Mattie Jane's: A Neighborhood Bakery in Charleston's Upper King District
What Mattie Jane's offers and where to find it
Mattie Jane's is a small-batch bakery in Charleston's Upper King neighborhood, known for pastries, breads, and cakes made fresh daily. The bakery sits at 97 King Street, a few blocks north of downtown, in a walkable area with other cafes, shops, and restaurants. You can stop in during business hours to buy items at the counter, or call ahead to order custom cakes for events.
The space itself is modest and casual—the kind of place where you see the bakers working and smell the ovens. Seating is limited, so most customers grab items to go, though you can linger with coffee if you find a spot. The neighborhood draws both locals and visitors exploring the Upper King corridor, which has become a destination for independent food businesses over the past decade.
Key Takeaways
- Mattie Jane's bakes fresh pastries, breads, and cakes daily at 97 King Street in Charleston's Upper King district.
- The bakery accepts custom cake orders for weddings, birthdays, and other events when you call ahead.
- Seating is limited, so the bakery works best for takeout or a quick stop during a walk through the neighborhood.
- Hours and daily offerings vary, so checking ahead by phone or social media before visiting ensures you get what you want.
What to order and what changes daily
Mattie Jane's rotates its offerings based on the season and what the bakers decide to make that day. You'll typically find croissants, Danish pastries, and other laminated doughs in the morning, along with bread loaves for sandwiches or toast. Cakes and larger items are usually available but may need to be ordered in advance if you want a specific flavor or design.
The bakery sources ingredients locally when possible, which means the menu reflects what's available and fresh rather than staying identical week to week. This approach appeals to customers who like surprises and who value knowing where their food comes from. If you have a favorite item, calling ahead to confirm it's being made that day saves a trip.
Custom cakes and special orders
Mattie Jane's takes custom cake orders for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and other celebrations. You'll need to call the bakery to discuss your vision, preferred flavors, dietary needs, and delivery or pickup date. The bakers work with you to create something that fits your event and budget, though lead time and complexity affect the final price.
Because the bakery is small, they typically ask for at least a few days' notice for custom orders, though they sometimes accommodate rush requests depending on their schedule. Pickup is usually at the King Street location, though delivery to nearby venues in Charleston may be possible—ask when you call.
Visiting Upper King and nearby stops
Mattie Jane's location on King Street puts you within walking distance of other food and retail businesses that have opened in the Upper King area. You can grab a pastry and coffee here, then browse vintage shops, visit galleries, or eat lunch at a neighboring restaurant. The neighborhood has developed into a destination for people seeking independent, locally-owned businesses rather than chains.
Parking on King Street itself is limited and metered, so many visitors use the nearby parking garages or lots and walk. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks and crosswalks. If you're planning a morning visit, arriving earlier in the day gives you the best selection before items sell out.
Hours, contact, and what to bring
Mattie Jane's keeps regular hours but they vary by season and day of the week—call or check their social media before heading over to confirm they're open. The bakery's phone number and social media handles are the fastest way to ask about daily offerings, place custom orders, or get directions. They accept cash and card at the counter.
If you're ordering a custom cake, have a sense of your budget, preferred flavors, and event date ready when you call. For everyday purchases, bringing a reusable bag or box is helpful if you're buying multiple items, though the bakery can box or bag things for you. If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, mention them when ordering so the bakers can advise you on what's safe.
Why Mattie Jane's matters to Charleston's food scene
Mattie Jane's represents a type of business that has become central to Charleston's identity: a small, independent bakery run by people who care about craft and ingredients rather than volume. The bakery doesn't try to be everything to everyone—it makes what it makes well, and customers come back because they trust the quality.
This approach has influenced how the city's food culture has evolved over the past fifteen years. Neighborhoods like Upper King have attracted similar businesses—roasters, butchers, restaurants, and shops—that prioritize quality and community over corporate efficiency. Visiting Mattie Jane's is part of experiencing that shift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a custom cake for a wedding?
Yes. Call the bakery to discuss your vision, guest count, flavor preferences, and wedding date. Lead time and complexity affect pricing. Pickup is at the King Street location, though delivery to nearby Charleston venues may be possible depending on their schedule.
What time should I arrive to get the best selection?
Morning hours, especially before 10 a.m., typically have the widest range of fresh pastries and breads. Items sell out as the day goes on, so earlier visits give you more choices. Call ahead if you're looking for something specific.
Is there seating inside?
Seating is very limited. Most customers take items to go or eat standing up. The bakery works best as a quick stop rather than a place to spend hours, though you can enjoy coffee if you find a spot.
Do you have options for dietary restrictions?
Call and ask about what's available for your needs—gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, or other restrictions. The bakers can tell you what they currently make and may be able to accommodate custom orders with advance notice.
Where exactly is Mattie Jane's located?
The bakery is at 97 King Street in Charleston's Upper King neighborhood, a few blocks north of downtown. Street parking is metered and limited; nearby parking garages and lots are a short walk away.