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Cru Cafe Reviews List

Cru Cafe

It's the Holy City's Hidden Gem! Cru Café is Charleston's home to some of the best gourmet comfort food in the Lowcountry. Cru Café is the culinary creation of renowned Le Cordon Bleu graduate, Chef John Zucker. Opened in 2002 in response to overwhelming demand, Cru Café is a culinary destination off the beaten path in in a classic 18th century Charleston single-style home. Cru Café and its award-winning Cru Catering division are consistently ranked as top eateries by locals and tourists alike. From our famous Four Cheese Macaroni to our tasty Thai Seafood Risotto, we feature something for everyone. And if you're in the mood for lighter fare, try our Chinese Chicken Salad or Duck Confit Salad. Guests of the restaurant can enjoy daily specials, indoor and outdoor porch seating, a wine list tailored to the varied menu and rich, mouthwatering desserts. We invite to stop in and enjoy a delicious meal with us today.
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426 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
(426 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 426 reviews
5 stars
(286)
4 stars
(112)
3 stars
(22)
2 stars
(5)
1 star
(1)
Food 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
Service 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
2.2 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(316)
  • neighborhood gem(300)
  • great for lunch(170)
  • great for outdoor dining(139)
  • special occasion(98)
  • romantic(75)
Cru Cafe Reviews List
Review 1 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

GREAT FOOD, GREAT PRICE

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food...This is definitely a place I will return every time I go back to charleston.....Very reasonable prices too...Got to sit at the chefs table and watch the kitchen as they made our meal.....overall very impressed"
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
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Review 2 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Cru Cafe is a treasure!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"During a weekend visit to Charleston, we reserved a table for lunch at Cru Cafe. All I can say is Thank You to the friend providing the tip because it was fantastic! Located in a small converted house with indoor and outdoor seating. We had a wonderful server and all of our food was delicious and creatively prepared! Favorites were Shrimp BLT, Coconut fried oyster wrap, and the Beef brisket sandwich. We will definitely return! Be sure to make a reservation - seating is limited they were very crowded."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 3 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Loved the online reservation option. Food was outstanding!! Excellent food and excellent service!! Would go everyday if possible!"
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 4 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Charleston gem

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had an early lunch, the start to a busy day in Charleston.
Really delicious, innovative food, friendly service. That's all you need.
"
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
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Review 5 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Book ahead

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wonderful food but limited seating, so make a reservation if you don't want to wait."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 6 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Love this place!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food. Quaint atmosphere. Don't miss it. Make sure to get reservations."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My favorite spot in Charleston

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I have to say it was my favorite spot in Charleston living there and still is when I visit. I was disappointed that I reserved the chefs table and open table somehow didn't communicate it with the restaurant and I did not get to sit there. It's a gem if you can get a reservation at that spot. Amazing food, always fresh. Definitely nice for a special occasion or friends night out."
Dined on 6/12/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, scenic view, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 8 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Wonderful Staff and Food to Match.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Can you compliment wait staff too much? Not at this place, they are friendly and efficient and personable. We had a few minute wait for our table and once seated, nothing seemed too much trouble. We elected to have a few small plates and share and the number was recommended by the waitress and was perfect. The special of the day was Baratta filled with pesto and feta and wrapped in prosciutto before being lightly cooked - this was a daily special and was so amazing I hope they keep it on the menu. We only had the 3 plates and a couple of glasses of wine, but even though there were people walking in for a table, they never hurried us or pushed us to leave. We felt comfortable at all times and would go back again and again."
Dined on 6/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 9 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

small but powerful

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"kept the cozy, warm ambience of the old Pinckney Cafe, where I first ate with my then-college student daughter ... we all cleaned our plates which meant, sadly, no room for dessert ... next time a dessert date!"
Dined on 6/11/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 10 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Yum

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The salads are wonderful. The peach bread pudding was phenomenal and I don't even like bread pudding."
Dined on 6/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 11 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We go to the Cru Cafe every year when we visit Charleston. The food is always fantastic and they make you feel very special. The staff are all very knowledgable and they work well as a team. Our son has joined us the past few years and he talks about how good the food was for months afterwards. We will definitely be back next year."
Dined on 6/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 12 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Awesome lunch!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We truly enjoyed our lunch! We ordered the oyster wrap with fries for the side. It was delicious!!! The portion was generous; it was large enough that my husband and I split the dish, and both left the restaurant full. Highly recommended!"
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 13 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Everything fabulous!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Loved our dinner at Cru! Amazing food and impeccable service. Thanks, Sara, for a great experience."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 14 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

If you only eat, it is fine!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The noise level in the restaurant prevented any normal conversation. If you are only going to eat and don't want to engage in any conversation, then it might be a place I would choose to visit again. Also having a location right across from the Charleston horse barns is not overly conducive to having an expensive meal."
Dined on 6/08/2013
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Review 15 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great spot for a great dinner!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My wife and I recently ate at Cru cafe for our 4 year wedding anniversary. This is a cute little spot of Pinckney street not far from all the carriage tour places. The food was great, the ambiance was bright and cheerful and the service was also wonderful. Our server was very knowledgeable about the menu and was able to thoroughly answer all of our questions about the food. The flavors of each dish worked well together and were very well thought out. All of our proteins were cooked perfectly, our entire meal, appetizer, mains and desserts were very well executed. I would dine here again in a heartbeat. The food was also reasonably priced, while not cheap of course, we spent more money on worse meals in Charleston."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 16 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lovely lunch, but plan ahead

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/06/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"First, PLAN AHEAD and make reservations! I can recall about 8-10 tables indoors and 4 on the porch, so it's not a big place. I made reservations for a weekday lunch about 1 week before visiting Charleston. The Cafe was ready for me when I arrived, but believe me, it is a popular location for visitors and locals, and the reservations manager was busy out of his mind! Even so, the wait staff was friendly and efficient, and you did not feel rushed when ordering. I had the grouper cake with zucchini, portabello mushroom, and goat cheese "fritter" (I'll call it that), which was a special, and was very fresh and an excellent mix of flavors. Plus mint julep iced tea, flourless chocolate torte and cappuccino for desert. Lovely lunch!"
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 17 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Another fine Charleston restaurant. Fresh, well prepared food with excellent service."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 18 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Small But Potent

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/06/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"At Cru Cafe, my wife and I enjoyed the most delicious meals of our coastal SC vacation, and some of the best ever. It's small and somewhat hard to find, but worth the effort."
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 19 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of many repeat visits

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 2/27/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Cru Cafe remains one of my wife's and my favorites in Charleston. The food is exceptional, even in a city known for great food. This is a place we never miss eating at during our many visits to Charleston."
Dined on 2/27/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 20 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fabulous brisket sandwich

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I though brisket was brisket, good of course, but how could it be different than any other brisket? All I can say is wow, it's like a magic brisket sandwich it's that good!"
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 21 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Shrimp BLT to dream about

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The best sandwich ever! I had to go to the bakery to get the bread they used after lunch."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 22 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Cru Cafe

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My special (tile fish on bed of spinach) was excellent. Husband's flounder pasta dish was heavy. Probably won't go back because of the room size. It's in an old house, and there are only two inside dining areas. We sat in the main room, which was quite small. Felt cramped."
Dined on 6/04/2013
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Review 23 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Small gem

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Really delicious meal. Tried the praline encrusted tile fish. Excellent blend of flavors. All in our group were more than pleased. Alex was a most pleasant and competent waitress.
Highly recommend you seek out the Cru!
"
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem
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Review 24 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

special

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Johnny was our server did a very nice job of making us feel at home."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, great for lunch
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Review 25 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great Lunch

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had lunch with my wife who had a chicken sandwich and macaroni and cheese. Liked both very much but mac and cheese was not the best she ever had. I had the special which was cornbread encrusted talapia sandwich with parmesan truffle fries. Both were great and the fries were addicting. We will be back."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 26 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A pleasant surprise!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/29/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very southern atmosphere-enjoyable evening. The food was very well presented and tasty. The staff was most helpful and accommodating."
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 27 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very good dinner in Charleston

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Wonderful dinner in a very charming restaurant. My only complaint is that we were rushed. Because the restaurant is so small, I felt pressure to finish fast and leave. The food arrived too fast. But I would definitely go back!"
Dined on 6/01/2013
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Review 28 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Yum!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I took my best friend here for her birthday and we each tried one of the specials and they were just amazing! It's pretty pricey but it is absolutely worth the money. We went for an early dinner and it wasn't crowded at all."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 29 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great place (make reservations)

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was our second visit to Cru Cafe and we are still raving about it! Cute historic house with open kitchen, indoor and outdoor seating, wonderful menu with great flavors, friendly and efficient service."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 30 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A local treasure!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/30/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This place came highly recommended for "foodies" and it doesn't disappoint. Reservations are a MUST - the space is small and it gets busy. We didn't find the service to be all that attentive but they were very busy when we were there. The food is very good and the menu is interesting and creative. The restaurant occupies the downstairs of an old house in the heart of Charleston. Highly recommend Cru cafe!"
Dined on 5/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 31 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Excellent as always! Great food, service and drinks. We'll be back."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 32 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great little lunch place

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/28/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Parking is the only possible negative that I could say about the Cru Cafe. Reservations recommended because it is a small place, but the food, atmosphere and service is great. We had lunch and the portion size was generous too. Everything that I saw being served while we were there looked so good. Special of the day was soft-shelled crab and it was beautifully prepared. Look forward to the next time."
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 33 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Don't go for dinner

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/29/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Cru was once a great spot but for lunch. For dinner, its unpleasantly loud and the food was overlooked. The biggest disappointment in charleston."
Dined on 5/29/2013
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Review 34 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Wonderful overall experience. We only managed lunch at Cru Café during our busy Spoleto Festival visit to Charleston, but glad we worked it in. Definitely looking forward to a return visit next time we are in Charleston--Spoleto 2014 or sooner!"
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 35 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A perfet tucked away gem!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"You may need to call ahead to check for seating availability at this tiny little cafe but any wait you have is absolutely worth it!!! I had the sauteed flounder over pappardelle pasta with mushrooms, pancetta, dried tomatoes and roasted cauliflower cream sauce and it was simply divine! If you are into rich chocolate then have the chocolate torte for dessert it is yum yum yum!!! This is a great spot for a nice meal where you can take the time to savor every bite. The staff is friendly and this kitchen works like a well oiled machine. You can even watch it work if you are interested in sitting at the chefs table where you are perched on a stool at a bar top facing the kitchen. I hope everyone enjoys this as much as I did! :)"
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 36 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Always epic. Every trip I make to Charleston includes a meal at The Cru Cafe."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 37 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Tiny but always good

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"They may not seat many people, and yes you should ALWAYS make a reservation here, but they always have your table ready. The food is wonderful and the service is excellent. If you want to see what's going on in the kitchen sit at the counter."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 38 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great Charleston Lunch Spot

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent food and service. Enjoyed the soft shell crab."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 39 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best meal

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This was probably one of the best meals the four of us have ever eaten!"
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 40 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Charleston Charm

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Wonderful neighborhood dining in dowtown charleston. Great service. Sat outside without a very long wait at all. Inside smelled a little fishy to me but then I am not a seafood person. Meal was great. Would definitely recommend it. Not very loud at all. On a quiet street. Dining room felt a little crowded not very romantic"
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 41 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of the best in Charleston

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Cru is on our list of the top three places to dine in Charleston. Never disappointed. Consistent, interesting and yummy~"
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 42 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/22/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We had a very enjoyable lunch here! We sat outside and everything was very pleasant. Food was very good, nice atmosphere on a beautiful day. Would definitely recommend--just be sure to make a reservation."
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 43 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Nice Resturant...OK food

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This was a resturant everyone in town told us we must go to. And it was ok. Not sure if this is because my expectations were too high or because it was just ok.
I am happy I went the atmosphere in the remodled house by the ocean is great. The food is good not spectacular and the price is just fine.
I ordered the Pan Seared Duck Breast and while I did not dislike it, I did not love it either. Lacked a little crunch on the skin...sauce was run of the mill...lacked.
Wife had the Pablano and Mozz Fried Chicken this dish was avg at best
The sides Mac and Cheese and Truffle fires where the stars but stars in a way that any classy resturant can make...very good but not over the top great, they are simply what you expect at a place like this
"
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 44 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Very nice

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/21/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We travel to Charleston area as often as possible & always try to have lunch or dinner @ Cru. Reservations highly recommended."
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 45 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Our favorite!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/21/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We ate at several great restaurants during our 5 day stay in Charleston, but this was by far our favorite. So much so, we ate both dinner and lunch here and we enjoyed everything we ordered. We highly recommend Cru Cafe."
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 46 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food with great atmosphere... Always a great place to dine every time we are in Charleston."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 47 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A Taste of The South

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Old South charm with a new southern twist-The selection-The presentation-Dinning on the "Piaza" with the fan overhead supplying a "cool" breeze- while overlooking the street-without the hustle & bustle of the inside-an entirely different atmoshere-Charming & delightful-Believe it or not the stables slightly down the street added an unbelievable Antebellum ambiance-"
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 48 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Reserve Cru Cafe in Charleston

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Cru Cafe on May 18th.
I ordered the Duck Confit Salad and my husband ordered the Soft Shell Crab (featured appetizer) and both dishes were Out of this World! For entrees, we ordered the Red Snapper and the Pork Chop (featured entrees) and both were DIVINE !!!!
The service, food and ambiance made for a lovely evening filled with warm Southern Hospitality. Make a reservation and enjoy an evening at Cru Cafe....One of THE BEST in Charleston!!!!!
"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 49 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food with a spin

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Cru takes classic dishes and puts a delicious spin on the traditional. Excellent service and menu variety"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for outdoor dining
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Review 50 for Cru Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Charleston lunch spot

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Amazing food with excellent service. A fairly small house in Charleston serving small fare with HUGE flavor and great variety of novel dishes. You must have the duck confit salad and fried green tomatoes. Throw in a bottle of sancerre and the mussels and you are in heaven! Strongly advise reservations."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
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