Discovering Hidden Gem: The Establishment Seafood Restaurant in Charleston
Ah, Charleston! Known for its charming cobblestone streets, rich history, and of course, its culinary delights. Recently, I stumbled upon a seafood restaurant that seems to have been flying under the radar: The Establishment, located at 28 Broad Street. Tucked away in a historic building dating back to 1791, this dining spot deserves a lot more recognition than it currently receives.
A Culinary Revelation
My journey to The Establishment started on a warm evening with cloudy skies and a gentle breeze. With temperatures hovering around a pleasant 82°F during the day, it was the perfect setting for some seafood indulgence. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by the friendly host who guided me through a cozy narrow hallway adorned with antique brick walls. This quaint entrance led to a spacious dining area, where I couldn’t help but feel an air of sophistication.
Meet the Chef
Under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Elliott Howells, the menu showcases a mouthwatering array of seafood delights. Upon glancing at the menu, my eyes were immediately drawn to the butter-poached grouper and blue crab gnudi. I asked my wife, “How come no one ever talks about this place?” It turned out we were not alone in our oversight; despite opening in 2018 and receiving some buzz initially, The Establishment had slipped into the shadows of Charleston’s bustling culinary scene.
Dishes Worth Mentioning
Let me tell you, the blue crab gnudi was simply sublime! Priced at $27, these ethereal pillows of ricotta and flour were festively adorned with sweet blue crab and buttery breadcrumbs, resulting in a creamy texture that melted in the mouth. Meanwhile, the butter-poached grouper at $41 was perfectly cooked, flaky, and just incredible when paired with the vibrant yellow corn velouté beneath it.
The seafood offerings are impressive, but don’t overlook the land-based dishes. The Bergamo ($15)—a delightful polenta served with a poached egg—was brimming with gourmet flavor as a bright, yellow yolk flowed generously when I pierced it. Pair that with cleverly designed cocktails like The Impressionist ($15) featuring gin, rosemary, and pear, and you have yourself a delightful evening planned.
A Historic Ambiance
As I sat savoring each bite, I couldn’t help but admire the restaurant’s aesthetic charm. The chef’s counter added a vibrant kitchen atmosphere while patrons chatted merrily in the background. The decor was a little rustic yet elegant, with smooth wooden floors leading to a long, horseshoe-shaped bar showcasing an impressive selection of wines. Speaking of wine, The Establishment offers a well-curated list that perfectly complements its dishes, making it easy to pair your meal with something special.
Not All is Perfect
Of course, no dining experience is without its minor hiccups. While I enjoyed the duck leg confit ($38) which paired beautifully with grilled veggies, I did find the presentation of the chicken liver mousse ($15) a bit off—served in a tiny jar that made it hard to reach every last bit despite how deliciously smooth it was.
Final Thoughts
As I tucked into a delightful pavlova ($12) for dessert, filled with fresh peaches and cream, I reflected on what a surprise The Establishment had been. Despite its low-profile status, it brings high-quality food, a warm atmosphere, and an experienced kitchen to the Charleston dining scene. It seems that the restaurant not only encapsulates the essence of Charleston’s culinary heritage but also offers an inviting space to savor seafood fusions that one should not miss. The next time you find yourself wandering through Charleston, take a moment to visit this hidden gem.
The Establishment is open from 5-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and 5-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Reservations are highly recommended as word spreads about this delightful culinary haven.
