Church and Union: A Charleston Dining Destination with a Unique History and Delicious Food
Church and Union: A Charleston Dining Destination with a Unique History and Delicious Food
Church and Union is a New American restaurant located in a former church in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. The restaurant opened in January 2023, after the previous tenant, 5Church, closed in December 2022. Church and Union is owned by the 5th Street Group, which also owns several other restaurants in Charleston, including Tempest, and Church and Union Charlotte.
The Restaurant’s History
The building that now houses Church and Union was built in 1850 as a Baptist church. The church was designed by Edward Brickell White, a prominent architect in Charleston at the time. The church was used for worship services until 1970, when it was sold to a private owner. The building was then used for a variety of purposes, including a furniture store and a dance studio.
In 2016, the 5th Street Group purchased the building and announced plans to convert it into a restaurant. The renovation of the building took two years to complete, and Church and Union opened its doors in January 2023.
The renovation of the building was done with care to preserve the original architecture. The exterior of the church was restored to its original appearance, and the interior was converted into a modern dining space while still maintaining some of the original features, such as the stained glass windows and the pews.
Photo by open table
The reopening of Church and Union was a major event in Charleston, and the restaurant quickly became a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The restaurant has been praised for its food, its atmosphere, and its commitment to preserving the history of the building.
The Menu
Church and Union offers a menu of New American cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The chef, Jamie Lynch, is a Top Chef alum who has worked at some of the top restaurants in the country. Some of the signature dishes on the menu include:
- The Chef Jamie’s Lamb Burger with red onion marmalade, gorgonzola fondue, and arugula
- The Fried Chicken BLT with house-made pimento cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and spicy aioli
- The Handmade Braided Ravioli with garlic tomato sauce, capers, and parmesan
The restaurant also has a full bar with a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and beers. The cocktails are made with fresh ingredients and are inspired by the flavors of the South. The wine list features wines from all over the world, and the beer list features local and regional craft beers.
Church and Union is a lively and fun restaurant with a casual atmosphere. The dining room is spacious and airy, with exposed brick walls and chandeliers.
Why You Should Visit Church and Union
Church and Union is a great place to go for a special occasion or a night out with friends. The restaurant offers a unique combination of delicious food, excellent service, and a lively atmosphere in a historic setting. If you are looking for a special dining experience in Charleston, Church and Union is the place to go.
Here are some additional tips for planning your visit to Church and Union:
- Make a reservation in advance, especially if you are planning to visit on a weekend night.
- Dress in smart casual attire.
- Be prepared to pay a bit more for the dining experience.
- Allow plenty of time to enjoy the food and atmosphere.
- Don’t forget to try the cocktails!
I hope this blog post has helped you learn more about Church and Union, a great dining destination in Charleston SC.