The Lowcountry area is known for being a vacation destination with some of the tastiest Southern food - but did you know we have great coffee shops here as well? With our retail stores in the thick of the busy shopping district of downtown Charleston, we often get asked questions about how visitors should spend their time enjoying the city. We almost always respond with our favorite food recommendations – and often where to find the best coffee! Charleston has some amazing coffee shops that we all love to frequent. Check out some of our favorite local coffee shops and even some of our favorite drink orders!
The Harbinger
The Harbinger at 1107 King Street is a women owned and operated business and an Old Whaling Co. favorite. They feature a kitchen that is entirely made from scratch with fresh seasonal items and sweet treats. Their specialty is cold brew coffee. Our Production Manager, Cam, shares why it’s her favorite, “I love the Honey Latte from The Harbinger. I used to work there– the employees are amazing and the food and coffee are all very unique. Their recipes are creative and delicious!!”
Kudu
A personal favorite coffee shop of Old Whaling Company is called Kudu at 4 Vanderhorst St. Located just fifty or so steps around from our King Street shop is one of the cutest courtyards just shy of the busy shopping strip. They serve local coffee and craft beer, and the shaded, dog friendly patio is the perfect spot to work on your laptop or read a book. You may get lucky and stumble across some local music to enjoy.
Bad Bunnies Coffee
Photo Credit: Bad Bunnies Coffee
If you’re taking a stroll on the outskirts of the main strip and want to find a quaint neighborhood coffee shop, check out Bad Bunnies at 116A Spring Street. Spring Street is a sprawling busy neighborhood of historic shotgun homes and businesses. The dark, cozy atmosphere of Bad Bunnies offers a relaxing experience, and you can choose from a daily selection of pastries, teas, and coffee! This coffee shop will make you feel like one of the locals.
Second State Coffee
Located downtown at 70.5 Beaufain St., Second State is a no-frills coffee shop that wants to source, roast and serve the best coffees in the world. If you’re visiting or attending the College of Charleston, Second State is just a few blocks away and well worth the stop on your daily walk through the city. Their small space with tables is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet place to read or work on your laptop, and is just steps away from lower King Street shopping.
Harken Cafe and Bakery
Located at 62 Queen St., Harken Cafe is the sister location to the Harbinger, and right down the street from our City Market location. “The decor makes it feel so home-y and their food and drink offerings always allow me to try something new,” says Catie, our Retail Manager, who is a huge fan of their coffee. “I love good coffee and espresso, and their Red Eye is my go-to order. I can never leave without trying a different item from their pastry case!”
Noelle, our Marketing Manager, says, “An iced earl grey and lavender latte with almond milk, and one of their rotating daily veggie slabs is my favorite. And anything in their pastry case. This place is so welcoming, and you really can't go wrong with anything you buy there. I love this shop!”
Welton’s Tiny Bake Shop
Stop by the tiny white house at 682 King Street every morning of the week to see what the tiny bake shop is creating for breakfast. Welton’s is a small coffee and bake shop located inside a renovated historic home on King Street. They are specifically known for their extremely fresh, handmade items baked each morning with local, fresh ingredients. Get in line when they open because their delicious pastries sell out quickly! Grab a coffee and peruse their collections of high quality edible gifts while you wait for your food.
Vintage Coffee Cafe
Located in Mount Pleasant at 219 Simmons St., Vintage Coffee Cafe is not only a great coffee shop, but also has delicious breakfast and lunch options. It is in the cutest old house, with a large outdoor space perfect for dogs and children to play. Try their seasonal latte with their delicious breakfast burrito with chorizo and avocado. Located only minutes from downtown, you can relax while avoiding any downtown crowds.
Carolina Cider Company
If you’re heading south out of town on Highway 17, stop by the Carolina Cider Company right off the main highway to experience a medley of southern goods. There you’ll find southern inspired drinks, cooking mixes, canned gifts, and Old Whaling Company products of course! Grab last minute snacks and Lowcountry goodies before your drive, and bring some local cider or coffee mixes with you to continue enjoying Charleston’s amazing taste's back at home.
Charleston loves Coffee!
Whether you're a Charleston local or just visiting, the city and surrounding area’s coffee scene offers something for everyone—from cozy, tucked-away cafés to bustling spots close to the most popular history and shopping. Each has its own unique charm, whether it’s the rich, locally roasted beans, the inviting atmosphere, or the friendly baristas who make every visit feel special.
Looking for a full weekend of activities? We love the 48 Hours in Charleston travel guide put together by Samantha Kuhr. Next time you're in town, take a moment to slow down and soak in the charm of the Lowcountry.
