Our taste-and-tell guide to some of the latest food-and-beverage openings in Charleston
Purlieu
French cuisine is on the rise in Charleston as of late, and John Zucker’s new West-side restaurant, Purlieu, is quickly becoming a favorite. But don’t be fooled by the swanky-sounding name, which translates to “edge of the forest” and also nods to perloo, the Lowcountry rice dish; the place is laid-back and welcoming, and the dress code is casual. Similar to Zucker’s other eatery, Cru Cafe, the setting is intimate, offering seating for about 30 diners with cozy, European-inspired ambiance and an open kitchen. Fresh ingredients paired with French wines star on the menu. Split a frog leg tarte or artichoke au gratin (pictured above left) to start, and then pick from satisfying entreés like skillet hanger steak served with celery root hash. End on a sweet note with apple terrine and a frothy cappuccino. http://purlieucharleston.com/
The Getaway
Sitting at the candlelit bar at this Latin American-inspired gem on Upper King, it’s easy to imagine—if only for a few hours—that you’re in a cool hideaway in Havana, sipping on bright berry sangria before going out dancing. Opened by Genevieve Mashburn, a seasoned bartender and former event director for Leon’s and Little Jack’s Tavern, and chef Emily “Empanada Mama” Hahn, formerly of Warehouse, the joint is cozy with a Caribbean edge. Nearly every dish reveals Hahn’s mastery of char and spice, but our favorites include grilled chapa bread soaked in buttery vinaigrette and topped with shaved artichokes and mushrooms; coconut shrimp served with orange marmalade (pictured above right); and of course, the empanadas of the day, ready to dunk in garlic aioli and fiery chimichurri sauce. Drinks-wise, the daily sangria and special frozen mojitos are not to be missed. https://www.thegetawayonking.com/
Photographs by (Purlieu) Taylor Jordan & (The Getaway) Brett Tighe
