Mount Pleasant is a charming town. There are historic streets, waterfront views, and a quiet confidence that you’re never far from Southern grace. But beneath all that genteel calm lies a spirited secret—the vibrant bar scene waiting to be discovered.
Crafty Draught
$$ | (843) 284-8590 | WEBSITE
It’s been a solid hour since you’ve thought about that haircut next door, and honestly, you’re in no rush to leave. Go savor the wait with a flight of local brews, some crispy fries, and a laid-back chat at Crafty Draught. The cozy beer haven on Mount Pleasant’s main strip is best known for its impressive selection of over 30 taps, but the friendly staff and welcoming vibe make Crafty Draught worth the regular stop whenever you’re craving a cold one.
The $18 sampler flight comes with four generous pours of rotating local favorites, which you can enjoy at the rustic wooden bar before heading out with a six-pack of Trillium cans to go.
Five Loaves Cafe
$ | (843) 849-1043 | WEBSITE
This Mount Pleasant gem needs no introduction, but their California-vibey cafe offers something special—the opportunity to eat insanely fresh food that elevates humble classics. Expect expertly made sandwiches like the pimento grilled cheese, peppercorn/horseradish/coriander rare roast beef, and the unique Portobello goat cheese sandwich with amazing char. The standout Caesar salad with anchovies, tomato/tarragon/crab soup, and broccoli potato soup? Must-tries.
The cute, bustling atmosphere that gets lively when full, the charming setting with warm lighting and rustic wooden tables? Bonuses. There’s even a small chalkboard menu by the counter, in case you want to check the daily specials the old-fashioned way. While parking can be tough and prices run a bit high—think $14-18 for sandwiches—the quality makes every bite worth it, and you’ll likely plan to return and recommend it to friends.
Wando River Grill
$$ | (843) 856-1267 | WEBSITE
There are so many boats on the Wando River that, after a while, you’ll begin to completely dissociate and let the current take over your thoughts. Go regain mental clarity at Wando River Grill. This casual seafood restaurant is right on the riverfront, but feels like a clean break from the bustle. The lovely, relaxed space is filled almost entirely with locals and the food is both reasonably priced and fantastic.
Go for the beer-battered fish and chips—they’re our favorite in Mount Pleasant—which are made with fresh fish crispy enough to support generous scoops of tartar sauce, lemon, and malt vinegar.
The ABC Restaurant (Alchemist Beverage Company) at Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mt. Pleasant
$$$ | (843) 997-6471 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of tables at this casual Mount Pleasant spot, but if you want a show that’ll outdo any those waterfront views you just passed, grab a seat at The ABC Restaurant’s bar. You’ll have a front-row view of the small but mighty kitchen, equipped with a flatbread oven and a wine fridge with carefully curated bottles. Chefs swiftly assemble gorgeous mushroom flatbreads, slice beef carpaccio with razor-sharp knives, and adorn pear crostini with jewels of ricotta.
Be sure to get the chewy beer cheese pretzels, crispy house meatballs, and homemade hummus that’s served with warm pita right in front of you.
Swig & Swine Mount Pleasant
$ | (843) 416-7368 | WEBSITE
Finding a satisfying barbecue meal in Mount Pleasant often means settling for something that’s merely edible. Swig & Swine is definitely a step above that. This local spot serves outstanding barbecue in generous portions, at prices that seem like a steal considering the quality (most dishes hover around $15 to $25). Our favorites include their tender and lean pulled pork and spicy, moist smoked chicken.
Steel City Pizza
$ | (843) 856-2525 | WEBSITE
You thought you knew all the family-friendly spots in Mount Pleasant, but a birthday party brought you here today, and you’re still impressed by the thoughtfulness. Go make the most of it at Steel City Pizza. This pizza joint can certainly get busy during family dinner hours, but if you’re able to visit during off-peak times, you’ll be treated to a relaxed atmosphere and the best gluten-free options for the price in the area.
The accommodating staff, including Liz who handles large parties with ease and Mark behind the bar who makes takeout seamless, creates an experience that feels genuinely welcoming. While the recent price increases might give you pause, the veggie pepperoni, kid-friendly arcade, and overall cheerful vibe make it worth returning for that next celebration.
The Basement
$ | (843) 352-9421 | WEBSITE
After realizing the Sunday karaoke at The Basement had already started without you, you decide to skip the crowded stage area and grab a stool at the bar instead. This local Mount Pleasant spot has been serving up fun for years, but remains one of the most reliably enjoyable hangouts in the area. The menu keeps things simple but satisfying, whether it’s crispy mozzarella sticks, pulled pork sammies with tangy vinegar BBQ sauce, or just reasonably priced drinks from the friendly bartenders.
This is the kind of food and vibe that will easily make up for missing out on belting your favorite ’90s power ballad.
Cantina 76
$ | (843) 388-7717 | WEBSITE
One might expect a spot in Mount Pleasant to have taco joints on every block, but the local dining scene shows otherwise. Fortunately, there’s still Cantina 76. Tucked into the neighborhood, this vibrant Mexican restaurant has a welcoming main dining area, a relaxed bar section, and cozy booths that you can settle into for a more intimate meal.
The music is upbeat and people are definitely here to enjoy themselves, but the atmosphere is fun and laid-back, and the Mexican-inspired food is really delicious. Get the lavender lemonade marg and any taco that’s calling your name.
SOL Mt. Pleasant
$$ | (843) 388-4302 | WEBSITE
You just finished a long day and now you’ve got a craving for tacos. The only move is SOL Mt. Pleasant. The elevated Mexican spot is one of our favorite casual dinners in Mount Pleasant and home to a dining room that’s always on the verge of becoming a full-out fiesta. The live music and happy hour margaritas probably have something to do with that.
Agaves Cantina
$$ | (843) 606-2032 | WEBSITE
Even if you just arrived in Mount Pleasant to enjoy the coastal lifestyle, Agaves Cantina is a spot you’ve likely heard about. And rightfully so. This modern Mexican restaurant has been serving up generous portions with a lively atmosphere, and is home to some of the most satisfying dishes in the area: The fajitas and Carne Asada. These flavorful, well-prepared plates are culinary highlights and some of the best reasons to visit this part of town.
Tip: The service is quick and attentive, but it’s always busy, so consider coming during off-peak hours to snag a cozy table without the wait.
Pier 41
$$ | (843) 388-4229 | WEBSITE
You just finished a long day watching sailboats bob in the harbor, and suddenly, you’re craving something fresh from the sea. Time to head to Pier 41 for classic coastal seafood. This local waterfront restaurant serves a very straightforward menu (clams, hush puppies, fish tacos, and calamari) that hardly tastes ordinary. With quality ingredients and platters made from just-caught seafood, this is a balanced meal that’s still one of our favorites in Mount Pleasant.