Two Must Visit Black-Owned Businesses in Charleston

Last updated on June 4th, 2026

The Rundown

Beyond the historic landmarks, seafood spots, and carriage rides, you might be wondering: What are the two must-visit Black-owned businesses in Charleston?

Two standout Black-owned businesses in Charleston include Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar, a culturally driven wine destination, and Turning Page Bookshop, a Black woman-owned bookstore fostering community and representation. Together, they offer a deeper, more intentional way to experience the city.

Key Takeaways

• Charleston offers more than its typical tourist attractions
• Black-owned businesses play a key role in the city’s cultural identity
• Graft Wine Shop blends wine, music, and community
• Turning Page Bookshop creates space for Black voices and readers
• Supporting local businesses helps shift economic visibility

Why Should You Look Beyond the Typical Charleston Experience?

Your typical Charleston, South Carolina visit probably includes a trip to the Historic City Market, the Battery, or one of the many seafood spots along the water. You might even flex on ’em, and take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage – yes, this is still a thing in the good ole South. Somebody cue the sad song for all the horses carrying folks around in the heat and humidity downtown – I hope they get all the sugar cubes their heart desires.

As a native to the area, there’s always been a disconnect between my deep-fried Lowcountry experience and the pan-seared experience of out-of-towners. But don’t worry, you’re in good hands now, and while the foodie scene is great – you should know that blue crab ain’t the only thing crackin’ in Chucktown aka Charleston. The city has so much culture to offer, however, for many Black entrepreneurs it has been difficult to gain visibility and claim their piece of the tourism pie. So, in an effort to help close the gap, here are two (2) of my must-visit Black-owned businesses in Charleston.    

Where Can You Experience Wine Culture in Charleston?

Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar

Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar offers an approachable yet culturally rich wine experience in Charleston.

While the challenge of creating authentic and unapologetic spaces in the downtown area is an uphill battle, Femi Oyediran is up for the challenge. After moving to Charleston to attend college, Femi quickly gained an appreciation for the city stating, “…as a West African, I see the connections of my culture and the Gullah/Geechee culture in Charleston.” In 2018, he decided to partner with a long-time friend and open Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar in Uptown Charleston.

Upon entering the wine shop, you will be encounter an approachable staff that will put your mind at ease amongst the many varieties of domestic and international options. The wine shop has added to Femi’s reputation as a Charleston Tastemaker – curating guest experiences that include good wine, conversation, and music. Bonus points: they also have these house-made potato chips that will have your taste buds dancing. Dusted with a secret mix of herbs and spices, you’ll be ordering a second bowl in no time.  Before you head out the door, I recommend asking one of the Sommeliers for a wine bottle recommendation. This will come in handy after you swing by Turning Page Bookshop for your next novel fix. At this stage in the game, I think we can all agree that wine is the perfect pairing for enjoying the pages of a good book. 

Where Can You Find a Black-Owned Bookstore Near Charleston?

Turning Page Bookshop

Turning Page Bookshop is a Black woman-owned bookstore creating an inclusive space for readers just outside Charleston.

One barrier to dipping Charleston into the sauce of black excellence is the increase of gentrification, which is making the rent too dang high. However, this hasn’t stopped VaLinda Miller from opening South Carolina’s only black woman-owned brick-and-mortar bookstore in 2019. Inspired by trips to the library with her grandmother she states, “books taught me to use my imagination, taking me places no TV show could ever come close to…I want to share my love of books and reading with others and plant the same seed that was planted in me when I was a child.

Turning Page Bookshop is just a stone’s throw away from downtown, located in Goose Creek, SC, where the team has created a colorful and inclusive space for all readers to unwind. Most recently, the Turning Page reading list featured newly released Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley and Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow in celebration of Juneteenth. And, don’t worry about being hushed by this librarian – she wants to make sure your voice is heard.

With a large selection of books made for us and by us, it’s worth it to ease-on-down-the-road to this hidden treasure. 

How Should You Plan a More Intentional Trip to Charleston?

Supporting Black-owned businesses is one of the most direct ways to experience Charleston beyond the surface.

As you plan your next trip to Chucktown, think consciously about where you spend your dollar. If you want to get all the seasonings and fixins out of your trip – ask a local. If you want to crack open your new favorite book or bottle of wine, you know where to go (and don’t forget to tell ‘em who sent ya).

FAQs

What are some Black-owned businesses to visit in Charleston?

Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar and Turning Page Bookshop are two standout options offering wine, culture, and community-driven experiences.

Is Charleston a good destination for cultural travel?

Yes, beyond its historic landmarks, Charleston offers rich cultural experiences shaped by Black history, entrepreneurship, and creativity.

Where can I find a Black-owned bookstore near Charleston?

Turning Page Bookshop in Goose Creek is a Black woman-owned bookstore offering a curated and inclusive reading space.

Check out this Redfin article we were featured in:

No matter if you’re a longtime local or in the market to buy a home in Charleston, SC, have your eyes on an apartment in the city, or interested in a rental house in the area, here are some of the most enchanting romantic things to do in Charleston for those who are looking to call it home.

9 Romantic Things to Do in Charleston, SC: The Perfect Stay | Redfin