While Charleston, South Carolina, has garnered accolades for its beauty, hospitality, and cuisine over the past couple of years, the newly blossoming beer culture of the charming Southern city remains a hidden gem. The popularity of breweries in Charleston has seen a veritable explosion as the city has expanded and is now home to dozens of breweries, brew pubs, and tasting rooms.

Whether you’re looking on the peninsula or in the suburbs of the city, there’s sure to be a spot to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Head to these neighborhoods and suburbs to check out Charleston’s burgeoning beer scene.

West Ashley  

The neighborhood west of the Ashley River is most popular with young professionals and young families, and it boasts dozens of locally beloved restaurants—and the shortest commute to downtown of any of the surrounding suburbs.

Residents of West Ashley enjoy easy access to downtown, sprawling suburban streets, hole-in-the-wall restaurants that never disappoint, and some of the best breweries in Charleston.

Spots to Check Out:

  • Genes Haufbrau: Tucked into the cheerful streets of Avondale, a neighborhood within West Ashley, Gene’s Haufbrau offers a casual atmosphere, traditional pub fare, and one of the longest draft lists in town. Those looking for a casual environment without looking to sacrifice options will find plenty to choose from here.
  • Frothy Beard Brewing: Frothy Beard Brewing features large indoor and outdoor seating areas (which means it’s pup-friendly) and pairs with Zombie Bob’s Pizzeria to sling fresh pies and bar bites. Head over for trivia or axe throwing night and sample their seasonal house-made brews.
  • Charlestowne Fermentory: Avondale also plays host to Charlestowne Fermentory—a smaller, cozier space than neighboring Gene’s. Fermentory operates off of an open-kitchen model, allowing local chefs and restaurants to host pop-ups throughout the week.

The Eastside  

The Eastside has seen a virtual explosion of experimental restaurants and new housing developments over the past decade. While this side of town is a little bit out of the way of the rest of downtown, homes here are significantly more affordable and the streets are a bit quieter.

Aside from the blossoming culinary scene, this area of town is home to plenty of breweries, along with several restaurants that emphasize the importance of a well-stocked tap list. The further you’re willing to journey down King Street, the more likely you are to stumble into any number of Charleston’s best breweries. 

Spots to Check Out:

  • Edmund’s Oast: While not strictly a brewery, Edmund’s Oast is known for both the beers their label produces and their very lengthy draft list. Most breweries local to Charleston are represented on their menu, but be sure to check out some of their house-made creations while you’re at it—the PB&J APA is an especially popular (and tasty) choice. The restaurant also recently opened an on-site store where their brews are available for purchase.
  • Revelry Brewing: Tucked just out of the way on Conroy Street, Revelry Brewing offers a rooftop with views to rival the best in the city. The taps rotate often, but a few perennial favorites are always available; try the Poke the Bear APA and admire the locally designed can art. The space often collaborates with local farmers and plays host nightly to an Asian-fusion pop-up.
  • Munkle Brewing: Located a little bit further down Meeting Street, Munkle Brewing offers German and Belgian monastic brews and has curated a variety of carefully-crafted pours. While the family-run brewery sits a bit off the beaten path, Munkle is definitely worth the trek.

Park Circle

Park Circle sits just outside the old Naval Base and has seen an influx of residents looking for a quieter, suburban way of life. Named for the circular park that sits in the center of the neighborhood, Park Circle offers a quiet sense of community, a walkable shopping district, and outposts of some of downtown’s favorite restaurants. 

The area is also home to two of Charleston’s public charters—the School of the Arts and Academic Magnet High School—and is only a 15-minute drive from both downtown and West Ashley.

Spots to Check Out:

  • Holy City Brewing: A local favorite and one of the first breweries to establish themselves on the Charleston scene, Holy City Brewing recently upgraded their space in Park Circle. Holy City is just as well-known for their stellar snacks and brunch options as they are for their beers.
  • EVO: While this family-friendly spot is primarily known for its house-made breads, pies, and pizzas, EVO is also home to a well-crafted bar program that leans heavily on local craft beers. The pizzeria often collaborates with local brewing companies to create limited-edition releases specially for their menu.
  • Ship’s Wheel Cider: While not strictly a beer spot, Ship Wheel’s Cider opened its doors this fall on Park Circle’s busy main street. The taproom is the first cidery in the Charleston area and offers small plates and gluten-free options for those whose allergies prevent them from indulging in traditional brews.