JOHNS ISLAND — A popular Lowcountry restaurant specializing in sushi, tacos, elevated bar bites and more is adding a fourth location on this fast-growing sea island about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston.
Locals Sushi & Sports Bar is approaching its anticipated September debut at 1804 Crowne Commons Way in the Live Oak Square development just off Maybank Highway. The forthcoming eatery will join the original in Mount Pleasant and outposts in West Ashley and on James Island.
Blu Oyster Sushi & Seafood and, later, Blu Smoke Pit, previously occupied the space. Rick Agius and his wife Jennifer owned both, rebranding from the former to the latter after a four-month closure that began in late 2024. Blu Smoke Pit quietly closed this summer.
From date nights to birthday parties and family outings, Locals Sushi & Sports Bar has been a hit among a wide demographic since first opening in 2009, Shawn Sherman, director of operations, said. The place is particularly popular among sushi lovers accompanied by those who typically avoid all things raw, since the menu also features tacos, burgers, wings and even hibachi dinners.
Sushi rolls, some of which do not contain any raw fish, are made to be approachable, mirroring the casual, welcoming atmosphere, Sherman said.
“We’ve somewhat let our customers help create our concept for us,” he said.
At the new location, patrons can expect a similar lineup of nigiri and sushi rolls as the other restaurants, with a few fresh additions. Locals’ well-known half-priced sushi night, a Monday staple in Mount Pleasant, will take place on Tuesdays on Johns Island.
Brittany Gifford, who lives on Johns Island, will lead the new restaurant, which will be the only dedicated sushi spot between James and Kiawah islands.
Locals currently operates at 1150 Queensborough Blvd. in Mount Pleasant, 1680 Old Towne Road in West Ashley and 798 Folly Road on James Island. For more information, visit localssushi.com.
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