News Summary
Charleston City Paper has unveiled the winners of its annual ‘Best of Charleston’ contest, highlighting local businesses, services, and personalities. This year, categories ranged from culinary to community services, celebrating favorites like Live 5 WCSC and Halls Chophouse. A special issue detailing the results is available across 700 locations in the tri-county area, reflecting Charleston’s vibrant culture and community pride. Events to honor the winners are set to engage residents and support local entrepreneurship.
Charleston – Charleston City Paper has announced the winners of its annual “Best of Charleston” contest, where readers cast votes across 469 different categories to celebrate local businesses, services, and personalities. A special 128-page issue detailing the winners is now available at 700 locations throughout the tri-county area.
The contest highlighted favorites in a range of categories, showcasing the diverse talent and offerings present in the community. Among the significant winners was Live 5 WCSC, which maintained its reputation as the best Lowcountry television station for the ninth consecutive year. In the culinary realm, Halls Chophouse emerged as the top local restaurant, proving popular alongside notable mentions like Lewis Barbecue and Guilty Pleasures.
Other awardees included the Charleston Animal Society, recognized for its contributions to animal welfare, and Germain Dermatology, which serves the beautification and health needs of the community. Additionally, Rob Fowler, a meteorologist at WCBD, earned accolades as both the best weatherman and the best Charlestonian not named Bill Murray or Darius Rucker.
This year’s contest introduced new categories to facilitate a broader range of recognitions, including Best Dog Walker and Best Wedding Planner. The 2025 edition of the contest also showcases a newly organized “Kids and Pets” section, reflecting a more comprehensive view of Charleston’s community and lifestyle. Events celebrating the winners took place at Building 64 in North Charleston, further engaging the local population.
Some other highlighted winners across various categories included:
- Best Farmers Market: Charleston Farmers Market (Runner-Up: Sunday Brunch Farmers Market)
- Best College: College of Charleston (Runner-Up: Medical University of South Carolina)
- Best Plastic Surgery Practice: Crantford Costa Ulm Plastic Surgery, marking its first win
The contest celebrates not only hospitality and culinary excellence, but also recognizes the arts, health, beauty, and community services that significantly enrich Charleston’s cultural fabric. The local economy is bolstered by these industries, as evidenced by data showing Charleston’s tourism industry generated a total impact of $14 billion last year, with a slight increase in visitor numbers.
Such recognitions play a vital role in fostering community pride and encouraging local entrepreneurship, especially as Charleston’s dining scene continues to evolve. The legacy of influential figures in the culinary world, such as Chef Bob Carter, is noteworthy; Carter had a profound impact on the culinary scene before his recent passing at age 59, having been associated with establishments like Peninsula Grill.
Aside from the “Best of Charleston” contest, Charleston is also making headlines with the upcoming implementation of a ban on cellphone use while driving, effective September 1. Furthermore, infrastructure plans are in motion, including the scheduled replacement of the Burden Creek bridge on Johns Island, which is set to begin construction in 2027.
The “Best of Charleston” awards serve not only as a celebration of local favorites but also reflect the vibrant culture and community spirit that continues to thrive in Charleston. As local residents and businesses embrace these recognitions, it highlights the importance of supporting and promoting the unique characteristics that make Charleston a beloved destination and home.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Closure of CARD Clinic Raises Health Concerns in Libby
Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder Legal Battles: A Lawyer’s Perspective
Johnson & Johnson’s Legal Tensions with Mesothelioma Lawyer Escalate
ARKU Inc. Establishes New Facility in Spartanburg County
University of South Carolina Retains Top MBA Ranking
Charleston Tourism Hits Record Economic Impact
Charleston Remembers Local Teen on Tragic Anniversary
Texas Mother Charged for Allegedly Supporting Son’s Violent Plans
South Carolina Ranks as the Top Growth State for 2024
Clemson University Drives $6.4 Billion Economic Impact in South Carolina
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Charleston City Paper Readers Select Live 5 WCSC Best Local TV Station
- Charleston City Paper: Meet the Best of Charleston 2025
- Charleston City Paper: May 16, 2025 Edition
- Charleston City Paper: Chef Bob Carter Passes Away
- Wikipedia: Charleston, South Carolina
- Google Search: Charleston News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston
- Google News: Charleston
