Sweatman’s Garden
Folly Road barbecue joint with live music, cold beer, and a loyal local following built on slow-smoked meat.

From a Hanahan chicken sandwich cult to a Gullah supper club in North Charleston, the Lowcountry's strongest new openings are settling in fast.

Sixty days in, these eight new Charleston spots have racked up enough honest reviews to separate the real thing from the opening-week hype.

Green Levels brings their fusion sound to Saltwater Cowboys in Mount Pleasant for an evening set starting at 5 p.m. The duo format strips things back a bit, but the band is known for rich grooves and the kind of high-energy playing that translates well to a waterfront happy hour crowd. Saltwater Cowboys is a solid spot for live music on the water, and an early Thursday show like this one is a low-key way to ease into the weekend. Tickets are available in advance.
Rotie Salley brings his solo act to Saltwater Cowboys for an early-evening set on the Mount Pleasant waterfront. A seasoned Lowcountry performer, Salley blends guitar and vocals across a wide range of cover material, keeping things relaxed and engaging — the kind of show that pairs well with a cold drink and a view. It's a Thursday happy hour worth marking on the calendar, especially if you're looking for live music with a laid-back coastal vibe. Saltwater Cowboys is a natural fit for this sort of set, and Salley's easygoing style tends to draw a steady crowd of locals and visitors alike.
Eight new entries hit CharlestonRanked in the past 60 days — these are the ones already earning repeat customers.
Justin Wideman brings his duo setup to Saltwater Cowboys in Mount Pleasant for an early evening set of real country music. A drummer and vocalist at heart, Wideman's stripped-down approach puts the songwriting front and center — no frills, just honest country delivered live. Saltwater Cowboys is a natural fit for this kind of music, with its laid-back waterfront vibe making it one of the more easygoing live music spots on the Mount Pleasant side of the bridge. Grab a drink, settle in, and catch the show at 5 p.m.

French bistro and cocktail bar on Market Street, with live music and a menu leaning toward classic European technique.
Narrow King Street bar with live music and cocktails, drawing a loyal local crowd most nights.

Industrial event space and bar on upper Meeting Street pulling double duty as a live music venue with free parking.