Estro’s Guide to the Perfect Day in Charleston

Welcome to Creative Digest, a weekly peek inside the world of Estro Studio—an interior design and creative agency founded by two women with incredible taste and a love for all things design.

Welcome to our version of the perfect Charleston day—a guide we’d give to our best friend if they were visiting (and you know we’d never steer you wrong). Think good food, beautiful views, and the perfect nightcap.

The best way to explore Charleston is on foot, so lace up your walking shoes!

Morning

We’d start the day at Welton’s Tiny Bakeshop, a true local favorite. The space is so small that only three people can fit inside at once, which makes waiting in line part of the excitement. Lily always goes savory with something like their flaky heirloom tomato galette, while Cait—gluten-free—opts for a fresh-squeezed tangerine juice or an oat milk matcha. You can nibble as you walk or enjoy your treats in the charming alleyway outside.

From there, head to Hampton Park. If you’ve never seen a live oak tree, this is the place. The branches sweep down toward the ground, the pond is filled with geese (and if you squint hard enough they could almost pass for swans), and the sunlight always seems to hit just right.If those pastries didn’t quite cut it and your walk burned off every last crumb, Huriyali is right across from the park and has one of the best all-day burritos—Lily always gets hers with tempeh and eggs—or, if that's not your thing, the Buddha Bowl with turmeric-tahini dressing is delish!

Afternoon

After a wholesome morning, it’s time for a little shopping. Start at Super Saturday Store, one of Charleston’s best-kept secrets. Housed in a storage unit, it’s a treasure trove of vintage art, furniture, and objects. If you’re lucky, the garage doors will be open and you’ll catch the casual hangout vibe in the parking lot—if not, you can make an appointment to visit. Every time we go, we leave inspired.

From here, we veer off the beaten path to Wentworth, a beautifully curated home shop with an entire wall of taper candles in every shade imaginable. It’s a true gem, and we’re lucky to have it right in the neighborhood.

From there, stroll around Colonial Lake and head down toward The Battery. The mix of sweeping water views and historic homes is stunning. We love to play “design critic” —rating front doors and admiring the architecture. If you time it right, end the walk at White Point Garden for one of the best sunsets in the city —if you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two.

Evening

By the time 4pm rolls around, you’re probably ready for a little something. We always find ourselves at Babas on Cannon for aperitivo. It’s on repeat for us—chic, unfussy, and the kind of place you’ll want to linger. Order a drink and enjoy the complimentary bites. Our go-to? Either a martini straight from the freezer or the "As You Wish" with mezcal.

For dinner, head to Vern’s, our favorite neighborhood spot. The menu changes seasonally and everything is made with so much love. It can be tough to get a reservation, but if you show up right when they open, you can usually snag a bar seat. Start with their charred sourdough (baked in cast iron, served with butter and dill) and the tuna crudo. It’s our death row meal.

If the night still feels young, wander down the street to the Seahorse Bar. With its kitschy sailor-inspired decor and cozy, slightly offbeat vibe, it’s the perfect nightcap before heading back to your hotel.

The Heart of It All

For us, a perfect day in Charleston isn’t just about food or pretty streets—it’s about supporting local businesses, finding inspiration in neighborhood favorites, and soaking up the beauty and charm of a city we’re so grateful to call home!

Until next time on Creative Digest

xoxo, Estro Studio