If you’ve spent any time wandering the cobblestone side streets of Charleston lately, you’ve probably heard the buzz. It’s loud. People keep talking about "the Craig and Austen restaurant," usually with a mix of curiosity and a healthy dose of skepticism.
Honestly, it’s understandable.
When reality TV stars open a business, the assumption is usually that it’s a vanity project—a place where the drinks are neon-colored and the "vibe" is just a backdrop for Instagram selfies. But By the Way, located at 45 1/2 Spring Street, is trying to be something else entirely. It isn’t just a tourist trap for Southern Charm superfans.
The Reality Behind the Hype
By the Way (or BTW, if you’re into the whole brevity thing) officially opened its doors in December 2024. This isn’t Craig Conover and Austen Kroll’s first rodeo in the hospitality world, but it is their most personal one in their adopted hometown.
They didn't do it alone. They partnered with Uptown Hospitality Group—the same heavy hitters behind local favorites like Uptown Social and Bodega. That’s a crucial detail. It means there is actual industry muscle behind the operation, not just two guys who look good in linen shirts.
The space itself used to be Warehouse, a beloved local haunt. Replacing a neighborhood staple is always risky. People in Charleston have long memories. But the team went for a "neighborhood den" aesthetic that feels surprisingly grown-up.
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What the Vibe is Actually Like
Think old-world tavern meets modern chic. We're talking leather booths, marble accents, and a massive skylight that makes the afternoon sun hit just right. It was designed by Home Studios, a firm out of New York, and they clearly understood the assignment: make it look like it’s been there for twenty years, even though the paint is still fresh.
It’s cozy. Intimate.
It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear your friend talk, which is a rarity on King Street these days. They aren't trying to compete with the thumping bass of the late-night clubs. Instead, the focus is on "elevated tavern fare" and a cocktail program that doesn't rely on gimmicks.
Let’s Talk About the Food (and the Caviar)
If you’re expecting basic mozzarella sticks, you’re in the wrong place. Chef Marcus Shell put together a menu that leans into "approachable luxury."
Take the Fried Oysters & Caviar. It sounds like something from a high-end gala, but here it’s served with kettle chip breading and citrus crème fraîche. It’s salty, crunchy, and pretentious in all the right ways.
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Then there’s the Steak Frites. A NY strip with garlic butter and chimichurri. Simple? Yes. But if you get it on a Wednesday, it’s half-price. That’s the kind of move that wins over locals who are tired of paying "tourist tax" on every meal.
Other menu highlights include:
- 'Nduja Deviled Eggs: Topped with Red Clay hot sauce chili crisp.
- Duck Confit Sandwich: Served on a Normandy Farm baguette with cranberry duck jelly and goat cheese.
- The Burger: A house blend with tomato jam and caramelized onions.
It’s fancy, but not "white tablecloth" fancy. You can still get a beer and a burger and feel perfectly at home.
The Drink Situation
Since we’re talking about Austen Kroll, people naturally expect a lot of beer. While his Trop Hop brand is around, the cocktail list is the real star.
The Porn Star Martini—a mix of Tito’s, vanilla, lime, and champagne foam—is the crowd-pleaser. But for those following Craig’s journey toward "moderation" (as seen on recent seasons of Southern Charm), the zero-proof menu is actually solid. The grapefruit and basil martini is a standout for anyone who wants the ritual of a cocktail without the morning-after regret.
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Is It Just a Bravo Fan Fest?
Look, you’re going to see fans. You might even see Craig or Austen holding court at the bar or recording an episode of their Pillows and Beer podcast nearby.
But the business model seems built for longevity beyond the show’s air dates. By partnering with UHG, they’ve tapped into a demographic that wants quality over novelty. The "mature audience" goal isn't just marketing speak; it's a necessity in a city where the dining scene is incredibly competitive.
Why the Location Matters
Cannonborough-Elliotborough is one of the coolest pockets of Charleston. It’s just far enough away from the madness of King Street to feel authentic, but close enough that you can still walk there. By placing By the Way on Spring Street, they’ve positioned themselves as a "pre-dinner drink" or "late-night cap" spot for people who actually live in the city.
Making the Most of Your Visit
If you’re planning to check it out, here is the lowdown on how to actually enjoy it without the stress:
- Skip the Peak: Friday and Saturday nights are a zoo. If you want the "cozy tavern" experience, go on a Tuesday or Wednesday.
- Use Resy: They do take walk-ins, but the space only holds about 80 people. It fills up fast.
- The Wednesday Deal: The half-priced Steak Frites is arguably the best value in the neighborhood.
- Late Night: They stay open until 2 AM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It’s a much classier alternative to the typical late-night pizza run.
The reality is that By the Way is a legit addition to Charleston’s food scene. Whether you love the show or have never seen a single episode, the combination of good design, solid snacks, and a decent martini makes it worth a stop.
Next Steps for Your Charleston Trip:
- Check the current hours on their official site as they occasionally shift for private events.
- Book a table on Resy at least 48 hours in advance for weekend visits.
- Explore the surrounding Spring Street shops like Sewing Down South (Craig's flagship store) if you want the full "Southern Charm" experience within a two-block radius.