Atmosphere & Service
Prohibition in Charleston, SC, offers a unique atmosphere that transports guests back to the 1920s with its vintage-inspired decor. Located on King Street, this restaurant and bar captures the essence of a classic speakeasy, combining it with a modern twist. The ambiance is both lively and sophisticated, making it an ideal spot for enjoying crafted cocktails and innovative Southern cuisine.
We arrived when the bar was nearly empty, drawn by the promise of a spicy margarita we had seen featured in an online review. Despite the quiet atmosphere, none of the three bartenders took the initiative to introduce themselves or offer any recommendations. The lack of engagement was disappointing, especially considering the appeal of the setting and the anticipation we had for a signature cocktail.
Food & Value
The Margarita Fuego sounds like an exciting and vibrant cocktail on the menu, with its blend of blanco tequila, Cointreau, mango, lime, jalapeño, and chipotle promising a dynamic mix of flavors with a sweet, spicy twist. The touch of mango suggests a refreshing balance to the heat, making it an appealing choice. However, when served, the cocktail was surprisingly bland, lacking the punch of flavors expected. To make matters worse, after just a few minutes on ice, the drink became watered down, diluting the taste even further and leaving me disappointed. Each drink was about $16.
After the underwhelming experience with our drinks and the lackluster service, we decided it was time to cut our losses and move on.
Overall Experience
Prohibition in Charleston, SC, is ideally situated in a walkable, vibrant area, drawing you in with its intriguing entrance and sophisticated, vintage-inspired decor that perfectly captures the essence of a 1920s speakeasy. The atmosphere, down to the bartenders’ uniforms, immerses you in the era, offering a promising start to the experience. However, despite the stylish surroundings, the service was unenthusiastic, and the drinks, including the much-anticipated Margarita Fuego, fell flat. As a seasoned restaurateur, I find little reason to return for a second visit.
