I don’t know about you, but I like to be known. I like to have a spot that I can call “mine.”  A place where I can go alone, sip a glass of wine, read a book and still feel right at home.  When I moved to Charleston nine months ago, I was on a mission to find my place.  I didn’t want a tourist trap; I wanted a real gem.

As I walked down the blocks of my new neighborhood, I kept peeking in the window of Muse – a small, cozy restaurant and wine bar.  Converted from a charming, old Charleston home, Muse is tucked away on a quiet street in the middle of all the downtown action.  Curious as to what this place was all about, I ventured into the bar, only to find that it was exactly what I was looking for.

Immediately, I learned that most of the customers were regulars and I made it my goal to become one of them.  Upon asking the bartender how I could achieve such status, his simple answer was to “just come.” And so I did.  Whether Matt or Donnie is behind the bar, you can trust that you are in good hands as they are both well-versed in wine and able to recommend the perfect complement for your mood and meal.  And on the rare occasion, Matt will treat you to some magic tricks and Donnie will regale you with his love of celebrity gossip.

My perfect night includes my favorite whites – the Bordeaux Blanc, Chateau Lamothe and the Sancerre, Lucien Crochet.  French, of course. For appetizers, I always go with the Meze Platter that includes hummus, baba ghanoush, cucumber salad, assorted Spanish olives and grilled flat bread that is too good to even try to describe!  Other must-haves are the Grilled Duck Breast with pomegranate au jus and the Grilled Squid.  In addition to great food, you can always be assured that the night will be full of good conversation with those you know and those you are just getting to know.

Kick the dime a dozen crab houses and oyster shacks in Charleston. Full of personality, Muse blends the elegance of a sophisticated wine bar with the comfort-level of your favorite local pub.  The best part about Muse – it can be “mine” and yours too.

TIP: Go to the bar for wine and appetizers before 6:30 – it gets packed early and you want a front row seat.

Muse.  82 Society Street.  Charleston, SC.  843-577-1102

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