Charleston Welcomes Groovers: A Nostalgic Bar Reviving the 1990s Nightlife Scene

Welcome to Charleston’s Newest Hotspot: Groovers!

Charleston, the charming city known for its vibrant culture, has welcomed an exciting new addition to its nightlife scene! The freshly opened bar, Groovers, is breathing life back into the spirit of the 1990s and promises to be a delightful experience for music lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Digging into Nostalgia

Nestled at 139 Calhoun St., Groovers is more than just a bar – it’s a throwback to the good ol’ days. The owners, Kate and Eric Gussin, are on a mission to recreate the old Calhoun Street vibe and make this space a haven for those who appreciate great music and delectable drinks. Kate shared the inspiration behind the venue: “We wanted to bring this space back to its roots,” she mentioned with enthusiasm. And roots they have indeed, as the bar proudly flaunts its nostalgia.

Before it was Groovers, this spot was a hub of excitement through many transformations. Once dubbed The Reef Club in the swinging sixties, it morphed into a strip club in the eighties, then took a spin as Hound Dogs before the Groovers era took over in the nineties. Most recently, it was absorbed under the Trio Nightclub but has now re-emerged as Groovers, promising to revive Charleston’s musical history.

Craft Cocktails with a Twist

One of the coolest details about Groovers is its menu of craft cocktails, each inspired by popular 90’s songs. Imagine sipping on a “Hollaback Girl” with flavors of coconut and bananas, or enjoying a “Purple Rain” cocktail that pays homage to Prince himself. It’s a clever nod to music lovers that makes every sip a delightful experience. “It’s all about connecting with the music and the memories,” Eric said, as he pointed out the wall of nostalgic photos from the original Groovers days.

But that’s not all! Guests can also enjoy the vintage vinyl experience as Groovers hosts an incredible collection of records behind the bar. The Gussins sourced these gems from Flip-Thru Records, a popular local seller that spins the records during Thursday night performances. It’s like walking into a living room party where everyone is invited to enjoy great tunes and great company.

Events and Entertainment Await!

Groovers isn’t just a bar; it’s a lively venue with a rotating calendar of events to keep things fresh. Friday nights promise an exhilarating atmosphere with live music from local bands, including the renowned The Midnight City, a four-time winner of best cover band accolades. On weekends, the music switches up, featuring a mix of laid-back vinyl earlier in the night and more energetic tracks as the evening winds on. The Gussins are eager to include local musical talents and are actively seeking out acts that want to share their sound.

They recently held a fun “Pitch-a-friend” mixer, and with holiday season just around the corner, the bar will be decked out in disco Christmas decor along with specialty cocktails to keep spirits bright. Plus, they’re shaking things up with espresso martinis on tap and a $4 Groovy beer, likely the cheapest draft you can find downtown!

A Place for Everyone

Groovers caters to a crowd aged 23 and up, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for the young and the young at heart. “It’s definitely more approachable for friends in my age group,” Kate shares, adding that they aim to provide an elevated experience without being stuffy. The laid-back vibe is just what the city needs, striking a balance between sophistication and fun.

So whether you’re on the hunt for a unique night out with friends or simply wish to indulge in some tasty cocktails while soaking in the nostalgic ambiance of this fabulous watering hole, Groovers is the place to be! Keep an eye on their upcoming schedule by visiting their website or following them on social media. Make sure not to miss out on this exciting new chapter in Charleston’s vibrant nightlife!