New Bookstore-Bar Blends Books and Beverages in Downtown Charleston

Philosophers and Fools: A Unique Blend of Books and Beverages in Downtown Charleston

In a blend of cultural enrichment and social gathering, a unique bookstore-bar has opened its doors in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. The establishment, charmingly called Philosophers and Fools, is the brainchild of husband-and-wife team Michael Bourke and Jenny Ferrara.

Background of the Founders

Jenny Ferrara’s career in advertising and marketing in New York and Charleston has equipped her with the know-how to generate public awareness for the business. Ferrara had worked with Obviously Marketing for 11 years before embarking on this venture. Michael Bourke, working full-time as an accountant, is tasked with keeping the books balanced for their joint venture.

The Vision Behind Philosophers and Fools

Living their passion for literature and community, the couple found the ideal location for Philosophers and Fools at 50 Bogard St., after a six-month search. With a vision to become a long-lasting part of the community, they consider the location central to this goal. The location, situated on a quaint street in the Cannonborough/Elliotborough neighborhood, is close to their residence, allowing them to cycle to work.

A formerly housing interior design business, the 1,400 square-foot space boasts large windows that bathe the store in natural light. It also houses a recessed nook, providing a cosy atmosphere with soft seating.

Inside Philosophers and Fools

Philosophers and Fools is a bookstore with a wide array of genres. From classics, children’s books, romance, sci-fi, fantasy, fiction, non-fiction, history, social science to philosophy, they have something to cater to every book lover’s taste. All books are brand new, appealing to the trend of buying new rather than second-hand books.

But, it’s not just books that draw people in. The place also features a cosy bar seating 12, with additional seating scattered throughout the shop for those who wish to relax and dive into a good book.

A Cultural Hub with a Variety

Customers walking in might also be greeted with the familiar aroma of popcorn, as there is a popcorn machine at the premises, along with other snack food for casual munching. For those planning on staying awhile, the owners make use of their panini press to offer more substantial bites.

This unique blend of books and beverages doubles down with a range of drinks from teas, drip coffees, seltzers, as well as beers and wines. The latter are sourced from Advintage Distributing, which aligns with their vision of sustainable, certified organic, and biodynamic wines, at affordable prices.

Creating a cultural meeting point in the heart of downtown Charleston that combines a love for literature with the joy of social gathering, Philosophers and Fools emerges as an engaging hub for both locals and visitors. This unique concoction of reading and relaxation presents a compelling homage to the thrills of a physical bookstore combined with a dynamic social atmosphere, bringing a fresh breath of air to the Cannonborough/Elliotborough neighborhood.