Charleston’s Best Coffee Shops: A Local’s Guide
Harken Cafe & Bakery
If you’re in Charleston and looking for cozy coffee spots away from the bustling tourist traps, you’re in luck. This city is brimming with hidden gem coffee shops offering everything from expertly crafted lattes to seasonal treats. Here’s a roundup of the best tucked-away cafés to add to your list this holiday season:
The Harbinger Café & Bakery
📍 1107 King Street
Instagram | Website
Nestled in the upper peninsula, The Harbinger is a cozy retreat serving small-batch coffee and unforgettable baked goods.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Pumpkin Spice Latte, made with real pumpkin puree, is a fall favorite, while their Maple Pecan Scones are perfect for winter mornings.
Local Favorite: The Morning Glory muffins are a cult classic, and their avocado toast is equally divine.
Sightsee Shop
📍 125 1/2 Line Street
Instagram | Website
Part coffee shop, part boutique, Sightsee Shop is a haven for creative souls. Enjoy a latte while browsing unique local goods.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Campfire Latte with smoked marshmallow syrup or the Spiced Maple Cold Brew for a cozy twist.
Local Favorite: The oat milk latte paired with a sweet treat from their curated pastry selection.
Second State Coffee
📍 Beaufain Street (plus other locations)
Instagram | Website
Known for its minimalist vibe and in-house roasted beans, Second State Coffee is a must-visit for serious coffee enthusiasts.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Cinnamon Maple Latte and rotating seasonal pour-overs are a winter dream.
Local Favorite: The vanilla bean latte and espresso tonic are top-notch.
Mercantile and Mash
📍 701 East Bay Street
Instagram | Website
Located in the historic Cigar Factory, this coffee and gourmet market hybrid is ideal for a coffee break or a breakfast splurge.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Lavender Honey Latte and Spiced Orange Americano offer unique seasonal flavors.
Local Favorite: Pair a lavender latte with a gourmet pastry for a perfect start to your day.
Harken Café
📍 62 Queen Street
Instagram | Website
Tucked in the historic French Quarter, Harken Café pairs its rustic charm with thoughtful, handcrafted coffee and food.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Rosemary Maple Latte and the Orange Cardamom Cortado are winter warmers you’ll adore.
Local Favorite: Their breakfast bowls, with fresh local ingredients, pair beautifully with a pour-over.
Highfalutin Coffee Roasters
📍 27 Magnolia Road
Instagram | Website
This family-owned spot in West Ashley roasts their beans on-site, ensuring every cup is fresh and full of flavor.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Gingerbread Latte and Maple Cinnamon Nitro Cold Brew are must-haves for the holidays.
Local Favorite: Seasonal drink flights and vegan cookies make this a community favorite.
10. East Bay Meeting House
📍 211 East Bay Street
Instagram | Website
This café, located inside a historic building, brings great coffee and a chic, rustic vibe to the heart of downtown Charleston.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Pumpkin Spice Latte and their Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal are perfect for fall.
Local Favorite: The Cinnamon Roll Latte and freshly baked goods always hit the spot.
Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer
📍 1 1/2 Church Street
Instagram | Facebook
A cozy corner café offering not only delicious coffee but craft beer, too, perfect for Charleston's laid-back vibe.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Gingerbread Latte and the Holiday Spiced Cold Brew are a fan-favorite.
Local Favorite: Their popular cold brew and breakfast sandwiches are a go-to for regulars.
Blum
📍 263 King Street
Instagram | Website
Blum’s blends specialty coffee and artisanal pastries in a stylish, intimate setting.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Chai Latte and the Holiday Cranberry Muffins are great seasonal additions.
Local Favorite: Their Matcha Latte and local pastries are perfect for any time of day.
Island Provisions
📍 1195 Jungle Road, Johns Island
Instagram | Website
This charming café on Johns Island offers both excellent coffee and a curated selection of local goods.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Cinnamon Spice Latte and Gingerbread Cookies are perfect for the holidays.
Local Favorite: Their Iced Lattes and sweet local pastries always hit the mark.
Coterie Coffee
📍 1672 Old Towne Road
Instagram | Menu
Coterie offers a range of craft coffee and fresh, seasonal drinks that pair perfectly with their laid-back atmosphere.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Idle Hands Latte, a delicious mix of spices, is a winter favorite.
Local Favorite: Their Iced Matcha Latte and creative cold brew variations are highly recommended.
Bad Bunnies Coffee
📍 601 Folly Road
Instagram | Website
This funky coffee shop brings a unique flavor to Folly Road, with a fun, quirky atmosphere and delicious beverages.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Folly Nights Latte with cinnamon and clove flavors is perfect for the cooler months.
Local Favorite: Their Lavender Honey Latte and Funky Bunny Croissant are crowd-pleasers.
Clerks Coffee Company
📍 19 Vendue Range (inside Emeline Hotel)
Instagram | Website
Set in the boutique Emeline Hotel, Clerks offers a chic yet welcoming vibe for your coffee fix.
Seasonal Must-Try: The Toasted Marshmallow Mocha and Cranberry Sage Tea Latte are festive delights.
Local Favorite: Their artisan breakfast sandwiches pair beautifully with a cup of Counter Culture coffee.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these hidden gems are sure to keep you caffeinated and cozy this season. Be sure to tag your favorite spots when you visit—Charleston’s coffee scene deserves the love!
Which of these coffee shops will you try first? Let me know in the comments!
