By The Dropping Pin / Images by David White Jr.
It’s all about celebrating Black-owned businesses here in Charleston—the places and people who shape our city’s culture every day.
What’s up y’all? I’m David White Jr., a Charleston-based food content creator, champion of good vibes and unique tasting experiences, and the Black Food Guy of Charleston. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to dive deep into the city’s food-and-bev scene—hosting cocktail classes, shining a light on Black-owned businesses, and even collaborating on craft beer projects to bring more representation to the industry. Make sure you follow my journey on Instagram at @TheDroppingPin.
This Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend (MLK Weekend), I want to share a mostly walkable itinerary that’s close to my heart. It’s all about celebrating Black-owned businesses here in Charleston—the places and people who shape our city’s culture every day. From soul food that tastes like one BIG hug, to Black-owned and Black-hosted Airbnbs, to unique events honoring Dr. King’s legacy, this weekend is the perfect time to experience Charleston in a whole new way.
Check out my suggestions for the perfect weekend.
Kick off your Black-owned weekend by booking a stay that celebrates Charleston’s culture. The Black-ownedCourtyard Marriott in the Historic Districtoffers modern comfort with a touch of Southern charm, all within walking distance of the city’s must-see spots. It’s also positioned directly across fromMother Emanuel AME Church.
If you’re looking for something more unique, check out this list of a fewBlack-owned or Black-hosted Airbnbs,curated by Journey Black Home.
After you’re all settled in, take a short walk to enjoy the views on King Street and head toDave’s Carry Outfor a fried seafood platter then cocktails and dancing atRepublic Garden & Lounge,or visit the only Cigar Speakeasy in the city,Smokin Rose Speakeasy.This cigar lounge offers a wide cigar selection, high-end bourbons, and you might catch their open discussions.
On Saturday morning, you might catch the Charleston Farmers Market or take the scenic route toBodega, where Marcus Shellis the culinary director for Uptown Hospitality Group, to start your eventful day.
Aaron’s Seafoodis another must! I cannot even explain in words the experience. You like casual fun with banging food like crab boils, oxtail dinners, fried ribs and shark steak, and bang-bang shrimp? Yeah, I won’t say anymore. Just Go!
From amazing food to vibes, you’ll be tapping into what makes this city so special.
Before you head back downtown, you have another stop in North Charleston atDaddy’s Girl Bakery,because you can’t come to Charleston without trying a Charleston Chewie. This family-owned bakery offers delicious cakes, ice cream, and other desserts to cap off your night.
Looking to end your evening with a premier selection of champagne, bourbon, and small bites? On upper King Street sitsBourbon & Bubbles.On select nights you’ll find a DJ with some tunes.
The Black Door Cafesits on the ground floor of The Mills House Hotel and welcomes you with fast internet in a casual coffee bar with weekly specials.
TheDenmark Vesey Monumentin Hampton Park was erected in 2014 after two decades of planning. Following months of restoration due to vandalism, this is a meaningful place to sit and reflect on Charleston’s deep history.
Graft Wine Bar,co-owned by Femi Oyediran, is the place to be for Good Neighbor Sunday. Femi discovered his passion for wine while working in a Charleston restaurant under the mentorship of a former wine director. He then passed the first three levels of the Court of Master Sommeliers within two years and was named to Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s 2018 “40 Under 40.” He was also selected as “Sommelier of the Year” by Food & Wine Magazine in 2019, along with his co-owner, Miles.
Dust off your bell-bottoms, sequin shirts and get ready to groove like you’re in the ’70s atSoul Funktion.Brought to you byDon Luchi ProseccoandBlack Food Truck Festival.This will be a night to remember. Costumes are encouraged but not required. This is what I’m most excited about this year.
The53rd MLK Parade | Walk for Love, Walk for Peaceis hosted by the YWCA Greater Charleston chapter at 9 a.m. This organization and parade hold a special place in my heart, as I served as the 2024 parade grand marshal.
From soul food that tastes like one BIG hug, to Black-owned and Black-hosted Airbnbs, to unique events honoring Dr. King’s legacy, this weekend is the perfect time to experience Charleston in a whole new way.
With complimentary admission all day, theInternational African American Museumwill honor the strength of our shared history and the dream of a brighter, more just future. Experience performances by DJ Rubin, the Center for Learning Inc.’s Youth Choir, a soul-stirring performance by Princess of Soul, Tia DuRant, and more!
One of my personal favorites, and America's favorite according toThe New York Times,Hannibal’s Kitchen.You must try the crab rice and fried wings.
Charleston is full of history, culture, and straight-up good vibes—when you find them. This MLK Weekend is your chance to experience it all while showing love to Black-owned businesses. From amazing food to vibes, you’ll be tapping into what makes this city so special.
As you wrap up the weekend, remember—it’s not just about this one moment. Keep supporting these businesses, sharing their stories, and spreading the word. If you hit up any of the spots I mentioned, tag me on Instagram @TheDroppingPin—I’d love to see what you get into!
Until next time, stay hungry, stay curious, and keep celebrating the culture that makes Charleston THE BEST!
Copyright © 2015 Dez Inc. dba GulfStream Communications
