Charleston, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Charleston welcomes Merci, a new French-inspired bistro located at 28 Pitt St., opened by Michael and Courtney Zentner. With a cozy setting for just 26 diners, it merges European cafe charm with Southern cuisine influences. The dynamic menu features nightly offerings, including signature dishes like Beef Wellington and Ravioli du Dauphine. Guests can enjoy dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, complemented by a selection of wines and beers.
Charleston welcomes a new culinary experience with the opening of Merci, a French-inspired bistro located at 28 Pitt St. in the heart of Harleston Village. Launched by husband-and-wife team Michael and Courtney Zentner, Merci offers an intimate dining experience characteristic of European cafes while infusing elements of the American South into its cuisine.
The restaurant features a cozy dining room that accommodates only 26 guests, making reservations a hot commodity among food enthusiasts in the area. Michael Zentner, the chef de cuisine, has previously led the kitchen at Charleston Grill, bringing his extensive culinary background into this new venture. The ambiance within Merci has been likened to an Architectural Digest feature, showcasing a stylish interior adorned with antique plateware, vintage art, and custom wood cabinetry that creates a chic and inviting atmosphere.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Merci is designed to be dynamic, with offerings changing nightly. It features an assortment of small and medium-sized plates, allowing diners to enjoy a variety of flavors. Signature dishes to take note of include:
- Focaccia with stracciatella, Benton’s ham, and pistachio
- Beef Wellington, presented for two at a price of $105
- Ravioli du Dauphine with peppers, corn, and chorizo, costing $30
- Charred cabbage Caesar that incorporates creamy Gouda, priced at $24
- Tuna crudo paired with green tomato, watermelon, and basil
The estimated price range for meals at Merci varies between $24 and $105, catering to a variety of dining preferences.
Operational Hours and Offerings
Guests can visit Merci for dinner service from Wednesday to Saturday, between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. Alongside the exquisite food menu, a bar serving a selection of wine and beer is also available for patrons looking to enhance their dining experience.
Background of the Founders
Prior to launching Merci, the Zentners operated a culinary and event design company called The Drifter and tested their recipes in pop-up events across Charleston to gather community feedback. Additionally, they have opened a neighboring market called Petit Merci, situated at 17 Montagu St., where locally sourced freshly prepared foods and take-and-bake meals are offered.
Local Appeal
Merci primarily attracts locals, with many diners coming from the affluent nearby communities. The clientele typically consists of residents over the age of 40, often seen in smart casual attire, reflecting the restaurant’s sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The dining experience emphasizes a strong connection between the food, ambiance, and community spirit, aimed at providing both fine dining and a more casual feel.
Conclusion
With its intimate setting and thoughtfully crafted menu, Merci is poised to become a staple in Charleston’s vibrant culinary scene, appealing to those seeking a unique dining experience that marries French-inspired flavors with local southern influences.
FAQ Section
What type of cuisine does Merci serve?
Merci serves French-inspired cuisine with hints of the American South.
What is the seating capacity of Merci?
The restaurant features a dining room that can seat only 26 patrons.
What are the restaurant’s dinner service hours?
Dinner service hours are from 4-10 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday.
Where is Merci located?
Merci is located at 28 Pitt St. in downtown Charleston’s Harleston Village.
Key Features of Merci
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 28 Pitt St., Harleston Village, Charleston |
| Owners | Michael and Courtney Zentner |
| Seating Capacity | 26 patrons |
| Cuisine | French-inspired with Southern influences |
| Price Range | $24 – $105 |
| Dinner Hours | 4-10 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday |
| Signature Dishes | Beef Wellington, Ravioli du Dauphine, Charred Cabbage Caesar, and more |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Terra Designs Interiors Celebrates 20 Years of Design Excellence
Charleston Cafes Launch Heartwarming Cookbook
New Café Planned for Charleston’s Wentworth Street
SEOST Digital Marketing Conference Set to Transform Marketing Landscape in Chandler, Arizona
The Future of Digital Marketing: Trends to Watch in 2025
Kobe Digital Expands into Miami: New Heights for Digital Marketing
The Digital Marketing Costs for 2025: A Complete Guide for Businesses
New European Bistro Merci Opening in Charleston
Additional Resources
- Eater Carolinas: Merci Charleston Review
- Wikipedia: Charleston
- Post and Courier: Merci Review
- Google Search: Merci Charleston
- Charleston City Paper: Merci Opening
- Google Scholar: Merci Charleston
- CHS Today: Petit Market Opens
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston
- We Heart: Merci Bistro Design
- Google News: Merci Restaurant Charleston
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.
