One of the best things about our jobs is where we get to work. Charleston, South Carolina is not only one of the number one city’s in the world, but it’s also our home and we couldn’t feel luckier to call it that. However, it can get pretty overwhelming deciding where to eat and what to do when there’s all of this greatness around us! But fear not! Our new blog’s segment – Charleston City Guides, will give you a local’s look inside the city that we call home. We strive to bring our clients current trends and exercises in the Pilates world and our recommendations are no different! Keeping things current, our first guide showcases some of Charleston’s best outdoor patios to grab a coffee (or a cocktail) while Summer is hanging on and Fall is inching closer.

Where to Kick Start Your Morning: Huriyali / @huriyali

Huriyali is one of Charleston’s OG health food cafe. We love it here because the menu changes seasonally and is one of the most creative ones around town. Of course, Huriyali has your green juices and avocado toast’s but it is there signature acai bowls and locally sourced breakfast plates that make it our favorite. Grab an E.A.T sandwich and an aloha bowl and enjoy your morning fuel in their enchanting backyard garden.

Where to Enjoy A Long Lunch: Leon’s / @leonsoystershop

If we could pick one Charleston staple, it would be Leon’s. Fried chicken and oysters…does it get better than that?? At Leon’s it actually does. Grab a large table out front with friends and splurge on that cheat meal…it’s okay you can come see us at Pilates of Charleston the following day. While you’re there, sit back and enjoy the char-grilled oysters, hush puppies, and the siam salad for some greens.

Where to Grab A Quick Coffee: Second State Coffee / @secondstatecoffee

Second State Coffee is a no brainer for the women of Pilates of Charleston. In between sessions we love to walk across the Shelmore Village shopping center and over to our neighbor’s cafe, grab a coffee, and take a breather on their outdoor patio. As Summer weather starts to fade and the Fall breeze gets going, our go-to order is a cafe au lait with oat milk…OR a dirty chai latte, which is a chai latte with a shot of espresso in it!

Where to Feel Like You’re In Europe: Babas on Cannon / @babasoncannon

The truth is…Babas on Cannon can work in anyone of these situations. Babas is an all day, old world cafe that makes you feel like you are on the streets of Paris. Although our favorite time to go is for some apéritif, definitely stop by one morning for a cold brew with homemade peanut milk…move over almond milk! We like it for a glass of wine and snacks before dinner however because you can grab a seat at one of their quaint outdoor tables and watch the King Street traffic stroll by.

Where to Enjoy Dinner Al Fresco: Coda Del Pesce / @codadelpesce_

Coda Del Pesce, located in Isle of Palms, is the perfect location for a special night out. This beautiful Italian restaurant, specializes in seafood and offers guests beautiful views of the beach. Spend the day at Isle of Palms beachside and then head to a delicious dinner.

Just because Summer is leaving us, doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of Charleston’s warm weather. Some of favorite months in the Holy City are during fall and each of these places would be the perfect day or night to transition into the new season. Stay tuned for some fall recipes on the blog as Fall starts to gear up!