Greetings from the Holy City
Saturday in Charleston is Too Short, But Sweet
Written by Colleen Ann McNally | Photography Courtesy of Colleen Ann McNally; The Cottages on Charleston Harbor; Holy City Hospitality
The Alley Less Traveled
Following this same mentality of simultaneously covering the most ground without compromising quality, we made dinner reservations at a three-for-one hidden gem tucked away in Hutson Alley on 39-G Johns Street, just off King Street.
Created by Holy City Hospitality, Vincent Chicco’s, Victor’s Social Club and Michael’s on the Alley are three distinct eateries sharing one space.
As the story goes, Vincent Chicco migrated to Charleston from Italy during the Prohibition Era and became known as “the king of blind tigers,” referring to secret currency for patrons receiving drinks. At the time many Charlestonians, Chicco included, considered themselves immune from the laws governing the rest of the state. He became a local hero by running a number of saloons and leading the fight against Prohibition. In a building formally owned by the Chicco family, the restaurant pays its respects to him through an inspired Italian menu combining classic flavors, domestic ingredients and a curated wine list.
After indulging in the bruschetta, Sicilian Sunday Gravy and Ruffino Ducale Chianti, we moved from the old-fashioned sophistication to the adjoining contemporary atmosphere of Victor’s Social Club. Aquatic inspired artwork by local John Carroll Doyle, a Hemingway-inspired cocktail menu and the building’s high ceilings lift
spirits easily. Guests could start the evening here instead, or stay all night, as Victor’s serves up elegant
small plates, oysters on the half shell and shellfish towers. The distant waif of steak made me note a visit
to Michael’s is necessary on another night.
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