If you frequent the shops and restaurants that line historic East Bay Street, you have probably seen him. He may have even stopped to introduce himself as the owner of Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar, or the Mayor of East Bay Street. Whether you’ve met him in person, or heard tell of him from Holy City locals, one thing’s for certain: Gerry Cedarwall’s reputation precedes him. He’s a true southern gentleman, a knowledgeable historian, and he’s always quick with a handshake and a smile before he’s on his way again. Gerry is what we locals call a true “character”. We recently had the pleasure of talking to him about his well-earned title and his favorite food and drinks:
How did you get your title “the Mayor of East Bay Street”?
I like people and enjoy opening the door and greeting everyone who walks into Amen Street and Southend Brewery. Also, a lot of hand shaking, kissing babies, hugging aunts and greeting the thousands of people who are out on East Bay Street each day.
What is your favorite thing about the Holy City (weather? the people? etc.)?
A combination of the wonderful diversity and flow of people that visit downtown Charleston and the layers upon layers of history that is alive and accessible in this beautiful city.
On a typical Saturday night, where can you be found?
Most likely participating as quality assurance for the restaurants: making sure the Oysters are fresh and tasty at Amen Street, sampling the new Seasonals and IPA’s at Southend Brewery, and checking to make sure the mood is right at Stars Rooftop and Grill Room. Just walking around the city in pursuit of a good time.
What would you say is your favorite craft cocktail? The Bobby E. Jones. It’s named after owner Keith Jones’ grandfather and made with local Sweet Tea Vodka and Lemonade.
What is your favorite dish from:
Amen Street: Shrimp Corn Dogs. They’re great for a quick lunch if you are in a hurry and it is super tasty!
Stars: Live Fire Rotisserie Chicken
Southend Brewery: Uncle Gerry’s Soon To Be Famous Smoky Meatloaf
Have you ever seen the ghost at Southend Brewery?
I have on a few occasions, and have definitely been found speaking to one after a night of alcohol consumption.
It’s not hard to see why Gerry makes new friends wherever he goes! Beginning this week you can win a prize for spotting Gerry in his natural habitat of downtown Charleston. Throughout the month of February, when you snap a picture of Gerry and post it to Twitter, Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #WheresGerry and you’ll be entered to win a $25 gift card from Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar, Stars Rooftop & Grill Room or Southend Brewery! Drawings will take place at the end of each week, with a final grand prize drawing on Saturday, February 28th at a special #WheresGerry party on the Stars Rooftop! Candids, group shots and selfies are all acceptable (Gerry loves a good selfie!) so feel free to get creative. Click here to get more details. Happy hunting!
