Charleston’s Black-Owned Itinerary for Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend

What’s up y’all? I’m David White Jr., a Charleston-based food content creator, champion of good vibes and unique tasting experiences, and The Black Food Guy of Charleston. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to dive deep into the city’s food and bev scene—hosting cocktail classes, shining a light on Black-owned businesses, and even collaborating on craft beer projects to bring more representation to the industry. Make sure you follow my journey on Instagram at The Dropping Pin.

This Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend (MLK Weekend), I want to share a mostly walkable itinerary that’s close to my heart. It’s all about celebrating Black-owned businesses here in Charleston—the places and people who are shaping our city’s culture every day. From soul food that tastes like one BIG hug, Black owned/hosted Airbnbs, to unique events honoring Dr. King’s legacy, this weekend is the perfect time to experience Charleston in a whole new way.

Check out MY suggestions for the perfect weekend:

Friday, January 17th

Kick off your Black-owned weekend by booking a stay that celebrates Charleston’s culture. The Black-owned Courtyard Marriott in the Historic District offers modern comfort with a touch of Southern charm, all within walking distance of the city’s must-see spots. It’s also positioned directly across from Mother Emanuel AME Church.

If you’re looking for something more unique, check out this list of a few Black-owned and hosted Airbnbs, curated by the Journey Black Home.

After you’re all settled in, take a short walk to take in the views on King St. and head to Dave’s Carry Out at 42 Morris St. for a fried seafood platter then cocktails and dancing at Republic Garden & Lounge or to the ONLY Cigar Speakeasy in the city, Smokin Rose Speakeasy. This cigar lounge offers a wide cigar selection, high end bourbons, and you might catch their open discussions.

Saturday, January 18th

Saturday morning you might catch Charleston Farmers Market or take the scenic route to Bodega, where Marcus Shell is the Culinary Director for Uptown Hospitality Group to start your eventful Saturday.

Aaron’s Seafood is another must! I cannot even explain in words the experience. You like casual fun with banging food like crab boils, oxtail dinners, fried ribs and shark steak, and bang-bang shrimp? Yeah, I won’t say anymore. Just Go!

Before you head back Downtown, you have another stop in North Charleston. Daddy’s Girl Bakery because you cannot come to Charleston and not have a Charleston Chewie. This family-owned bakery offers delicious cakes, ice cream, and other desserts to cap off your night.

Looking to end your night with a premier selection of champagne, bourbon and small bites? On upper King St. sits Bourbon & Bubbles. On select nights you’ll find a DJ with some tunes.

Sunday, January 19th

The Black Door Cafe sits on the ground floor on The Mills House Hotel and welcomes you with fast internet in a casual coffee bar with weekly specials.

The Denmark Vesey Monument in Hampton Park was erected in 2014 after two decades of planning. Months of restoration because of vandalism, this is a place to sit and reflect on Charleston's deep history.

Graft Wine Bar, (co-owned by Femi Oyediran) for Good Neighbor Sunday. Femi discovered his passion for wine while working in a Charleston restaurant under the mentorship of the former Wine Director. He then passed the first 3 levels of Court of Master Sommeliers within two years and was awarded Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s 2018 “40 Under 40” and selected as “Sommelier of the Year” along with his co-owner, Miles by Food and Wine Magazine in 2019.

Dust off your bell bottoms, sequin shirts and ready to groove like you’re in the 70s at Soul Funktion. Brought to you by Don Luchi Prosecco and Black Food Truck Festival. This will be a night to remember. Costumes are encouraged but not mandatory. This is what I’m most excited about, this year.

Monday, January 20th

The 53rd MLK Parade | Walk for Love, Walk for Peace is hosted by The YWCA Greater Charleston Chapter at 9AM. This organization and parade holds a special place in my heart, as I served as the 2024 Parade Grand Marshal.

With complimentary admission all day, The International African American Museum will honor the strength of our shared history and the dream of a brighter, more just future. Experience moving performances by DJ Rubin, the Center for Learning Inc.’s Youth Choir, a soul-stirring performance by Princess of Soul, Tia DuRant, and more!

One of my favorites and America’s favorite, according to The New York Times, Hannibal’s Kitchen. You must try the crab rice and the fried wings.

Charleston is full of history, culture, and straight-up good vibes–when you find them. This MLK Weekend is your chance to experience it all while showing love to Black-owned businesses. From amazing food and vibes, you’ll be tapping into what makes this city so special.

As you wrap up the weekend, remember—it’s not just about this one moment/weekend. Keep supporting these businesses, sharing their stories, and spreading the word. If you hit up any of the spots I mentioned, tag me on Instagram [at] @TheDroppingPin–I’d love to see what you get into!

Until next time, stay hungry, stay curious, and keep celebrating the culture that makes Charleston THE BEST!