Charleston Says Farewell to Iconic Cru Café After 23 Years
Charleston, SC – This Saturday, September 28, marks a bittersweet moment for food lovers in Charleston as Cru Café, a beloved dining spot in downtown Charleston, closes its doors for the last time. For the past 23 years, this cozy café has been known for its delicious and innovative take on comfort food, all served from within a charming 18th-century home.
Owned and operated by the talented Chef John Zucker, Cru Café has been a staple in the community since it opened in 2001. A graduate of the esteemed Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, Chef Zucker honed his skills under the watchful eye of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck at Spago in Las Vegas before venturing out on his own. His journey has been nothing short of remarkable, with Cru Café becoming a gathering place for both locals and visitors alike.
A Home for Much More than Just Food
In a heartfelt letter to the community, Chef Zucker reflected on his experience running the restaurant. He stated, “There’s a lot you learn when you run a restaurant for 23 years. You learn that it’s not just about the food – though at Cru Café, we always took pride in serving good food.” His words resonate deeply with many who have dined there over the years.
The café was not just a restaurant; it had grown into a home for the community. “Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of feeding locals, visitors, families, and wanderers. We’ve seen this city grow, evolve, and change – and we’ve changed with it,” he continued. Many patrons who stepped into Cru Café were greeted with the warmth of familiarity, making it a cherished spot in Charleston’s dining scene.
Facing the Storms of Change
However, like many businesses, Cru Café has faced its fair share of challenges, especially in recent years. Chef Zucker candidly acknowledged, “The truth is, you can’t run a restaurant without a team. And when you can’t find the staff – no matter how much heart you have – it’s time to face reality.” The impact of COVID-19 and the lingering challenges of staffing shortages have taken their toll on the restaurant industry.
As the café closes its doors, Chef Zucker remains optimistic. He plans to shift his energy toward Cru Catering, his catering business that has been thriving and gaining momentum. “This place may be closing, but the memories, the meals, and the stories we’ve shared will always stay with us,” he assured the restaurant’s loyal patrons.
Join the Farewell Celebration
For those who have shared a meal at Cru Café, Chef Zucker invites you to stop by one last time. “If you’ve ever had a meal here, or if you’ve ever wanted to, we’d love to see you one last time.” The final weekend promises to be filled with nostalgia as many will come together to celebrate the café’s rich history and delicious offerings.
The farewell to Cru Café brings not just a sense of loss but also a celebration of community and culinary creativity. With its closing, Charleston says goodbye to a dining institution that has played a significant role in shaping the city’s vibrant food culture.
As the city continues to evolve, the memories created at Cru Café will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of those who ever experienced its special atmosphere and scrumptious dishes.
So, gather your friends and family and join Chef Zucker and his team for a fond farewell to a local treasure this Saturday, September 28th. Let’s celebrate the beautiful moments shared at Cru Café as it takes its next steps into the future.
