The Rooftop Bar is situated atop the French Quarter’s historic Vendue Hotel, with unbeatable views of Charleston. It has claimed the title of Best Rooftop Bar every year since 2007, as voted by readers of Charleston City Paper. For over three decades, it has been a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.
Seven days a week, The Rooftop Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch, dinner or a casual cocktail. From a comfortable seat at this multi-level bar, patrons can see the Charleston Harbor, the Ravenel Bridge, Waterfront Park and, of course, the many beautiful church steeples that dot the skyline of the Holy City. The spacious seating area is outfitted with comfortable chairs to lounge around and enjoy the open air. For lunch and dinner, the bar serves a seasonal menu of salads, appetizers, sandwiches and desserts, offering a variety of spirits, wines and local and craft beers as well.
The Rooftop Bar is celebrated for its beautifully crafted specialty cocktails. They have an array of selections, from the classic Pimm’s Cup to the imaginative Gypsy Lips – Bombay Sapphire gin, Aperol, grapefruit, lemon juice and simple syrup. The Strawberry Basil Lemonade is the perfect summer pick-me-up, with Cathead Honeysuckle vodka and house made basil strawberry lemonade. The margarita gets a spicy twist with the Margarita Picante, made with Suaza Cucumber Chili tequila, Cointreau, lime juice and sour mix. Oozing with Southern charm, the Southside Fizz is a combination of SeerSucker Southern Style gin, lime juice, mint, simple syrup and club soda.
The Rooftop Bar has a colorful food menu that is not to be missed. Whether you are ordering an appetizer to share or a full meal, there are a variety of options. The Pulled Pork Nachos are a crowd favorite, topped with queso, house made salsa, guacamole and chipotle sour cream. Among the lighter options is the Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Salad, made with Holy City tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, sweet basil, olive oil, balsamic syrup and sea salt. The Lobster Roll Sandwich is nothing short of heavenly, with lump and claw lobster meat and herb dressing on a split top roll. To satisfy any sweet tooth, order the 6 Layer Chocolate Cake with salted caramel.
During the week, patrons can watch the sunset while enjoying happy hour prices, including half-off select food, $3 domestic beers, $4 well liquors and $5 house wine, Monday to Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The fun rolls into the weekend with live music every Sunday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
This Charleston gem is just a short elevator ride off the beaten path and an oasis from the bustle of downtown. Smell the salt air and enjoy the picturesque views of the Holy City, all while sipping a tasty cocktail. At any hour, the The Rooftop Bar at Vendue is the place to be for fantastic food, drinks, top-notch service and al fresco fun.
To learn more about one of Charleston’s best rooftop bars, visit www.thevendue.com/charleston-dining/the-rooftop/ or call 843-577-7970.
By Annie Stoppelbein
