It?s funny? the very evening after dining at Fulton Five and learning that it has been voted the most romantic restaurant in Charleston 13 years in a row, we had dinner with a couple who got engaged there. They spoke of the table they sat at and how wonderful the waiter and food was that evening. Fifteen years after their engagement, the restaurant has not changed.
Tucked away in the Historic District on Fulton Street is another one of Charleston?s hidden gems for dining, Fulton Five. It seats about 40+ people which includes seating at the bar, which was full. We were joined for dinner by our friends Dennis and Ginger owners of Carolina Coastal Properties. We were warmly greeted by the hostess and quickly seated at a banquette table.
Our waiter, David was personable, knowledgeable and a delight. He reviewed the specials, took our drink order and was back in a flash. The menu is interesting and inviting. It was almost difficult to decide on what to order since there were so many enticing options.
We started with the Insalata di Romaine (Romaine, croutons, cucumbers and a Parmesan Vinaigrette), the Antipasto Spoleto. The Soleto is an interesting little number consisting of prosciutto and mozzarella wrapped in a romaine leaf and then grilled! Seasoned with a balsamic vinaigrette.
The appetizer special of the evening - a ravioli (stuffed with a delightful short rib filling with a veal au jus), was something that sounded too good to miss so we ordered that as well.
The appetizers did not disappoint. The Spoleto was very tasty and a combination that was new to us. Where else do you see grilled romaine leaves???
Dinner also proved to be outstanding. The evening?s dinner special was a grilled pork belly nestled in a nice veal reduction and paired with colorful sweet potato hash. This was one of our table?s selections and it was enjoyed to the fullest.
The Veal Osso Bucco cooked slowly in a veal stock was served over risotto with a small bone as a garnish. Accompanying this was a tiny fork that could be used to get the flavorful marrow out of the bone ?what a treat!
The Filet d?Espresso (Chocolate Espresso Rubbed Filet served over Whipped Potatoes, Asparagus and a Balsamic-Veal Jus) was cooked perfectly. Although the flavors of chocolate or espresso did not come through, it was still enjoyable.
The evening?s entr?e special was a local Grouper served over a lobster and shrimp risotto. The fish was so tender that it fell apart at the approach of a fork. The risotto was perfect ? hot and so flavorful.
The entire meal was wonderful. David continued to be a terrific addition to the meal. Although he was busy with many tables, he and his assistant made sure that we did not want for anything during our stay.
With its intimate setting and cozy atmosphere it?s easy to see why it?s been crowned the ?Most Romantic? restaurant in Charleston. But come for the food and the service, you will not be disappointed.
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