Taking a closer look at Avondale

In light of recent economic developments, West Ashley has become a hot topic– with transportation feasibility studies becoming a priority and new businesses, such as Whole Foods, setting up shop in the neighborhood.

Nestled in the 44.93 square miles is the village-like community known as Avondale– which many refer to as the “downtown” of West Ashley. The trendy area, located off of Savannah Highway, encompasses a cluster of local contemporary restaurants,spectacular murals + artwork, chic shops, and charming homes– all within walking distance of one another.

Unlike other neighborhoods, Avondale is a unique, homey district; devoid of large commercial chains. Business owners have fought for their rights to maintain their own small business district (known as the Avondale Point Business District) to keep the area eclectic.

Local restaurants have gained such popularity that in 2010, the Avondale community announced that King Street wasn’t the only foodie hub– launching its very own annual restaurant week (complete with valet parking… not something you see offered often at events on the peninsula).

Throughout the last decade, Avondale has seen spectacular growth– such the construction of a $350K crosswalk in 2014– gaining the attention + attraction of Lowcountry locals looking for an alternative hangout to downtown.

As development continues, we asked our readers what they would like to see in the rare, recently available retail space at 827 Savannah Hwy.– which is… you guessed it– right in the heart of the Avondale district.

The Barber + Shave Shop | Photo by CHStoday team

Based on your responses, you would like to see:

A big stage and dance floor... like Pour House
Space where bands can play
Stand up comedy
Karaoke, open mics, + the occasional race party
Tacos or pizza by the slice
A gym

While we're not 100% sure what will occupy the space just yet– here is where to dine, drink, shop, + play the next time you find yourself west of the Ashley River.

Gala Desserts | Photo by the CHStoday team

Where to eat:

Coming soon:

🍴Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe | 📍2 Magnolia Rd. | While there is currently no set open date, dessert-craving locals can follow updates on the cafe’s Facebook page
🍴Kairos Greek Kitchen | 📍975 Savannah Hwy | Opa! John Ondo's fast-casual Greek restaurant plans to open their second location in Avondale on July 12, 2018. The menu will be exactly the same as the original location in Mt. Pleasant.

Charles Towne Fermentory | Photo by CHStoday team

Where to drink:

Where to shop:

👗 Reinvented Ladies Upscale– Women’s consignment shop | 📍847 Savannah Hwy.
👗 Consigning Women– Women’s upscale consignments | 📍21 Magnolia Rd.
🎩 Julia Pagán Local Couture– Men’s, women’s, + custom bridal couture | 📍845 Savannah Hwy.
🐶 Crew LaLa– Southern-style pet store |📍8 Avondale Ave.
🌿 Herbal Passion– Medicinal herbs, spices, superfoods, + handcrafted tea blends. |📍845-1B Savannah Hwy.
🥕 Farmers Market |📍55 Sycamore Ave. | Open Wednesdays at 3-7 p.m.

Community Yoga | Photo by the CHStoday team

Where to be active:

🤸‍Community Yoga |📍815 Savannah Hwy., Ste. 102

The Barber + Shave Shoppe | Photo by CHStoday team

Where to get pampered:

💇 Strawberry Blonde Salon– Hair + beauty salon |📍29 Magnolia Rd
💇 Lava Salon– An upbeat, nontraditional hair salon | 📍811 Savannah Hwy., # B
💇 Lordis Loft– An Aveda concept salon | 📍916 Savannah Hwy.
💈The Barber + Shave Shoppe– Upscale, traditional barbershop |📍829 Savannah Hwy.
💆 Anne Bonny’s Lash & Skin Boutique– Facials, lash extensions, massage, waxing, + more | 📍829 D Savannah Hwy.
💆 BodyWorks Massage & Wellness– Advanced massage therapy focusing on chronic pain + healing the negative effects of stress on the body | 📍8 Daniel St.
💆 Verdant Ecospa & Organic Oasis– Holistic health specializing in organic skin therapies + products | 📍938 Savannah Hwy.

If you haven’t crossed over the Ashley into Avondale yet, it’s definitely worth the trip. Whether you’re looking to grab a drink, dinner, dessert, or all of the above– you’re sure to find a spot to cure your cravings + have some fun.

Keep doing your thing, Avondale– it’s working.

– Justine