Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina

Address: 78 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States.
Phone: 8438538270.
Website: kaminskys.com
Specialties: Dessert restaurant, Bakery, Cafe, Cocktail bar, Coffee shop, Pie shop, Restaurant.
Other points of interest: Delivery, On-site services, Takeaway, Dine-in, Fast service, Great coffee, Great dessert, Great tea selection, Solo dining, Wheelchair-accessible toilet, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, Comfort food, Happy-hour drinks, Late-night food, Quick bite, Small plates, Spirits, Wine, Lunch, Dessert, Seating, Table service, Bar on site, Toilet, Wi-Fi, Casual, Cosy, Trendy, Groups, Tourists, University students, Credit cards, Debit cards, NFC mobile payments, Credit cards, Good for kids, High chairs, Paid multi-storey car park, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking.
Opinions: This company has 2014 reviews on Google My Business.
Average opinion: 4.4/5.

📌 Location of Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe 78 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

⏰ Open Hours of Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe

  • Monday: 2–11 pm
  • Tuesday: 2–11 pm
  • Wednesday: 2–11 pm
  • Thursday: 2–11 pm
  • Friday: 12 pm–1 am
  • Saturday: 12 pm–1 am
  • Sunday: 12–11 pm

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Charleston, Kaminsky's Dessert Café is a beloved gem that has been tantalizing taste buds since 1976. This iconic establishment is renowned for its decadent desserts, artisanal coffee, and creative cocktails, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. With a rich history and an unparalleled commitment to quality, Kaminsky's has solidified its status as one of the city's most cherished culinary institutions.

Main Services

  • Dessert Extravaganza: Kaminsky's is famous for its extensive array of desserts, with over 30 options available daily. From classic favorites like cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies to innovative creations such as the Key Lime Pie Martini and the Elvis-inspired Peanut Butter & Banana Cream Pie, there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
  • Artisanal Coffee: The café takes pride in serving high-quality, handcrafted coffee drinks made from locally roasted beans. Whether you're in the mood for a classic espresso or a specialty drink like the signature Honey Vanilla Latte, Kaminsky's skilled baristas ensure each cup is perfection.
  • Craft Cocktails: As the sun sets, Kaminsky's transforms into a lively cocktail bar, mixing up innovative libations that complement their famous desserts. Their extensive drink menu features an array of classic and creative cocktails, along with an impressive selection of local beers and wines.
  • Light Bites: In addition to their sweet offerings, Kaminsky's serves a selection of savory items to satisfy your hunger. Choose from an assortment of sandwiches, salads, and comfort food classics like Mac & Cheese and Chicken & Waffles.
  • Special Occasions: For those looking to celebrate a special event, Kaminsky's offers custom cakes and catering services. Their expert pastry chefs can create a tailored dessert spread that will make any occasion unforgettable.

Location and Access

Kaminsky's is conveniently located at 78 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401, in the heart of the city's Historic District. This prime location places it within walking distance of many of Charleston's most popular attractions, including the City Market, Waterfront Park, and the USS Yorktown.

  • By Car: The café is easily accessible by car, with nearby parking available at several garages and surface lots. Metered street parking is also available, but spaces can be limited during peak hours.
  • By Public Transportation: Kaminsky's is served by the Charleston Area Regional Transportation (CARTA) bus system, with several bus stops nearby. Additionally, the Café is just a short walk from the hustle and bustle of the downtown area, making it easily accessible on foot.

Featured Characteristics

  • Atmosphere: Kaminsky's inviting atmosphere is the perfect blend of cozy and eclectic, with a nostalgic charm that harkens back to a simpler time. The café's vibrant energy and friendly staff create a welcoming environment that keeps patrons returning time and time again.
  • Seating Options: The café offers a variety of seating options to accommodate any preference, from intimate two-tops to communal tables perfect for groups. Outdoor seating is also available, allowing patrons to enjoy the beautiful Charleston weather while indulging in their treats.
  • Architecture: Kaminsky's historic building features elegant arched windows, exposed brick walls, and warm wooden floors, showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage. The café's interior design seamlessly blends old and new, creating a visually stunning space that is as captivating as it is delicious.

Practical Information

  • Hours of Operation: Kaminsky's is open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends. The café's dessert and coffee menu is available throughout the day, while the bar menu is served from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
  • Contact Information: Phone: 843-853-8270 | Website: kaminskys.com
  • Accessibility: Kaminsky's is committed to providing a welcoming environment for all guests. The café is wheelchair-accessible, with a ramp leading to the entrance and a wheelchair-accessible restroom on-site.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an impressive average rating of 4.4/5 from over 2000 reviews on Google My Business, Kaminsky's Dessert Café has clearly made a significant impact on its patrons. Some of the most frequently praised aspects include:

  • Dessert Selection: Time and time again, customers rave about Kaminsky's extensive and delicious dessert menu, with many singling out specific favorites like the Tiramisu, Red Velvet Cake, and Apple Crisp.
  • Coffee Expertise: The café's skilled baristas are consistently lauded for their ability to craft the perfect cup of coffee, with many patrons commenting on the quality and flavor of their drinks.
  • Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere: Customers frequently mention the inviting and comfortable atmosphere at Kaminsky's, with friendly and attentive staff contributing to an overall enjoyable experience.
  • Ideal Location: Kaminsky's prime location in downtown Charleston is often praised, with many patrons noting its convenience for both locals and tourists exploring the city's attractions.

In conclusion, Kaminsky's Dessert Café is more than just a sweet spot; it's an essential part of Charleston's culinary landscape. With its incredible selection of desserts, artisanal coffee, and creative cocktails, combined with its welcoming atmosphere and prime location, there's no denying that Kaminsky's is a true Charleston treasure.

👍 Reviews of Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Dr. R. B.
5/5

This was a unique find. I can’t imagine there being a better dessert place in the city. Our server, Sonny, was simply amazing and had great suggestions and a charming smile. There is a sign hanging up that says that the USA Today newspaper says it’s the best milkshake in South Carolina and we think we might agree. It was an incredible chocolate milkshake. We also got the mixed berry cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream which just melted in your mouth. We weren’t even hungry when we came in and we finished both. The atmosphere has got a bar-like feel with very cool vibes but it’s all desserts. This is a unique place right next door to the market that you need to check out.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
T B.
5/5

5 stars for 5 reasons

1. The dessert I bought was exceptional! I typically don’t like coconut but this one was very good! Good crust, good taste, and not too sweet. Give the coconut cream pie a try.

2. Nice folks that work here:)

3. Relatively cheap for a good size pie

4. Many variety of desserts!

5. The decor and ambiance is pretty chill.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Hungry P.
5/5

Stopped by a dessert shop and tried their three-layer chocolate cake. Rich, decadent, and absolutely worth the hype. Each layer delivered a deep cocoa flavor with just the right level of sweetness. The frosting was smooth and velvety without overpowering the cake itself.

This place clearly has a following, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just craving something indulgent, this slice hits the mark.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
CJ F.
5/5

DELICIOUS! We were looking for THIS. Excellent lattes and desserts! I loved the mixed-berry cobbler and my date enjoyed the New York style cheesecake. Our server was SUPER KIND and very helpful!

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Anjoli R.
5/5

This is a hidden gem not too far from the City Market with amazing desserts and boozy dessert drinks. Definitely a fun spot for your night on the town! The service was perfect, the atmosphere was fun (and clean), and everything was delicious (look at this huge piece of cake!). Loved the carrot cake and affogato. It was busy, so you know it's good. We will definitely be back to try more menu items! They do rotate their menu as well, so you *have* to come back to try more that you didn't even know they had. 😉

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Taha R.
5/5

Amazing local dessert shop.. table service. Great staff amazing service and delicious desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. The cakes and pies and ice cream are excellent. Awesome coffee drinks.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
The R. F. D.
5/5

I came right at open and as soon as I walked in, I was greeted with a bunch of scrumptious looking dessert in a display case. But I only came for one thing and that was a slice of tollhouse pie. ($8+ with tax).

The friendly worker asked if I wanted it heated and I said oh yes! It was so decadent and luckily I ate barbecue before or i would’ve got at least one more slice and maybe another dessert. It was very clean inside as well.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Lonnie P.
5/5

If you’re looking for a place to activate your sweet tooth and temporarily deactivate your self-control, Kaminsky’s delivers—with a cherry on top and a side of nostalgic charm.

My wife dove into the Red Velvet Cake like it owed her money, and I was lucky to sneak a few bites before it mysteriously disappeared. Moist, rich, and enough cream cheese frosting to start a fan club.

Our daughter-in-law opted for the Cookie Sundae—a dessert engineered by dessert scientists to maximize joy. One spoonful in and I understood why she wasn’t sharing. I still managed a few strategic bites (purely for review purposes, of course). Cookie plus ice cream? Perfect. Like a sugar-powered buddy cop movie.

I went rogue and ordered the 3-Scoop Chocolate Milkshake. It was good, though slightly on the thinner side—less “thick shake” and more “chocolate milk with ambition.” Still tasty, still gone in minutes.

Service was exceptional—quick, friendly, and somehow intuitively knew when we needed napkins, waters, or just a moment to process our sugar high. The atmosphere is this delightful mashup of modern flair and vintage Charleston charm. Picture exposed brick, stylish lighting, and the quiet knowledge that calories don’t count on vacation.

Pro tip: arrive hungry, leave with plans to come back... and possibly a dessert hangover. Totally worth it.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Dr. R.
5/5

This was a unique find. I can’t imagine there being a better dessert place in the city. Our server, Sonny, was simply amazing and had great suggestions and a charming smile. There is a sign hanging up that says that the USA Today newspaper says it’s the best milkshake in South Carolina and we think we might agree. It was an incredible chocolate milkshake. We also got the mixed berry cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream which just melted in your mouth. We weren’t even hungry when we came in and we finished both. The atmosphere has got a bar-like feel with very cool vibes but it’s all desserts. This is a unique place right next door to the market that you need to check out.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
T B.
5/5

5 stars for 5 reasons

1. The dessert I bought was exceptional! I typically don’t like coconut but this one was very good! Good crust, good taste, and not too sweet. Give the coconut cream pie a try.

2. Nice folks that work here:)

3. Relatively cheap for a good size pie

4. Many variety of desserts!

5. The decor and ambiance is pretty chill.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Abbigale C.
5/5

Sunny is the best bartender EVER!! This gal remembered us from MONTHS ago and is always so kind. Dessert is 10/10 and drinks are 12/10!! Highly recommend this place and ask for Sunny!! <3 written with love, the blonde couple

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Devin H.
5/5

Amazing dessert cafe in Charleston. All of the food and drinks are so good. It's in a great location in downtown as well. The only down side is the inattentive staff might leave you hanging for a while before checking on you. It's worth it though, check it out!

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe - Charleston, South Carolina
Hungry P.
5/5

Stopped by a dessert shop and tried their three-layer chocolate cake. Rich, decadent, and absolutely worth the hype. Each layer delivered a deep cocoa flavor with just the right level of sweetness. The frosting was smooth and velvety without overpowering the cake itself.

This place clearly has a following, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just craving something indulgent, this slice hits the mark.

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