized by boaters going out for the day, the establishment also welcomes anyone who wants to hang out on the dock with a frosé, fried shrimp, and fish tacos. There’s also a great selection of local beers and bait if you need boat supplies.

Watch the dolphins play from the deck at Shem Creek restaurant Tavern & Table. The patio is a favorite with locals for an after-work cocktail and views of the sunset.

The Stars rooftop features the retro-chic Satellite Bar. It offers skyline views of downtown Charleston and plenty of fun frozen beverages. If it's a nice day, sit in the sun and peer over King Street.

Perched high above the Charleston landscape, Citrus Club is the sophisticated rooftop bar of any tropical drink lover’s dreams. The 360-degree views are the best in town. Take the lobby elevator up to grab a seat and take in the view while sipping a playful libation.

Charleston Harbor Fish House has some of the best views in Mount Pleasant. The outdoor bar overlooks the Ravenel Bridge and most of the seats have views of the harbor. Spy on downtown Charleston from across the Cooper River.

Luxury spot Hotel Bennett has to have a luxury rooftop, and Fiat Lux is it. With expansive views of Marion Square, the sky-high bar serves fancy cocktails, wines, beer, and small bites such as Chablis-poached shrimp cocktail.

Contemporary Italian eatery Coda del Pesce sits right on the beach at Isle of Palms. Watch the ocean while ordering from chef Ken Vedrinski's seafood-filled menu.

The view at Little Palm is a bit lacking (unless you like staring at FIG from across the street), but the bar and sister spot the Backyard have all the atmosphere you need. Chill out in the retro Palm Beach space and sip on a frozen beverage. Order the jerk wings if you get hungry.

The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits opened atop boutique hotel the Restoration on the seventh floor, so it currently claims the title of highest elevation for a public space and carries incredible views of the Lowcountry. Stop by at sunset for a Instagram-breaking photo opportunity.

Fleet Landing is one of the very few options for waterfront views on the Ravenel bridge side of downtown Charleston. The harbor views are best enjoyed at happy hour with a discounted drink and friends on the wraparound porch. The restaurant is popular with visitors looking for fried shrimp platters.

With some of the cheapest drinks and best views downtown, Salty Mike's is a gathering for sailors, locals, and in-the-know tourists. The no-frills watering hole sits on the Marina, so guests can watch boats go by with beer in hand.

Longstanding hotel Mills House added the Terrace Bar to its rooftop this past summer. The pool is only for guests of the hotel, but other customers can head to the second floor to check out the selection of frozen cocktails like the Beachy Chi Chi with tequila, Earl Grey tea, blood orange, and pineapple — it’s like a refined margarita. The bar also serves snacks like “Adult Lunchables,” jumbo shrimp, and a refreshing watermelon salad.

The setting at old-school oyster shack Bowens is perfect for grabbing a fresh bushel of bivalves, and watching a Lowcountry sunset. The interiors at Bowen's are rustic, but customers are there for views of the marshland and water, along with the buckets of oysters.

Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar is the quintessential beach bar with fried shrimp, cold beers, and fruity frozen drinks. Listen to the waves go in and out on Folly Beach while you enjoy a round of margaritas and fried grouper bites.

Lowcountry restaurant Momo sits right on the Cooper River. Stroll around Riverfront Park while waiting for a table at brunch or after dinner. Look for seafood towers, pimento cheese plates, and deviled eggs.

The Kingstide is Daniel Island’s only waterfront restaurant with plenty of patio seating looking out to the Wando River. Aside from the views, there’s oysters, lobster rolls, smoked fish dip, plenty of cocktails, and more.

Beachgoers have a new option for seafood and Southern favorites at Islander 71 Fish House and Deck Bar. The outdoor dining area comes with views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Dishes include she-crab fries, ceviche, fried fish sandwiches, crab cakes, and more.

Tucked away at the marina on Immigration Street, off of East Bay Street, sits breezy cafe Island Cabana. Utilized by boaters going out for the day, the establishment also welcomes anyone who wants to hang out on the dock with a frosé, fried shrimp, and fish tacos. There’s also a great selection of local beers and bait if you need boat supplies.

Watch the dolphins play from the deck at Shem Creek restaurant Tavern & Table. The patio is a favorite with locals for an after-work cocktail and views of the sunset.

The Stars rooftop features the retro-chic Satellite Bar. It offers skyline views of downtown Charleston and plenty of fun frozen beverages. If it's a nice day, sit in the sun and peer over King Street.

Perched high above the Charleston landscape, Citrus Club is the sophisticated rooftop bar of any tropical drink lover’s dreams. The 360-degree views are the best in town. Take the lobby elevator up to grab a seat and take in the view while sipping a playful libation.

Charleston Harbor Fish House has some of the best views in Mount Pleasant. The outdoor bar overlooks the Ravenel Bridge and most of the seats have views of the harbor. Spy on downtown Charleston from across the Cooper River.

Luxury spot Hotel Bennett has to have a luxury rooftop, and Fiat Lux is it. With expansive views of Marion Square, the sky-high bar serves fancy cocktails, wines, beer, and small bites such as Chablis-poached shrimp cocktail.

Contemporary Italian eatery Coda del Pesce sits right on the beach at Isle of Palms. Watch the ocean while ordering from chef Ken Vedrinski's seafood-filled menu.

The view at Little Palm is a bit lacking (unless you like staring at FIG from across the street), but the bar and sister spot the Backyard have all the atmosphere you need. Chill out in the retro Palm Beach space and sip on a frozen beverage. Order the jerk wings if you get hungry.

The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits opened atop boutique hotel the Restoration on the seventh floor, so it currently claims the title of highest elevation for a public space and carries incredible views of the Lowcountry. Stop by at sunset for a Instagram-breaking photo opportunity.

Fleet Landing is one of the very few options for waterfront views on the Ravenel bridge side of downtown Charleston. The harbor views are best enjoyed at happy hour with a discounted drink and friends on the wraparound porch. The restaurant is popular with visitors looking for fried shrimp platters.

With some of the cheapest drinks and best views downtown, Salty Mike's is a gathering for sailors, locals, and in-the-know tourists. The no-frills watering hole sits on the Marina, so guests can watch boats go by with beer in hand.

Longstanding hotel Mills House added the Terrace Bar to its rooftop this past summer. The pool is only for guests of the hotel, but other customers can head to the second floor to check out the selection of frozen cocktails like the Beachy Chi Chi with tequila, Earl Grey tea, blood orange, and pineapple — it’s like a refined margarita. The bar also serves snacks like “Adult Lunchables,” jumbo shrimp, and a refreshing watermelon salad.

The setting at old-school oyster shack Bowens is perfect for grabbing a fresh bushel of bivalves, and watching a Lowcountry sunset. The interiors at Bowen's are rustic, but customers are there for views of the marshland and water, along with the buckets of oysters.

Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar is the quintessential beach bar with fried shrimp, cold beers, and fruity frozen drinks. Listen to the waves go in and out on Folly Beach while you enjoy a round of margaritas and fried grouper bites.

A 64-room high-end boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Charleston's historic City Market area is under new ownership.

The sale of the Planters Inn at 112 N. Market St. was announced March 17. The price was not immediately available.

The new owner is an affiliate of Crystal Creek Capital, a private equity real estate firm with assets in Wyoming and Colorado.

The buyer has an extensive renovation planned for the property, according to a representative.

Jamie Yarrow, president of Crystal Creek Hospitality Group, said in a written statement that the company intends to be "great stewards of this beloved hotel."

“Charleston is a vibrant city, rich in culture, historic architecture, with an exciting arts and dynamic culinary scene, and our goal is to infuse Planters Inn with the city’s undeniable allure, to ensure it remains a beacon of Southern hospitality for generations to come,” Yarrow said.

The sale was recorded late Monday afternoon with the Charleston County Register of Deeds.

Former longtime proprietor Hank Holliday last sold the hotel in 2020 to Northwood Investors for $64 million, according to the commercial real estate database CoStar. The figure included $57 million for the real estate and another $7 million for furnishings and other items.

Holliday's Meeting & Market Associates bought the property out of bankruptcy in 1994 for about $3.7 million and followed through with ambitious plans to renovate it. When Holliday first purchased the building five years after Hurricane Hugo, he recalled a little sign out front that said, “Rooms $79.” Despite the building being in what he described as “shambles” he was convinced it was “the most valuable corner” in downtown Charleston.

In 1997, Holliday added the Peninsula Grill, the neighboring restaurant. He recalled hearing from many naysayers who didn’t think an upscale restaurant would work on Market Street.

“The concept was embraced, and it all lined up at just the right time,” Holliday said.

What he didn't know at the time is how pivotal the property would be in reinvigorating the block and creating what he has called a "hospitality renaissance" in Charleston. The emergence of new boutique hotels and more investor revitalization of the area followed. He made other investments in the area, which included what became Hank's Seafood and two other hotels, and later the City Market itself, which Holliday is still involved in managing.

Holliday said the arc of the local tourism industry continues to grow beyond what anyone at the time could have imagined, as Charleston reports more than 7 million visitors annually.

“I never would have dreamed that we would essentially have a 10 percent increase in business and rates every year for 25 consecutive years,” Holliday said referring back to when he owned the property.

Holliday said the “goose that laid the golden egg” for the tourism trade is the constant upkeep of downtown properties since Hugo.

“There’s nothing quite like the historic district of Charleston, and while it took some time to fully realize, now it's a national treasure," he said.

The Planters Inn is expected to remain a member of Relais & Châteaux, an association of high-end hotels and restaurants it's been part of since 1998.

Can't start the morning/afternoon/life without a large cup of caffeine? Try one of these local coffee purveyors for a fix. Whether you're looking for free Wi-Fi or a cozy atmosphere, there's a place for each need. After your coffee, perhaps try one of Charleston’s many breakfast options.

New to the map: Sightsee near Hampton Park.

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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.

A savior for the citizens of Park Circle, The Orange Spot Coffeehouse supplies caffeine to North Charleston. The setting recently expanded with a new address but maintains the same cozy atmosphere. Try the cha yen, a traditional Thai iced tea.

Not only does Owlbear make an excellent cold brew or a iced caramel macchiato (if you’re into that), but this cafe puts out filling bagel sandwiches, waffles, and fancy grilled cheeses.

The Harbinger is a whimsical space full of plants, Instagram-worthy shelves full of treasures, and cozy seating. The coffee drinks are creative, like the maple latte or the Jack Rudy espresso tonic, but do not miss the baked goods — customers are instantly hooked on creations like a take on Rice Krispy Treats with puffed brown rice, tahini, and chocolate. Check out the sister cafe Harken when visiting the heart of downtown.

The couple behind Sightsee Coffee, Allyson Sutton and Joel Sadler, moved their shop to a larger space just steps away from Hampton Park and their home. The space is bright and airy, with room to linger over a coffee drink and pastries from Little Peanut Bakeshop. The customers can take their espressos to go for a stroll in the park.

In addition to expertly prepared espresso drinks, Mercantile offers free wifi, plentiful seating, and a full breakfast and lunch menu — what’s not to love. Oh, and parking. Sold.

The Daily is the place to go for a morning coffee, breakfast sandwich, or an afternoon lunch. Try the golden latte with turmeric-agave syrup and a breakfast pita with hummus and schug.

Stop in either Babas location for a $1 espresso or its unique peanut mocha. There’s also plenty of pastries, breakfast tacos, and space to sit and enjoy. As the day goes on, customers can also order wine and snacks, like a pickled shrimp salad of fancy grilled cheese.

Vintage Coffee Cafe offers caffeine, eats, and wifi to the Mount Pleasant set. The kitchen puts out sophisticated breakfast items, like seasonal quiches, oven-roasted tomato tarts, acai bowls, and lox plates, among others.

The pick-up window at Brown Fox Coffee makes it a quick and easy stop to grab a morning latte or a cold brew on the way to the beach on Sullivan’s Island.

Kudu not only has a handsome outdoor patio, but an extensive coffee and craft beer program as well. It doesn't offer wifi, so this shop is for relaxation, not work.

Highfalutin Coffee Roasters really cares about its beans. Roasted in-house, the coffee at this Avondale shop is routinely touted as some of the best by local aficionados — don’t ask for a pumpkin spice latte here.

Petite shop the Rise attracts those in search of a perfect cortado or a honey lavender latte. The space is small, so most customers get their coffee to go.

Since its located on the Market in the Emeline hotel, Clerks Coffee Company is always buzzing with visitors, but this shouldn’t deter locals. The seating area at Clerks makes for a handsome background to sip a latte and get some work done. After the laptops close, the coffee bar offers beer and wine in addition to slices of Detroit-style pizza and salads.

Sunlight-filled caffeine emporium Second State Coffee (formerly Black Tap Coffee) is the spot to get creative lattes (try the brown sugar or lavender) and kick-ass pour-over brew. It is also the meeting spot for creatives and neighborhood friends to chat about the day or upcoming projects. Check out the Second State in Mount Pleasant for a full menu of hearty breakfast and lunch options.

Entrepreneur Amy Wright has four children, and two, Bitty & Beau, were born with Down syndrome. Wright saw an opportunity to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, who are among the most vulnerable in finding steady jobs. Her coffee shops Betty & Beau are staffed with a very enthusiastic crew that live with issues like autism and cerebral palsy. Stop in for a cup of joy in the morning.

Muddy Waters is an old-school coffee shop on James Island. Around since 2001, it’s a reliable spot for a latte, a macaron, and a quiet place to sit and read a book.

A savior for the citizens of Park Circle, The Orange Spot Coffeehouse supplies caffeine to North Charleston. The setting recently expanded with a new address but maintains the same cozy atmosphere. Try the cha yen, a traditional Thai iced tea.

Not only does Owlbear make an excellent cold brew or a iced caramel macchiato (if you’re into that), but this cafe puts out filling bagel sandwiches, waffles, and fancy grilled cheeses.

The Harbinger is a whimsical space full of plants, Instagram-worthy shelves full of treasures, and cozy seating. The coffee drinks are creative, like the maple latte or the Jack Rudy espresso tonic, but do not miss the baked goods — customers are instantly hooked on creations like a take on Rice Krispy Treats with puffed brown rice, tahini, and chocolate. Check out the sister cafe Harken when visiting the heart of downtown.

The couple behind Sightsee Coffee, Allyson Sutton and Joel Sadler, moved their shop to a larger space just steps away from Hampton Park and their home. The space is bright and airy, with room to linger over a coffee drink and pastries from Little Peanut Bakeshop. The customers can take their espressos to go for a stroll in the park.

In addition to expertly prepared espresso drinks, Mercantile offers free wifi, plentiful seating, and a full breakfast and lunch menu — what’s not to love. Oh, and parking. Sold.

The Daily is the place to go for a morning coffee, breakfast sandwich, or an afternoon lunch. Try the golden latte with turmeric-agave syrup and a breakfast pita with hummus and schug.

Stop in either Babas location for a $1 espresso or its unique peanut mocha. There’s also plenty of pastries, breakfast tacos, and space to sit and enjoy. As the day goes on, customers can also order wine and snacks, like a pickled shrimp salad of fancy grilled cheese.

Vintage Coffee Cafe offers caffeine, eats, and wifi to the Mount Pleasant set. The kitchen puts out sophisticated breakfast items, like seasonal quiches, oven-roasted tomato tarts, acai bowls, and lox plates, among others.

The pick-up window at Brown Fox Coffee makes it a quick and easy stop to grab a morning latte or a cold brew on the way to the beach on Sullivan’s Island.

Kudu not only has a handsome outdoor patio, but an extensive coffee and craft beer program as well. It doesn't offer wifi, so this shop is for relaxation, not work.

Highfalutin Coffee Roasters really cares about its beans. Roasted in-house, the coffee at this Avondale shop is routinely touted as some of the best by local aficionados — don’t ask for a pumpkin spice latte here.

Petite shop the Rise attracts those in search of a perfect cortado or a honey lavender latte. The space is small, so most customers get their coffee to go.

Since its located on the Market in the Emeline hotel, Clerks Coffee Company is always buzzing with visitors, but this shouldn’t deter locals. The seating area at Clerks makes for a handsome background to sip a latte and get some work done. After the laptops close, the coffee bar offers beer and wine in addition to slices of Detroit-style pizza and salads.

Sunlight-filled caffeine emporium Second State Coffee (formerly Black Tap Coffee) is the spot to get creative lattes (try the brown sugar or lavender) and kick-ass pour-over brew. It is also the meeting spot for creatives and neighborhood friends to chat about the day or upcoming projects. Check out the Second State in Mount Pleasant for a full menu of hearty breakfast and lunch options.

Entrepreneur Amy Wright has four children, and two, Bitty & Beau, were born with Down syndrome. Wright saw an opportunity to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, who are among the most vulnerable in finding steady jobs. Her coffee shops Betty & Beau are staffed with a very enthusiastic crew that live with issues like autism and cerebral palsy. Stop in for a cup of joy in the morning.

Muddy Waters is an old-school coffee shop on James Island. Around since 2001, it’s a reliable spot for a latte, a macaron, and a quiet place to sit and read a book.