If Charleston, South Carolina, had a passport, it would have a French stamp, thanks to 39 Rue de Jean. This lively John Street brasserie has served Parisian flair with Southern charm for years. Whether you’re craving a croque monsieur or just looking for a place to sip wine and people-watch, this spot delivers an experience that feels like a mini-vacation to France—minus the jet lag.
The Atmosphere: Where Charleston Meets Paris
Step inside 39 Rue de Jean, and you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a classic French brasserie. The space strikes the perfect balance between elegant and inviting. Think exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and a hum of cheerful conversation. It’s the kind of place where you can dress up for date night or keep it casual with friends, and either way, you’ll fit right in.
But the charm doesn’t stop at the front door. If you’re lucky enough to snag a seat on their outdoor patio, you’ll get a front-row view of Charleston life while sipping your wine al fresco. It’s like sitting at a café on the streets of Paris—except instead of the Eiffel Tower, you’ve got the charm of Upper King Street.
The Menu: French Classics With a Twist
Let’s talk food because that’s why we’re all here, right? The menu at 39 Rue de Jean is a love letter to French cuisine, but it doesn’t shy away from adding its own flair. You’ll find all the brasserie staples—escargot, steak frites, and moules marinieres—alongside dishes that nod to Charleston’s culinary roots.
Start your meal with the French Onion Soup, which arrives bubbling with melted gruyère cheese over caramelized onions and rich broth. Or try the Duck Confit Spring Rolls—a playful take on tradition that somehow works perfectly.
For your main course, it’s hard to go wrong with their Steak Frites. The steak is perfectly cooked, and the fries are crispy enough to make you forget about carb-counting. If seafood is more your style, their Mussels come in several preparations, from classic white wine and garlic to spicy curry broth. Pair them with some crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a meal that might make you consider moving to France (or at least coming back next week).
And don’t even think about skipping dessert. The Crème Brûlée is as silky as it gets, with that satisfying crack of caramelized sugar on top. If chocolate is your love language, go for the Chocolate Mousse. It’s rich enough to share—but let’s be honest, you probably won’t want to.
Drinks That Make You Stay Awhile
What’s French dining without wine? 39 Rue de Jean boasts an extensive wine list spanning French and American vineyards. Whether you’re into bold reds or crisp whites, there’s something here for every palate—and every price point.
Not a wine person? No problem. Their cocktail menu is just as impressive. Try the French 75, a fizzy mix of gin, lemon juice, and champagne that feels fancy without being fussy. Or go for something unexpected like their Lavender Lemonade, which tastes like springtime in a glass.
Beer lovers aren’t left out either; they have a curated selection of local brews and European imports that pair beautifully with just about anything on the menu.
Brunch: The Weekend Star
If dinner at 39 Rue de Jean is an event, brunch is a celebration. Offered Friday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, their brunch menu takes all the best parts of breakfast and lunch and gives them a French twist.
The Croque Madame—a ham-and-cheese sandwich topped with béchamel sauce and a fried egg—is pure comfort food. Try the Smoked Salmon Tartine, served on toasted bread with cream cheese and capers for something lighter but no less indulgent. And if you’re feeling extra fancy (or just really hungry), go for the Steak & Eggs. It’s exactly what it sounds like, but it feels more sophisticated when eaten in such chic surroundings.
Of course, no brunch is complete without mimosas or Bloody Marys—and they have plenty of both.
Private Events: Party Like It’s Paris
If you’re planning an event and want to impress your guests without lifting a finger in the kitchen, 39 Rue de Jean has you covered. Their private event space upstairs can host up to 200 people and comes with vaulted ceilings, exposed brick walls, and a private entrance. Whether it’s a wedding reception or a corporate gathering, this venue adds instant sophistication to any occasion.
Why It Works
What makes 39 Rue de Jean so special? It’s not just the food (though that’s reason enough). It’s how they blend French elegance with Charleston hospitality in a way that feels effortless. The staff is attentive without hovering and knowledgeable without being pretentious—a rare combination that makes every visit feel like a treat.
Sources: holycityhospitality.com, 39 Rue de Jean Facebook Page
Header Image Source: Guillaume Didelet on Unsplash
