Jestine’s Kitchen was mentioned several times by our readers. | Photo provided Audra L. Gibson
Last month, we asked: Which Charleston restaurant do you miss the most?
Piece of cake, right? CHStoday readers sent us food for thought — let’s stroll down memory lane because we love a moment of local nostalgia.
Hominy Grill Known for its charm, this eatery served up some of the best shrimp and grits in town. The food, vibe, and service made it a family favorite and a must-visit vacation spot. Many fondly remember the hearty Charleston Nasty Biscuit, with reader Mary Ann. E noting it was enough to keep you full until dinner.
Jestine’s Kitchen Once a beloved spot on Meeting Street, Jestine’s was known for its “wonderful Southern cooking,” as reader Elle F. recalled. This eatery served up comforting classics for 24 years.
Fat Hen Nestled on Johns Island, this spot was a beloved Lowcountry gem known for its French-inspired Southern cuisine. This restaurant was described as a “favorite for family gatherings and weekend brunches.”
Family Fridays in December | 10 a.m. | Drayton Hall | $0+ | Bring the little ones for story time followed by crafts or games.
Light the Lake | 5-7 p.m. | Colonial Lake | Free | Don’t miss your chance to see the dazzling lights at this annual tradition.
Saturday, Dec. 7
Sea Life by Starlight Deep Sea Disco | 8-11 p.m. | South Carolina Aquarium | $100+ | This disco party will have drinks, light bites, and entertainment to benefit the Sea Turtle Care Center.
Sunday, Dec. 8
Yuletide on the Yorktown Festival | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | USS Yorktown, Mount Pleasant | $15 | Browse local vendors, grab a bite to eat, enjoy live music, and learn the history of the renowned WWII aircraft carrier.
Oyster Roast Series | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Firefly Distillery, North Charleston | $45 | Enjoy all-you-can-eat-oysters plus live music and food trucks.
Plans are moving ahead for Draper James to have a home in the Holy City. Reese Witherspoon’s lifestyle brand is set to open a flagship store after a successful pop-up last summer. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for any more details. (The Post and Courier)
Weather
A few warming centers around town are extending their hours due to freezing temperatures. Seacoast Church in Summerville, Holy City Missions, and Hibben Hospitality are all opening their doors. See the details on each center’s guest entry information. (WCIV)
Development
The City of North Charleston has plans to update the Gethsemani Community Center, including a new building offering tutoring and mentoring programs, renovating the basketball court, and adding a pickleball court and pool. The city’s goal is to have it completed by 2026. (WCSC)
Environment
In-season seafood changes often, and to stay up to date, you can check out the SC Sea Grant Consortium’s guide to helping the community buy sustainably caught or grown seafood for December.
Number
130,000. That’s nearly how many passengers came through the Charleston International Airport during the Thanksgiving holiday. It’s not too early to check out our airport guide ahead of holiday travel in December.
Festival
Spoleto Festival USA announced subscription packages are on sale, offering discounted pricing options for the upcoming Spoleto Chamber series at the Dock Street Theatre, running from May 23 through June 8. There will be a diverse lineup of new and returning renowned musicians. Check them out.
Jobs
Ingevity, a global company based in North Charleston focusing on producing specialty chemicals and high-performance carbon materials, plans to invest $53.3 million in the next five years at its Charleston County manufacturing facility. The company has more than 1,600 employees around the world. (WCIV)
Category
Opening
You’re hot then you’re cold
Get a peek inside the new wellness studio. | Photo provided by MINDZERO
MINDZERO, Mount Pleasant’s newest wellness studio, will officially open next Tuesday, Dec. 10. After finding success with its first studio in Myrtle Beach, it will be located at the Mount Pleasant Towne Centre.
MINDZERO specializes in contrast therapy — using sauna, cold plunges, and breathwork to help members reset mentally and physically. The studio blends ancient traditions with modern science to boost energy, focus, and overall well-being.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. on Dec. 10, followed by free sessions on Thursday, Dec. 12, to celebrate the grand opening.
The Buy
The Buy
Champagne bottle savers. They fit all standard bottle necks to keep your sparkling wine from going flat — the perfect hack for upcoming holiday events and New Year’s Eve parties.
Special thanks to one of our readers, Barbara S., for sharing information about the Park Bend Holiday Market in North Mount Pleasant this Saturday, beginning 10:30 a.m. through 2 p.m.
The fun will include 35+ farm and food vendors and artists, live music, and kid and adult refreshments.