DiscoverThe Southern ForkOpening Charleston's Restaurant Jewel Box: Merci (Charleston, SC)
Opening Charleston's Restaurant Jewel Box: Merci (Charleston, SC)

Opening Charleston's Restaurant Jewel Box: Merci (Charleston, SC)

Update: 2025-12-05
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What makes a restaurant make one of Stephanie's best of lists? Well, it is always an equation of passion and details that come together behind the scenes and feel effortless during service. Merci, located in Charleston, SC, ended up being one of her most exciting restaurant visits of 2025, so in this conversation, co-owners Courtney and Michael Zentner delve into the importance of community relationships and their event production company, The Drifter. The chef shares his insights into their menu development and culinary philosophy, and they both embrace the challenges of running a small restaurant.

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Opening Charleston's Restaurant Jewel Box: Merci (Charleston, SC)

Opening Charleston's Restaurant Jewel Box: Merci (Charleston, SC)

Stephanie Burt