Go-to shops for local provisions, chef-prepared foods, and hostess gifts
Charleston’s world-class culinary reputation doesn’t stop at its restaurants. A growing crop of gourmet neighborhood markets makes it easy to recreate the experience at home—whether that means cooking with local ingredients, serving chef-prepared meals, or simply uncorking a good bottle of wine. “We’re always bringing in unique foods and offering an ever-changing menu,” says Lexie Webb, co-owner of Harvest Market on James Island. From pantry staples and prepared foods to thoughtful hostess gifts, these five markets deserve a spot in your regular rotation.
This classic peninsula corner store has thrived since 1946 due to the owners focusing on the requests and changing needs of customers. You can get a hot dog from the counter in the back and buy everything from Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits and tomato pie to seasonal blueberries and a good bottle of wine. Current owners George and Lisa Bowen are passionate about preserving this South of Broad institution for generations to come. 157 Broad St. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (843) 723-4054, www.instagram.com/burbagesgrocery
Opened on James Island nearly two years ago, Harvest Market builds on the success of its sister business, Harvest Catering, which has fed some of Charleston’s finest fêtes for going on 15 years. Pop in for chef-prepared dinners (the chicken piccata flies off the cooler shelves), order a custom charcuterie board for your next mah jong night, join the Wine Club, or grab gourmet pantry staples and a great cup of coffee. Pro tip: They always stock Southern Olive Bites (SOBs), a foolproof appetizer to keep in the freezer for impromptu entertaining. 1230 Camp Rd., James Island. Tuesday-Thursday & Sunday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., & Friday & Saturday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (843) 225-3018, www.instagram.com/harvestmarketchs
Although these bespoke shops have different names, the throughline is proprietor Laura Price Cottrill (who also owns Sabal Farm on Wadmalaw) and her eclectic mix of gourmet market finds, host gifts, and housewares. At both one-stop shops, you can score cocktail napkins, specialty snacks, or a picnic basket filled with curated fresh foods, while still remembering flowers or a scented candle. 43 Broad St. & 2019 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island. Monday-Friday, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; & Sunday, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/thelittlemarketcharleston & instagram.com/thelittlemarketsullivans
Once a humble Kwik Stop, Jadoon’s has become a Park Circle institution known for its standout selection of craft beer, hemp beverages, and locally made goods. Owners Ayaz Jadoon and his son, Owais, have expanded the market over the years, filling its shelves with neighborhood favorites, from Storey Farms eggs and Rio Bertolini pasta to Prophet Coffee and Texture Design greeting cards. Equal parts corner store and specialty market, it’s a reliable stop for everyday essentials with a distinctly local twist. 5137 North Rhett Ave., North Charleston. Daily, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (843) 718-1580, www.jadoonsmarket.com
Tucked inside the Royall Artisan Market at Sweetgrass Mercantile, this micro market celebrates the Lowcountry’s bounty with fresh produce, naturally leavened sourdough, and thoughtfully sourced provisions. Cofounded by Courtney Page of Page’s Okra Grill and Hannah Hardwick of Salty Oak Sourdough Co., the shop stocks daily deliveries of Hardwick’s bread, seasonal produce from local farms—including Page’s own—and a rotating selection of prepared foods. 3008 North Hwy. 17, Mount Pleasant. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (843) 928-2005, www.instagram.com/saltmarshfarmkitchen
