1010 BRIDGE | charleston, wv
- WineCheeseScallops
- Aug 30, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 2, 2024
Nestled in the heart of Charleston, 1010 Bridge has quickly become one of our favorite spots to dine in the city. This charming restaurant, known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional cuisine, offers a perfect blend of creativity and comfort. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual night out, 1010 Bridge never fails to impress with its thoughtfully curated menu and impeccable service.

Every visit to 1010 Bridge is a delightful experience, where the ambiance, staff, and, of course, the food, come together to create a memorable dining adventure. From the moment you walk through the door, you're greeted with warm smiles and a welcoming vibe, setting the tone for an enjoyable meal. The menu, crafted by Chef Paul Smith, showcases his passion for local ingredients and innovative dishes, making each visit feel like a new culinary exploration.
Sponsored Ad
If you’re a foodie or even just someone who enjoys a great meal in Charleston, WV, chances are you know the name Paul Smith. Recently crowned with the prestigious James Beard Award, Chef Paul Smith has put Charleston on the culinary map, becoming the first West Virginian to earn this honor. His recognition has been a source of pride for the entire community, and his culinary creations continue to captivate locals and visitors alike.

Chef Paul’s rise to fame wasn’t by accident. With an infectious personality and a passion for food that shines through in every dish, he has created a reputation for excellence that extends beyond his cooking. His talent isn’t confined to the kitchen; it’s also in his ability to inspire those around him. He’s not just a chef; he’s a mentor, a leader, and a community builder.
Chef Paul owns several local restaurants, each more beloved than the last. One of his standout establishments, 1010 Bridge, has quickly become a favorite for many, including our daughter, Emma. She’s been working there for over a year now, balancing her dual roles as a hostess and food runner. Working alongside Chef Paul has been an incredible experience for her, providing a unique perspective on what it takes to create a memorable dining experience.

Emma often shares stories about her time at 1010 Bridge. She loves the energy in the restaurant, where every shift is filled with excitement and a touch of magic. Chef Paul runs a tight ship, ensuring that every plate leaving the kitchen is nothing short of perfection. His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering standards set the tone for both the kitchen and the front of the house.
But it’s not all seriousness and hard work—there’s a lot of fun too. Chef Paul is known for his great sense of humor and kindness. Emma always speaks highly of him, appreciating his supportive nature and how he makes everyone feel valued. He’s the kind of chef who takes the time to teach and guide, sharing his wealth of knowledge with a smile. His approach has helped cultivate a team that feels more like a family, united by a shared love for great food and exceptional service.

Emma's experience at 1010 Bridge under Chef Paul's mentorship has been nothing short of transformative. She’s grown more confident, learning the ins and outs of restaurant operations, and discovering the joy of being part of a team that strives for excellence every day. It’s been a joy to see her thrive in such a dynamic environment.
Charleston is lucky to have Chef Paul Smith. His contributions to our local dining scene are unparalleled, and his impact extends far beyond his incredible culinary skills. He’s a beacon of what it means to be a true chef—one who not only creates delicious dishes but also enriches the community and lifts up those around him. Here’s to many more years of culinary adventures with Chef Paul!
Sponsored Ad
1010 Bridge offers a dining experience that perfectly balances fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant’s vibe is modern and adventurous, featuring a stylish interior with a touch of elegance that makes you feel right at home. The ambiance is lively yet refined, with an open kitchen that allows guests to catch a glimpse of the culinary magic happening behind the scenes. Whether you're seated at the bar or at a cozy table, you’ll be surrounded by an inviting energy that makes every meal feel special.
One of the highlights of any visit to 1010 Bridge is the exceptional service. The staff works like a well-oiled machine, seamlessly delivering a dining experience that is both attentive and relaxed. Derek, the bartender, is fantastic—his attention to detail and genuine hospitality make each visit to the bar a memorable one. The entire team is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to provide recommendations or share the story behind a dish.

Tonight, we started our meal with the Scallop and Beet Crudo. This appetizer was a delightful combination of fresh scallops and vibrant beet crudo, topped with candied serrano chili for a touch of heat and charred grapefruit for a hint of bitterness. It was a refreshing start that set the tone for an adventurous evening of fine dining.
Sponsored Ad

For our entrées, we indulged in the special, Shrimp and Mushroom Agnolotti. This dish featured delicate pasta filled with baby shrimp, edamame, and Hernshaw Farms mushrooms, all nestled in a rich sherried soubise sauce. It was a perfect blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the chef’s creativity and commitment to using local ingredients.

Our second entrée, the Risotto Carbonara, was equally impressive. Creamy risotto was elevated with asparagus tips, a 63-degree egg, bacon lardons, and English peas, creating a comforting and sophisticated dish. We added scallops because.... scallops!

To end the night on a sweet note, we savored the Beet and Red Velvet Cake. This dessert was a delightful surprise, combining the earthiness of beets with the classic richness of red velvet, served alongside a refreshing lemon gelato over a coconut beet puree. It was the perfect ending to a memorable dining experience at one of Charleston’s finest establishments
Sponsored Ad
As we wrapped up our meal at 1010 Bridge, we couldn’t help but feel incredibly grateful for yet another fantastic dining experience. This restaurant continues to impress us with its exceptional service, creative dishes, and welcoming atmosphere. Each visit feels like a culinary adventure, and tonight was no exception. We left with full bellies and happy hearts, already looking forward to our next meal here.
We want to extend a big thank you to the entire team at 1010 Bridge for making every visit so special. From the inventive menu crafted by Chef Paul Smith to the attentive service provided by Derek and the rest of the staff, every detail contributes to an unforgettable dining experience. If you’re in Charleston and looking for a place that combines fine dining with a relaxed vibe, we highly recommend giving 1010 Bridge a try. We promise you won’t be disappointed!
The gallery below showcases some dishes from our previous visits!
Sponsored Ad