The Pass might just be Charleston’s best-kept secret for sandwiches—and arguably one of the best sandwich shops in the Southeast. From the outside, this tiny spot is completely unassuming, but once you step inside, you’ll quickly realize you’re in for something special. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to write love letters to sandwiches—and maybe even the chef.
By Day: Sandwich Nirvana
The Pass is a lunchtime dream, slinging creative, bold, and unforgettable sandwiches. The menu rotates, but here are a few standouts:
The ParmaJawn – Roasted chicken, coppa, Calabrian hots, Calabrian aioli, and the signature ChickenParmCrunchon sesame bread. It’s pure, unadulterated sandwich perfection.
Such a Nice Italian Boy – A stacked Italian classic with pistachio mortadella, soppressata, sharp provolone, burrata, and more. It’s everything you want from a deli sandwich, elevated to heavenly levels.
Fig Caprese – For those craving something with a touch of sweetness, this beauty pairs fig jam, basil-marinated fresh mozzarella, and prosciutto on soft, fluffy focaccia.
A One-Time Special – Black garlic mascarpone, basil pesto, prosciutto, oil-cured black olive tomato salsa, stracciatella, and greens. Creamy, garlicky, bright, and absolutely unforgettable. If it ever makes a comeback, don’t hesitate to try it.
By Night: Intimate Italian Tasting Menu
When the sun sets, The Pass transforms into a charming, dimly-lit dinner spot that feels straight out of NYC’s West Village. The cozy space seats just six at the counter overlooking the open kitchen, with a handful of additional tables. For $110 per person, you’re treated to a sophisticated, ever-changing Italian tasting menu that’s both refined and approachable. The recent lineup included:
Scarpetta – Local bread with olive oil for soaking up every last bite.
Antipasti – A mix of marinated corona beans with roasted fennel, taleggio with roasted orange and pistachio, wild boar salami, and anchovies in garlic olive oil.
Salmon Crudo – With cherry peppers, vinaigrette, and a benne seed crunch. Fresh, vibrant, and textural.
Panino Imbottito Uno – Spicy zucchini, gratin di patate, stracciatella, sun-dried tomato, and arugula on a warm seeded roll.
Panino Imbottito Due – Finnochiono, canicola, pepperoni, soppressata, lettuce, tomato, onion, sharp provolone, and alio e aceto on a seeded roll. The ultimate Italian sandwich experience.
Macaroni – Sugo di maiale (pork ragu) with cold ricotta and fennel pollen.
Parmesan – Finished with black garlic molasses. Rich and decadent.
Cannoli – Rosemary with lemon curd. Sweet, tangy, and completely unexpected.
To finish the evening, they roll out an aperitif cart with a variety of digestifs to cap off your meal. If you’re a pistachio lover, the pistachio cream is an absolute must-try.
What’s the Real Reason to Visit?
The Pass is a rare gem that seamlessly blends casual daytime brilliance with intimate, upscale evening elegance. Whether you’re stopping by for a sandwich you’ll be dreaming about for weeks or indulging in the tasting menu that feels as personal as it does elevated, The Pass offers an experience unlike any other in Charleston. From the flawless bread to the thoughtful flavors, it’s a place that feels both effortless and extraordinary. Don’t sleep on this one.
