Want something a little more adventurous for happy hour? Kwei Fei on Maybank Highway is the only spot in Charleston serving Baijiu. This super-rare spirit from China is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted. Pair it with a Sapporo and a plate of mouth-watering peel-and-eat Sichuan shrimp and you’ve got a happy hour you won’t soon forget.
Baijiu is a strong spirit usually distilled from fermented sorghum, although other grains may be used. Kwei Fei serves it up in traditional shot glasses (like the one pictured below) alone or with a cold pint of Sapporo. Currently, they offer Huado Erguotuo and Xifeng Jiu Baijiu, but are considering added more as popularity grows. Baijiu has an intense aroma and flavor ranging from herbal and malty to bitter with some fruit notes depending on the brand. Paired with Kwei Fei’s incredible bold and spicy menu, it is definitely a breath of fresh air for happy hour, dinner and drinks, or when you’re just in the mood for something different. The atmosphere in Kwei Fei is super laid-back but beautifully decorated and welcoming. The staff is a fun bunch (just check out their social media) and are happy to educate you on Baijiu and anything else on the menu.
Bottles brought these in specifically for Kwei Fei along with some others for our shelves, which luckily for us, means we also are the only spot in town with Baijiu. Hu Gu Jiu, pictured below, is our personal favorite and may be hitting the shelves at Kwei Fei soon. Traditionally made with tiger bones… (not anymore…we think…), this ultra-herbal spirit is almost like a Chinese Amaro, and is a great introduction to Baijiu.
Kwei Fei is located right next to the Pour House on Maybank Highway. We highly recommend stopping in for happy hour and trying out some Baijiu. If you’re a fan, come on back to Bottles and we’ll be happy to pick you out the perfect bottle.