The Chef's Counter.


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An intimate, kitchen-facing dining experience in the heart of historic Charleston

The Chef's Counter at The Establishment places you directly in front of our open kitchen — eight seats where solo diners and small groups can watch techniques, observe dishes as they're composed, and engage with the culinary team before ordering. It is the most intimate way to dine on Broad Street.

The counter is available upon request at the time of reservation. We recommend asking early — seats are limited and fill quickly on busy evenings.

8 Counter Seats
2 Menu Options
1 Of a Kind

Open Tues – Sat at 5:00pm
28 Broad St, Charleston
843.789.4028

Request Counter Seating

The Menu

À la Carte or Fully Curated — the Choice is Yours

Counter guests enjoy two distinct dining paths, giving you the flexibility to order freely or surrender the evening entirely to the kitchen.

Option One

À la Carte

Browse the full dinner menu and order freely — with the advantage of watching each dish take shape from your seat at the counter. See a technique or a finishing touch that intrigues you? Our team will walk you through it.

All of the freedom of a standard evening at The Establishment, simply with an unobstructed view of the kitchen in action.

Make a Reservation
Option Two

Curated Menu

A thoughtfully sequenced progression of courses designed to move with the rhythm of the kitchen and the season — optional beverage pairings available, curated by our sommelier.

Requires 48-hour advance notice and must be requested at the time of reservation. No substitutions.

Tonight's Menu

What to Know

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

The Chef's Counter is designed to deliver the best possible experience for every guest at the pass. Please review the following before booking.

Curated Menu Notice

The curated menu requires a minimum of 48 hours' advance notice and must be arranged at the time of reservation. Day-of requests cannot be accommodated.

No Substitutions

Out of respect for the kitchen's composition and the integrity of each course, the curated menu is served as designed — no substitutions.

Allergies

Please disclose any food allergies at the time of reservation. Our team will review them before service begins. We accommodate true dietary allergies; general dislikes or aversions cannot be factored into the menu.

Supplements

Select premium supplements — additional coursing or specialty ingredients — may be available depending on the evening. Ask your server about the night's offerings.

Beverage Pairings

Optional wine and cocktail pairings are available with the curated menu, assembled by our sommelier to move through each course. Note your interest at the time of reservation.

Availability

The Chef's Counter seats up to 8 guests and is available upon request. Note your interest when booking — counter seats fill quickly on busy evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a chef's counter experience?

A chef's counter — sometimes called an open kitchen counter or chef's table — places guests directly in front of the kitchen, offering a close-up view of the cooking process, live plating, and the techniques behind each dish. At The Establishment, it is one of the most intimate ways to dine in Charleston, SC.

How do I request the Chef's Counter?

Note your interest in counter seating when making your reservation online or by calling us at 843.789.4028. Counter seats are available upon request and subject to availability. Requesting the curated menu requires at least 48 hours' notice.

How many guests can sit at the Chef's Counter?

The counter accommodates up to 8 guests — ideal for solo diners, couples, and small groups who want a more engaged and intimate dining experience.

Can I order from the regular menu at the Chef's Counter?

Yes. Guests at the Chef's Counter are welcome to order à la carte from our full dinner menu. The curated menu is an optional alternative that requires 48 hours' advance notice.

Do you offer wine pairings with the curated menu?

Optional beverage pairings are available with the curated menu, assembled by our sommelier to accompany each course. Please note your interest at the time of reservation.

What if I have a food allergy?

Please inform us of any food allergies when making your reservation. Our team will review your allergies ahead of your visit. While we take allergies seriously, personal food preferences and aversions cannot be factored into the curated menu.

When is the Chef's Counter available?

The Establishment is open Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 5pm. The Chef's Counter is available upon request on any evening we are open, subject to availability. We recommend requesting counter seating at the time of booking.

The Establishment on Broad Street in Historic Charleston, SC