Henry's on the Market is the city's oldest continuously operating restaurant, established in 1932. Its origins trace back to the late 19th century when German immigrant Henry Otto Hasselmeyer opened a grocery store at this location. Following the end of Prohibition in 1933, Hasselmeyer transformed his establishment into "Henry's Beer Parlor" serving beer alongside seafood dishes like boiled shrimp and deviled crabs.
Over the decades, Henry's evolved from a beer parlor into a renowned dining destination. In the 1950s and '60s, under the management of Hasselmeyer's son and son-in-law, and with chef John Bolton at the helm, the restaurant introduced French-inspired seafood dishes, becoming a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. However, by the 1970s, the establishment began to show signs of aging, leading to a decline in its reputation.
In 1985, restaurateur Leo Chiagkouris purchased Henry's and initiated significant renovations, including the addition of a whiskey lounge, rooftop bar, and dance club. Today, Henry's offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, featuring multiple venues such as The Whiskey Lounge, Henry's Music Hall, Anson B. Lounge, and a rooftop deck Henry's on the Market.
The current menu pays homage to its Lowcountry roots with dishes like she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, and jumbo lump crab cakes, complemented by classic cocktails and a selection of local beers.
Henry's also hosts live music nightly, providing a vibrant atmosphere for patrons. As of May 2025, Henry's continues to be a central fixture in Charleston's dining scene, balancing its rich history with contemporary offerings to cater to both long-time patrons and new visitors.