Attorney going Mellow

The former litigator with Mount Pleasant-based Motley Rice LLC said that after nine to 10 years "most attorneys hit a wall" — they either continue because they love it or because they know it's safe. "Or like me, they decide on something completely nuts, like opening a pizza joint and forever forsaking ties and sport coats," he said.

After researching many different franchises, including Wild Wings, Harris , who resigned from well-known plaintiffs firm last year, decided to open a Mellow Mushroom in Mount Pleasant.

"The Mellow wins hands down," he said.

Harris breaks ground on a one-acre outparcel across from the Market at Oakland and immediately fronting the Ivy Hall subdivision on S.C. Highway 17 South later this month.

When it is finished, probably in late August, the 4,300 square-foot building will have indoor and outdoor seating for nearly 200 patrons, a full bar, separate smokers' patio, 12 flat screen televisions and a 12-foot mushroom in the middle of the restaurant.

Harris said that because he is the father of three children under the age of 10, he "understood the need for a fun, lively, family atmosphere in Mount Pleasant for kids and parents."

But Mellow Mushroom also will offer an alternative for couples and parents who want to enjoy a night out without driving downtown, he said.

The psychedelic pizza franchise currently has seven locations in South Carolina, including one on King Street in Charleston, as well as several others across the Southeast.

Raising dough

While one Lowcountry Mellow Mushroom location is gearing up for construction, another is kicking off its semiannual Fundraiser Week. Beginning today, charities and school organizations that dine at the Mellow Mushroom at 309 King St. can have 15 percent of their bill donated to a cause of their choice.

During the week, groups that spend over $500 will get 20 percent donated to their charity, and the organization that raises the most dough will receive an additional $250 from Mellow Mushroom. Groups also can host fundraising events in the evening to raise even more money.

On Thursday, Best Buddies and Red Bull North America will host an event with free Red Bull and live DJs.

And Pour It Now has booked the restaurant on Friday for a fundraising party featuring a DJ spinning old-school hip-hop to raise awareness for the new skate park.

Reach Abi Nicholas at 937-5524 or anicholas@postandcourier.com.