Changes Abound in North Charleston’s Restaurant Scene
North Charleston – The culinary landscape in North Charleston is experiencing a significant shift as the Montague Room, a steakhouse and lounge, has officially rebranded to El Patio Caribbean Restaurant and Lounge. This transformation took place last month, following a series of controversies that plagued the establishment since it opened its doors in May 2023.
A New Name Amid Old Controversies
El Patio took over the space of the former Montague Room just a little over a year after its initial launch. The rebranding coincided with the closure of an investigation by the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), involving a notorious incident between City Councilman Jerome Heyward and a police officer during a noise complaint response earlier this year.
For those who might not remember, *The Montague Room* was often depicted as an upscale steakhouse known for its lavish menu, which featured $13 shrimp cocktails and a jaw-dropping $100 Tomahawk ribeye steak for two. However, the restaurant quickly attracted negative attention for failing to pay local hospitality taxes since its inception. This oversight has not gone unnoticed, as frustrations have surfaced surrounding the conduct of local council members regarding tax compliance.
Lessons in Accountability
City Finance Director Rob Jarrett pointed out that “Councilmembers should be held to the same standards as any other taxpayer with no preferential treatment.” This statement reflects increasing concerns about financial accountability when it comes to city officials. With allegations stemming from both the Montague Room and the now-closed Blue Note Bistro—a restaurant connected to another council member—some residents are raising eyebrows at the apparent lack of compliance.
The circumstances surrounding the Montague Room’s downfall are complicated. Councilman Heyward, who has faced financial struggles in the past and has been involved in various controversies, initially spoke as a representative of the restaurant. However, when the noise complaint incident unfolded, he downplayed his connection, indicating that Michelle Stent-Hilton was actually the owner.
Compliance and Consequences
Since its opening, the Montague Room has been on the radar of both local authorities and media due to its failure to pay the required 2% hospitality tax on food and beverage sales. This tax is vital for local tourism and maintains the city’s ability to fund various community projects. The hospitality tax is akin to a sales tax, collected at the point of sale, and the business is responsible for remitting the collected funds each month. To date, Montague Room ownership has not provided the necessary payments, leaving the exact amount owed unclear.
As the restaurant made the transition to El Patio, the owner was alerted regarding the overdue taxes, and according to a county letter, she had ten days to settle these debts before facing legal action. Alas, a full month later, no payments had been received, leading to speculation about what the future holds for El Patio.
A Fizzle to Rise or Fade Away?
The rebranding promises a shift in cuisine and possibly a renewed effort by the owner to set forth a more compliant relationship with local regulations. With hope, El Patio can create a vibrant space offering Caribbean cuisine that draws in diners, leaving the former controversies in the past. However, as history has shown, potential obstacles linger.
While the Montague Room was embroiled in its share of turmoil, El Patio’s debut marks a new chapter within the bustling culinary scene of North Charleston. With the sun expected to shine brightly (nearly 90F), residents are eager to explore what this fresh establishment has in store. But as the atmosphere heats up, the community remains vigilant, anticipating that establishment owners adhere to the city’s hospitality regulations—ensuring that every delightful bite served comes with its dues paid. Be prepared to savor the flavors of Caribbean cuisine while hoping for compliance and accountability at El Patio.
