A local family-owned establishment, Heavy’s Barburger is a nod to founder John Haire’s grandfather, who earned the nickname from family and friends in his hometown in northwest Florida.
With two locations including the original in downtown Charleston off Morrison Drive, Heavy’s Barburger is a neighborhood bar and burger joint serving fresh, prepared daily burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads and more. They opened a second store on Daniel Island in late 2024 where Laura Alberts once stood. The Daniel Island location has truly taken off as locals and visitors to the island have been enjoying the new hangout spot.
Chandley Thompson, one of the main bartenders at Heavy’s, has been serving drinks at the new location since it opened in mid-December. Her friendly, welcoming personality and warm smile will have everyone stopping in for a drink. “I started bartending two days after my 21st birthday,” Thompson shared. Prior to Heavy’s, Thompson worked as a bartender at Shem Creek.
When asked, “Why is Heavy’s such a special workplace?” Thompson replied, “Heavy’s is a great and healthy workplace because the owners and managers establish a happy and positive shift daily. With the new Daniel Island location, I think it’s amazing how close we’ve already gotten and how we all work together.” Thompson’s favorite item on the menu is the Barburger without onions, paired with a side of onion rings drenched in Heavy’s sauce.
In addition to her job as a mixologist, Thompson coaches volleyball. When Thompson isn’t at Heavy’s working, she loves playing with her dog or visiting other area restaurants. Thompson likes to find cool spots in Charleston that offer creative dishes and crafty drinks. She also enjoys reading and watching movies. “My favorite movie is ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,’” Thompson said. Her favorite beverage to make is the Shorty Margarita, a blend of El Jimador Reposado tequila, agave nectar, orange and fresh squeezed lime. Her favorite drink to sip when off the clock is a Corona Light or a tequila with soda. Call it a hidden talent or skill, but Thompson can eat an entire box of Oreos in one sitting.
Heavy’s Barburger is the perfect place to hang out with friends over a cold glass of beer or a juicy burger. Tucked in the heart of the Village Square on Daniel Island off Island Park Drive, swing by today and say hello to Thompson. Let her serve you up a delicious drink and a classic burger with fries.
To view the full menu, visit heavysbarburger.com.
By Maurice J. Frazier
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