Here in Charleston, you don’t have to look far to find top-shelf wines and cheeses, but some of the best places to sit down and indulge—or buy selections to go—tend to be tucked just off the beaten path. Step into one of these establishments, and you’re sure to be charmed by both the intimate atmosphere and the carefully curated offerings.
Avondale Wine & Cheese
Wine aficionada (she started her first collection at 21) and self-proclaimed “Cheese Girl” Manoli Davani opened this eclectic West Ashley shop in 2007. Browse wines from all over the globe as well as an assortment of cheeses that will excite novices and foodies alike. The popular $5 tastings held on Monday and Thursday evenings are a great way to enjoy the store’s relaxed neighborhood vibe while getting to know some new varieties.
813-B Savannah Hwy.,
(843) 769-5444
Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Bin 152
Wine and cheese purists Fanny and Patrick Panella—who have worked in the food and beverage worlds of Paris, Nice, New York, and San Francisco—point out that the only thing not for sale in their 30-seat wine bar is themselves. The artwork, the antique chairs and tables, and of course, the delicacies on the menu can all be put on the bill. Enjoy a view of lower King Street while sampling from among 30 artisan cheeses that can be partnered with charcuterie and a selection of predominantly French wines, including three dozen by-the-glass and 100 by-the-bottle options.
152 King St., (843) 577-7359, www.bin152.com
Monday-Friday, 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Saturday, 4 p.m.-midnight
Enoteca
In August, Ken Vedrinski opened this chic but small bar (it only seats 25) just around the corner from Trattoria Lucca, so that his restaurant’s guests could relax before or after a meal. But the dark and cozy hangout, with its urban look designed by Angie Hranowsky, is also drawing plenty of patrons who don’t have dinner plans, thanks to a streamlined selection of exclusively Italian cheeses, wines—including a tantalizing collection of proseccos—and craft beers.
18 Percy St., (843) 577-0028
Tuesday-Thursday, 5-10 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 5-11 p.m.
—Eliza Ingle
