Social Restaurant + Wine Bar to Shutter After Upcoming Saturday

After eight years of serving select varietals to the French Quarter crowds, Social Restaurant + Wine Bar locks the front doors after service on Saturday, July 25. Loyal locals will have one week to say farewell to the bar that brought Charleston La Bubbly and wine on tap.

Proprietor/sommelier Brad Ball opened in 2007, in a time when bars dedicated to wine were low and Upper King was just beginning its evolution into a nightlife destination. While establishments of the same decade are gone (remember Raval, Chai's, or The Trusted Palate?), Social remained relevant with a killer happy hour, evolving menus, and interesting, yet approachable wines.

But, this is not the end of Ball and 188 East Bay St. — Ball, who is also the Managing Partner of Poogan’s Hospitality Group, wants to bring a new concept to the space. He called the closing "bittersweet," but is excited about what they will soon unveil to Charleston. Right now, the group is quiet on the what the next iteration will be.

When asked about the timing of the shutter, Ball said, "Social has had a wonderful run, but the changing dynamic of the neighborhood necessitated us to make a pivot conceptually. The bulk of our clientele has shifted to Upper King and beyond and the timing came together on our side to make a transition."

Social will run wine deals all week as a sign of gratitude to past patrons and wine lovers. The bar/restaurant is also selling surprise wine boxes for $75, which contain three bottles of varying value, ranging from $75 to $250.

You have until the end of service on Saturday, July 25 for a final goodbye glass.