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One of Charleston's smallest restaurants is among the city's best. Here's what sets it apart.

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/17 .. g-the-city-s-best-here-s-what-sets-it-apart.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, September 17th 2025 at 6:05 GMT by Post and Courier
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Merci: A French‑Southern Fusion Restaurant That Makes Date Night a Little More Sophisticated

In the heart of Charleston’s historic district, a new dining concept has quietly taken the city by storm. Merci—French for “thank you”—offers a sumptuous blend of classic French techniques with the bold flavors of the South. A recent review in the Post‑and‑Courier magazine (see link) paints a vivid picture of what makes this spot a standout destination for couples looking to elevate their evening out.

A Concept That Marries Two Culinary Worlds

Chef Gabrielle Laurent, a French‑born culinary artist who spent several years training in Lyon before moving to Charleston, is the mastermind behind Merci. The restaurant’s design is a careful homage to her heritage, with rustic wooden tables, soft French lace draped over wrought‑iron chairs, and the subtle glow of antique brass sconces. Yet the décor never feels cold or formal; instead, it invites diners into an intimate setting reminiscent of a Southern kitchen turned into a refined bistro.

Laurent’s philosophy is straightforward: take the precision and elegance of French cuisine and pair it with locally sourced, Southern ingredients. In the Post‑and‑Courier review, the critic notes that the menu is a masterclass in balance, offering dishes that feel both sophisticated and rooted in the South’s culinary traditions.

A Menu Worthy of a Tasting Night

The tasting menu, available for couples on special dates, is the centerpiece of the Merci experience. The critic highlights several standout plates:

• Oysters à la Breton – Fresh oysters from the Lowcountry served with a beurre‑blanc sauce infused with a hint of sweet tea. The delicate butter pairing accentuates the briny flavor without overpowering it.

• Shrimp & Grits Coq au Vin – A clever twist on the classic French chicken dish, this plate replaces the chicken with succulent shrimp, served over creamy, stone‑ground grits that bring a distinctly Southern comfort.

• Pecan & Chestnut Cassoulet – A hearty bean stew that layers green beans, tomatoes, and locally sourced meats, finished with a crispy pecan topping. The dish bridges the gap between the French cassoulet and a Southern pot roast.

• Lobster & Blackberry Soufflé – A delicate soufflé that balances the richness of lobster with the tartness of blackberries, a nod to the Southern emphasis on fruit pairings.

Each dish is paired with a carefully chosen wine from a curated list that includes both French classics and South Carolina’s emerging vineyard labels. The critic points out that the staff is not only knowledgeable about the menu but also eager to explain the reasoning behind each pairing, turning a meal into an educational journey.

Service That Feels Personal

What elevates Merci beyond its already impressive food is the level of service. The Post‑and‑Courier article describes the staff as “warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the dining experience.” The maître d’ takes the time to recommend the best table for a romantic evening, while the servers are meticulous in their explanations of each course, ensuring diners feel both welcomed and informed.

Pricing That Reflects Quality

While Merci positions itself as a fine‑dining experience, the pricing remains approachable for a date night. Appetizers start at $18, entrees range from $32 to $38, and the tasting menu is available for $88 per person (plus a 15% service charge). Desserts, which feature a French classic crème brûlée alongside a Southern pecan tart, are priced at $12 each. The restaurant also offers a prix‑fixe brunch on weekends that starts at $35 per person, appealing to brunch lovers who appreciate the same level of refinement in a more relaxed setting.

A Link to More: The Restaurant’s Online Presence

The review invites readers to explore Merci further through several online resources. A link directs visitors to the restaurant’s official website, where the full menu, reservation portal, and chef bio can be accessed. The site also features a “Date Night” special page that outlines the tasting menu, recommended wines, and even a small gift card offer for couples who book in advance.

In addition, the article links to Chef Laurent’s Instagram page, where she frequently posts behind‑the‑scenes glimpses of her cooking process and seasonal ingredient selections. For readers who prefer a more in‑depth exploration, the review references a previous Post‑and‑Courier feature on the Charleston culinary scene, which contextualizes Merci within the city’s broader gastronomic landscape.

Final Verdict

The Post‑and‑Courier review ultimately frames Merci as “a must‑visit for any couple looking to merge elegance with comfort.” Its thoughtful fusion of French technique and Southern flavor, combined with an intimate ambiance and impeccable service, creates a dining experience that feels both upscale and welcoming. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, a romantic birthday, or simply craving a sophisticated evening, Merci offers a menu that delights the palate and the heart alike.

For those ready to indulge, reservations can be made through the restaurant’s website or by calling the Charleston dining hotline. As the review concludes, a date night at Merci isn’t just a meal—it’s a journey through two culinary worlds that, together, create something truly memorable.