Porchetta Shop is Charleston’s ode to the Tuscan sandwich shop, a narrow and bustling spot where everything—from the roasted meats to the housemade focaccia—is a labor of love. While there’s limited seating (just a standing bar), most people grab their meals to go. But if you stick around, you’ll be treated to the sight of rotisseries spinning, stacks of golden focaccia, and a team crafting some of the best sandwiches in the city. It’s fast, casual, and oh-so-delicious.

First Impressions

This isn’t a linger-over-lunch type of place, but the smell of roasted pork and freshly baked bread might make you want to stay anyway. The open kitchen is the heart of the space, and the staff’s attention to detail is evident in every sandwich they assemble.

The Crowd

Expect a mix of tourists grabbing a quick bite and locals stopping in for a hearty breakfast or lunch. On weekdays, there’s a steady flow of office workers picking up orders, and by lunchtime, the counter can get busy. This is a place for people who are here to eat, plain and simple.

What to Drink

In the mornings, their $2 espresso is a standout deal, making it the perfect pairing for breakfast sandwiches or pastries. By lunch, there’s wine, beer, and low-ABV aperitivo, with local beer offerings that are perfect for washing down one of their signature sandwiches.

The Food

Porchetta Shop is all about sandwiches done right. Each one is built on their housemade focaccia and packed with layers of thoughtfully chosen ingredients.

• #2 Porchetta: The star of the show. Rich, savory pork, crispy cracklings, salsa verde, provolone, and that glorious focaccia. It’s a must-try and one of the best pork dishes in Charleston.

• Mortadella: Creamy and salty with crispy bread. A simple sandwich done to perfection.

• Chicken Milanese: Pesto, a perfectly fried chicken cutlet, and sweet peppers. Sweet meets savory in the best way.

• Prosciutto Italian: Tender prosciutto, arugula, sweet red peppers, and crispy bread. A classic Italian combo that’s perfectly balanced.

• Farro Salad: Light and refreshing, a great option for a side.

• Dripping Potatoes: Creamy and tender potatoes cooked in pork fat. Savory and rich, though a crispy texture would take them over the top.

The Vibe

The counter service style means you’ll be up close with the team making your food, and it’s clear they’re passionate about what they do. They’re fast, efficient, and committed to delivering quality with every bite.

Final Thoughts

Porchetta Shop is a fantastic spot for a quick and satisfying meal, whether you’re grabbing breakfast after a night out, picking up lunch for the office, or stopping by during a day of exploring the city. The sandwiches are excellent, but they do share similar flavor profiles, so it’s best to pick the one that sounds most appealing and savor it rather than trying to split multiple. Either way, you’re in for a treat!