by Caley Smith
The Pickle Bar Serves Up a Smash Hit in Nexton
If you’ve recently heard a pop-pop-pop sound echoing through the streets of Nexton, chances are you’ve stumbled upon the heartbeat of the nation’s fastest-growing sport: pickleball. And here in Summerville’s booming Nexton community, there’s one place where the love for the game intersects perfectly with delicious eats, cold drinks, and a lively social atmosphere – The Pickle Bar.
Officially opened on November 15, 2023, The Pickle Bar is more than just a place to hit the courts – it’s a lifestyle hub. This one-of-a-kind destination was founded by a trio of local visionaries: Pat Duncan, Alisa Tolliver, and Tina Piscazzi, who saw an opportunity to blend recreation, retail, and restaurant culture into one vibrant venue.
“Our vision was to create a place where folks could gather to eat, drink, and play all in one place,” said Duncan. “Nexton was a natural fit – it’s a fast-growing, vibrant community and the planning behind the neighborhood is thoughtful and intentional, which we really value.”
For anyone just getting acquainted, pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, ping pong, and badminton. It’s typically played on a smaller court, with games going to 11 points, win by two. Players serve underhand, must allow a bounce on the return, and avoid volleying in the no-volley zone, affectionately known as “the kitchen.” And yes, while the name might sound quirky, the strategy and fun are very real.
But The Pickle Bar isn’t just about the game, it’s an experience. Visitors can enjoy a full-service restaurant and sports bar serving what Duncan proudly calls “five-star bar food.” The southern-inspired menu is packed with made-from-scratch items, and the setting is designed to keep guests lingering well after the last point is played. The venue also features EV chargers, a retail shop stocked with branded gear and pickleball equipment, and even house-made pickles, dressings, and sauces available for purchase.
While the food and atmosphere alone would be enough to draw a crowd, it’s the pickleball programming that keeps players coming back. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned “dinker”, there’s something for every skill level. From daily open play and quarterly leagues to clinics, round robins, and tournaments, the sport is at the heart of everything they do.
Community is the other key ingredient. Each week, locals gather for Wednesday trivia nights, Saturday live music, and monthly karaoke. Seasonal events like holiday markets, pictures with Santa and the Grinch, and Easter egg hunts add to the family-friendly charm.
So, what is it about pickleball that’s turned this once-niche sport into a national obsession?
“It’s incredibly social and easy to pick up,” Duncan explained. “You don’t need expensive gear or a private club membership – just a ball, paddle, and net. And it’s one of the only sports where kids can play with their grandparents, or husbands can team up with wives. I play competitively with my dad, who’s 80. How many sports can say that?”
Despite some lingering stereotypes, Duncan is quick to correct a common misconception. “People think it’s just for older folks, but the sport is now dominated by players in the 25-40 range. It’s fast, fun, and most importantly, accessible.”
As pickleball continues its meteoric rise, The Pickle Bar is perfectly poised to lead the charge in Lowcountry living, one paddle swing at a time. AM
