If you’ve ever taken your boat out along the Intracoastal Waterway through Isle of Palms you know that not only is the scenery beautiful and peaceful, but there is also a restaurant at the IOP Marina featuring some of the coolest bartenders on the island.
It’s called Islander 71, formerly known as Morgan Creek Grill. If you’re a regular at Islander 71 then you have probably met bartender Shannon Standhart. Originally from a small town in upstate New York called Schoharie, Standhart graduated from SUNY Cortland with a sports management and business degree.
She lived in Maine for two years working by the sea when Standhart realized that she needed to make the ocean part of her everyday life. Standhart moved to the South Carolina coast 10 years ago and hasn’t looked back since.
She has been a bartender for 18 years and isn’t planning on stopping anytime soon. “Here in Charleston, I have worked at Pearlz Downtown, Mex 1 Coastal Cantina on Sullivan’s Island and I’ve been here at Islander 71 since 2022,” Standhart shared.
During that time she has had the opportunity to study tequila in Mexico with her Mex 1 family, work at big music festivals and private events, give back to charities, connect with amazing people, open restaurants, run bar programs and more. “I’m very blessed. I have had a great career so far and I’m loving every minute of it,” Standhart said.
Asked why she loves bartending so much, Standhart replied “the art of creating something fun and special through cocktails is unique.” Standhart’s favorite drink to make and serve is a margarita. Islander 71 has two types of margaritas: the Captains and Nauti Mistress.
If you haven’t been to Islander 71 yet to sample one of her concoctions, the good news is it doesn’t matter if you come by land or water. They have their own dock for those patrons arriving by boat. Additionally, they offer live music, three bars and are known for their stunning sunset views.
A bartender can be a therapist, friend, confidant and so much more. Every day is special because they regularly meet new people. Standhart has seen the good, the bad and the ugly while serving behind the bar. Her experience working in a hotel bar was particularly eye opening. “Those stories stick out the most,” she recalled.
Standhart has met numerous celebrities on her journey, but her favorite interaction thus far has been with Adam Devine, who has appeared in countless films and shows including the locally-set “The Righteous Gemstones” as well as “Modern Family” and “Workaholics.” Standhart said he had the best sense of humor and energy. Another best memory is the lifelong friendships she has made with coworkers and regulars who have now become family.
When Standhart isn’t serving drinks, you can find her at the beach relaxing with her pup Leo or listening to live music with her best friends. The unique thing about bartenders is that they all come from different walks of life, bring something special to the beverage scene and have quirky, creative minds. The next time you’re in the mood for Islander 71, why not sidle up to the bar and Standhart just might be behind it to serve you a drink or too.
By Maurice J. Frazier
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