55 Exchange in Charleston: Artisanal Cheese, Charcuterie, and Local Goods

What 55 Exchange Offers

55 Exchange is a specialty food shop in Charleston's historic downtown that centers on curated cheese and charcuterie alongside locally made products. The shop stocks European and domestic cheeses, cured meats, and prepared foods—many sourced from South Carolina makers—along with wine, olive oil, and other pantry staples. You can buy items to take home or order a board to eat there or have catered to an event.

The space itself sits on King Street in a restored building that reflects Charleston's character as a port city with deep ties to European food traditions. The name references the street address, and the shop's identity centers on that neighborhood location and the community it serves.

Key Takeaways

• 55 Exchange stocks both imported and South Carolina-made cheeses, cured meats, and prepared foods, with an emphasis on artisanal producers.
• You can purchase items individually, order a custom charcuterie board for takeout, or arrange catering for events and gatherings.
• The shop carries wine, olive oil, and other specialty ingredients that pair with cheese and meat selections.
• The location on King Street puts it within walking distance of other Charleston dining and shopping destinations, making it easy to combine with a day downtown.

Charcuterie Boards and Custom Orders

55 Exchange builds charcuterie boards to order, letting you choose the cheeses, meats, and accompaniments that suit your taste or occasion. You can order ahead for a specific time and pick it up, or request delivery or setup for a party, wedding, or corporate event. The staff can guide you through options if you are unsure what you want or have dietary preferences to work around.

Boards range from small personal sizes to large spreads designed for groups. Pricing depends on what you select and how many people you are feeding, so calling ahead or visiting in person gives you a clear sense of cost before you commit.

South Carolina Makers and Local Sourcing

The shop prioritizes products made in South Carolina, which means you will find cheeses from local dairies, cured meats from regional producers, and other goods made by people in the state. This approach connects you to the food economy of the Lowcountry and gives you a way to support makers whose work reflects South Carolina's agricultural and culinary traditions.

The selection rotates based on what is in season and what producers have available, so returning customers often discover something new. Staff members know the makers behind the products and can tell you about their process and story.

Wine and Pantry Pairings

Beyond cheese and meat, 55 Exchange stocks wine selected to pair with what you are buying—both bottles to take home and glasses to drink while you shop or eat a board there. The shop also carries olive oil, vinegars, nuts, crackers, and other items that round out a charcuterie spread or stock a kitchen with quality basics.

If you are planning a meal at home or putting together a gift, the shop's curated selection means you can find complementary items in one stop rather than hunting across multiple stores.

Eating In and Taking Out

55 Exchange has seating where you can eat a board you order, making it a destination for lunch, an afternoon snack, or a casual date. The atmosphere is relaxed and social—the kind of place where you linger over food and conversation rather than rush through. You can also take boards to go, which works well if you are heading to a park, beach, or picnic spot elsewhere in Charleston.

Hours and seating availability vary by season and day, so checking ahead before you visit ensures you can sit down if that is what you want.

Location and Neighborhood Context

55 Exchange sits on King Street in downtown Charleston, a block that mixes restaurants, galleries, boutiques, and other food shops. The location means you can combine a visit with browsing nearby stores, grabbing coffee, or eating dinner at one of the neighborhood's many restaurants. Parking on King Street itself is limited, but several paid lots and garages sit within a short walk.

The downtown location also puts the shop near the City Market, historic homes, and waterfront areas, so it fits naturally into a day of exploring Charleston's center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a charcuterie board for delivery?

Yes, 55 Exchange offers delivery for boards and catering for events. Call or visit in person to discuss your needs, the date you want delivery, and what you are looking for. Delivery area and fees depend on where you are in Charleston.

Do you have vegetarian or vegan options?

The shop can build boards focused on cheese, vegetables, nuts, and crackers if you want to avoid meat. Staff can work with you to create something that fits your diet, so mention your preferences when you order.

What are your hours?

Hours vary by season and day of the week. Check the shop's website or call before you visit to confirm they are open and to learn about any special closures or events.

Can I buy individual items or do I have to order a full board?

You can buy cheese, meat, wine, and other items individually by the piece or bottle. Boards are available to order, but the shop also serves people who want to pick up a wedge of cheese or a bottle of wine to take home.

Is there parking nearby?

King Street has limited street parking, but several paid lots and garages are within a few blocks. The downtown area is walkable, so if you are staying nearby or combining the visit with other activities, parking once and walking to multiple stops often works better than trying to park directly outside.