It was a January evening at Middleton Place. Upon passing the softly lit entrance gate off of pitch black 61, in the far distance, you could see the brightly lighted North Flanker. It was about all you could see at this point in the darkness of the sunless landscape until the peering lights of your vehicle discreetly fell upon the branches of the tall oaks lining the drive leading up to the parking. Upon exiting your vehicle, the trailing smoke of the flaming wick lamps showed the way to the welcoming lights of Middleton's restaurant. The occasion, Restaurant Week, and Middleton Place Restaurant was featuring a 3 for $50 menu.
We did not have a reservation, so our choices were to either wait an hour and a half for an 8 pm seating or take a seat in the intimate bar area. We obviously chose the later option, which turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The large open room was warmed by an inviting, crackling fire, and we took a seat well positioned to take advantage of this welcoming amenity. Patron's leaving would make a final stop to warm themselves by the fire. One patron mentioning how cold it was sitting by the big windows of Middleton's elegant dining room. Also, the only thing you could hear over your conversation was the popping of the blazing wood, unlike the loud chatter of the main seating area. Check the box of another unexpected plus.
Our friendly server, who was also the bartender, promptly placed the restaurant's large menus on the table with two glasses of water, a full set of silverware for whatever, and two small plates for bread. First consideration was obviously our choice of opening drinks. My friend perused the extensive wine menu and I had already predetermined my choice, a Manhattan. Our server asked me my choice of Bourbon, and I said Knob Creek. My Manhattan was made just the way I like it, with a substantial kick, assuring me I got my moneys worth.
Our server stated the specials for the night, but we were there to partake of the 3 for $50 menu, which offered you a choice between two first courses, three second courses, and two third courses. For the first course, my friend and I chose the She Crab Soup made with lump crab and Sherry. For the second course, I chose the Chicken Perloo with the locally, famous Carolina gold rice, Andouille, bacon, caramelized apple, and fried parsley. My friend picked the Braised Lamb Shank with Carolina gold rice, Middlins risotto, roasted carrots, and red wine lamb reduction--sauce. The third course we both chose Apple Crumble with vanilla ice cream.
The bread was brought to the table and not long after the She Crab soup. We drank our drinks, buttered our bread, and conversed while we waited for the main course. The She Crab Soup was superb--a pleasant touch of Sherry and just the right flavor of crab, not overwhelming.
The main course arrived sizzling hot. Like the She Crab Soup, the different flavors in the rice dish was very balanced. The sausage and bacon did not dominate the hint of apple flavor and the texture of the rice had a soft crunch--enjoyable. The juicy chicken topped the rice and pulled apart easily. It was a satisfying portion for an entree. As to the Braised Lamb Shank, it was a first for my friend and she said she is now a fan of lamb. Finally, the Apple Crumble with vanilla ice cream was just that. When I think back on it, I should have tried the Southern Pecan Pie with caramel and whipped cream.
I give high marks to our server and bartender, Lucy. She was attentive, conversational, and humorous. Finished plates were cleared, so the table was never cluttered, and water topped off. She made drink inquiries as needed. She also had the added task of keeping the fire cozy, which she handled diligently.
Middleton Place Restaurant is elegant and historical. A good choice for Charleston Restaurant Week. For a table in the main dining room, be sure to make a reservation. However, the bar area is a pleasant surprise on a cold, January evening.
Middleton Place Restaurant
4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC
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