Chez Nous

Charleston, United States

Chez Nous Charleston SC dining experience overview and tips for visitors.

Located in the charming Cannonborough Elliotborough neighborhood of Charleston, South Carolina, Chez Nous offers an intimate dining experience that feels like a hidden gem. This pint-sized restaurant delights guests with an ever-changing menu inspired by French, Spanish, and Italian cuisines, showcasing expertly crafted dishes such as Scaloppine Di Vitello and a refreshing Pear and Walnut Salad.

a cozy setting with elevated food and wine

Chez Nous is housed in a quaint space with two floors and a welcoming bar area. The ambiance is perfect for a quiet and calm dining experience, ideal for those who enjoy small plates served thoughtfully. The daily changing menu reflects the chef's inspiration, ensuring fresh and innovative dishes that pair beautifully with the restaurant's fine selection of French and European wines.

what to expect when dining at chez nous

Guests often praise the restaurant for its exceptional service and unique culinary creativity. While the menu is small with just two options each for appetizers, entrees, and desserts, this focus allows for quality and harmony in flavors. Some visitors note the dishes are priced on the higher side, but many find the desserts and wine offerings particularly well worth it. The intimate scale means the restaurant is perfect for special occasions or a relaxed, slow-paced meal.

tips for planning your visit

  • Do I need a reservation for lunch? It's a fairly small restaurant. A reservation would be advisable.
  • Is the menu the same for lunch and dinner? Yes, the menu is the same for both lunch and dinner.
  • Is there parking available? Parking is limited; it's recommended to use alternative transportation.

community sentiment and overview

Overall, Chez Nous receives a positive reception from the Charleston community. Diners appreciate the cozy and intimate atmosphere, the chef’s dedication to crafting a daily changing menu, and the attentive, friendly service. The blend of French, Spanish, and Italian influences creates a unique culinary adventure that many remember fondly. While some patrons comment on pricing and portion sizes, the quality and ambiance make it a favored spot for special occasions and leisurely meals.

Chez Nous history and culinary journey in Charleston South Carolina.

Nestled in the vibrant Cannonborough Elliotborough neighborhood of Charleston, South Carolina, Chez Nous has been captivating diners since its opening in 2014. This pint-sized restaurant quickly distinguished itself with a daily changing menu that draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of Southern France, Northern Italy, and Northern Spain. Its intimate and cozy atmosphere, enhanced by handwritten menus, invites guests to savor a truly unique dining experience.

The early years and rising recognition

2014 marked the debut of Chez Nous, where it immediately captivated Charleston food lovers with its innovative approach of offering a small, thoughtfully curated menu that changes daily. This approach allowed the chef to follow her inspiration and feature only the freshest and most inspired dishes each day.
By 2015, Chez Nous had earned acclaim for its masterful blend of three distinct European culinary influences — Southern French, Northern Italian, and Northern Spanish cuisines — that set it apart from other Charleston establishments. This unique fusion elevated the dining scene and attracted both locals and visitors seeking an authentic yet inventive experience.

Expanding experiences and modern touches

In 2016, Chez Nous broadened its appeal by introducing outdoor seating, allowing patrons to enjoy Charleston's charming ambiance while savoring sophisticated European flavors. Although takeout was also added to the options, the restaurant remains focused on providing an intimate in-house experience. Over the years, it has cultivated a reputation for excellent service and a cozy setting, perfect for slow, calm meals featuring small, expertly prepared plates.

Chez Nous’s enduring charm and culinary philosophy

Today, Chez Nous continues to enchant food enthusiasts with its daily evolving menu that highlights seasonal and sometimes unexpected ingredients, reflecting a true dedication to quality and innovation. Its small size, two-floor layout, and handwritten, artistically crafted menus contribute to a quaint and intimate atmosphere that makes every visit feel special. Whether you come for the expertly paired French wines, distinctive desserts, or the thoughtfully composed appetizers and entrees, Chez Nous remains a cherished gem in Charleston’s dynamic dining landscape.
  • 2014 Opening - Chez Nous opens its doors in Charleston, introducing a daily changing menu focused on European influences.
  • 2015 Culinary recognition - Earned acclaim for the harmonious blend of Southern French, Northern Italian, and Northern Spanish cuisines.
  • 2016 Expansion - Added outdoor seating and takeout options to enhance guest experience while maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

Discover Chez Nous: Charleston's Intimate Culinary Gem

Nestled in the heart of Charleston's Cannonborough Elliotborough neighborhood, Chez Nous offers an intimate dining experience that perfectly blends coziness with culinary creativity. This pint-sized restaurant charms visitors with its quaint setting, featuring two floors and a welcoming bar area, making it ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

Culinary Excellence with a Daily Twist

Chez Nous stands out with its unique approach to dining: a daily changing menu that features fresh, thoughtfully sourced ingredients from France and across Europe. With only two options for appetizers, entrees, and desserts each day, the menu reflects the chef's inspiration and commitment to quality over quantity. Many guests praise the cohesive and inventive dishes that offer flavors not commonly found elsewhere in Charleston.
Exceptional service complements the meal, with staff known for their friendliness and professionalism, enhancing the overall cozy and unique ambiance of the little house.

Highlights and Advantages

  • Intimate and cozy atmosphere that invites guests to savor every moment.
  • Daily changing menu ensures fresh, inspired dishes that keep the dining experience exciting.
  • Extensive wine selection featuring French and European wines, perfect for pairing with your meal or enjoying solo.
  • Pet-friendly outdoor seating offers guests a charming spot to unwind with their furry companions.

Considerations Before You Go

While Chez Nous offers a delightful and refined dining experience, there are some practical factors to keep in mind. The seating capacity is limited, which can make securing a spot challenging, especially without the option to book reservations. Additionally, parking options are restricted, with limited availability on nearby streets and paid garages, requiring some planning ahead.
Some visitors also note that the pricing can feel steep relative to portion sizes, particularly with entrees and appetizers, though desserts and wine are viewed as good value. The menu's elegant and sometimes complex presentation might require server assistance to fully understand the day's offerings, which adds a personalized yet slower pace to the dining rhythm.

Final thoughts on dining at Chez Nous

Chez Nous is a distinctive destination for those seeking a slow, calm, and intimate meal experience with a touch of French-European flair. Its cozy setting and exceptional service make it perfect for special occasions or quiet dinners. However, diners looking for larger portions or more casual, bustling environments might find it less fitting. Overall, it remains a cherished spot for guests who appreciate a carefully curated menu and personalized hospitality in Charleston's vibrant food scene.

4.5

Closed - Opens 11:30 AM

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:00

Wednesday

11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:00

Thursday

11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:00

Friday

11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:00

Saturday

11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:00

Sunday

11:30–15:00, 17:00–22:00

Download the App