Babas Expanding to Wentworth Street in Harleston Village

Beloved downtown café Babas is growing again — this time into Harleston Village.

Known for its stylish, European-inspired vibes, house-made pastries, espresso, and wine, Babas has filed plans to open a third location at 115½ Wentworth Street, just steps from the College of Charleston.

The new café will take over a long-vacant 1910s two-story brick building formerly owned by Grace Church Cathedral. The building, once used as church offices, is currently unoccupied and in need of renovation. Babas plans to completely transform the space, offering seating on both floors and a 242-square-foot patio facing Coming Street.

Despite the property’s tight footprint and residential surroundings, the plan received unanimous approval from the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals for a reduction in required parking and was fully supported by the Harleston Village Association.

“We are thrilled it will be used again. We feel it will enhance the neighborhood and are happy to welcome them as neighbors,” said Chris Prohaska, director of communications for Grace Church.

The location, already zoned for limited business, fits naturally with Babas’ intimate café model. The renovation is expected to bring new life to a block just around the corner from student housing and walkable downtown streets.

This will be the third Charleston location for Babas, joining its popular spots on Cannon and Meeting streets.

📍 New Babas location coming soon: 115½ Wentworth Street, Charleston, SC