Charleston, August 22, 2025
News Summary
The Charleston Grill, a landmark fine dining restaurant in the Charleston Place hotel, will close its doors on August 23. After 36 years of serving iconic dishes like crab cakes and an extensive wine list, the restaurant has become a beloved part of Charleston’s culinary scene. Known for its Lowcountry cuisine, it has seen several acclaimed chefs and has contributed significantly to local philanthropy. The closure is part of a renovation initiative by Beemok Hospitality Group, which will introduce a new dining concept.
Charleston
The Charleston Grill, a historic fine dining establishment located within the Charleston Place hotel, will serve its final meal on August 23, concluding a remarkable 36-year legacy in the city’s culinary scene. Known for its renowned crab cakes and extensive wine list, the restaurant has long been a cornerstone of dining excellence in Charleston.
Established in 1989 by chef Louis Osteen, Charleston Grill quickly became celebrated as a premier destination for Lowcountry cuisine. Over the ensuing years, the restaurant attracted both locals and visitors seeking an upscale dining experience. In 1997, chef Bob Waggoner took over the kitchen, enhancing the menu and dining experience. Under his leadership, the restaurant fostered a commitment to quality and innovation, which would continue with Michelle Weaver, who became executive chef in 2009.
Management also played a crucial role in the restaurant’s success. Mickey Bakst, general manager for 17 years, was instrumental in cultivating strong relationships with guests and guiding the restaurant’s philanthropic efforts. He retired in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of community impact through various charitable events and fundraisers. Likewise, Rick Rubel, who managed the wine program for 15 years, established significant practices in wine education that have influenced the Charleston area.
The closure of Charleston Grill is part of a broader initiative by Beemok Hospitality Group for a multi-million dollar renovation of the Charleston Place hotel. This change will introduce a “fresh new dining concept,” which will replace the beloved restaurant. A temporary culinary pop-up is expected to launch prior to the opening of the new permanent restaurant, generating excitement among the community.
As part of its final weeks of operation, Charleston Grill will offer a return of popular dishes and a special prix fixe dinner featuring wine pairings. This event is designed not only to honor the restaurant’s rich culinary history but also to support the charity Feed the Need, providing meals for those in need in the area.
The culinary community has rallied in response to the restaurant’s impending closure. Alumni from Charleston Grill, now notable chefs and restaurateurs, attribute their success to the invaluable training and experiences gained during their time at the restaurant. It has been a vital gathering place in the city, where both locals and tourists could celebrate special occasions while indulging in exemplary cuisine. The legacy of Charleston Grill will continue to resonate within the Charleston community long after its final service.
Conclusion
As Charleston prepares to bid farewell to one of its iconic dining establishments, the impact of Charleston Grill will be remembered fondly. Its commitment to culinary excellence and community engagement will leave a lasting mark on Charleston’s fine dining landscape.
FAQs
When will Charleston Grill close?
Charleston Grill will serve its final meal on August 23, 2023.
Who founded Charleston Grill?
Charleston Grill was founded by chef Louis Osteen in 1989.
What is Charleston Grill known for?
Charleston Grill is known for its crab cakes, extensive wine list, and as a fine dining destination for Lowcountry cuisine.
Will there be a replacement for Charleston Grill?
Yes, a “fresh new dining concept” will replace Charleston Grill, along with a temporary pop-up culinary concept before the new restaurant opens.
What charitable efforts has Charleston Grill been involved in?
Charleston Grill has hosted various community events and fundraisers, particularly focusing on homelessness and hurricane relief.
Key Features of Charleston Grill
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Charleston Place hotel, Charleston |
| Established | 1989 |
| Founder | Chef Louis Osteen |
| Notable Dishes | Crab cakes, extensive wine list |
| Executive Chefs | Bob Waggoner (1997), Michelle Weaver (2009) |
| Last Day of Operation | August 23, 2023 |
| Community Involvement | Support for homelessness, hurricane relief |
| Replacement Concept | Fresh new dining concept with a pop-up! |
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Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper
- Post and Courier
- Count on 2
- Eater Carolina
- Google Search: Charleston Grill closing
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
