The Palmetto Tree Service Difference
At Palmetto Tree Service, we believe that trees make the world a much more pleasant place to live. They provide us with refreshing shade, verdant beauty, cool shade, and emergency shelter. They add personality to our homes, raise our property values, and give us clean air to breathe. When your home is well-manicured, with healthy trees, everyone around benefits. That's why, as arborists, we are passionate about providing our customers with dependable Lowcountry tree care.
We believe that honest prices, state-of-the-art equipment, friendly arborists, and good old-fashioned hard work set us apart from our competition. With years of experience serving homeowners in South Carolina, you can rest easy knowing every member of our team is committed to:
- Conducting themselves in a professional manner
- Providing you with top-notch tree care services
- Arriving at your property on time and ready to work hard
- Providing you with reasonable tree care service rates
- Exceeding expectations
- Utilizing safe, time-tested techniques when trimming, pruning, or removing your trees and shrubs
- Friendly, helpful customer service
Our customers mean the world to us. When you hire our company for tree services in cityname, we take that responsibility seriously. No matter the size of your project, our team will always treat your home like it is our own. Plus, you won't ever have to worry about sneaky hidden fees or outrageous pricing. We believe every homeowner deserves access to affordable tree services!
Whether your home has overgrown trees that need trimming or you have unsightly stumps that require grinding, we're here to handle it all. Curious what kind of tree care we provide to homeowners in The Palmetto State?
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Our Services
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Eco-Responsible Tree Removal in James Island, SC
We have removed thousands of trees over the years. However, we never recommend tree removal if it's not warranted. Some South Carolina tree service companies tend to remove trees when they should be saved or simply pruned. Others go the opposite direction and never recommend tree removal.
Unlike other companies, our arborists make educated recommendations based on experience, your trees, and your needs. We make the right call for you - not for us. If disease, destruction of foundation, or other circumstances necessitate tree removal, rest assured we're recommending it for a reason.
Benefits of Tree Removal


Though we never recommend this service unless it's needed, tree removal is often the only way to protect your property and family. When done properly, removing trees from your yard can have numerous benefits.

Prevent Damage to Your Foundation
When the roots of a tree spread and grow, they often damage concrete structures, like your home's foundation or driveway. This unsightly, unsafe situation is preventable with careful tree removal.

More Yard Space
If you've got to remove trees, you might as well make use of the space. Removing trees from your yard frees up space for fun, useful additions to your home firepits and pools. Some examples that we've seen from clients include removing more free space to plant vegetables and flowers and even room to build a new basketball court.

Enhanced Views
Another benefit of tree removal is that you can create a better view for your home, both inside and out. If you have unhealthy trees blocking the view of your property, removing the tree could be a solution. On the other side of the coin, you might want the exterior view of your home to remain intact and unobstructed by trees.
Tree Trimming in James Island, SC
Have you noticed your favorite tree growing strangely? Are your trees so overgrown that it's making your home look like vagrants live there? Are the trees around your property weighed down by dead, dangerous branches? If you answered yes to any of those scenarios, Palmetto Tree Service has a solution to your problem.
Most folks don't know that trees respond to their environment. When trees aren't cared for, they can cause unwanted problems for the homeowner. Issues like overgrowth aren't just ugly - it's a potential safety hazard for your home and family. To prevent these problems from plaguing your property, it's important to keep your trees pruned and trimmed.
Our pruning and trimming have been described as "artistry" by our customers and are performed by highly skilled tree climbers per the Society of Arboriculture standards. Trimming procedures such as view enhancement and crown raising boosts curb appeal and open up obscured views. Proper pruning can also help establish your tree's structural integrity, which helps keep them planted firmly even in South Carolina wind gusts.
Because every shrub and tree is different, we approach our tree trimming projects with a detailed plan of action. That plan starts with our team of professional tree trimmers visiting your home. Once we see what kind of trees we'll be pruning or trimming, we'll put together an actionable plan which we'll share with you. As tree care specialists, we always account for unique variables like your tree's species and where they're located in your yard.

Benefits of Tree Trimming


For some folks, tree trimming seems like a minor detail in the grand scheme of homeownership. It can be tedious, but keeping your trees trimmed and well-maintained is more important than you might think. Below are just a few of the many benefits of keeping your trees and shrubs trimmed:

Tree Health
Part of the Palmetto Tree Service pruning and trimming process includes the removal of damaged, broken, dead, and diseased branches. When ignored, these dead and dying branches grow harmful fungi that can decimate the trees around your home or business. Removing these branches can help keep your trees healthy. Tree trimming also allows the sun and air to reach your trees, further helping to maintain their health.

Safety
As proud residents of South Carolina, we know how scary lightning storms and hurricanes are. Strong winds from these natural disasters result in fallen branches and uprooted trees. South Carolina's storm season is a serious concern for homeowners, especially those with tree-lined driveways, rec areas, and walking paths. When you trust Palmetto Tree Service, you're actually storm-proofing your home. If you have low-hanging limbs near home, pruning provides more safety and overhead clearance. That way, you don't have a panic attack every time the skies open up.

Aesthetics
Nobody likes the looks of a dying, disheveled tree. Tree trimming improves the general appearance of your tree and makes your whole yard and home look better. Tree trimming also helps prevent branches from intertwining with one another.

Developmental Tree Trimming
Pruning younger trees is crucial for their health as they age. This vital tree service in James Island keeps young trees appealing and helps promote optimal branch structure.
Types of Tree Trimming
Not all tree trimming services from Palmetto Tree are the same. Our experts specialize in many trimming services, so you get the right kind of trim for your needs. Our team understands that even the slightest mistake can permanently affect your yard and trees. That's why we approach every project with precision and expertise.
Crown Reduction: When your trees age without proper care, they can develop too many branches on their interior. Trees like this give great shade, but too much is not a good sign. That's where crown reduction trimming comes in. By reducing the density of your tree's crown, our tree care experts improve its growth rate and health. Crown density reduction also promotes a longer lifespan and a more beautiful appearance.

Storm Prep and Cleanup: Trimming and pruning procedures like removing dead wood and thinning crowns should be done before a major storm hits. Reducing branches and leaves lessens the force that wind gusts have and helps minimize the chances of trees falling. If a storm does damage your land, Palmetto Tree Service has the team and tools to help. Having recently worked Hurricanes Charlie, Ivan, Wilma, Katrina, Ike, Irene, Florence, Dorian, and even Sandy, Palmetto Tree Service has vast experience with twisted and fallen trees. We protect your property from further damage and safely remove lumber from damaged structures.
Other tree trimming services that Palmetto Tree Service offers include:
- Hazardous Tree Assessments
- Shrub Trimming
- Pruning
- Cabling
- Bracing
- Corrective Trimming
Contact Us
Free EstimateStump Grinding in James Island, SC
For most property owners, removing a tree can seem like a major project. While that notion certainly isn't wrong, tree removal is more straightforward and often easier than trying to remove an unsightly stump from your yard. Have you ever wondered why you see so many yards with stumps dotted around the land? It's because they're tough to remove. That is why Palmetto Tree Service offers stump removal services in South Carolina.
Our skilled stump grinders bring a depth of knowledge and modern tools to every project we approach. Available for any tree removal project, our fast, efficient grinding machines ensure stumps are 6-8 inches below grade. That way, you can plant your favorite bushes and shrubs where your stump used to be.
Our stump grinding and removal efforts don't just make your yard look great. They also save you time, money, and can prevent injuries. There's a time and place for DIY yard work, but stump removal isn't one of them. Going the "DIY" route can take weeks, even if you work an hour or two every day. There's also the issue of operating heavy machinery on your own, which is dangerous and costly. For these reasons alone, it's best to trust professional stump grinders to remove your tree stumps safely.

Benefits of Stump Removal in James Island, SC



Pest Prevention
Tree stumps are notorious for harboring harmful pests that can ruin your property. We're talking ants, termites, carpenter bees, and other wood borers. If you've noticed an uptick in pests around your home, call Palmetto Tree Service for a quote on our stump removal. You could be killing two birds with one stone.

Eliminate Unwanted Growth
When you leave a tree stump in your yard, there's a good chance you could experience unwanted tree growth. These new growths cause clusters of small trees to grow at the base of your stump. This isn't only unsightly - it can kill nearby plants because the more recent growths hoard water and nutrients to themselves.

Better Looking Yard
If you're a homeowner who loves beautiful landscaping, well-sculpted hedges, and a neat law, you will love our stump removal services. Not just for the weight off your chest but for your home's enhanced curb appeal and resale value. This point is extra pertinent if you're going to sell your home soon.

More Space
If your yard is small, even one stump can affect your usable space. If you spend a lot of time playing sports or just enjoying your yard space, stump removal is a huge help. After all, nobody wants to toss a football if there are old stumps you've got to avoid. With their complicated root systems, stumps also take up considerable space below ground. Stump removal gives your family the space needed to grow vegies, plant flowers, erect water features, and more.

Reduce Headaches
Is stump removal impossible for non-professionals? Sure, in theory. You could take spend hours researching the best ways to remove stumps. You could go to your hardware store, rent a powerful stump grinder, and risk your safety trying to run it without training. You could spend every minute of your free time grinding the stump down. Or, you could work with a trustworthy stump removal company with trained professionals, as you'll find at Palmetto Tree Service.
Your Premier Tree Service Company in South Carolina
With years of experience, it's no wonder why so many South Carolina natives choose Palmetto Tree Service over the competition. Clients love us because we exceed expectations with a smile - no if's, and's, or but's.
Our commitment to superior service isn't a gimmick; it's a year-round promise. When you choose Palmetto Tree, you'll benefit from:
- Professional advice and expertise
- Seasoned, friendly, hardworking tree care experts
- Efficient, effective tree care services
- Competitive pricing
Ready to get started? We're ready to help! Give us a call to learn more about our tree care services and to schedule your first appointment today.

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Latest News in James Island, SC
Neighbors asking for transparency in proposed James Island build
Melissa Rademakerhttps://www.live5news.com/2023/05/17/neighbors-asking-transparency-proposed-james-island-build/
The James Island Public Service District owned the land and drafted an ordinance to sell the land to a developer in February.JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - Residents of the Whitehouse Plantation neighborhood on James Island say they want to be involved and informed about all plans for the tract of land that backs up to their homes.The 6.25-acre tract of land off Dills Bluff Road has been an undisturbed green space for years.The James Island Public Service District owned the land and drafted an ordinance to sell the land to ...
The James Island Public Service District owned the land and drafted an ordinance to sell the land to a developer in February.
JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - Residents of the Whitehouse Plantation neighborhood on James Island say they want to be involved and informed about all plans for the tract of land that backs up to their homes.
The 6.25-acre tract of land off Dills Bluff Road has been an undisturbed green space for years.
The James Island Public Service District owned the land and drafted an ordinance to sell the land to a developer in February.
Ken Godwin has lived in the neighborhood for nearly 50 years and enjoyed the trees and buffer area for that time.
“I’ve known about this particular property for quite a long period of time when it belonged to the public service district. They wanted to move their facilities over here, garbage trucks, officers and all this kind of stuff. I was opposed to it, numerous residents in the neighborhood were opposed to it. We feel that any new development back here should be single family residential only,” Godwin explains.
In March, homes within 500 feet of the land got a letter from the developer.
The letter, signed by KT Properties owner Kyle A. Taylor, invites the homeowners to two public meetings about developing the land. The letter proposes a mixed-use planned development with approximately 20 single-family homes and 20,000 to 25,000 square feet of commercial space.
John Montague-Blythe says he lives close to the edge of the neighborhood where the tract begins but he did not know about the meetings.
“I feel like wool has been pulled over my eyes, quite frankly. I came in and a person at town hall, while I was getting permits to have a pool building up in the back of our home, told me that they were developing that land she said have you heard about it?,” Montague-Blythe says. “Well, I’m four houses down in the street that’s outside of 500 feet.”
After missing the meetings and feeling out of the loop, neighbors are banding together to share their insight about the land.
Godwin wrote a petition that asks that any development be kept to just single-family homes to preserve the fabric of the neighborhood.
James Luby says he and Godwin will be knocking on doors to let all their neighbors know and see where they stand.
“We were blindsided. We weren’t told. And then all of a sudden. This spread like wildfire. I have a list of people with everything so we’re just gonna go for prepare for the next meeting. Get our petition going. Just get the word out. Because nobody likes it,” Luby says.
Sidonie Aten says she learned about the development while out on a walk and is now invested in making sure she follows the approval process.
“My husband and I were walking the neighborhood like we have done for years, and it’s the first time I heard about it. I still don’t completely understand where all of this is going,” Aten says.
Aten says she hopes other neighbors will sign their petition an join the group to find out what’s best for the neighborhood.
“I’m here mainly to find out exactly what’s going on and to follow up at every meeting that I possibly can to put the brakes on this. There’s too many families that have lived in this neighborhood, quiet peacefully, and we don’t need this and James Island does not need another car or any more traffic,” she says.
James Island Public Service District held a first reading of the proposed sale of the property in February of 2023. The second reading passed in March of 2023.
A week after a request for comment from KT properties about the residents’ complaints owner Kyle Taylor issued a statement. It reports that 18 and ten community members attended each of the two public meetings respectively. The letter says properties within 500 feet were notified “in excess of the 300 feet range typically required for public notices.”
Taylor calls the two meetings productive and notes that community participation exceeded expectations.
“As a result of the workshops, the development will not propose a cross-connection road with Whitehouse Plantation, the development will contain multiple stormwater management ponds for runoff retention and reduction,” the statement reads.
The developer also announces a third community workshop scheduled for Friday June 2nd at Town Hall (1122 Dill Bluff Road). At the workshop, information from prior meetings will be presented and the developer will answer questions.
Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.
James Island septic tank and sewer service project to cost millions
Melissa Rademakerhttps://www.live5news.com/2023/05/10/james-island-septic-tank-sewer-service-project-cost-millions/
People living in the Clarks Point neighborhood and along Oak Point Road will be moved from septic to sewer lines by December of 2026.JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - The James Island Public Service District will begin work to replace septic tanks and connect sewer lines to 199 properties as residents will be moved from septic to sewer lines.People living in the Clarks Point neighborhood and along Oak Point Road will be moved from septic to sewer lines by December of 2026.The total projected cost is about $10.3 million....
People living in the Clarks Point neighborhood and along Oak Point Road will be moved from septic to sewer lines by December of 2026.
JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - The James Island Public Service District will begin work to replace septic tanks and connect sewer lines to 199 properties as residents will be moved from septic to sewer lines.
People living in the Clarks Point neighborhood and along Oak Point Road will be moved from septic to sewer lines by December of 2026.
The total projected cost is about $10.3 million.
“So we’ve been at this since 2020. And that’s when the James Island Water Quality Task Force was created. So the James Island Creek was designated as an impaired waterway and the task force needed to start addressing the issues,” District Manager Dave Schaeffer says.
Director of Land Water Wildlife at the Coastal Conservation League, Riley Egger says septic tanks released decomposed matter that can be detrimental if disease causing bacteria makes its way into waterways.
“Septic tanks along the coastal zone especially can be particularly dangerous knowing that they face certain conditions from sea level rise from groundwater intrusion and just the challenges of living on the coastal zone,” Egger says.
Egger says the James Island grant is a good step in fixing one area that faces problems.
“When we set up septic tanks that are particularly dense right on the waterways, right on our wetlands, we’re really setting up the future to fail,” Egger says. “What we really need to do is consider septic tanks and where we place them more within the planning process and more of our regulations. The best way to prevent a septic tank from failing is before it ever it gets in the ground.”
The homes impacted by the district’s project can expect a letter detailing the plan in the coming months.
The federal money for the project had a deadline to be used by December of 2026. Schaeffer says it will take time to get proper and easements and estimates groundwork will begin toward the end of 2024.
“Obviously we have started already with preliminary engineering and surveying and the easements that are required and the permitting that is required. So that is a years long process,” he says.
Schaeffer says there will be public engagement sessions to answer questions for people who live on properties being connected so their questions will be answered over the course of the years long project.
“This is kind of like 199 mini projects. We have to work with each one of the homeowners as far as where the pump is going to go, where’s the power to be able to have the pump, to be able to get each one of those households on to the sanitary sewer system. It’s kind of an individual project,” Schaeffer explains.
The sewer lines will be laid underground, and a pump will replace each home’s connection to a septic tank.
“We’re the last utility going into these neighborhoods. So there’s already power and there’s already cable and water and things for us to hit. And so instead of trenching, open trenching, we have the technology to be able to bore through so that we’re not tearing up the roads and there’s less disturbance for the community,” Schaeffer says.
Schaeffer thanked the state representatives who lobbied for this money and says the district will continue to work to replace aging septic with lines as they are able in the coming years.
The cost breakdown is as follows:
Upcoming James Island Public Service District Wastewater meetings:
Meetings are located at Fire Station 1 on 1108 Folly Rd.
Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.
Charleston Co. School District makes progress with new Johns Island elementary
Melissa Rademakerhttps://www.live5news.com/2023/02/06/charleston-co-school-district-makes-progress-with-new-johns-island-elementary/
A new elementary school planned for Johns Island is making its way through the approval process with the City of Charleston.CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A new elementary school planned for Johns Island is making its way through the approval process with the City of Charleston.The construction plan went before the design review board for the second of its three times, on Monday. It’s a standard, but lengthy, process any builders go through with big projects in the city.Executive Director of Capital Programs Jasmeen Sha...
A new elementary school planned for Johns Island is making its way through the approval process with the City of Charleston.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A new elementary school planned for Johns Island is making its way through the approval process with the City of Charleston.
The construction plan went before the design review board for the second of its three times, on Monday. It’s a standard, but lengthy, process any builders go through with big projects in the city.
Executive Director of Capital Programs Jasmeen Shaw explains the school is going to be state of the art and offer STEAM – science, technology, engineering, arts and math – education.
“The island truly deserves a brand-new school and we’re able to bring them a brand-new school which as well as alleviates some of the overcrowding that’s been caused by growth in the area – which is a great thing,” Shaw says.
The elementary school will be off of River Road. It is planned to be two stories and serve 700 2nd through 5th graders.
During community meetings last year – some people expressed concern about traffic. Part of the construction also includes building a roundabout on River Road to enter the school property. The project also includes adding a left turn lane from River Road to Brownswood Road and adding a right turn lane from Brownswood Road onto River Road.
“We’re going to bring several road improvements to the area, which is not only going to benefit the school which operates Monday through Friday for the most part, but even on weekends and as a whole, this particular school is going to be an asset to the entire community,” Shaw says.
Stephanie Yesil and her husband live in a neighborhood off River Road.
“Maybe it will help with the development of River Road and turning it into a safer place. Maybe adding some sidewalks, maybe adding some additional controls, maybe some new lights, maybe some new signs to make it even more family friendly. So, this could be a really good thing if it’s done well,” Yesil says.
She is a former education who says she doesn’t have kids yet, but supports investing in education.
“My husband and I hopefully one day will be parents but for now, I mean, we love our neighbors and almost every single one of them have new children and it would be really nice to make sure that this is more of a community-oriented place rather than having a bus kids all over the place,” Yesil says.
The elementary school is meant to help with the crowding at the Angel Oak Elementary, which is operating at 129% capacity over operating ability. The $53.5 million dollar brand new school will offer STEAM programs. Then, the Angel Oak Elementary building will be converted to serve as a head start and 1st grade center, so all levels are included. The goal open date for the school is the start of the 2024-2025 school year.
“I think education is always a great idea. I think there’s always going to be a need for it. I can’t speak to other city planning. I can’t necessarily speak to any other kinds of businesses that we should have over here. But you’ll always get a yes vote for me when it comes to bringing in good teachers, good people and giving more and more space for kids to go to places to learn,” Yesil says.
Monday, the design review board approved the conceptual plans and submitted the information to staff for a further focused review. The board made some aesthetic suggestions to the plans like more fencing around the back of the building, but overall supported the designs. Charleston County Schools says the project is on track and they expect to start site prep work in March.
Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.
‘Home away from home’: James Island Public Service District requests station revamp
Anna Harrishttps://www.live5news.com/2023/05/04/home-away-home-james-island-public-service-district-requests-station-revamp/
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - James Island Public Service District says they’re in need of a revamped fire station to make the crew’s environment more of a home.The JIPSD requested permission to issue $6,500,000 in general obligation bonds for a whole new building from the Charleston County finance committee on Thursday.“It’s a long-standing problem for the JIPSD,” Dave Schaeffer, district manager for the JIPSD, said. “We got to the point where we need to address it.”The building for...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - James Island Public Service District says they’re in need of a revamped fire station to make the crew’s environment more of a home.
The JIPSD requested permission to issue $6,500,000 in general obligation bonds for a whole new building from the Charleston County finance committee on Thursday.
“It’s a long-standing problem for the JIPSD,” Dave Schaeffer, district manager for the JIPSD, said. “We got to the point where we need to address it.”
The building for Fire Station #2 for the James Island Public Service District has been standing since 1964. Aside from adding a bay in the 1980s, the crews have been working in and out of a small living room, kitchen, a few beds and one bathroom.
Shawn Engleman, deputy fire chief of administration for the JIPSD, says they normally have 3-4 people in the building at one time, but they could have up to 8-10 people during a severe storm.
“It’s difficult to work at times,” Engleman said. “It’s very cramped.”
Schaeffer says the time for this change is now.
“Our firemen, this is their home away from home,” Schaeffer said. “They eat here. They sleep here.”
The team wants to tear this building down and create a new home for these firefighters. With the request from Charleston County council, a new bay for an extra truck, more bathrooms, offices and a decontamination area for equipment can be added, amongst others.
“A lot has changed in the last 40 years,” Schaeffer said. “There’s now 40,000 people that live on James Island. So, it’s very important that we have a station to respond appropriately.”
They say construction could start as early as 2025. While this takes place, Engleman says they will have a temporary spot somewhere near this location for about 18 months while the new building is being constructed.
“We just hope they pass it so we can move forward and get this project going,” Engleman said.
If the money is approved all the way through county council, it will be back in the public service district’s hands as early as August. If everything goes smoothly, Fire Station #2 could be up and running by 2027.
All proposed design renderings for Fire Station #2 were done by Rosenblum Coe Architects.
Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.
Food, drink options explode on James Island
Michael Phamhttps://charlestoncitypaper.com/2023/02/22/food-drink-options-explode-on-james-island/
Yummy! James Island was once an area full of nationwide chains and fast food joints with a few hidden gems known only to longtime locals.Not any more. Now there are more options than ever for residents and visitors featuring new food and beverage spots outside of the peninsula from new concepts like rotisserie chicken joint El Pollo Guapo, Point Break Coffee & Drive-Thru, and Wisconsin Meat & Cheese on Folly Road to the expansion of existing local businesses such as Millers All Day and Huriyali. Mount Pleasant’s...
Yummy!
James Island was once an area full of nationwide chains and fast food joints with a few hidden gems known only to longtime locals.
Not any more. Now there are more options than ever for residents and visitors featuring new food and beverage spots outside of the peninsula from new concepts like rotisserie chicken joint El Pollo Guapo, Point Break Coffee & Drive-Thru, and Wisconsin Meat & Cheese on Folly Road to the expansion of existing local businesses such as Millers All Day and Huriyali. Mount Pleasant’s highly touted Pakistani restaurant Malika Canteen is also joining the James Island crowd March 8 at Charleston Pour House.
“It snowballs,” said Brian Piesner, owner of Coastal Crust and Coastal Snack Bar. “If somebody’s doing well, bringing in nice clientele and is supported, it’s like, ‘Oh yeah, we can open down the road and probably do well there.’ ”
While gourmet pizza restaurant Coastal Crust expanded to James Island from Mount Pleasant three years ago, Piesner and company opened a brand new concept, Coastal Snack Bar, in mid-January less than two miles down the street on Harbor View Road.
“Now that we opened the Snack Bar,” he said, “I feel like the shift of excitement is going to be like, ‘Man, what’s going on over there?’ Now all of a sudden, this little pocket of town has some options.”
Coastal Snack Bar brings the same quality of food as Coastal Crust, but with a Caribbean island twist. It offers dishes like a blackened fish sandwich with citrus slaw and mahi mahi or a pecan gorgonzola salad for a healthy balance of sweet, spice, bitter and acid.
Like Coastal Crust, other existing establishments have joined the island. Millers All Day opened a second location in the Terrace Plaza on Maybank Highway in September, following the opening of My Father’s Moustache on the same street in August. West Ashley coffee spot Highfalutin set up shop just a few doors down from Coastal Crust while downtown coffee spot Huriyali opened its second location on Wappoo Drive.
Nate Thurston, co-owner of the popular downtown brunch spot Millers All Day said he realized that while the original location is a hot destination, especially for tourists, there was a need for a place on James Island that is focused on residents. If you’ve driven down King Street toward Broad Street, chances are you’ve seen the line outside of Millers All Day.
“It’s a little bit of a blessing and a curse,” Thurston said. “It’s a great scenario for the business, but it does make it inaccessible to some degree. So for that reason, we wanted to start getting some neighborhood exposure and specifically cater to the locals, which was our goal from the beginning.”
But translating the busy brunch spot to a quieter location can present different scenarios.
“The demographic could not be more different,” he said. “We’ve enjoyed learning to cater to a local community versus downtown which is, you know, alive. It’s very different. But we’re enjoying the diversity of each.”
The James Island Millers deviates from its downtown location by serving its menu from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and incorporating daily dinner specials such as the farmhouse frittata, which is made with rainbow cauliflower, asparagus and sweet peppers and topped with roasted carrots. So, if you missed out on grabbing a Millers Plate — two eggs, Jimmy Red Corn Grits or home fries, biscuit, bacon and pickled vegetables — at the downtown location, head across the bridge to Maybank Highway and enjoy breakfast for dinner.
James Island residents may see these familiar places nearer to home, but there’s plenty of new places to eat, too. El Pollo Guapo serves up gourmet rotisserie chickens on Folly Road. Wisconsin Meat & Cheese brings a new selection of options for a charcuterie board. And Odyssey Bottle Shop offers wine, international craft beers and a place to hang out in a little shopping center on Harbor View Road.
El Pollo Guapo had big shoes to fill when it moved in December into the building formerly occupied by Black Magic Cafe on Folly Road, a James Island staple for 13 years.
“When we first announced that we were coming in, it was a little bit of a mixed bag,” said Roy Reidl, co-owner of El Pollo Guapo. Some were devastated at the news of Black Magic’s closing, while others were excited for something new to the area, he added.
Reidl and his wife Heather are Connecticut natives with three El Pollo Guapo locations in their home state. During the pandemic, however, Reidl realized Connecticut wasn’t the right market, as El Pollo Guapo always had a beach/surfer vibe, he said. He and his family welcomed the beach town and wanted to promote the laid-back lifestyle with a Charleston location. The locations in Connecticut are still open.
“We feel very excited to be a part of the community here and want to give back,” Reidl said. “That’s something that’s really important to us.”
Despite its name, El Pollo Guapo isn’t a Mexican restaurant. It specializes in rotisserie chicken with Latin-inspired seasoning and sides, but you can find a couple tacos options on the menu, too.
Reidl and his family aren’t the only transplants to open up shop on the Island, either. Owners Taylor Ambrosius and her boyfriend Casey Diedrich opened Wisconsin Meat & Cheese in November, bringing a slice of their cheesy home state to the Lowcountry. Ambrosius, a Wisconsin native and Charleston attorney, and Diedrich import childhood favorite brands from Wisconsin to offer to James Island residents.
There’s many people from Wisconsin who live here, or have family in Wisconsin who have been very receptive about the shop, she said. “We’ve also had a lot of people that are from here, or from other places, that have given us a lot of really good feedback.”
The meat and cheese shop brings Wisconsin-original meats, locally made cheese and snack items like Potter’s Crackers, a whole grain, organic line of crackers, crisps and oyster crackers that are produced with locally sourced whole-wheat flour and local milk and butter. Customers as far away as Sumter have visited the area to pick up a piece of their Wisconsin home, according to Ambrosius.
Not too far away on Harbor View Road, Russell and Katherine Dodson said they opened Odyssey Bottle Shop in June to fill a need in the community. The shop specializes in craft beers, both local and international, and wines. It brings in local talent with frequent food truck pop-ups.
“For people on James Island, there just weren’t a lot of options [especially for craft beer],” said Russell Dodson. “Every time we’d ask anybody where they go, it was either a gas station or a grocery store, which you know, the selection isn’t that vast considering what’s out there and available.”
Odyssey Bottle Shop does more than just sell bottles and beer, though. Each week is a new line of international craft beers on tap, along with wine available by the glass and bottle, food trucks parked outside, pop-up smokers in the large back patio and even some arcade games.
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