Victor's Seafood and Steak and 39 Rue De Jean--The Perfect Pairing for a Night of Celebrating Life

Two restaurants in close proximity to one another in one of the busiest areas of mid-Upper Charleston made for a perfect night. One was chosen for its signature cocktails and sky-high bar space accented by a dramatic piece of art, and the other for its French name and diverse menu. Hutson Alley's Victor's Seafood and Steak and 39 Rue De Jean were the model pairing for an evening of celebrating life.

Victor's Seafood and Steak was once known as Victor's Social Club. Its centerpiece bar dominates a richly decorated two-story interior awash with shades of whites and blacks and radiating a look of pure elegance. A life-size John Doyle painting of a Blue Marlon hovering over a boat towered over the room's bar seating. It offers signature cocktails, including a selection of barrel-aged cocktails, beer, wine, and walls lined with fish paintings and intimate seating for two under each art piece. The restaurant's refined dining room features plush booths, antique wares, and wildlife scenes.

We took a seat at the bar where two well-spoken and mannerly young men dressed in black and wearing spectator shoes patiently awaited our drink selections. After a few questions about the unusual drink names on the menu and helpful answers, I chose a potent cocktail called Midnight in Paris--a concoction of Still Vanilla, Lavender Simple Syrup, and Lemon. There was no skimping on the alcohol. My accomplice for the night chose the ExPresso Martini topped off by three brandy-soaked cherries threaded on a silver hairpin stick and described her perfect drink as smooth with a rich froth that mimicked a fine Bailey's Irish Creme. The experience was an exquisite beginning to the evening.

Our next pre-chosen stop was a short stroll from Victor's, a refined French Cafe and Bar reminiscent of a late 1800s Brasserie called 39 Rue De Jean. And why not, since after indulging in the earlier Midnight in Paris.

We were seated at a small table set for two. Our server was an accommodating, ready-to-take-on the world College of Charleston student. After relating a story of a recent dating experience, the young gentleman took our orders.

I selected the Truffle Potato Soup made with Creamy Potato Puree, Truffle Infusion, and Chive Cream Fraiche for $11 and the Traditional Caesar Salad for $9. My entree selection was the same as my companion, the Shrimp Provencal--Sauteed Shrimp, House Pasta, Pernod Garlic, Butter Sauce, and Red Pepper Chili Flakes for $26.

The Truffle Potato Soup was magnifique, as was the Traditional Caesar Salad. The generous, and I mean generous portion, of Shrimp Provencal was superbly garlicky.

39 Rue De Jean lived up to its reputation as a restaurant with good food and service. A little on the noisy side, but that is because it was packed with a boisterous crowd of loyal, hungry patrons. Even though just there for cocktails, Victor's Seafood and Steak was my favorite of the night. The quiet atmosphere was good for light conversation, the drinks were gratifying, and the bartenders were entertaining both in dress and persona. I will return to experience the restaurant's dining menu.

Victor's Seafood and Steak, 39F John St, Charleston, SC

39 Rue De Jean, 39 John St, Charleston, SC