Charleston's Best Dive Since 1955 NIGHTLY FROM 4PM TO 2AM When ex-New York Giants linebacker “Big John” Canady opened his tavern on East Bay Steet in 1954, little did he know it would become a Charleston landmark. It’s aged walls, still covered with Big John’s football memorabilia, have seen the likes of governors to wayward seamen – not to mention almost every graduating Citadel cadet and College of Charleston senior, all of which would echo Big John’s slogan … Come as a stranger, leave as a friend Big John’s continues to be a Charleston Landmark. It is just a perfect dive bar – a place where you will immediately either love it or hate it. Stop by for a pint and find out which one you are!