Bridge Road Bistro

Lunch at the Bridge Road Bistro was disappointing. Restaurant was empty, but we stood at the door for a long time for someone to greet us to no avail. We finally flagged down a waitress to seat us. Our server tried, but was completely unable to describe the "Kentucky Derby" specials ("a round roll with cheese, a wrap with green dressing") nor could she answer menu questions without having to go back to the kitchen to check. It wasn't possible to substitute coleslaw for the sauerkraut on the Reuben because they were not cooked to order, but pre-assembled in the morning. The food was overpriced & nothing to brag about - salad with greens that looked unwashed or just old and bruised with almost no dressing and an unbelievably cold, stale crouton on top. Cold grilled sandwich burned on one side. Wilted fruit. This experience dashed my last hope to find a decent restaurant in Charleston.

The layout is modest, the people are friendly and the food is extraordinary!! Weather you're grabbing Hors d'œuvre at the 'Cheers' like atmosphere bar or sitting in a booth by the kitchen- the food is eclectic, flavorful, and curiously, amazing! The matching of spirits with exotic foods and contemporary serving styles- this is a neuvo landmark for West Virginia! Gracias Chef Paco!

Pros: Charleston comfort with world-class cuisine!

Cons: There's only one Chef Paco.

We dined at the Bridge Road Bistro on May 8th. I found the location great, easy to find and within a short distance of downtown Charleston. I had the free-range chicken which was lightly seared and the meat still moist. The wine list was broad and included a great Marimar Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley. Overall a great place to dine in Charleston and a great change from the downtown mall locations of the other area high-end restaurants.