Park Row Market No. 1 in Charleston: Sandwiches, Sides, and Lowcountry Flavors

What Park Row Market No. 1 serves and where to find it

Park Row Market No. 1 is a deli counter in downtown Charleston that makes sandwiches to order, sells prepared sides, and stocks grab-and-go items for lunch or dinner. The shop sits on King Street in the historic district, within walking distance of the waterfront and Marion Square. You order at the counter, and most sandwiches come ready in under ten minutes.

The menu leans toward classic deli fare—roast beef, turkey, ham—but also includes Lowcountry touches like shrimp salad and pulled pork. Sides rotate but typically include mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. The space is small and built for quick service, so expect a line during lunch hours between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., especially on weekdays.

Key Takeaways

• Park Row Market No. 1 makes sandwiches to order with both traditional deli meats and Lowcountry proteins like shrimp salad and pulled pork.
• The deli is located on King Street in downtown Charleston, within walking distance of Marion Square and the historic district.
• Most sandwiches are ready in under ten minutes, making it a practical stop between shopping or sightseeing.
• Lunch rush runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on weekdays; arriving before or after that window means shorter waits.
• Prepared sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread round out the menu and reflect Charleston's food traditions.

Sandwich options and how to order

You can build your own sandwich or order from the menu's standard combinations. The counter staff will ask about bread choice—typically white, wheat, or a roll—and whether you want it toasted. Most sandwiches come with lettuce, tomato, and onion unless you request otherwise.

Portion sizes are generous; a single sandwich often works as a full meal, especially if you add a side. The roast beef and turkey sandwiches are reliable standbys, but the shrimp salad sandwich reflects Charleston's coastal identity and pairs well with a cup of she-crab soup if the deli has it that day. Pulled pork sandwiches come sauced and soft, suited to eating while walking or sitting in Marion Square nearby.

Sides and what pairs with your meal

The prepared sides change daily but follow a Lowcountry rhythm. Collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread appear regularly. On some days you'll find okra, sweet potato, or a rice-based dish. Sides come in small or large containers, and a small side is usually enough to complement a sandwich without overloading your meal.

The deli also stocks beverages, chips, and desserts—often including pecan pie or brownies—so you can round out a quick lunch without leaving the counter. If you're eating nearby in Marion Square or at a nearby bench, the packaged sides travel well and stay warm for at least thirty minutes.

Timing and how busy it gets

Weekday lunch rush peaks between noon and 1 p.m., when office workers and tourists converge on King Street. If you arrive at 11:15 a.m. or after 1:45 p.m., you'll usually find a shorter line. Weekends are less predictable; Saturday afternoons can be busy, but Sunday mornings are typically quiet.

Even during the rush, the line moves steadily because the staff works quickly and most orders are straightforward. If you're in a hurry, calling ahead is not always an option at small delis like this one, so arriving early or late remains the most reliable strategy.

Parking and walking distance from nearby attractions

Street parking on King Street is metered and fills quickly during the day. A paid lot sits one block away, or you can use the parking garage on Meeting Street, a five-minute walk. If you're already downtown shopping or visiting the historic district, Park Row Market No. 1 is close enough to reach on foot from most locations.

Marion Square, the large public green space, is directly across the street—a natural place to sit and eat your sandwich if the weather is mild. The waterfront and the Market Hall are each a ten-minute walk away, making the deli a practical refueling stop between sightseeing stops.

Price range and payment methods

Sandwiches typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on the protein and size. Sides run $3 to $5 for a small container. Most delis in this category accept both cash and card, though it's worth confirming when you arrive. The total for a sandwich, a side, and a drink usually lands between $15 and $18 per person.

This price point is standard for downtown Charleston delis and reflects the location and the made-to-order service. If you're looking for a quick, sit-down meal in the historic district, Park Row Market No. 1 offers better value than many nearby restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order ahead or do I have to wait in line?

Most small delis like Park Row Market No. 1 do not take phone orders, so you'll need to order in person at the counter. Arriving before 11:30 a.m. or after 1:30 p.m. on weekdays reduces your wait time significantly.

Are there vegetarian sandwich options?

Yes. You can order a sandwich with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion, or ask the staff what vegetable-based sides they have that day. The deli will make whatever combination you request, even if it's not on the printed menu.

Do they have seating inside the deli?

Park Row Market No. 1 is a small counter space with limited or no seating. Most customers take their food to go or eat nearby in Marion Square, which is directly across the street and has benches and shade.

What are the hours of operation?

Hours vary by season and day of the week. Call ahead or check the storefront before your visit, especially if you're planning to stop by on a Sunday or holiday. Downtown delis often close earlier than restaurants.

Is there a restroom I can use?

Small delis typically do not have public restrooms. Marion Square and nearby shops have facilities if you need one after your meal.