New & notable openings around Charleston
Maison
Upon first glance, North Central’s Maison channels the smart polish of 11th arrondissement, Parisian cafés. A sunlit interior embellished with French woven rattan bistro chairs, tawny brown banquettes, and a pewter bar combine rustic charm with crisp, modern lines, similar in spirit to the fare. A fleet of French classics are interpreted through a contemporary lens, such as the everything-spiced salmon rillettes or the ramp, lardon tartiflette. Though artfully composed, some dishes satisfy the eyes more than the palate. But the mussels tick both boxes, buoyed by a Provençal bourride-style saffron, potato, and aioli broth, velvet-smooth and luxe, best sopped up by a hunk of baguette. An elegant wine list and highly quaffable cocktails brighten the rich menu in a chic yet approachable space. maisoncharleston.com
Baker & Brewer
Nowadays, it’s increasingly difficult to eat out in Charleston without dropping a serious chunk of change. But Baker & Brewer—EVO’s downtown outpost, in collaboration with Holy City Brewing—deserves a slot in your regular restaurant rotation. Its most appealing detail may be the versatile, something-for-everyone menu. Like its Park Circle forefather, there are generously portioned, fresh, and cruciferous salads (try the snap peas with local kale, speck, and mint), small plates (like the superb and earthy house-made pistachio sausage), and Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas (the Calabrese & Arugula is a spicy standout). A spacious deck patio offers alfresco dining, and the sprawling interior, outfitted with two bars, an open kitchen, and its namesake operations (a bakery and brewery) comprise a no-fuss, affordable, Eastside night-out staple. bakerandbrewer.com
