Philosophers & Fools: A Unique Bookstore Bar Opens Its Doors on Bogard Street, Charleston

Philosophers & Fools: A Unique Bookstore Bar Opens Its Doors on Bogard Street, Charleston

The vibrant city of Charleston, South Carolina warmly welcomes the unique concept of a bookstore bar on Bogard Street. The fusion of bibliophile and oenophile worlds named “Philosophers & Fools” offers a place where literature and libations harmoniously collide, taking causal leisure to a whole new level.

A Dream Turned Reality

Dedicated owners and married couple, Jenny Ferrara and Michael Bourke, first conceived the idea of establishing a bookstore bar combination during their early days of dating. As avid book and wine enthusiasts, they envisioned a place where they can share and elevate this shared passion. Their search for the ideal location ended on 50 Bogard Street, Charleston – a neighbourhood they consider a perfect fit for their unique enterprise.

The Birth of Philosophers & Fools

The couple’s hard work and dedication, combined with a fruitful kickstarter campaign in late 2023, gave birth to Philosophers & Fools. The establishment, spanning 1400-square-feet, functions both as a bookstore and a bar, offering a wealth of around 5,000 book titles and an impressive selection of wines and beverages.

Creating A Unique Space for Book Lovers and Socialites Alike

Ferrara and Bourke’s labor of love extends beyond the bookstore’s initial construction. They handpicked and assembled every element, from painting the interior themselves, building the bookshelves, to choosing each piece of furniture and decor that adds to the establishment’s distinct vibe. Apart from space for casually browsing books, the store also includes a small seating area and a bar, perfect for settling in with a good book or engaging in hearty conversations.

A Treasure Trove of Books and Beverages

Renowned for its extensive selection in various genres, ranging from fiction, non-fiction, young adult, and children’s literature, Philosophers & Fools aims to cater to the varied literary interests of their clientele. Their approach goes beyond merely providing books and beverages. They tailor book recommendations and ensure a specially curated list of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks tailored to their customers’ tastes, fostering a sense of community and personalized service.

In effort to offer a more holistic experience, they have also partnered with Advintage Distributing to ensure a compelling selection of wines and beers. Customers looking for non-alcoholic options can also find an array of coffee selections and snack items like popcorn, chips, and sandwiches to compliment their reading experience.

Hours of Operation

Embracing their goal to appeal to various schedule needs, the Philosophers & Fools storefront operates with flexible hours. They open their doors from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Thursday to Saturday, and from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday.

The welcoming community response and demand for their concept further propels the couple’s drive to progress and expand their reach. As Ferrara and Bourke continue their journey in this unique venture, the city of Charleston remains excited to witness the heights that Philosophers & Fools will achieve.