Anne Bonny's story is a tale of two lives, one supported by historical documents of which there is very little, the other embellished by fiction and creative imagination. It is up to you to separate the one from the other because you will hear her name echoed in the pirate stories of Charleston, the Pink House on Chalmers Street, to name one, and the old Powder Magazine on Cumberland Street, another. Nonetheless, she is a historical figure who dared to step outside the conventional into a maelstrom of infamy. In homage to this daring woman, Jim McCourt and James Walsh, operating partners of the award-winning Prohibition, conceived Bonny's Hideaway, located next door at 549 King Street.
Bonny's Hideaway is a new Tiki-influenced concept that incorporates Irish and Caribbean cocktail cultures, including the rich history of rum in Charleston. Step through its entrance, and you will enter a comfortably lit venue with a long bar and plenty of seating running the length of its interior space. To your immediate right awaits an intimate niche dominated by a large painting of tall ships engaged in a massive battle with lush lounge seating and an area called Bonny's Bed with a view of King Street. Usually requiring a reservation, the space was appreciatively offered to us, which we thoroughly enjoyed.
Our server for the night, a very enthusiastic and engaging young lady with a darling of a personality, promptly brought us the drink and food menus. Her name, like her personality, was uniquely pleasant, Lyric. She offered suggestions and shared her favorites. She allowed us a few moments to peruse the two menus and make our choices. She was very conscientious, checking in with us often throughout our visit.
From the list of 14 drinks, I chose the Mai-garitta for $14, a blend of Lunazul Blanco, Lime, Lemon, Orgeat, Ginger, Honey, and bitters. My date, Anne-Merle, chose the Caribbe margarita for $14, a concoction of Birds eye chill tequila, mango, lime, Cointreau, and chili salt. Off
the food menu, I selected the Caribbean Crush Burger Single for $12--Angus beef, peach pepper jam, Bermuda onion, and American cheese with fries. Anne-Merle chose the Yellow Curry Cauliflower for $14--golden raisins, coconut, cilantro, and mint. She described it as scrumptious. My drink was delightfully uplifting, the Angus burger was mouthwatering, and the crispy fries were the best.
When we arrived at 6:30, the crowd was light, but not for long. The Halloween partiers began to steadily flow in and fill the seats at the long, impressive bar, including the partitioned table seating along the left side opposite the bar. Stede Bonnet and pirate friends made a surprise visit. Towards the back of the establishment were themed seating areas. One wall had fireplace seating, another wall accommodated what is called the Bamboo Room, and in the back corner was the Rum Room surrounded by Rum Barrels.
The venue is very imaginative and beautifully decorated. It includes a collection of sea-inspired artwork, an antique cannon by the front door, a detailed portrait of Bonny herself, Irish whiskey barrels, and more.
Bonny's Hideaway is a must experience. The cocktails and food are fantastic. The service is top-notch. The atmosphere is a pirate's paradise. I most definitely will return many times. Cheers to Anne Bonny and owners.
549 King Street, Charleston, SC
843-793-3465
Wed-Sat: 4:00 pm – 2:00 am, Sunday: 4:00 pm – 12:00 am
Book a reservation
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