Southern California-Styled Sissy Bar Opens in Park Circle, Charleston

Southern California-Styled Sissy Bar Opens in Park Circle, Charleston

New local hotspot, Sissy Bar, has recently opened its doors to the public at 1067 East Montague Ave in Charleston’s energetic Park Circle neighborhood. Previously the location of the restaurants Three Sirens, and YoBo Cantina, the Sissy Bar presents an intriguing blend of international cuisine, specialty mezcal and tequila cocktails, and Southern California culture.

The Vision Behind Sissy Bar

The proprietors, Michael Whiteley and his wife, also the owners of the popular downtown establishment, Dalila’s, name the bar in part after their identical twin daughters, often referred to as “sissies”. The name also bears a double meaning, as a ‘sissy bar’ is a feature extending from the rear of a motorcycle, providing a seat-back for a passenger.

The interior reflects the SoCal influence with hints of rugged charm, mirroring the spirit of a motorcycle road trip. The decor includes local artwork and a particularly eye-catching mirror, tattooed (etched) by a local tattoo artist.

A Unique Drinking Experience

In line with their vision for Dalila’s, where they have avoided mainstream brands, Sissy Bar will carry a similar ethos. The self-proclaimed off-beat bar will focus on promoting lesser-known brands of mezcal and tequila. The unique drinks will resonate with the California-inspired interior, and offer guests a diverse drinking experience.

Catering to Local Taste Buds

In addition to the drinks, patrons can anticipate a diverse menu that will feature small, medium, and large plates. The fare ranges from queso fundido and ceviche to larger dishes like birria quesadillas and grilled whole fish. Whiteley mentioned his desire to recreate the comfort of his favourite meal – a cold beer, a shot of tequila and tacos – for the Park Circle patrons with the food and drink offerings at Sissy Bar.

The Neighborhood Vibe

The Sissy Bar aims to become the go-to neighborhood spot that not only caters to the local populace, but also welcomes visitors to the region. The restaurant is set to open every night and for Sunday brunch, with Whiteley envisioning a day party with DJs and dishes like the loco molo bowl, served with a bone marrow gravy.

Park Circle stands as one of the fastest-growing areas in Charleston, both in terms of population and businesses, making it a prime spot for Sissy Bar. Alongisde the new bar are some old favorites, including EVO Pizza, Madra Rua, and DIG in the Park, alongside newer additions such as Ciudad Bonita, a Colombian eatery opening this spring, and Southern Roots North Charleston, which is relocating.

With its distinct SoCal influences, Sissy Bar adds an innovative dimension to the vibrant street food scene of East Montague Ave. As articulated by Whiteley, “They can come in if they’re celebrating with family from out of town, or they can come in for a shot and a beer after work. And they can be just as casual or as fancy as they want to be.”