Cannonborough

This cards and paper goods shop may be tiny, but you’ll easily spend an hour in here reading all of the cute (and often hilarious) cards on the shelves. For design geeks, there is also a bright section filled with boutique wrapping paper, and great wedding invitations for brides-to-be.

A bit north of the Upper King's Design District, but still on King Street, The Daily is run by the folks behind the restaurant Butcher & Bee. The coffee here is by fan favorite Stumptown, and The Daily also serves cold-pressed juice, egg sandwiches, bakery goods and bread, plus wine and beer.

This adorable cafe-style restaurant serves the best Asian comfort food in Charleston. Xiao Bao is a perfect, casual lunch spot (although they also do dinner Monday through Saturday)—the menu is small and unfussy, but seriously satisfying.