Kara Graves
with Uptown Social / Bodega
Kara Graves
with Uptown Social / Bodega
Business Owner:
Kara Graves
Business Name:
Uptown Social / Bodega
Location:
587 King St — but Bodega is moving to its own location at 23 Ann St.
What Services Does Your Business Offer?
For those that grew up in the New York/metropolitan area, there is nothing more nostalgic than a good ole fashioned “Bodega” breakfast sandwich on a warm kaiser roll. Executive Chef Alec Gropman brings his childhood favorite to life with a menu full of old-school staples, some with a Charleston twist! Bodega is a true “can’t miss” for a day on the boat, at the beach, or a lazy Sunday on the couch! Our permanent home is coming soon, but for now, visit us at Uptown Social.
In Business Since:
2018
A Deeper Dive
Why Did You Choose to Open in Charleston?
In the Spring of 2017, a group of longtime friends and hospitality pioneers followed their dream of transforming an iconic Upper King Street turn-of-the-century building into a classic, festive, neighborhood tavern. The result is a Charleston original, through and through, with an overflowing menu of drink specials, daily happy hours, and pizza masterminded by a Brooklyn legend. This unique venue also has two private event spaces, a stunning wooden roof deck; and 40+ TV’s. This is just the beginning. Welcome to the neighborhood establishment that Charleston has been waiting for; welcome to Uptown Social.
Who is Your Typical Client?
Our client base varies! Sometimes we have high-end private events, and sometimes we have young professional 20 somethings! During Bodega hours, we even have families and their pets! We truly have a spot for everyone and a unique experience whether you're in the Lot, on the rooftop, in one of our private event spaces or downstairs watching a sporting event, a DJ or listening to live music!
Does Your Business Offer Services in Other Locations Besides Charleston?
The Eat Drink & Be Merry group has 8 bars in NYC, 4 businesses in Chicago and soon to be 3 in Charleston.
Tell Us Anything Else About Your Business That Our Visitors Might Like to Know.
Depending on the day of the week, we will have acoustic music, karaoke, a Silent Disco, a fun tropical DJ or live music acts that could be from Charleston or may be from as far away as Nashville! We also have some great specials. Bodega, our breakfast/lunch weekend concept will be moving over to Ann St along with our 3rd concept, Share House, but replacing Bodega at Uptown will be our breakfast/brunch concept, THE GREASY SPOON! That will be launching in August 2021.
Just for Fun!
Tell Us Your Favorite Thing(s) to Do in Charleston.
My favorite thing to do in Charleston is wake up early on days where I haven’t closed Uptown Social the night before, and bring my mini golden doodle, Potato, to the beach in IOP. I also love to take a quick dip; it really starts my day off right!
Where is Your Favorite Place to Eat/Drink in Charleston?
I absolutely LOVE the vibe at Halls Chophouse, and their signature drink, the Hot Pepper. My favorite dive is The Royal American and my favorite sit-down dinner is The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island!
What’s the Craziest Experience You’ve Had with a Client?
While I was still bartending, I had an unhappy customer throw an entire cocktail in a pint glass at my head. She didn’t hit me though…. 🙂
Where’s Your Favorite Place to Travel Outside of Charleston?
My favorite place, aside from NYC (since that’s home) is Barcelona. I love the food, the architecture, the culture… and all the people are so unique looking and dressing, and so beautiful!
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