Charleston After Dark: My Favorite Speakeasies & Cocktail Bars

When people picture Charleston, they often imagine Rainbow Row, carriage rides, and Southern comfort food. But one of my favorite parts of living just outside the city is discovering Charleston after dark. The cocktail scene here is alive with creativity, history, and a touch of mystery—you just have to know where to look.

Over the years, my husband and I have made a ritual of slipping into Charleston for dinner and drinks. These five bars are the ones we return to again and again—each with its own vibe, story, and unforgettable cocktails.

The Gin Joint

If I had to pick one bar that captures the essence of Charleston’s speakeasy culture, it would be The Gin Joint. Tucked away on East Bay Street, the moment you walk in, you feel transported—dim lighting, an intimate space, and bartenders who clearly take their craft seriously.

Despite its name, the menu is eclectic and clever, with unique ingredients. But when you’re feeling adventurous, ask for the “Bartender’s Choice.” You provide two descriptive words, and the bartender designs a drink around them. One night, I chose bright and herbal—what arrived was a delicate, botanical-forward cocktail with just a hint of citrus. It’s the kind of place where you want to linger, sip slowly, and let the night unfold.

Prohibition

Prohibition may not be the most hidden bar in town, but it’s one of the most fun. Located on Upper King Street, it hums with energy—especially on nights when live jazz fills the room. Inside, the polished bar and vintage décor channel the 1920s, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a lively Jazz Age supper club.

If you’re in the mood for something more relaxed, the back patio is the perfect spot. Warm Charleston nights, a cocktail in hand, and a more easygoing vibe make it feel like two venues in one: sultry inside, casual outside.

Their cocktail list balances classics with inventive twists. I always order the Schrute Sour here, made with beet-infused vodka and topped with frothy egg whites. Pair it with a plate of their shareable bites—I recommend the crispy Brussels sprouts—and you’ll understand why this spot is always buzzing.

Scotty Doesn’t Know

Scotty Doesn’t Know feels like a true Charleston secret. Hidden behind a candy shop on East Bay Street, you’ll find yourself stepping through a door into a vintage-inspired hideaway. The space is small, cozy, and full of character, with seating nooks that make it perfect for a date night or a late-night adventure with friends.

Drinks are ordered via a buzzer in the wall, adding to the playful, hidden-in-plain-sight atmosphere. My go-to here is the Lavender Lemon Martini—refreshing, floral, and beautifully presented. It’s one of those places where you immediately feel like you’re part of an insider’s club.

Last Saint

On Meeting Street, Last Saint feels like Charleston’s love letter to craft cocktails. Opened by mixologists from Attaboy in NYC, it’s sleek, stylish, and filled with locals and travelers alike. The menu reads like a mixology journal—equal parts artistry and adventure.

My husband swears by the Radar Gun, a smoky-sweet creation that never disappoints. The moody vibe, fun glassware, and inventive flavors make it one of my favorite spots for a night out.

But the real secret is The Annex, hidden within Last Saint and accessed through a secret passage. This tiny, ultra-intimate bar has no menu—you simply tell your server your preferred flavors (or what you don’t like), and the bartender crafts a one-of-a-kind cocktail. It feels like a private tasting experience, and it’s one of the most memorable drinks I’ve ever had in Charleston.

Bar Vaute

Hidden beneath Brasserie la Banque on Broad Street, Bar Vaute has one of the best underground vibes in Charleston. Descend the staircase and you’ll find yourself in a Parisian-inspired speakeasy with brick walls, leather banquettes, candlelight, and a touch of vintage charm.

I had a French 75 here that was hands-down the best I’ve ever tasted—bright, balanced, and perfectly served in a coupe glass. Bar Vaute is often where we end our evenings in the city, lingering over cocktails that feel just a little too indulgent (in the best way).