cades and the crowd feels as eclectic as the city itself. Artists, construction workers, musicians, lawyers, chefs, neighborhood regulars and first-time visitors all fit together. Nothing feels overly polished, yet everything feels intentional. Royal American proudly embraces its identity, perhaps best summed up by one of its most recognizable declarations: No PBR. Don’t ask. We don’t care. In an era when many establishments market a dive bar aesthetic, Royal American never had to pretend. Its character was earned over years of becoming exactly what it is: a place where authenticity matters more than image. The food follows that same philosophy. Its kitchen turns out elevated comfort food that’s become every bit as iconic as the bar itself. The legendary Music City “Hot” Shrimp, Disco Fries and Patty Melt Lance’s Way have become local favorites, while magic wings, sandwiches and rotating specials continue to exceed expectations for “bar food.” That spirit extends beyond one address. Royal American’s family includes neighborhood favorite Bounty Bar, bringing the same welcoming energy to Folly Beach, where thoughtful food and drinks meet an equally relaxed atmosphere. Each location has its own personality but shares the same refusal to sacrifice authenticity for whatever happens to be fashionable. Women play an integral leadership role within the Royal American and Jack of Cups teams, helping shape the welcoming, creative culture that defines both spaces through consistency, community and genuine hospitality. Stepping through Jack of Cups feels less like entering a restaurant and more like discovering a traveler’s collection of memories. Colorful walls, eclectic décor, vintage finds, handwritten menus and layers of collected treasures create an atmosphere that can’t be replicated. Jack of Cups has become known for a menu that ignores boundaries in the best possible way. Global flavors reflect curiosity rather than culinary trends. Guests return for favorites like the red curry mac n’ cheese, bánh mì, ramen specials and vibrant vegetarian offerings that evolve with inspiration rather than algorithms. More than its menu, Jack of Cups has become part of Folly Beach’s creative fabric—a gathering place where locals and visitors connect over adventurous food, live music and 36 WWW.CHARLESTONWOMENPODCAST.COM | WWW.READCW.COM | WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/CHARLESTONWOMEN Charleston has never lacked beautiful restaurants. New concepts arrive every season with perfectly curated interiors, trending menus and social media-ready cocktails. But long after the novelty wears off, a handful of places continue drawing devoted regulars because they offer something that can’t be manufactured: authenticity. That feeling connects Royal American and Jack of Cups Saloon. On paper, they’re separated by miles and serve different communities. Royal American is a downtown Charleston institution, while Jack of Cups has built a fiercely loyal following on Folly Beach. Yet they share the same philosophy. They aren’t chasing trends or reinventing themselves every few years. They know exactly who they are, and that’s what keeps people coming back. Walk into Royal American, and you’re transported before you’ve even ordered a drink. Music spills from the speakers, the walls tell stories collected over deCHARACTER Over Trends Authentic vibes and modern dives BY ELLEN KERR FOOD + BEVERAGE Photo Provided
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