The Commodore

It’s a lively and relaxing place to hear live music. We went on a less busy day and hung out by the bar. Drinks are well made and reasonably priced. Small dance floor available if you don’t want to just sit around. Everyone we met that night was friendly.

Loved this spot for great live music, fun crowd and excellent vibes.

There was a DJ x Saxophone duo jamming when we got there before the band started. Cover was $15 on a Saturday night. The dancing was fun. Only note is that the smoke / fog machines were so potent you could taste it? It was a lot But overall great vibe at this spot.

I took my wife out for a midweek date night to The Commodore. It's a cool, quaint spot downtown that you have to go and check out. Parking is either on the street (if you can find a spot). Or you can park on the grass across from the front entrance. Walking inside, we really loved the aesthetics. They just had the right vibes all around. We had a few drinks of which I can't remember the names. But I'll be sure to update you once I find out. Unfortunately, they don't serve food. So make sure you get a bite to eat prior to coming in. The highlight was the band, The Living Daylights. They were soulful and groovy baby! They had a reggae/hip hop/neo soul type feel throughout the night. We definitely gotta catch them again.

We had the absolute pleasure of seeing Rae perform at The Commodore, and I can’t recommend her enough. Her talent is simply unmatched—she has a voice that stops you in your tracks. We first heard her sing at our wedding, where she brought the house down with her stunning vocals and heartfelt performance. It was unforgettable. Seeing her again at The Commodore, this time with her band, was just as incredible. The vibe was electric—she effortlessly blended soulful ballads with upbeat crowd-pleasers, and the entire audience was captivated. If you see Rae’s name on the lineup at The Commodore, do yourself a favor and go. She’s the real deal, and this venue brings out the best singers for live performances. An absolute must!

Live music blew my expectations away! Such a great spot! If I hadn’t seen lake street dive live I would have thought the band playing was them! So good!

Live show & bartender was AMAZING ! Had a great time !

Let me tell you a time was have this place is absolutely amazing the vibe the atmosphere the people the service. This is definitely my go to spot whenever I come to visit. Charleston wanted the best band I’ve ever heard. Partly cloudy is their name.

Such a fun night. This band substituted for the original headliner and they were great. It's best to get there early because there isn't much seating. There is a cover charge I think it was $15. If you stay for a few hours it's worth it. The bartender was nice and accommodating. This is a great local spot in Charleston.

Cool spot. Nice place to sip and dance. So many good looking people. Gotta love the live music scene.

I have been to this place so many times and have always had so much fun whether it's dancing riding the Mechanical ball or just hanging out with friends. It's always lively and a good time. I love when they have live music. Can't wait for my next visit.!!

Very cool bar! Atmosphere was dark and moody. Dance floor in the middle. Bathrooms are one toilet style, no stalls. Bartenders were very experienced, made delicious drinks. Feels the way I'd imagine an old school jazz club would be! Very different than any of the other bars downtown.

Probably the only cool dance club in ALL of Charleston. Excellent bands, super chill crowd. Always crowded, but in a good way. This place is a real throw back...not too many places like this around anymore or anywhere

Food service in ambience was amazing. The bands they selected are incredible. I have been to watch them four separate times and had the time of my life. The bartenders are beautiful and amazing, the doorman is accommodating and makes everyone feel very safe, the sound man, Mr. Greg is wonderful and truly I've had the best time out. Dancing would have gone out to see this band perform at this historic venue. The only drawback from This experience is that there is a neighbor in the backyard who doesn't allow people to even moderately speak outside without calling the police so there's no place to go outside and smoke or talk without being asked to be quiet. This is no reflection of the venue but of the rudeness for someone to move into a downtown historic venue, location, and start policing people. I really wish the city of Charleston would do something about this nuisance of a neighbor. It's not right to move to a place where historical Black music venue needs to adhere to the guidelines of somebody on the second floor that chose to live downtown where music is played and fun times I had. This is not a reflection of the venue itself just something to know and maybe some eyes in the city can start to take notice of this and realize that there Are messing up the tourist industry, as well as the enjoyment of locals who wanna come to a historic music venue and have a good time. That Neighbor ought to be ashamed of herself? Move, Karen! Move to the country!

Energy ambiance nice and the music off the charts I love to dance and had no difficulty finding partners!

First time at the commodore and it didn't disappoint. I had the delicious drink called the Alibi...I had 2 cause it was so delicious. Got there at 8:30pm and it was empty and like 45mins later the place got packed All I need management to do is stop using the smoke machine cuz no one needs that nonsense and turn the air on for the love heaven. The place was so hot people had to walk out just to get some air. All in all great night, good cover band, great drinks.

I enjoyed the live music! Partly Cloudy was the band that night! No food options but they do have a bar. The restrooms were clean and the staff was nice! I would visit again....

My favorite bar in Charleston hands down! The vibe is on point, the music is amazing and the bartenders are wonderful!

Live band was amazing! Austin the manager managed the club well. Very crowded but we'll managed. They charge for a table I'm handicapped and was given a table for my party for free. At the end of the night Austin called and paid for an uber for us. Wonderful experience! Thanks so much Austin The Golden Girls LindA, Virginia and Charlotte

Warning, Tourist review: Visited here around 11pm on a Saturday night. Found that it was filled with disrespectful college students and townies. Small space, looks bigger and fancier in the photos. Bathrooms are awkwardly placed next to the stage. Dance floor is sticky and small. Music was good though, as expected. There's no private parking here, much like most of Charleston. Parking can be found several streets east and west in residential areas. Don't go here if you're completely sober. The Juul/e-cigarette smoking and obnoxious college students will be too much to handle in this cramped space. This is a good place to go, midway into your night... after perhaps a couple of drinks. Would definitely visit here again, as it seems like an intimate music club.

My boyfriend wanted to come check a band out last Tuesday called Black Diamond. I didn't know what to expect! From the outside, it looks like an abandoned building. There's a sign on the front that says Touch of Jazz, which I'm assuming is the old name. We parked in a lot across the street beside some buildings which looked like they were abandoned as well. There was no cover charge at the door. There was a food truck beside the building. One of the bouncers at the door said we could get food and bring it in. I'm assuming food isn't served, at least at night if outside food can be brought in...I didn't check though. When we walked in, I was pleasantly surprised. It had a retro feel. It had a relaxed and causal atmosphere. We arrived around 10 pm so the band was already playing. There's a small dance floor right in front of the stage. The dance floor was empty except for two people. It's a small space with limited seating. Booths line the two walls parallel to the stage and a few small tables are on one side. It started getting crowded after 45 mins or so. People started getting on the dance floor. The band was cool. They stuck to late 1990s and early 2000s songs. They played a bunch of covers, including Lauryn Hill and Musiq Soulchild. We left around 11:30. By that time, the place was packed. I definitely want to go back!

Was super excited to go only to find out that the age requirement is 23 years and older

I'm so happy this place is open! Our Uber driver said that it just reopened.. what a local Charleston gem! This is a intimate bar on Meeting street away from the craziness of king street. The decor gives an old timey lowkey fancy feel. They have boothes, a dance floor, live music, chandeliers and my favorite- a disco ball! How fun right?! The cocktails were great and the atmosphere was so friendly. We thought it was definitely a locals bar but even so, everyone was so welcoming. The live music the night we visited was a jazz band and the lead singer had some pipes!! The saxophone was my favorite.. I can not wait to come back here again.

As other reviewers stated it's not as swanky as it appears in the photos and was filled with 20 somethings, (I'm 62)But is that a bad thing? Good music is good music. Saw The Majestics with no cover and truthfully there should have been. This group was tight. And seriously who plays Curtis Mayfield? They do and they kill it. Patrons were fun, friendly and yes young. Man stepped on my foot near the stage, apologized 20 times and bought me a drink. Give it a go as a local or visiting as we were. And wear dancing shoes, cuz to get the entire experience you need to move.

This place was great! The band was straight fire! Cool crowd, fun dancing, reasonable drink prices and friendly staff. We stumbled upon this place while in town for a night and we were pleasantly surprised. Love!

This was the surprise highlight of a recent trip to Charleston! It's not located with the rest of the nightlife on King Street, but it's just a few blocks away. We stopped by on a Friday night and were treated to a fun night of dancing to soul/pop covers from The Funktastics. The speciality cocktails were somewhat hit or miss -- Alembic (hit), French 75.5 (miss) -- but given that they make a respectable Old Fashioned, my drink needs were appropriately satisfied. Bar service was quick and the entire staff was friendly and accommodating: there's no official coat check, but the door person was friendly enough to store by girlfriend's coat for the night. The dance floor isn't especially large, but there was still enough space for us to enjoy ourselves without bumping into people. There is also plenty of seating available in case you want to chill and enjoy some drinks.

The service is exceptional! The music is good but given the small space not enough room for folks to dance it is very loud., and young folks are drunk inconsiderate. However not the establishment's fault.

When I first moved to Charleston I became an Uber driver to get an idea of the lay of the land, and make a few extra bucks. The Commodore was a regular destination for my passengers, but until this week I had never ventured inside. It's smaller than I expected, but the crowd was great. And the bartenders were attentive, polite and worked quickly. Great character for a bar. Perfect place to start or end the evening.

Love love love the Commodore! It was a recent discovery for us, but we've become regulars at this point. The bartender remembered us the last time we went, which I don't know if that's a good or bad thing... If you're looking for great music and a place to dance your bootay off, the Commodore is the place for you. We usually arrive before 9:30 to beat the cover, which is $7 if you get there later. They offer a selection of cocktails as well as beer. We usually stick to beer because the cocktails can run you a sizable bill. If you do get there around 9:30, it may look deserted, but just sit and relax because once the music starts at around 10, the crowds flood in. The bands we have seen have played a great mix of songs both old and new that are easy to dance to. The singers have such great voices you feel like you should've paid more money to see them perform! The crowd is a mix of all ages, there will be a bachelor party in one corner and a retirement party in the other. Would recommend this place to anyone!

We just moved to town not far from here and decided on a whim to go on Friday night while our best friends were visiting. Did not disappoint. Such a fun night.

This place seems to be the new spot. I do love seeing places open up that aren't on King street, but when my buddy told me they've set up shop around the corner from Church's Chicken on meeting, I had to say I was a bit skeptical. We showed up fairly late on a Thursday night and the place was packed. It seems to me like this is the evolution of the recently shuttered Palace Hotel (same owners) but has a similar vibe to Faculty Lounge as well. Good drinks, crowd and music... I'll be back.

First time here. Had so much fun! Our bartender was great. He was super friendly and always made the drinks perfect! Loved the band as well. Highly recommend!!

Had a blast listening to the Funktastics on Saturday night. If crowds aren't your thing, ask about the private tables. Made all the difference in the world.

A little off the beaten path on North Meeting St, this place looks a little old-school-divey from the exterior with a "vintage" limo branded with the club's name parked out front (my gal worked hard to get Austin on board with giving our group a quick ride in it, which would surely only add to the many stories this vehicle could tell). Upon entrance we were met with a pleasant smile from our swanky-dressed gal bartender Christian and a nearly empty venue given the early hour. But what had drawn me to this place was the promise of an amazing funk band, yet to begin their set-up. So, we were obviously "in the right place, but it must have been the wrong time" (thanks Dr John). We enjoyed several drinks while breathing in the ambience (but hopefully not any Covid since it was sparsely populated). Then, since they knew we were anxious for some immediate music and the promise that we would return, the bartenders sent us to another venue two blocks away. An hour and a half later we returned to The Commodore only to find a line of patrons awaiting ID check and entry. But we were already wrist-banded and were able to go right in...to a venue that was now crowded with dancers on the floor doing exactly what we had hoped to do several hours earlier. More drinks. Dancing. Fun. This place was a surprising "happening" place with pleasant and helpful employees, impressive drinks, and great music by FutureFunk. We WILL return!

This place was disgusting. Everything here was dirty, with sticky floors. It felt like the AC was turned off because it was hot and muggy and smelled like body odor everywhere. We paid a $7 cover charge but it was definitely not worth it. The live band was nice but the venue itself was not. I wouldn't come back here, especially since there are so many more nicer places downtown.

Very cool bar in upper Charleston - swanky jazz vibe complete with fog machine to give the smoke effect without the cigarettes. Really though, it's pretty cool. Guy from Southern Charm apparently bought it as is and kept it that way so there's a very authentic feel to it! Their cocktails are... meh. I tried the Touch of Grace (gin and champagne) and my boyfriend had the Back Note (bulleit bourbon), neither of which were good. Touch of Grace was drinkable but had an odd after taste. Back Note ended up tasting more like a bitter scotch to us if that makes sense.. he didn't end up finishing it. Bartender was nice and quick though! We went there while Weigh Station was playing and the venue was great for that! Close vibe, small dance floor if you need to bust a move. $5 cover on a Wednesday night.

The photos of this place are misleading. We were expecting a fancy sprawling lounge kind of place, but it's basically a small crowded college bar (and we had to wait a bit to get in (just before midnight on a Saturday night)). However, they had a great African American funk band playing Daft Punk covers, and the dance floor was filled with drunk happy dancers (including me).

This place is so good! Great prices for drinks, clean and a mature crowd. The music is sooooo great too!

Nothing like it in Charleston!! You want fun energetic live late night entertainment this IS your spot!!!

I had to be talked into coming here because it was late and I just wanted to sleep. So glad I went. The band that was playing was FANTASTIC, the singer kicked ass for blocks around. Drinks were ordinary and I didn't eat so I can't speak to that, but it was easy to find seating and really worth it!

Sweet venue! It's like stepping back in time to a 70's jazz club, but without the jazz. Saw Weigh Station and they sounded good. The specialty cocktails were not very good, but the service was. I will be back. Does require a $5 cover

We are visiting from NC and we came here last night for my 30th birthday and let me just say it was perfect! The live band was GREAT!!! The woman singing even sang me a birthday request. The drinks were good and reasonably priced! Most under $10. I had a couple white gummy bear shots, which were good! Nice mixed crowd and friendly atmosphere. The music the band was playing was all funk, which I loved! The only thing I wish was better was the DJ when the band took a break. He could of played better throwbacks. Overall a great night!! Would definitely recommend and definitely come back if we are in Charleston again

If you're in the mood to go see a great band and party this is the place for you! Always have a good time and the music is great. One drawback for me is that they don't have bud light but they have other beer options which will do. When it's busy, the line can get a bit long but usually moves pretty quickly.

What a fun vibe. People of all kinds and great old school live music. Great dance place or just good listening. Get your drinks at the bar. Get there early and avoid the cover charge.

Absolutely the best party in town & it was free. Celebrating my sister friend's Birthday. We danced the night away. The house band was the highlight of the night.

Outstanding music venue! Some of the best live music I've experienced - classic funk, soul, R&B, popular covers, all with beats that make you want to boogie! The place has an intimate feel, with a hip throwback vibe to earlier times. The downside is that on weekends can get pretty crazy, and you'll probably have to wait in line. I recommend going on a week night if you want to enjoy the music without a massive crowd.

Rolled into The Commodore on a Friday night and had an absolute ball. Great live music, retro cool vibe and large, well staffed bar. In a town renowned for its nightlife, The Commodore stands out. Patrons range from the standard issue young and beautiful to a well heeled 40+ crowd. Scene is intimate and energetic. Don't worry about the comments regarding location, it's completely safe. We walked there from King Street but given the availability of cabs and ride-share, getting a ride is a snap. The Commodore = DOPE.

Great Bar, amazing atmosphere the live music was a cool throwback. The cover was reasonable like 5 bucks . Drinks were good and staff great. If you love funk, live music and a diverse cross generational crowd I highly recommended this bar.

Great place with even better music but by far the worst bouncer I have ever encountered, and trust me I've encountered a lot. The tall man (almost 40 which he told me) with sandy blonde hair definitely exerts misplaced power. He was mean on entry and even worse upon exit. I was drinking a glass of much needed water which he ripped from my hands without warning. I explained that it was only water and he screamed at me , "how am I supposed to know". Um I'm a 40 year old coherent woman. I'm not your issue. Just smell the damn cup if you don't believe me. The man was brutal and totally took away from what could have been a great experience

I had the great idea to check out The Commodore the first weekend it was open. Apparently, half of Charleston also had this idea. It was a bit crowded, but only because the place is deceptively small (the mirrors on the wall had me fooled at first thinking it was a lot bigger). Still, my friends and I had a fun time. This place is great if you want to hear live music and go dancing. I really like the decor and the fact that the owners kept the same vibe from when it was A Touch of Class over 20 years ago. However, it's not in the best neighborhood and there's a cover charge (at least that night there was). Regardless, this place will make your swanky 60s jazz club dreams come true.

I like this place a lot. Good atmosphere and great music. Probably would have given it five stars but I did have a weird experience there lately. I was asked to pay a cover charge for a band that was setting up while in the middle of my second drink. I could see folks coming in having to pay but patrons already there? What was I supposed to do, leave my drink? So now when people ask me about this place this is the story I think of cause it's so bizarre, as opposed to the stories I used to tell about the great music.

Great intimate atmosphere! Gets pretty crowded. Not much seating so get there early. Good crowd a lot of younger folks on a Saturday night. Band was great and drinks were good. Will definitely return. Nothing fancy no need to be dressy, jeans are just fine.

The bar staff was super misogynist. The clientele was really immature and a bunch of bros. I went with a bachelorette party, and we asked for them to DJ at least one song by a female artist (it was mostly whiny male rap music) and when we asked for a song by Rihanna, they shoo'd us away like flies. They then pretended to ask their manager and came back to say "ix-nay on playing your music." I said "but it's a bachelorette. Who is the DJ?" The bartender said "it's a pandora playlist and sometimes we play female artists." I said "like who?" He said "like Rihanna", which he obviously only named because I had said her name. The tech guy (he obviously wasn't a DJ because he "couldn't change the music") walked by me and touched the small of my back to push me out of his way as he passed. The jazz band that played was great. It's too bad everyone who works there is utter garbage and is probably going to laugh at this review because they think women's opinions don't matter.

Could be fun but the night we went it seemed full of college kids who were a little too jacked up and the band was average at best (singer looked like he was reading lyrics off his phone). Again great idea, could be fun other times...but the crowd and entertainment matters.

OMG! If I could figure out how to upload a video. If you visit Charleston, you need to hit this place on a Friday night because the band that plays on Friday is simply amazing! I wish I could afford to play to Charleston every Friday night just the be there for that. It's really nice they have two bars and of course the drinks could always be a little stronger to me but still 5 stars for that groove session I got to attend July 4th weekend.

DT Charleston has needed a place like this for years. Takes me back to the clubs in Chicago from the 70's.

The music was fabulous and so was the atmosphere but cocktail drinks were terrible! Especially the Moscow Mule....