July 1, 2025

New Neighborhood Bar and Restaurant Ok Donna Opening in Charleston

News Summary

Charleston is set to welcome Ok Donna, a new neighborhood bar and restaurant, this summer. Founded by Joey Goetz and chefs Mason Morton and James Ostop, the venue will emphasize a relaxed dining experience inspired by Goetz’s mother. Incorporating Italian influences, the restaurant will offer fresh pastas, pizzas, seasonal vegetables, and creative drink selections, all within a vibrant ambiance similar to local favorites like Bar George. Expected to open soon, local diners are anticipating this unique addition to Charleston’s culinary scene.

Charleston is set to welcome a new neighborhood bar and restaurant named Ok Donna this summer. The establishment is the product of a collaboration between restaurateur Joey Goetz and chefs Mason Morton and James Ostop, known for their culinary ventures at local hotspots like Bar George and Last Saint. Located at 1117 King Street, the new venue aims to offer a relaxed atmosphere for patrons, encouraging them to enjoy casual dining without the need for reservations.

The name Ok Donna pays homage to Goetz’s mother, Donna, who has roots in Palermo, Italy. Although the restaurant will incorporate Italian influences into its offerings, Goetz has emphasized that it should not be strictly categorized as an Italian restaurant. Instead, the focus will be on creating a neighborhood-centric space that mirrors the casual and inviting vibe found at Bar George, rather than the formal dining experience commonly associated with traditional Italian establishments.

Complementing Goetz in this new venture will be Hank Weed, a partner at Bar George, as well as Megan Hill, Goetz’s fiancée and current manager of Bar George. Hill’s involvement underscores a commitment to ensuring that Ok Donna retains the same welcoming spirit that has drawn crowds to their previous restaurants.

The food menu at Ok Donna is expected to feature a variety of offerings, including fresh pastas reminiscent of Lupara’s pop-up events, pizzas, and seasonal vegetable specials. This diverse array of dishes allows the kitchen creative freedom to explore various cuisines while being anchored in Italian culinary traditions. The overall goal is to introduce flavors that evoke a sense of comfort, encouraging frequent visits from local diners.

Drinks will also play a significant role at Ok Donna, with a menu designed to showcase creativity beyond classic Italian cocktails. This broad selection aims to cater to a wide range of tastes, enhancing the overall dining experience for guests.

The ambiance at Ok Donna will be crafted to reflect the same eclectic and cool atmosphere patrons have come to appreciate at Bar George and Last Saint. Featuring irreverent décor and a vibrant setting, the restaurant aims to provide a space where customers can feel at home while enjoying great food and drinks.

Ok Donna is anticipated to open its doors later this summer, and there is much excitement in the community for this new addition to Charleston’s dining scene. The establishment’s objective to create a casual and approachable experience aligns with a growing trend among diners who favor relaxed environments over the more formal dining options.

As the opening date approaches, local food lovers are eager to see how Ok Donna will contribute to Charleston’s rich culinary landscape. With its unique vision and a team known for successful restaurant concepts, Ok Donna holds the potential to become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors alike.

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