News Summary
Local 616, a cherished neighborhood bar in Charleston, has officially closed its doors after 12 years of serving the community. Owner Dwayne Mitchell cited unsustainable operational costs, particularly soaring liquor liability insurance, as the primary reason for the closure. The bar was known for its welcoming atmosphere, karaoke nights, and community events, leaving many locals heartbroken. As similar establishments face financial pressure, the closure raises concerns about the future of the city’s vibrant dining scene.
Charleston Says Goodbye to Beloved Local 616 Bar After 12 Heartfelt Years
In a bittersweet turn of events, the charming Local 616, a beloved neighborhood bar in Charleston, officially shut its doors on February 12, 2025, leaving many locals mourning the end of an era. This cozy spot had been a staple for the community since it opened back in 2013.
Rising Costs Force Closure
The owner, Dwayne Mitchell, revealed that the decision was not taken lightly. He pointed to the increasingly unsustainable costs of doing business as the primary reason for closing the bar, with a significant *culprit* being the skyrocketing cost of liquor liability insurance. The numbers are staggering—insurance quotes for Local 616 had surged to a jaw-dropping 25 times higher than they were when Mitchell first opened the bar’s doors.
A Heartfelt Goodbye
In an emotional Instagram message, Mitchell expressed his gratitude to the loyal patrons who had supported him throughout the years. The outpouring of love from the community reflected just how much Local 616 meant to Charleston—a place where memories were made over affordable drinks, spirited games of pool, and creative slushie concoctions.
Community Spirit at Its Best
Local 616 wasn’t just another bar; it embodied the spirit of a classic dive. With its welcoming atmosphere, regular karaoke nights, and viewed live sports events—especially soccer and Carolina Panthers games—it became a gathering place for friends and families. The bar also hosted cooking events with local chefs, showcasing the culinary talent of the area.
For Mitchell, the memories span over a decade. He fondly recalled a special painting day before the bar’s opening, filled with laughter and support from friends who helped him put it all together. These moments showcased the community-driven vibe that made Local 616 a cherished fixture in Charleston.
Part of a Growing Trend
Local 616’s closure is not an isolated incident. Reports show that several other restaurants and bars in Charleston have similarly shut down, facing challenges from rising operational costs. Just around the same time as Local 616’s announcement, Taco Bartina—a well-known eatery—also revealed it would be closing its doors, emphasizing the toll these financial hardships are taking on the local dining scene.
The Bigger Picture
The surge in liquor liability insurance costs has become a hot topic in South Carolina, particularly after a law passed in 2017 that increased the insurance coverage requirements for establishments serving alcohol after 5 p.m. Many small business owners in the state are feeling the squeeze, as the South Carolina Department of Insurance reported that liquor liability insurance has become unprofitable for insurers, leaving fewer options for local businesses facing soaring premiums.
As the South Carolina Senate prepares to discuss this pressing issue and its impact on local businesses, many hope for a resolution that will help struggling establishments stay afloat. Charleston is a city known for its vibrant culture, and the loss of local favorites like Local 616 and Taco Bartina serves as a reminder of the importance of community support for keeping the heartbeat of the city alive.
A Fond Farewell
As locals come to terms with the closure of Local 616, it is clear that the bar will be missed deeply. It was more than just a place to grab a drink; it was a home away from home where stories were shared, friendships were forged, and good times were had. Spearheaded by Dwayne Mitchell, the bar was a testament to the community spirit that Charleston prides itself on.
While the doors may be closed, the memories of laughter, music, and camaraderie will live on in the hearts of those who called Local 616 their own.
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Eater: Local 616 Closing
- Post and Courier: Local 616 Closure
- Charleston City Paper: A Testament to Local 616
- Wikipedia: Liquor Liability Insurance
- Google News: South Carolina Liquor Liability Insurance
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
