The Experience
1897 Market is the kind of all-day airport café you’re grateful to find when you want something more substantial than chips and a granola bar. It’s primarily quick-service (order at the counter, then settle in), but the menu reads like a compact neighborhood spot—built to cover breakfast, lunch, and dinner without feeling like a one-note fast-food stop.
The vibe is casual and traveler-friendly: bright, bustling, and designed for people with rolling bags and one eye on the departure board. What travelers tend to love here is the variety—everyone in your group can get what they want—and the fact that the food leans “made-to-order” rather than pre-wrapped. If you’re hungry-hungry, look for heartier plates like salmon or comfort-food bowls like brisket mac; if you’re pacing yourself before a flight, the salads and pizzas are easy wins.
Location & Access
You’ll find 1897 Market in the airport’s Atrium area at Charleston International Airport (CHS), which is typically pre-security—handy if you’re meeting someone, waiting on a ride, or not ready to commit to the checkpoint yet. If you’re already through security, it may be less convenient depending on the day’s access flow, so double-check the airport signage before you detour.
Seating is set up for quick turnover—expect a mix of small tables and shared seating. Wait times are usually reasonable, but the line can jump during the classic pinch points (early morning departures and the lunch rush). If you’ve got 30–45 minutes, you’ll feel comfortable; if you’ve got 10, plan on a grab-and-go item.
Menu Highlights
- Brisket mac: comfort-food energy—rich, filling, and a smart choice if you’re skipping the in-flight snack roulette.
- Pizza: dependable and shareable, especially when you need a “everyone will eat this” solution.
- Salmon: one of the better picks if you want something that feels like a real meal, not just airport calories.
Pricing generally lands at $$ (moderate airport pricing). Think roughly mid-teens for a filling entrée depending on what you order, and a bit less for lighter items like salads.
Dietary needs: there are usually vegetarian-friendly options (salads, some pizzas), and you can often build a lighter meal by customizing toppings. Vegan and gluten-free availability can vary by day and ingredient stock—ask at the counter about dressings, crusts, and substitutions. Halal items aren’t specifically advertised.
Practical Info
- Hours: commonly listed as 6 a.m.–10 p.m. daily (always worth confirming on airport screens).
- Mobile ordering: not reliably advertised; assume order-at-counter.
- Reservations: none.
- Best times to avoid crowds: mid-morning (after the early rush) and mid-afternoon (before dinner).
- Power outlets: some seating areas may have access, but don’t count on an outlet at every table—charge up when you see one.
Quick Verdict
Best for: travelers who want one-stop variety, families with mixed appetites, and anyone craving a real, filling meal before heading to the gate.
Skip if: you’re down to the wire and need the fastest possible bite (you may be better off with a pure grab-and-go option), or you require clearly labeled halal/strict gluten-free protocols.