Miss South Carolina’s Chaz Ellis shares his favorite hangouts

Known to most folks in Columbia as “Chaz,” Florence native Charles Ellis has been involved with the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Pageant for more than 20 years, currently serving on the pageant’s board of directors as vice president.

On Saturday, June 24, the pageant will crown its 81st Miss South Carolina at Township Auditorium.

In addition to his affiliation with Miss South Carolina, Ellis serves as director of sales and marketing for Two Men and a Truck in greater Columbia and is a franchisee for the moving company in Florence. Ellis is also partner with OCCO Luxury Spa and Salon on Pulaski Street. He lived in downtown Columbia for more than 10 years but recently bought a house in Forest Acres.

RELATED: Photos from first night of preliminary competition

EAT

As someone who is a part of established local businesses, I like to keep and share my business locally. We are so fortunate to have so many unique restaurants. My friends would say that I like anything M – that standing for M Grille, M Vista, M Kitchen or Miyos. I have always enjoyed Asian cuisine and Michelle (Wang) and her staff never disappoint. Atmosphere plays such a huge role, and that’s why I enjoy a nice dinner with friends or business associates at Hampton Street Vineyard. For brunch or lunch, my consistent go-to is Gourmet Shop. The option of inside or outside dining plays to another sense of atmosphere.

DRINK

There are so many options for creative cocktails in Columbia. Ryan Chadwick at M Grille is the go-to bartender. Ryan is always up to the challenge to provide a satisfying beverage, whether a nice pinot grigio, vodka and soda with a splash of cranberry, or a specialty cocktail. I also enjoy the craftsmanship of Tazza Kitchen beverages.

PLAY

As someone who has a full plate and is constantly busy, there is never enough time to play. So when I have the opportunity, the Vista and Main Street provide many outlets. First Thursdays and Soda City on Main Street are great, and a short distance from me at OCCO is the State Museum in the Vista district.

LISTEN

Music Farm provides so many unique opportunities for everyone. They do a great job of providing all types of entertainment.

SEE

Of course in the summer I would say seeing Miss South Carolina crowned is the best. As reigning Vista Queen, I would be remiss not to mention Trustus Theatre (which produces Vista Queen). It is such an incredible organization that highlights some of Columbia’s premier talent.

This story was originally published June 21, 2017 at 5:43 PM with the headline "Miss South Carolina’s Chaz Ellis shares his favorite hangouts."