We went to Charleston the night before my wife's back surgery at Johns Hopkins, to take our minds off the surgery. EVERYTHING EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS (even though this was our third visit there over the years). The entire staff was EXCELLENT, PROFESSIONAL, FRIENDLY and not at all haughty. And, the FOOD WAS EXCELLENT, among the best, and we have eaten well arount the world -- this rivaled, possibly was the BEST. TIP: we had two specials, which out super waiter (George) told us was sold out after we finished. So, to be able to snare a special, go early. No matter what, however, it will be one of your best-ever overall dining experiences!
Visited The Charleston for the first time in December and I’m still thinking about what an incredible experience we had. While it was a bit awkward when we entered (no one was there to greet us and we had to inquire about checking in our coats), everything after those few moments more than add up for it. The food was INCREDIBLE. Not only was it visually beautiful, the flavors were outstanding. Every dish was better than the last. Would highly recommend the accompanying wine pairing - 3 courses were more than enough for me. I will most definitively be back.
My wife and I had high expectations for this 9-time James Beard award finalist and tasting-menu only experience. While we liked most of the food, namely the Halibut and Beef Tenderloin, we were disappointed in the beef tartare (lack of flavor and too cold) and bison (too rare and barely warm). Very good food overall though as we did the 4-course menu. The fast-paced servers did not give much time to select wine or the food choices. A bit stressful tone and evident by at least five servers that we saw power-walking briskly from 5:15 to 7:00pm. They came over two minutes after sat down and again every three minutes or so. You can see the working kitchen from some tables if you prefer that. Keep in mind that most courses are half-sizes or one-third sizes, so it is best to order the 4-course menu. Expect to spend $440+ for two adults doing the 4-course menu along with with gratuity and tax.
It might seem a little pricey, but it is well worth it. The food, service the place is perfect...A great eating experience
Never had a dish here we didn't love. 3 to 6 courses plus dessert!! One of our favorite places to go.
I always wanted to go to Charleston and was able to go for our anniversary. The ambiance is perfect, and the service is the best. The chef stopped by our table which as a personal touch. We will definitely return!
We had a 4:30 reservation. We arrived around 4:25pm. We were not seated until around 5pm or later. The wait staff were superb. Our appetizers or dinners were not hot, but were still delicious. We would not have expected to wait over 30 minutes to be seated with a reservation. We spent $300, including a 20% tip. #Disappointed
My wife and I have wanted to go here for years but we have never been able to justify the cost. With both of us being in education, this was a huge splurge. Unfortunately, while the food was amazing (we did 3 courses matched with wine), the rest of the experience left us disappointed/frustrated-- not the feeling you want after spending so much. Here are the complaints: 1. We ordered cocktails with the plan to enjoy the cocktails while we picked from the menu. They forgot to bring our cocktails until we asked about them when the server returned to ask if we had determined our food choices. 2. Other tables were offered bread. We were never offered any. None. At all. 3. My wife finished her water. Took a course for it to be refilled (maybe we should have asked). 4. When we asked questions about food, we were read info from the menu. No advice or insight. 5. Of the wines (we were comped desert wine given we observed no bread at which point the server apologized for forgetting-- nice touch, but late), we each felt 3 were great pairings. The 4th (mine with shrimp/grits, my wife's with lamb chop) did NOT work. Maybe they were meant to be contrary verses complimentary tastes, but still off. We would have asked, but there was no insight about why the wines were paired with our meals (done at other restaurants) which we would have appreciated. So, why a 3? The food was great. It deserves a 5; the service was just so disappointing given the cost and expectations.
EXCEPTIONAL dining experience!!! The wait staff was so attentive, as soon as you took the last bite of your course, they appeared out of nowhere to clear your table for the next course. The dishes themselves were like works of art, so expertly arranged. Ooooo and the taste of each dish was immaculate, decadent, rich (can you tell I'm drooling). The drinks were equally as delicious. Hubby and I are already planning our next visit and the one after that, definitely worth the cost This is my favorite restaurant in Baltimore!!!!
Best restaurant in Baltimore!!! Foi gras and lamb chop dishes were amazing. The ambiance in the small side room to the right is very nice if they will seat you there.