39 Rue de Jean | French Restaurant in Charleston

About us

Where Neighbors Become Regulars, And Regulars Become Family

Step through the door at 39 John Street, and Upper King fades away. Exposed brick glows under warm light, a zinc-topped bar hums with conversation, and the air smells of butter, garlic, and fresh bread. 39 Rue de Jean is a French café, bar, and true brasserie in Charleston, set in the historic downtown. It has the easy, unhurried spirit of a Parisian corner favorite, made for a city that loves to linger. It's where couples celebrate anniversaries, friends drift in after work, and families claim the big table for Sunday supper. Many locals proudly call it the best French restaurant in Charleston, bringing a piece of France to the Lowcountry and treating every guest like part of the neighborhood.

Menu So Good,
You Can't Resist

Food For Every Palate

Our menu reads like a love letter to the French table. It opens with rich escargots swimming in garlic butter, while steak tartare arrives silky and bright, and steamed mussels come in a choice of sauces. Then come the mains: coq au vin, pan-seared scallops, grilled salmon, and chicken francaise. Seasonal chef's specials show off the best ingredients of the moment, and for the finish, a crème brûlée cracks under the spoon exactly as it should. Visit us and discover a genuine French food experience in the heart of Charleston.

full menu

Save Your Spot

Get The Best Seats In The House

The best tables at our brasserie in Charleston go quickly, especially on weekend evenings when the dining room hums and the bar fills with laughter. Reserve ahead and your evening starts the moment you walk in. That might mean a romantic corner for date night, a spot on the patio for a long lunch in the Lowcountry light, or a seat at the bar where the bartenders make you a craft cocktail.

book a table

Private events
at 39 Rue de Jean

Hosting With A View

If you're looking for restaurants in Charleston that fit your occasion, head upstairs at 39 Rue de Jean and take the whole floor for yourselves. It's a private, stylish space with a view over Upper King Street, and your guests have their own entrance, so the party starts the moment they walk in. It works just as well for a rehearsal dinner as for a company celebration or a big birthday, and it's roomy enough for a crowd without losing that warm, personal feel. We'll help you plan the menu and the bar, so you can enjoy with your guests. Reach out today!

Happy Hour
& Much More

Always A Reason To Stop By

Happy hour is the easiest way to start your evening. Pull up a seat at the bar, order something from the specials menu, and let the day slip away. We also run daily specials, so there's always something new to try. Think a relaxed weeknight drink or a casual bite with friends. Check back often, because our specials change regularly.

Specials

We Are Hiring

Join The Dream Team

We're always glad to meet warm, motivated people who want to grow in a busy, welcoming restaurant on Upper King. You'll learn the craft of classic service, work alongside a passionate kitchen and bar team, and be part of a place the community loves. If that sounds like you, please reach out. Browse our current openings and apply online today.

Jobs

Burger served with fries on a white plate.

Onion soup with browned cheese top, overhead view.

Chicken Francese stacked with vegetables and sauce.

A dish of Coq au Vin, French chicken stew.

Pan-seared scallops served with roasted vegetables and a yellow sauce.

Steak tartare served with creamy sauce, bread and greens.

Grilled steak and frites with crispy fries and sauce.

A dish of steamed mussels served in pesto sauce.

Grilled salmon served over a potato galette with sauteed vegetables.

Steak tartare topped with butter on a plate.

Chicken Francese with capers and vegetables.

Chicken Francese served with roasted vegetables.

Reviews

Review by - google

five star review by Kaan K:

We had a great experience at our stopby in Charleston at this awesome French Restaurant. Cocktails were great. We had filet mignon, cheese fondue, steak tartare and a creme brulee. All of them was perfect. We have been there without reservation but they have taken care with us really nice. Great team was serving. Their manager was so competant, he was visiting all the tables as it should be. Thank you ! Definately Recommended.

Review by - google

five star review by Susan A:

Thank you so much for accommodating our group of 25. Hutson Alley decorated for the holidays was so much fun. Our table was ready and prepped early. The food was delicious and our service was impeccable. Everyone had a wonderful time. Merry Christmas

Review by - google

five star review by John:

We had a wonderful dinner for our anniversary and were very happy we chose this restaurant. Our server brought us two glasses of champagne, very cool! Onion soup was fantastic as well as the Caesar salad. Enjoyed the braised chicken and the porterhouse pork chop. Veggies and potatoes were awesome. I highly recommend going here!

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