New businesses open in Goose Creek’s Uptown development

GOOSE CREEK, S.C. (WCBD) – Businesses are starting to open in the new Uptown development at Carnes Crossroads.

Ribbon-cuttings were held Monday for a Starbucks and Mai Poke, a Hawaiian-themed restaurant, in the up-and-coming Goose Creek community.

 “Carnes Crossings – it’s been a long time coming. Starbucks has continued to evolve, and we’re truly looking for ways to be involved in the community,” said Johnny Davis, district manager for Starbucks. “Coffee is the first thing that’s on people’s minds in the morning, and for us to be able to be in this community as it’s growing. We’re here to serve the community with a simple cup of coffee but just also how much we’re involved in the community.”

The coffee shop is located on Highway 17-A next to the $50 million Uptown development.

“It’s always huge for us, for any business, to want to invest in our community,” said Goose Creek councilwoman Melissa Enos-Sims.

Newly opened Mai Poke offers Hawaiian dishes similar to a deconstructed sushi roll. “We have Açai bowls, freshest ingredients, organic,” said Britney Stapleton, Vice President of Operations for Mai Poke.

There are a number of small businesses, even a rooftop bar, that will be opening soon in Uptown Goose Creek. The community will have roughly 100,000 square feet of mixed-use commercial space.

“We wanted to come here in Uptown because it’s an up-and-coming growing area. There’s a lot of residential and a lot of families. A lot of other businesses. People need to eat good healthy food, and feel good about it,” said Stapleton.

Goose Creek city leaders say a First Watch and an Eggs Up Grill will be opening in the future.