Jack of Cups, Vegetarian and Vegan on Folly Beach

A Global Menu in a Tiny Space
Step inside Jack of Cups Saloon and find a pint-sized kitchen where co-owner and chef Lesley Carroll crafts rotating global dishes. On any visit, you might encounter beet dumplings, bibimbap skillets, lamb vindaloo, or pork belly tacos. Those staples appear and disappear, letting the Jack of Cups evolve with the seasons. Curries like chana masala, korma, and dal feature prominently—either à la carte or bundled in a “trio” plate served with rice and mini naan.

Innovative items like Curry Nachos—complete with tortilla chips, cotija cheese, ginger yogurt, fresh herbs, fried garlic, cucumbers, tomatoes, and your choice of curry—show how Jack of Cups balances comfort and creativity. For mac-and-cheese lovers, the Red Curry Mac ’n’ Cheese is legendary: a creamy, spicy twist on a classic, blended with sweet pickle relish, Romano cheese, tomato, and cilantro.

Vegetarian, Vegan, Omnivore—All Welcome
A true haven for vegetarians and vegans, Jack of Cups also delights omnivores with meaty options like hoisin-glazed meatballs, pork belly tacos, or braised short rib additions. The veggie-forward Americana Sliders—mini buns with plant-based patties, American cheese, lettuce, pickles, onions, and special sauce—highlight the plant-based creativity here. HappyCow reviews praise the “lots of vegan options” at Jack of Cups, calling it “great” despite what you see on the outside.

Ambience: Laid‑Back, Community‑Focused
Seating at Jack of Cups is relaxed and communal: a cozy bar, sidewalk booths, and a sunny back courtyard invite diners to linger. The rooftop features a playful Jack of Hearts statue, signifying the friendly, fun vibe inside. The small footprint encourages shoulder-to-shoulder camaraderie—a shared experience over globally-inspired plates.

Drinks to Match
The beverage list at Jack of Cups is as thoughtful as the food. Alongside beer and wine, you’ll find lavender kombucha, Australian viognier, draft kombuchas, craft beers spanning local and international brewers, Topo Chico, and Boylan’s sodas. Signature cocktails include a Chai Tea Mule and Hibiscus Tea Margarita. The wine list focuses on sustainable, craft, women‑ or family‑owned producers, curated in partnership with Winebow and sommelier Azura.

Recognition and Community Love
Despite its small size, Jack of Cups garners big accolades. Charleston Magazine calls it “a haven for vegetarians, vegans and omnivores alike” and praises its globally‑inspired flavors in a small space. Southern Living, Thrillist, and Yelp have highlighted its innovative, seasonally evolving menu. Yelp even named it one of the “100 Best Places to Eat in 2025”.

Practical Info for Visitors
Located at 34 Center St, Jack of Cups is open for lunch and dinner daily (11:30 AM–10 PM, closed or reduced hours on Tuesdays). It’s just blocks from the ocean, making it perfect for a post‑beach bite. Reservations aren’t typical—expect a walk-in wait, but the communal vibe makes for a friendly atmosphere.

Jack of Cups offers a unique blend: a compact, welcoming space paired with an inventive, ever-changing menu. With fervent support from vegetarians, vegans, and meat-lovers alike, plus a spirited drink list, Jack of Cups stands out on Folly Beach and within the Charleston dining scene. Whether you’re craving curry nachos, red‑curry mac, beet dumplings, or hoisin meatballs, dining at Jack of Cups is more than a meal—it’s a shared, flavorful experience in a cozy, global‑minded setting.

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Between beach days and sunsets, Jack of Cups is a must-visit. Small storefront, big heart—and even bigger flavor.