ice coffee and hot coffee made at Idle Hands Coffee in Charleston, SC on table with a vase of flowers

5 Must-Visit Coffee Shops in Charleston

Explore Charleston's top coffee spots and their unique charms

Charleston, SC, is a city where history meets contemporary charm, and its coffee shops are no exception. Each spot offers more than just a caffeine boost; they provide a cozy retreat and a slice of the local culture. Whether you’re a dedicated coffee connoisseur or just in need of a casual hangout, these five coffee shops promise to deliver an exceptional experience with their unique atmospheres and delicious brews.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Idle Hands Coffee House

Idle Hands Coffee House is a downtown gem known for its innovative menu and relaxing atmosphere. Opened by the team behind Coterie, this coffee house features espresso drinks crafted with Counter Culture Coffee beans. A standout is their chai latte, a must-try for both chai aficionados and newcomers.

What truly sets Idle Hands apart is its picturesque patio. Perfect for a serene coffee break, the patio is a haven where you can enjoy your drink amidst the artistic and lively environment. The café also hosts regular community events, making it not just a coffee shop but a cultural hub in Charleston.

Location: 17 Warren Street, Charleston, SC

Second State Coffee

Second State Coffee is a staple in Charleston’s coffee scene, renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship and quality. Established in 2012, this coffee shop is located in the historic Harleston Village and features a minimalist, serene interior with custom-built furniture.

Their menu includes creative lattes like the lavender latte and exceptional pour-over brews. Whether you’re stopping by their downtown location or visiting their branches in Mount Pleasant and West Ashley, Second State Coffee provides a consistently welcoming atmosphere and high-quality coffee.

Downtown: 70.5 Beaufain Street, Charleston, SC

West Ashley: 1630 Ashley Hall Road, Charleston, SC

Mount Pleasant: 766 South Shelmore Blvd #202, Mt Pleasant, SC

Mount Pleasant: 1410 Shucker Circle #1107, Mt Pleasant, SC

Orange Spot Coffee

Nestled in North Charleston, Orange Spot Coffee is celebrated for its cozy ambiance and excellent coffee. Using freshly roasted beans from Springbok Coffee Roasters, they offer standout drinks like the cold brew and oat milk latte.

In addition to coffee, Orange Spot serves delicious homemade pastries and breakfast items. Their community-focused approach includes local art displays and events, making it a perfect spot for both coffee enthusiasts and casual visitors looking for a relaxed environment.

Location: 1011 East Montague Avenue, North Charleston, SC

Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer

Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer offers a unique blend of specialty coffee and craft beer, situated just off King Street. Open from early morning to evening, Kudu provides a welcoming space without Wi-Fi, encouraging genuine interactions.

Their coffee, sourced from Springbok Coffee Roasters, includes popular options like the mocha latte. The dog-friendly outdoor courtyard is a major highlight, providing a relaxed setting to enjoy their diverse drink offerings and light bites from local bakeries.

Location: 4 Vanderhorst Street, Charleston, SC

Mercantile & Mash

Located in the historic Cigar Factory, Mercantile & Mash is a multifaceted gourmet emporium. This venue combines a market, coffee shop, butcher, bakery, and café, offering an array of artisanal foods and high-quality coffee beverages.

The coffee bar at Mercantile & Mash is perfect for a quick caffeine fix or a leisurely coffee break. The spacious interior and ample seating create a distinctive atmosphere that blends historic charm with contemporary comfort. Their emphasis on locally sourced products and community events further enhances its appeal as a hidden gem in Charleston’s coffee landscape.

Location: 701 East Bay Street #100-1, Charleston, SC

Rachel Alcazar

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Rachel is an award-winning designer and a 2018 Winthrop University Graphic Design graduate, known for her creativity and community spirit. Since graduating, Rachel has been a key member of Coastal Insider and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Coastal Real Estate. She crafts all marketing materials, including postcards and booklets, for the real estate side, while at Coastal Insider, she plans social media calendars, writes articles, designs cohesive social media feeds, creates ads, assists with content creation and photography, and produces weekly emails. Rachel excels at transforming ideas into engaging visuals, driving results, and connecting with audiences.