News Summary
CO, the beloved Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant in Charleston, has reopened after an extensive renovation. Locals are thrilled to see the popular spot back in business, featuring a renovated interior and enticing happy hour offerings. The restaurant’s renewed focus on local tastes and an enhanced dining experience make it a cherished destination for both residents and tourists.
Charleston Welcomes Back CO: A Culinary Gem Reopens Its Doors After Major Overhaul
Charleston locals have some fantastic news to brighten their days! After an extensive renovation that had many longtime customers fretting, CO, the beloved Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant, has bounced back and is ready to serve its fans once again. Following a closure starting in February 2024 and a careful refresh lasting nearly a year, CO reopened earlier this month, bringing with it a promise of an enhanced dining experience.
Popular Spot Reimagined
For many in Charleston, CO was more than just a restaurant. It became a buzzy spot for happy hour, one where friends gathered to unwind, share laughs, and enjoy eclectic bites. When whispers of the restaurant’s closure spread, patrons could hardly contain their concern. CO had become a staple in the community, so its absence called for some serious worry. But now, with its doors back open, customers are thrilled to see what fresh changes await them.
Revamped Interior and New Features
One thing diners will instantly notice is the restaurant’s stunning transformation. Gone is the dark industrial look that once characterized the interior. Instead, CO has embraced a brighter aesthetic that invites a warm, welcoming vibe. Hand-painted artworks from regional artists adorn the walls, adding a unique touch that reflects the vibrant cultural scene of the area. Additionally, a new exterior blade sign has been installed to help reveal the restaurant’s location on bustling King Street, making it hard for anyone to miss.
Happy Hour to the Rescue
Continuing to cater to its core audience of young professionals, CO remains dedicated to providing an irresistible happy hour menu. Available from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, the happy hour special features delectable dishes priced between $4 to $8. Guests can indulge in mouthwatering options such as pork belly buns, summer rolls, beef and kimchi dumplings, and the ever-tempting bang bang shrimp. Along with these tantalizing bites, there are also drink specials on select beers, wine, and sake, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a long day at work.
A Positive Reception
Since reopening, feedback from the first wave of returning guests has been overwhelmingly positive. Patrons are genuinely excited to see CO back in play and have voiced their gratitude, cementing the restaurant’s position as a coveted dining destination in Charleston.
CO’s Expanding Horizons
With seven locations up and running and a footprint spreading into markets like Raleigh/Durham, Charlotte, Myrtle Beach, and Columbia, CO is on the rise. However, the Charleston location continues to provide a unique alternative to traditional Southern cuisine. Locals revel in the flavorful offerings, especially those who may want a break from heavier Southern dishes. Tourists too have taken notice, often seeking out CO to experience something different.
Adapting to Local Tastes
Interestingly, while CO maintains a consistent concept across its establishments, each location adapts its menu to align with local tastes and trends. This adaptability has proven successful, allowing CO to maintain its relevance amid the vibrant Charleston culinary scene.
Looking Ahead
As Charleston’s dining landscape evolves, CO is committed to preserving the quality food and service that made it a beloved favorite in the first place. With increasing competition, both Upper and Lower King Street showcase diverse dining options, but CO aims to thrive through excellent service and innovative cuisine. Patrons can rest easy, knowing their favorite Southeast Asian restaurant is not just back but better than ever.
So, fellow food lovers, gather your friends, head on down to CO, and rekindle those memories over a delicious meal and drinks during happy hour. The flavors and atmosphere await, ready to remind you why CO is a cherished part of Charleston’s dining scene!
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Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper: CO Reopens After Renovation
- Wikipedia: Charleston, South Carolina
- Eater: Best Seafood Restaurants in Charleston
- Google Search: Charleston Restaurant Industry
- Myrtle Beach Online: SC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
- Post and Courier: Charleston Restaurant Closures
- Google News: Restaurant Closures Charleston
- ABC News 4: Rutledge Cab Company Closure
- Google Scholar: Charleston Food Scene
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.
