The Pickle Podcast: Community, Creativity & the Power of Play with Alisa Tolliver

A conversation about building community, embracing local culture, and creating spaces where people connect through play.

Episode Summary

In this episode, we sit down with Alisa Tolliver, the founder of The Pickle Bar in Charleston. From growing up in a family-owned restaurant to raising competitive tennis and pickleball players, Alisa’s journey is a blend of food, sport, community, and creativity.

She shares how pickleball became more than just a game — it became a way to bring people together. Through her entrepreneurial vision, she has built one of Charleston’s most playful and welcoming spaces, where locals can eat, connect, compete, and belong.

Key Takeaways

The Pickle Bar combines a bar, restaurant, and pickleball facility, creating a fun and social environment for all ages.
Pickleball’s popularity continues to rise, drawing a diverse community of players and newcomers.
The Pickle Bar supports players at every level, offering both beginner lessons and advanced instruction.
The idea for The Pickle Bar was inspired during the COVID-19 pandemic, turning a challenging season into a new opportunity.
A chef-driven menu — including their signature house-made pickles — elevates the dining experience.
Guests can enjoy good food, active play, and a lively social atmosphere in one place.
Reservations are encouraged during peak hours due to growing demand.
The facility is accessible to everyone — no membership required.
Pickleball’s rapid growth shows how accessible and engaging the sport is for people of all backgrounds.
At its core, The Pickle Bar is about community — creating a welcoming space where people can connect, play, and belong.