Since setting our sights on Charleston as a retirement landing spot, we’ve eaten at alot of restaurants. Now that we’ve purchased a home in West Ashley/Avondale we have put our focus on finding our “goto often” neighborhood places and we just put Oak Barrel Tavern into regular rotation after just one visit. As a (retired) Chef I really appreciate the small intimate neighborhood joints and the enormous efforts these fine folks put forth to provide solid food and great service. An impressive craft beer selection is one thing, but putting out great sushi 8n the most unlikely of places is on a whole other level. When we want quick, friendly, Fresh, and Tasty sushi, Oak Barrel Tavern is our choice.
So, due to the pandemic, staffing pretty much everywhere is so limited. I visited Charleston in the past and this spot was top notch for sushi. We walked in, and it was packed. Kelly, our waitress gave us a heads up that since staff is extremely limited she was the only one handling all the tables. She also said sushi would be over an hour. We understood and felt bad because you could tell she was pretty overwhelmed. Sushi took an hour an forty five minutes, but WORTH THE WAIT. Kelly was so sweet thanking us for being so patient. I know how good the sushi is, it was so delicious! Be patient, this is a great place, and the staff work so hard!
Great spot for beer and sushi as the sign says. We got there close to 7pm on a weekday and managed to get a table by the bar. The waitress was nice and the place was lively and filled with locals. We ordered a few rolls and got some beers. It took about 45 mins maybe more to get our food, but the food was delicious. The sushi was fresh and tasty. Would come here again for the sushi.
It is as good as the recommendation for it. The staff is friendly and the sushi is one of the best in charleston. Its a very small place so come early to find a seat and dont be in a rush. Its all made to order and worth every minute of the wait
Like the sign says, "Good beer, ok wine, great sushi." I did not test the wine, but the beer was good and the sushi was great. Not necessarily where I would have looked for sushi, but my daughter wouldn't lead me astray. Friendly and fast, too!
Amazing beers, great HOUSE made sake, outstanding sushi, and a awesome staff
Awesome local spot! Great craft beer selection, friendly bartenders, and the sushi is the best in Charleston!! Fish is super fresh, always tasty, and creative rolls. No other sushi compares in Charleston, and definitely on par with some of the best spots in Seattle and DC. Super welcoming atmosphere! I love this place!!
I am by no measures a sushi connoisseur but I have spent paychecks on the stuff here in Charleston, DC, LA, & Japan when I was stationed there. This was, I think, the best sushi I've had outside of Japan, & definitely better than anywhere else in Charleston. Ally, the lead chief, runs a tight group resulting in great service. The place is small enough for an intimate date & large enough for a group of friends. You won't go wrong here.
Great sushi *AND* beer, despite what the sign in the window claims!
Loved it! Tiny little spot with a great selection of drinks and sushi. I wasn't a sushi eater, until I tried the eel rolls! Friendly, knowledgeable staff and a real chill atmosphere. They also pick and play random vinyls! Good tunes, good drinks, and good sushi! We'll definitely be back!
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