Exciting New Lounge Opening in Charleston
Charleston is buzzing with excitement as the waiting game for a much-anticipated restaurant finally comes to an end. La Cave, a delightful new sipping lounge, is set to open its doors on October 17. After months of delays, this elevated salon privé, inspired by the charming vibes of the South of France, promises to deliver a cozy yet lively atmosphere.
A New Space with an Old Story
Back in March, the owner, Félix Landrum, shared his vision for La Cave. The anticipation has been building for seven long months, but as the opening day draws near, the atmosphere is filled with optimism. Landrum acknowledges the challenges of navigating city permits and budgets, but he remains undeterred. “You’ve got to figure out where you are getting that funding, and how are you working it out,” he remarked. Opening a restaurant is a considerable leap of faith, but with the success of his first establishment, Félix, confidence is running high.
La Cave will complement its sister restaurant with a softer aesthetic, featuring natural wood finishes and exposed stone walls, expertly designed by his wife, Leslie. Guests can access La Cave through a cozy hallway connected to Félix or use a charming separate entrance on King Street. This dual-access setup underscores the cozy and inviting feel that Landrum aims to create.
Recognizing Opportunities in the City
Landrum is no stranger to taking chances in the bustling landscape of Charleston. When he opened Félix back in 2017, the upper stretch of King Street was not nearly as lively as it is today. “I took out a home equity loan on my house in Michigan to put money down on the [Félix] space, and I didn’t know how we were going to get it built,” he recalled. Fast forward to today, and Félix has developed a loyal following, proving the worth of his gamble.
A Space for All Occasions
One of the exciting features of La Cave is its semi-private dining area, perfect for special events. With draping and potted olive trees for privacy, this space is perfect for those looking to celebrate in style. The lounge offers a welcoming 12-seat bar, comfy couches, and banquettes, making it a wonderful spot for anything from pre-dinner drinks to a casual meal of small plates.
Landrum envisions La Cave as not just an occasional outing but a regular hangout spot. “What I tried to do is create different nooks of cozy where people could come,” he explained. “They could have conversations, they could hang out, they could sip their drinks, they could snack.” This concept fosters a comfortable environment that encourages patrons to enjoy their time spent there.
Delicious Delights Await
As for the menu, diners can anticipate a mouthwatering selection of small plates. Highlights include a petit crab roll featuring lump crab cake topped with spicy jalapeño-leek aïoli and pickled red onions, alongside raw bar offerings like oysters, crudo, and caviar service. Roasted prawns dressed in a piquillo pepper butter provide an aromatic touch that diners can’t resist.
The cocktail menu, while not as extensive as Félix’s impressive list, boasts craft creations ideal for the social setting. One standout drink is the Martini de Luxe, expertly crafted with fromage washed vodka, saline, and Lillet Blanc, beautifully complemented by a caviar crisp.
A Place Where Everyone is Welcome
Landrum’s goal for La Cave is not just to provide a high-end experience but also to maintain an accessible vibe. “There are a bunch of things on the menu that you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg for,” he noted. This approach encourages a broader audience, allowing more guests to enjoy everything La Cave has to offer, not just on special occasions but as a casual stop in their Charleston adventures.
As we count down to the opening, it’s clear that La Cave is set to be a fantastic addition to Charleston’s thriving culinary scene. This cozy new space promises warmth, wonderful flavors, and a community atmosphere that reflects the very best of our beloved city.
