The Windjammer — Bar Review

First impression?

Weathered by sun, sand, and plenty of good times since 1972, Charleston’s The Windjammer’s rambling building perches on the edge of Isle of Palms Beach. If it’s a weekend day, they are probably people playing beach volleyball right off the beach deck, next to the live music stage, and plenty of tropical-hued drinks being consumed by everyone milling about both inside and on the multiple decks.

How’s the crowd?

The crowd varies depending on the band that is playing, and time of day, but most keep it casual, and in the summer, most have on beach attire. The Windjammer welcomes all, from your grandmother who wants to sip a pina colada as she sits and watches the afternoon rays, to rowdy bachelor parties who are working on a night to remember.

How are the drinks?

Beach bar fantastic, served in a plastic cup. Daiquiris, pina coladas, Long Island Iced Teas, they got ’em, and they served thousands over the bar’s lifetime. The beer is in cans or bottles, and yes, they do have Red Bull if you need one. This is a high volume spot, and drinks are served fast from an experienced staff.

If there’s food, is it worth ordering something to eat?

The menu is full of satisfying versions of beach bar food, from fried shrimp baskets to hot dogs and hamburgers to tater tots and fries. Peel and eat shrimp are also a popular choice, as are the wings.

Did the staff do you right?

The bar staff can smile, keep the peace, wield a bottle opener like an extension of their hands, make drinks while listening to you order your next round, and still remember the ketchup for your fries.

Wrap it up: what are we coming here for?

You’re coming here to order that blue cocktail you’ve always secretly wanted, to grab a bite and a drink, to hear your favorite band from high school play as the sun sets on the beach, and of course to celebrate the weekend, summer, and life.