So, What is The Pass?

It all started with a simple idea. After years spent in kitchens refining his craft, Anthony Marini set out to create something more personal—a small shop dedicated to making exceptional sandwiches without losing the precision and care of his fine dining roots. Charleston, a city he quickly fell in love with, became the perfect place to bring that vision to life.

Since opening in 2021, The Pass has become a neighborhood staple for Italian sandwiches, snacks, antipasto, and catering. Tucked into a 700-square-foot corner at Spring and Saint Philip Street, it has earned a loyal following—from students at College of Charleston to visitors exploring the Cannonborough-Elliotborough district, as well as locals and transplants alike.

Known as the place where “size matters”, The Pass has been part of countless memorable moments—whether it’s lines for hundreds out the door for soft pretzels during Super Bowl runs, cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles, appearances at the Charleston Wine and Food Festival, or overcoming challenges like a 2024 crash that temporarily closed its doors. Just five days later, the team was back, serving sandwiches from a side window—a testament to resilience and community support.

Eight months after that setback, The Pass reopened, reimagined and stronger than ever. Today, it continues to evolve—transforming each evening into The Italian Boy (after dark), an intimate twelve-seat, six-course dining experience that brings Marini’s fine dining background full circle. In 2026, The Pass opened a second location in nearby Mount Pleasant to droves of fans over the Ravenel Bridge.

For more information about Anthony Marini, go to www.chefanthonymarini.com