Second State Coffee

Went here twice on our trip to Charleston, the coffee is good and the food and pastries are pretty good too. Only complaint is that the food seems a bit over priced, however it’s nothing unusual for a coffee shop.

Sweetest staff, made my child’s day 😆 made a design on her hot chocolate! How cool. Food was delicious. The fall French toast was amazing with apples on top

Paid $42 for 2 drinks and 2 breakfast items. The drinks were truly abhorrent, being far too watery and over sweetened. The food was undercooked to the point that the potato’s and beans were crunchy. Finally, they were out of forks, lids, and water while the staff was lounging behind the counter. I would highly recommend going elsewhere.

Very friendly folks serving up top tier iced teas for your beach day—lots of options (greens, whites, blacks) brewed to order from loose leaf. We never did end up having coffee from them, but they had some fun seasonal drinks and seem to make syrups in house. Great spot!

I’ve visited this Mount Pleasant location a couple of times. The WiFi is slow and none of the outlets work - I don’t recommend this if you’re working remotely. Coffee and service is great. During a 7:30am rush, they accidentally made my coffee iced. They quickly offered a new hot coffee free of charge. My breakfast sandwich was good but average. I didn’t realize the cheddar cheese would be shredded instead of sliced. The sweet potato latte is better than any pumpkin spice flavor I’ve had .

After hearing great things about Second State Coffee, I was so excited to check it out! The outside chairs were filled and the place looked hopping. I walked in and I stand loved the aesthetic. Lots of live plants and cute merchandising. There wasn’t any wait, which was great. However, stepping up to place my order I was instantly put off by the zombie-esque attitude behind the register. I was going to ask for recommendations, but after being asked in a monotone voice what I wanted, I decided to stick to my usual lavender latte. I brushed off the encounter and sat down with my daughter to wait for my drink. I had barely taken a seat when my drink was ready - quick service! But the gal handing me my drink was no friendlier. Called my name out in a monotone voice and when I wished her a good day, didn’t even really acknowledge I spoke. Thankfully, I was called to go pick someone up and had a reason to leave, because I had no desire to stay. Even the person cleaning up around the tables seemed miserable to be there. Coffee was great but the atmosphere and energy left a lot to be desired. I brought it up to a friend who confirmed, “yeah, it’s pretty much always like that in there.” Well, if that’s the case, I’ll give my money to a business who likes to talk to their customers. But at least they got the coffee right!

Cute place to get some coffee and brunch. My friend and I came here around noon on a weekday and it was packed. Every seat was pretty much full, but we found space for us on the long wooden bench. I got the Smoked Salmon Toast and the Iced Lavender Latte with oat milk. The toast was delicious and my latte was pretty good. My favorite part of the toast was the pickled onions. If the toast had a little bit more pickled onions then the dish would be perfect to me, but that's just my preference. The inside was pretty. I was surprised at how fast we got our food and drinks. We could only sit in one place together with our things, so I didn't like the seating options (or really lack of). Wifi was really slow for me, and it didn't work for my friend. Because of how many people were in there, it didn't really feel relaxed. So my experience felt rushed when I originally wanted to stay for a bit, enjoy my food, and be a little productive. If it weren't for that and the wifi issues, I'd give it 5 stars.

Ashley Hall service is impeccable vs Mt Pleasant just got my coffee beans and left wanted cup of coffee but choose not to because of the lack of welcoming hospitality! I was intentionally overlooked until another customer came in and the quick juggle of the eyes on who to serve first because it was obvious I was there first. After the gentleman left I still waited for assistance for the person’s behind the counter. To help with the coffee poor customer service to the lease I will be with the expectation for better service from the company that I was provided today🤯❗️🤯

Cute place to get some coffee and brunch. My friend and I came here around noon on a weekday and it was packed. Every seat was pretty much full, but we found space for us on the long wooden bench. I got the Smoked Salmon Toast and the Iced Lavender Latte with oat milk. The toast was delicious and my latte was pretty good. My favorite part of the toast was the pickled onions. If the toast had a little bit more pickled onions then the dish would be perfect to me, but that's just my preference. The inside was pretty. I was surprised at how fast we got our food and drinks. We could only sit in one place together with our things, so I didn't like the seating options (or really lack of). Wifi was really slow for me, and it didn't work for my friend. Because of how many people were in there, it didn't really feel relaxed. So my experience felt rushed when I originally wanted to stay for a bit, enjoy my food, and be a little productive. If it weren't for that and the wifi issues, I'd give it 5 stars.

Found this place coming from fasting bloodwork so I normally have plain coffee but came here ravenous so I indulged. I got the sweet potato latte which was fantastic. Similar to pumpkin spice but not as sweet. One size available. They had an oat milk option. Gave the cute design on it even though it was to go which I thought was cute. It was $8 and change. Thought it was pricy but seeing as how I normally do drip coffee, maybe it's the going rate for lattes. Best part, giant parking lot. A lot of seating but surprising full for a weekday morning.

Great place to grab coffee or breakfast and work on your computer for a bit. The team is helpful and friendly. Plenty of open tables and some larger ones if you have a bigger party. It's a relaxed environment, so pretty quiet. The last time I was there the wifi wasn't working very well and kept dropping and they were out of potato's for the scramble otherwise I would have given this a 5.

Joined a friend for a Sunday afternoon coffee - this is the second time I've been to this location. Parking is super easy here as the lot is huge. They were busy but not packed and have several types of seating options which is great. It was pretty low key and quiet inside with nice lighting even though it was cloudy outside. The staff were helpful and efficient - my drink was ready pretty quick. The blueberry muffin was yummy if not a bit overpriced for the size. They can do decaf lattes which I always appreciate - the brown sugar flavoring is a perfect sweet treat. I do wish their items came in reusable tableware for when you dine in.

The coffee is fantastic! Coming from the capital of small batch coffee roasters and third wave coffee, I have to say, hands down I was impressed by the coffee, attention to detail, the ICE-perfectly sized, amount, wow. I loved the service, ambiance and love the ice and hot lattes!

Perfect place to grab a cup of coffee and get work done. A spacious area with a lot of places to sit at. Clean and cozy feeling. Not so noisy. Good wifi. Service was smooth. I got a shakerato, which has double shot espresso and sugar, shaken with ice. I appreciated that their menu actually explained what and how the coffee is prepared. If there is one thing I could give feedback, having a recycle bin for the plastic cups would be great (unless I totally missed that bin).

Terrific coffee. Real coffee shop ambiance. Friendly, but efficient staff. Nice neighborhood (Ion).

This place had great coffee, the cups and everything were super unique and interesting. I also had a breakfast burrito that was surprisingly good. However looking more on the cons, The seating wasn't my favorite and it was sometimes kind of awkward to sit next to random people but it was still nice. However I would definitely recommend this place on a rainy day when you have some time to kill with friends in the morning.

Wow! What an amazing coffee shop. Their menu is so delicious. They don't offer your typical greasy American breakfast. I got the skillet and it was perfect- hash browns with chunks of sweet potatoes, cheesy eggs, and spinach salad with a light vinaigrette. Great place for doing work or meeting with a client or friend. I went with my 3 daughters and they loved the croissant and apple juice!

Overall: A great coffee shop for both the routine or random stop! The good: The staff was very friendly and the menu is straightforward. Farmhouse-y atmosphere with some outdoor seating (not a ton). The chocolate chip muffin was tasty and reasonably priced, as are their iced coffees. The not-so-good: Their WiFi may have a firewall of some sorts - my wife and I both couldn't access various work and non-work websites, even though other sites worked just fine (and the signal was good). It was very bizarre. There's not as many baked food options as you may think (though plenty of other menu items). Food/drink: 8.5/10 Atmosphere: 8.5/10 Service: 8.5/10

Staff was very helpful with us making a decision regarding flavors of the coffee. They offer oat, almond and coconut milk as options. My decaf latte was packed with flavor which included cardamom, cloves, nutmeg cinnamon and vanilla. They blended so well, and neither of the flavors was overwhelming. Flavors are made fresh on Thursdays. Shop is clean and spacious and offers wine bottle purchases and some baked items.

Superior coffee and dining area. I visited SSC on a Friday night with my brother and his family. We had an infant and toddler with us. We order a pour over, latte and double shot espresso. The dining area is great for families, solo workers, singles, large groups and small groups. It's aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. Plenty of outlets for the worker. Patio seating is available. My pour over and latte was fabulous. The pour over tasted much like it was described which is saying a lot about what SSC is doing to serve good coffee. They brew the pour over on an Macro SP9 commercial brewer for consistency and practical reasons. While I prefer to have my pour overs brewed by the barista I really couldn't have told you whether it was or wasn't. The coffee has me sorry I couldn't get a bag of the beans to buy for home brewing. The latte milk was silky and smooth and the espresso was rich. SSC sells accessories to brew your own pour over coffee at home. If I lived in the Lowcountry I'd be back again and again

Have been to this location many times and the store has just gone downhill. The front windows and doors are filthy. No napkins. The whole store seems like it needs a good cleaning and some upbeat staff. A ordered a half caff coffee and was charged a $1.50 fee- but wasn't informed they were gonna change me a fee. Overall wouldn't go back to this location. Giving it two starts cause the burrito was good and consistent to previous visits.

Okay so I've been coming here since it was Collective Coffee and I will say the coffee has improved, but unfortunately my favorite menu item didn't live up to its former title. This was the avocado toast I received today and while it was okay, there's definitely something different about it. Presentation also was very thrown together. I carried this to my table, wasn't asked if I wanted it to go, but felt it got slopped into this box. Bread was really hard and tasted almost stale? Not sure what it was about the old avocado toast, but I might skip it next time. I totally understand updating the menu, it just used to be my all time favorite avocado toast and it's changed almost entirely in the past year. Could just be me, but I do miss the old version. This used to be my treat myself breakfast! But vanilla latte was PERFECT. Not sure what the espresso was, but I was a big fan! And to go I got an iced latte which also hit the spot! I'll be back for sure, I just might skip the grub next go around!

Pretty solid coffee! Baristas are lovely. We always make this a stop when in the area!!

Phew it's been years since visiting this lovely coffee shop!! Happy to return for great coffee, spacious sitting areas, and the music playlist is oh-so-catchy! I like how the beans are roasted locally so it's a plus to support local endeavors. I got a regular hot coffee that had a nice robust flavor and satisfied my sweet tooth with a chocolate toffee nut muffin. The muffin had a great texture balance experience with a fluffy, moist center and crispy muffin top complete with a sugar crunch - yummo! Another plus were the hours: most cafes around close at 3 PM but this one was open until 5 PM. Keep up the good work!

great coffee and atmosphere! We were just visiting in town and popped in for an afternoon pick me up but everyone was so sweet. The space looks like a great place to meet up with a friend for a cup or if you need to get some work done with the free wifi.

Had an almond milk vanilla latte. Good. Good flavor, body, and intensity. It even had some nice latte art. Service. It was fine. I had no complaints about it. My greatest complaint was the cleanliness. First, there were several fruit flies inside the pastry shelf. I obviously didn't have any of that. Second, the restroom was not clean. Additionally, there was a patron there with a puppy , and it was on the table. I Find that unhygienic, inappropriate, and disrespectful. That should not be allowed at any restaurant. A pro about the ambience was there's plenty of seating and the music selection was very pleasant. I'm willing to give this place another shot, and if the cleanliness hasn't improved then, I won't return.

Just the vibe I was looking for on a Friday morning! I ordered a lavender latte with oat milk and it was perfect. The service was quick, although it wasn't very busy at the counter. There were a lot of people already drinking their coffee and chatting. I purchased their whole bean coffee for $16, but have yet to try it. I'm excited though. When we visit Mt. Pleasant again I'll be sure to go to Second State Coffee!

Great coffee shop to enjoy coffee and company. I loved the communal table and the plentiful plants. Not to mention their bumpin' soundtrack. I enjoyed their house cold brew and was tempted to add a little lavender (not a flavor you see much of anymore these days) sweetener. The baristas were in fabulous spirits which made my visit all the better. The WiFi was unstable (a little helpful hack is that the password requires a space) and the music is a little more rockin' than some might like for ~studying~ or working, and a surprising lack of outlets. And so for those reasons I really wouldn't recommend a co-working session. Plenty of parking because it's located in a convenient little plaza.

Had a lovely cup of Joe at Second State Coffee located under the Oyster Park Apartments. Phone didn't eat first unfortunately so couldn't get the amazing art detail. Cute spot in Mt P for a quick grab and go bite of food or drink. Lots of parking in front. Had the iced latte with almond milk not pictured. Spot had a few tables to eat or drink at inside. Sold an interesting blender bomb item to put in smoothies. They also had a tea that was fruit loops flavored but didn't have any coffee. May have to try it out next time. Service was super nice and answered my many questions. Gave them my water bottle to recycle. Great spot for catching up with a friend or a first date. There was a big group sitting together and talking when we visited. #bergerknowsbest

The oat dirty chai was SO good! I only wish it was closer to me so I could hey it more often!

The best chai tea latte I've had in a long time! Will definitely be back to try some of their other lattes- they had options like lavender, honey, brown sugar... (all separate) but all sound interesting!

Although several people were working on their laptops, I didn't find this place conducive to working. The cavernous ceiling amplifies conversations (my decibel-measure app read 85) and the music was also loud. There were gnats indoors, and the latte, though tasty, was lukewarm. I could see coming here to meet friends, but not to try to do anything requiring concentration.

Came when visiting Mount Pleasant and picked it because it had an average of 4.1 on Yelp; however, I wouldn't give it more than 3. I ordered an Extra Hot Honey Lavender Latte and my coffee was lukewarm -- and it wasn't busy. The coffee taste was also watery. But I guess this is a popular place for locales, but if you are a coffee afficiando which I am (having had coffee in all 7 continents, including in Antarctica) I wouldn't pick this place.

Formally Collective Coffee, same building, similar layout. I popped in here the other day for a quick coffee. It was ok. The guy behind the counter needs to brush up on his customer service skills. I tried several times to engage him in conversation but got no where. Maybe he was having a bad day. The vibe here is pretentious, trying to be cool and hipster in my opinion. I did not feel very welcome here. There was a lot of customers on lap tops. It's the perfect spot for that. The coffee was okay. I asked for a large and I was told they only come in one size! Oh well, sorry to have bothered you!!

I'm trying my hardest to only drink caffeine just once a week. I'm sure it won't last long but that's my plan for now. And because of that I try and pick out quality coffee shops to spend my Saturday mornings. I look for great coffee and a calming atmosphere since I'll generally read or study there. I was more than impressed with this Second State shop. It was large, clean and had a variety of drinks available, including quality tea. I started off with the lavender latte. Sweet, but not overly so and smooth taste with just the right amount of lavender. After a while I ended up ordering the Rose Melange tea, which is a white tea blend. First, love the mini tea pot they give you. Second, I totally wasn't expecting this quality of tea at a coffee shop. You could tell it was brewed with loose tea leaves. Simply delicious! Overall, I really enjoyed this place. Bonus for ample parking.

My iced vanilla oat milk latte was delicious. My food was good, but the fact that it came in a to go container kind of killed it. If I had realized all of their food came in disposable containers, even if dining in, I would not have ordered food. That said, the potatoes in the breakfast skillet were delicious, as was the crispy cheese melted on top. They don't have ketchup, which is wack. Hot sauce is available upon request. I enjoyed working here. There is lots of space to hang out and the WiFi works well.

Tell the barista to surprise you; you won't regret it. SO good. Very vibey-- would totally study here.

It was good but the food limitations make it hard for dietary restrictions. There were no sugar free options for syrups, which I was told that they were at least made in house. Great but those with sugar sensitivities still can't enjoy their drink without doctoring it or risking a reaction. Not all of us are keto but appreciate that keto is making life a bit better for diabetics and the like. There was no real explanation for what vegetables go in their skillet, and didn't quite figure it out with eating. But they were still pretty stiff in texture and everything was a little raw cooked.

I've tried to like this place because the location is convenient. I can grab a coffee here versus having to go downtown.... but both times my lattes have been so bitter. It's either an issue with their machine or barista error. Always quiet inside if you need a place to work and only drink tea.

We both stopped in for Lattes this morning. We love little coffee shops. We grabbed a Brown Sugar Latte and on seasonal special Sweet Potato Latte with a Chocolate Chip Muffin. Everything was great! Lots of spots to sit and a few outdoor tables. We would recommend.

I have been coming to Second State for years. I frequently get the same coffee order - a shakerato - and I ask for ice. The last four months, this is the only coffee drink I've actually been able to keep down being pregnant. It's a simple luxury of "normal" that I enjoy. Today I ordered a shakerato with ice and was initially asked if I wanted an iced latte instead...no thank you, this is what I typically order so I'm good. I get the drink and guess what...no ice. I ask the guy at the counter if I can have ice to which he says "it ruins the integrity of the drink and regardless of if I have gotten it before, they aren't doing it anymore." The drink is literally made by shaking espresso in a shaker with ice. Why not just pour it all in a cup as the customer ordered? I won't be going back to Second State. I am sure my visits won't determine their long term success but it's the principle of serving a paying customer, not being polite about it, and being dismissive of the fact that I know what I'm ordering. Honestly, me not breaking down crying in the middle of a coffee shop over a drink order (don't doubt the hormones) and only leaving this review, is a kindness they don't deserve. There are plenty of coffee spots in Mount Pleasant that I will gladly frequent instead and you should too.

Coffee shop connoisseur incoming!!! This place was awesome. Immaculate vibes inside, great coffee, slightly above average food, staff was incredible. For those who are looking for a quiet but lively place to get some work done or if you're just popping in to grab a quick pick-me-up, this place is perfect. Located right across from the super neat I'on neighborhood too. Cold brew was delicious and the breakfast burrito was good. Could've used a little less beans, but tasted extremely fresh and perfectly toasted. Can't go wrong coming here. Will come back and would recommend.

Did not like their options on sweeteners. Had to go home just to sweeten my coffee. Stevia shouldn't be the only option beside brown sugar ugh But that's not the reason I will not return. That reason is because they ignored my complaint on their website. Too bad, I wanted to make that my daily go to spot

(Mount Pleasant-shelmore location) I'm local to the area and would occasionally come here but I swear every time I come I leave so disappointed with the customer service. I SO badly want to like this place, it's cute and super convenient for me. I had my family in town from the west coast and was telling them how close this place was to me and wanted to give them one last chance. We walk in and the boy working didn't even look up, I walked over and said excuse me after 5 minutes and he said hold on with such an attitude and we stood there for another 5 minutes. I get if he had other orders or was busy but no one was in the store. He always got our orders wrong so I asked for him to fix one of them and he said he couldn't... Besides this incident every time I go in the guys working are super unfriendly. I mean come on, this place has so much potential. If they would get better staff this place would be so much better. Not to say everyone there is unprofessional but the 5+ times I've gone have been very unpleasant. No one wants to start their day with a grumpy Barista especially before you have even had your coffee for the morning haha!

I don't like leaving bad reviews but this place was so bad I feel compelled to leave a review. Pros: - friendly staff and clean establishment Cons: - coffee is not good - food is not as described and also lacking. Coffee: I was with 3 friends. I ordered a mocha cappuccino. I asked everyone to try it before I commented and we all unanimously agreed it was the worst mocha coffee any of us have had. It tasted like burnt black coffee. The other 3 purchased lattes and said it tasted like basic black coffee. Food: Eggs were prepared well (very fluffy). Added avocado but it barely had any, for up charge of $2.50. It was supposed to be on a brioche bun instead it was a toasted hamburger bun. Not great. There are better places in Mt P.

There's a gross something or other dripping from an overhead vent inside the cafe. Other than that, the food, coffee, and service were all good.

Nice atmosphere and friendly service. My Americano was H O T. Once, I ordered an espresso and it was served with a glass of carbonated water. It was the best. Did you know how good bubbly water and espresso are together?

Wow, this cafe is a more younger, trend atmosphere. Slightly pricey than your average Starbucks because 80% of their inventory is natural ingredients. Which is fair. Very relaxed, lay back, and everyone is having a good time. I ordered the breakfast sandwich + bacon + sausage and it was phenomenal! My wife had the avocado toast, and stated it's better here than Five Loafs Cafe...some competition here lol. Our service was quick friendly and they serve wine and craft beer. Would like to swing by and check out the evening vibes. This place is recommended. P.S. They have vegan and hemp options

Busy little coffee spot they have two locations one in Mount Pleasant near Ion and one over West Ashley. I have been to both many times and have always received consistent customer service and food. My favorite is the salmon toast or avocado toast. Pretty busy spot, lots of people drinking coffee and working on laptops and on their phone. Mount Pleasant location has lots of the yoga crowd, not a bad thing but I think that must be Mount Pleasant ha ha:-)

Never get food from here and certainly not the yogurt dish. It is literally water. Coffee is fine. This place used to be good.

Wow! Your company's "mantra" states that hospitality is core to your business. Unfortunately, the bearded gentleman that served us this morning was rude, impatient, and condescending. We were the only two patrons in the shop so we can't blame it on a need to rush us. This is the first and last time we will visit this establishment all because of him!

Second State is one of my favorite coffee shops in all of Charleston! Their staff is so kind and their coffee is extent! 10/10 would recommend stopping by !

SS is my go to coffee shop. I work from home so any time I need to get out of my home office, I post up in here (a lot of people work from here so you won't feel like you're in the way or being pushed out if you're like me!) I usually go with the drop coffee, But their oat milk honey lattes with cinnamon are the real MVP. Food is also great, and most wonderful of all - the staff ! They create such a welcoming vibe that makes you feel like you're just hanging out at a friends house when you're there. They also put on a lot of really cool events so make sure to check their events calendar from time to time!

The coffee was good, the food was subpar. Will probably be back for coffee and pastries but definitely not for a meal.

There are two high end coffee spots in Mount Pleasant that are cool enough to warrant a visit, even if you only were planning on staying in Charleston. One is Vintage Coffee Cafe, which includes the bonus option of a wood fired pizza at sister shop, Coastal Crust. The other is here at the Collective, soon to become part of the Second State coffee team. They already source their beans from Second State (in downtown Charleston near the College), with several pourover choices daily and quick cups on drip. The espresso drinks are churned out on shiny La Marzocco Strada machine using single origin offerings. Food selections are limited but include a delicious ricotta toast with coffee blossom honey and tomato jam, in addition to seasonal pastries, breakfast sandwiches, heuvos rancheros, French toast, lox toast, avocado toast (with egg add on option), and the like. While I generally am not a big spiced latte drinker, the Fall 2018 "Broom Stick" latte won me over: freshly grated and ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove paired with smoked salt flakes and a hint of coffee blossom honey. Perfect for an on again off again rainy fall day in Mount Pleasant!

Found Coffee Collective on a "nearby coffee" Yelp search. The photos looked enticing so we decided to stop in before heading to the airport. I was surprised to see so many people but from the looks of it a lot of people come here to work, study or have meetings. They have a huge breakfast menu and as enticing as the pimento cheese biscuit was I was pimento cheesed out after visiting Charleston so I decided on the breakfast sandwich with a caramel vanilla latte. My friend also got the ricotta cheese with honey which was delicious. Coffee and breakfast sandwich was amazing and the service was great a great as well. Only thing that I think they need is a dedicated water station and place to put your empty plates and cups. Didn't see anyone coming around to collect dishes during our visit either. Otherwise this is a great spot to stop in for something to go or to stay and hang out.

Pour over with sun dried coffee!!! Its rare to find this, so they win just on that. My son loved the hot cocoa. He had the lox toast, me the avocado toast. Thickly sliced, buttery bread grilled to perfection. Coming here when ever I'm back near Charleston!