Atmosphere & Service
MESU, located on King Street in Charleston, SC, offers a unique blend of Mexican and Japanese-inspired cuisine in a lively and artistic atmosphere. The restaurant is well-situated in the vibrant downtown area, making it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors looking to experience something different. The atmosphere is enhanced by the thoughtful and bold decor, which merges street art elements with a contemporary style, creating a space that feels both modern and authentic. The space feels dynamic and engaging, perfect for both casual dinners and celebrations.
Despite being packed with a lively crowd, the bartender stood out for his exceptional service and offered great recommendations that perfectly complemented our tastes.
Food & Value
I decided to indulge by ordering the Rainbow Roll and two tacos: the A5 Wagyu Philly taco and the Barbacoa Braised Beef taco. The Rainbow Roll was exceptional—each bite was fresh, delicious, and bursting with flavor, showcasing the high-quality ingredients and attention to detail in its preparation. The tacos were equally impressive, with the A5 Wagyu Philly taco standing out as a notch above the rest. The richness of the Wagyu beef was perfectly balanced by the accompanying flavors, making it a true highlight of the meal. The Barbacoa Braised Beef taco was also excellent, delivering a savory and satisfying experience. Everything was served hot, full of flavor, and left me thoroughly impressed with the culinary offerings.
One of the highlights of the visit was trying their fun tequila cocktail, which is creatively served in a miniature Patron bottle. The presentation added a playful touch to the experience, making the cocktail feel unique and memorable. However, to my disappointment, I found out that you don’t get to keep the cute little bottle as a souvenir.
Overall Experience
Overall, my experience at MESU was thoroughly enjoyable, from the vibrant atmosphere to the expertly crafted dishes. The fresh and flavorful dishes made for a memorable meal. I was particularly impressed by the creativity in both the food and the cocktail presentation. I had hoped to return and try another roll of sushi, but unfortunately, this was a short trip to Charleston, and time didn’t allow for a second visit. However, MESU is definitely a place I’ll be visiting again on my next trip to Charleston, eager to explore more of their unique and delicious offerings.