Sunday Funday, Charleston Charm, and Cocktails That Crush It

Not every day you stumble into a brewery expecting hops and suds and walk out dreaming about a daiquiri—but that’s precisely what happened when Bob Cutler visited Coast Brewing Company in Charleston, South Carolina. And he’ll tell you, the best cocktail he’s had so far in 2025, outside of Novio’s Bistro, was made there. 

Bob was impressed by Aidan Merritt—a young cocktail wizard shaking things up in a city known for craft beer and coastal charm. At just 24, Aidan’s creating thoughtful, balanced drinks, and, here’s the kicker, affordable. His Sunday Funday cocktail is a rotating $8 feature that lets him play with syrups, techniques, and seasonal whims. 

Charleston’s cocktail scene isn’t lacking, but Aidan’s bar program at Coast stands out in all the right ways. Housed in the historic Navy Yard, Coast Brewing balances its roots in craft beer with a modern, family-friendly vibe and a cocktail menu that easily holds its own. From clarified punches to spicy beer shandies with green chili vodka, the drinks are creative, approachable, and executed with serious skill.

It’s no surprise that Aidan’s base spirits—like Old Grand-Dad bourbon and Lunazul tequila—are thoughtfully chosen for quality and consistency. And while he updates the main menu seasonally, those Sunday Fundays keep the creativity flowing.

So here’s your cocktail homework: If you’re in South Carolina, visit Coast Brewing. Grab a craft beer if that’s your style—or better yet, post at the bar, order the cocktail of the week, and say hi to Aidan.

And if you can’t make it to Charleston? Don’t worry. At Novio’s Bistro, we’re still crafting magic one cocktail at a time—whether it’s on your date night, birthday, or just a Tuesday.

Until your next sip, cheers!