I have been so fortunate as to experience some of Charleston’s newest a hottest spots lately! Emeline has created quite a buzz since it’s opening in July 2020, and my weekend stay recently was nothing short of phenomenal. From the welcoming staff who greet you with a fresh cocktail at check-in, to the stylish and comfortable rooms, I was so impressed with every aspect of my staycation at this lovely Charleston boutique hotel.
The Room:
We were excited to stay in one of Emeline’s Collector’s Suites, which is a one bedroom suite with a king bed and a living room with a sofa bed. Every little detail of the room was so well thought out in terms of styling as well as functionality, with thoughtful details throughout. I was so impressed with the two glass water bottles provided with each room, to be filled at the water filling station on each floor! Often in hotels I find myself drinking water from styrofoam coffee cups, but here I was able to fill up a full bottle of ice cold water (or sparkling water) in a reusable container. Little touches like that can make such a difference in a hotel experience.
I also loved the record player, complete with a custom record curated by Emeline and other popular records as well. You are also able to check out other records if the ones in your room aren’t to your liking. I had my record playing Simon and Garfunkel all weekend! Overall, our room was so comfortable and lovely, lacking nothing I can think of!
The Restaurant:
Frannie and the Fox has gotten quite the reputation around Charleston as its new hot spot for dinner and drinks, and for good reason! I’m personally huge fan of their menu, and before my stay had already dined with them before because I was anxious to see what all the fuss was about. Frannie and the Fox describes themselves as a “wood burning concept of sharable dishes”, with delicious items on the menu that are elevated and yet approachable. We ordered the mozzarella and the wood roasted green beans to start, the margarita pizza and tortellini as our mains, and finished with the cast iron apple pie for dessert.
We were so happy for good weather and were able to take advantage of their adorable patio, complete with a huge fireplace. On the other side of the fireplace is also a lounge area with it’s own bar for guests who wish to enjoy drinks on the patio. We also loved the indoor bar area, and spent some time there while our awesome bartender, Josh, made us specialty night caps after dinner.
The Hotel:
When you walk in the front entry of Emeline, it’s hard not to notice the impeccably chic and cool design of the lobby, the coffee shop, Clerks, and the shop. You’ll notice an abundance of art books, decor by local makers, and a delicious signature scent. I was taken on a tour by an awesome staff member who explained that every aspect of the hotel is carefully thought out by the design team to emulate the southern hostess and world-traveler, Emeline, who is not a real person but more of a concept that the hotel lives by. He asked me, “What’s the first thing a good southern hostess does when she invites you to her home?”, to which I quickly replied, “She offers you a drink!”, which is exactly what the kind front desk staff did when I first arrived.
I was so impressed by my entire stay. In Charleston, many spots around town are labeled by residents as either “touristy” or “local”, and I’m happy to say that I believe this new boutique hotel has captured the hearts of both equally! Visitors, come for the Charleston charm, uniqueness, comfort, food, and great location. Locals, do the same.
