magine savoring a refreshing cup of your favorite flavored coffee. As you take a sip, the chill of an ocean breeze mingles with the enticing aroma of freshly-brewed coffee and just-baked pastries. Nestled at 1202 Palm Blvd., Café Paname is a hidden gem on the Isle of Palms. This quaint cafe not only offers an abundance of coffee flavors, but also serves as a cornerstone of the local community. Upon arrival, I noticed a line spilling out the door. The exterior blue sign reads “Coffee. Local. Food.” Inside, the cafe is charmingly cozy, yet brimming with life, reflecting its vibrant community. While waiting in line, I overheard the baristas warmly greeting reguestled on the edge of Isle of Palms stands The Boathouse, an iconic restaurant that captures some of the most beautiful sunsets in all of Charleston. Opened in 1997, this local establishment is deeply rooted in Lowcountry history. From family recipes once used in plantation kitchens to an authentic Southern seafood menu, this restaurant only sources produce from local farms and seafood from local fishermen, shrimpers and clammers. The next time you visit, sit barside and let Joshua Blaylock serve you. Blaylock, who has bartended for 17 years, started working at The Boathouse in April 2013. “The longevity of the staff creates a sense of family and I love the opportunity to serve fresh, local seafood to our guests,” Blaylock said. “That’s why I 23 IslandVibesIOP.com FOOD & BEV Behind the Bar Joshua Blaylock, captain of cocktails at The Boathouse By Maurice J. Frazier love working here at The Boathouse.” Blaylock previously worked at Poe’s Tavern, Sullivan’s Seafood, Papi’s Taqueria and House of Brews-Mount Pleasant, in addition to a six-year stint in Jacksonville, Florida. “The reason why I have enjoyed working as a bartender for so long is because you are able to meet and chat with so many interesting people,” Blaylock explained. It’s true that interacting with different personalities while providing a memorable experience comes with the territory as a bartender. They are great listeners and can variously be our therapist, friend, coach and cheerleader. And they also know how to mix a mean libation. The Boathouse offers delicious seasonal cocktails from a sparkling sangria to a peach mule. Blaylock’s favorite cocktail to make is called Walk the Plank, consisting of two different types of rum, fruit juices and grenadine. When Blaylock isn’t at The Boathouse, you can find him relaxing at home or cooking a delectable dish with his girlfriend. “I enjoy listening to podcasts, playing Dungeons & Dragons, chess, watching comedy shows and going to the movies.” Born in Arkansas, Blaylock served in the Air Force for four years. He graduated from the College of Charleston with a bachelor’s degree in science and anthropology and a minor in psychology. The outgoing Blaylock sports a great smile and loves a good laugh. If you want to meet Blaylock and the other bartenders at The Boathouse swing by today. The Boathouse features happy hour Monday through Friday from 3-6 p.m. at the bar only. Their rooftop bar menu carries Southern favorites such as fried pickled okra, crab fritters and sweet corn hushpuppies. For all of you bourbon aficionados out there, June 14 is National Bourbon Day. Stop by between 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. to enjoy your bourbon overlooking the water. When you’re craving seafood paired with a gorgeous Lowcountry view and refreshing drinks, stop by The Boathouse and ask for Blaylock. N I What’s on the Menu Café Paname: Coffee with a splash of community By Brooke Kaping lars, “Nice to see you again, Phil… the usual?” This friendly service and high-quality fare create a palpable sense of fellowship the moment you enter. Behind the magic and always in the kitchen is owner Amine Houti. Originally from Morocco, Houti has turned his extensive experience into a local success story. “My favorite part about owning Café Paname is having all these regular customers,” Houti said. “I see them as family and friends.” The menu offers a delightful array of flavors from classic vanilla lattes to specialty drinks like the Amine, inspired by Houti’s love for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Personally, the Samoa latte, a sweet, cookie-flavored treat, hit the spot. For those preferring a less sugary option, the Bumblebee with lavender and honey is equally delightful. Though I usually shy away from pastries, the almond croissant was too tempting to resist. Its presentation, with powdered sugar and finely-sliced almonds, was stunning and the taste exceeded expectations. The pastries are baked fresh daily, ensuring an authentic taste. I also tried the bacon, egg and cheese on a baguette. The freshness of the ingredients, from the perfectly melted cheese to the scrambled egg and crispy bacon, made it an ideal on-thego breakfast. This charming café not only serves outstanding coffee and food but also offers a warm, community-centered atmosphere that makes every visit special. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Café Paname provides a memorable experience that encapsulates the essence of the island. From exceptional customer service and a welcoming vibe to delectable coffee and food, Café Paname is a must-visit. The next time you’re headed to the beach on Isle of Palms, stop by for a delightful pick-me-up.
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