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Charleston › Charleston › Gaulart & Maliclet Fast and French Inc.
Gaulart & Maliclet Fast and French Inc.BWorth Trying
98 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401
· Restaurant, Cafe, French restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1257 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Charming French cafe with distinctive soups, croques, and cheese plates at fair prices; great on good nights, but occasional service lapses and a few safety complaints mean expectations should be tempered.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Gaulart & Maliclet delivers authentic French cafe charm with strong food quality in croques and Provençal sandwiches, plus appealing historic character and excellent value. However, inconsistent execution—particularly in soups and seafood—and occasional service lapses during peak times prevent grade A territory. It's a beloved neighborhood fixture worth visiting, especially for lunch specials.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels cozy and close, with counter seating, patio tables, and shelves of zines and art that make it more Parisian cafe than formal bistro. Reviewers describe staff as friendly and efficient on good days, though a few recount slow or disorganized stretches. One diner summed it up: "A simple, charming stop with fair prices and memorable sandwiches." The cooking leans classic French cafe—croques, Provençal baguettes, cheese and pâté boards—plus playful cold soups and seasonal touches. It is comforting and unfussy rather than showy; the lunch special with wine gets consistent love, while soups draw both praise and calls for more seasoning. When the kitchen is on, plates shine with good bread and clean flavors. For families, it is easy to order. Kids reportedly enjoyed croq monsieur, soups, and simple croissants. The menu lists vegetarian and a few vegan options, but much of it skews dairy-forward. Portions are modest cafe-style, so plan accordingly if feeding hearty appetites.
At a Glance
- Charming French cafe vibe with artful decor and patio seating
- Strong value for downtown, especially lunch specials including wine
- Standout croques, Provençal sandwiches, and cheese boards
- Service can be slow or forgetful during peak times
- Soups and seafood specials show inconsistency; seasoning and temperature vary
What Sets It Apart
- lunch_special_with_wine
- creative_cold_soups
- cozy_counter_seating_in_historic_space
What People Love
- Warm, quirky ambiance that feels European
- Reasonable prices for the historic area
- Memorable Special of the Day sandwiches
- Cheese and pâté boards for sharing
- Friendly staff on most visits
Points of Concern
- Occasional long waits and missed items when busy; a few reports of disorganization
- Soup quality varies from excellent to bland; temperature issues mentioned
- Isolated but serious seafood undercooking complaint; management response mixed
- Open-faced portions can feel small for some diners
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$22-32 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Prioritize croques and Provençal baguettes ($7-15).
- Share the Cheese & Pâté Du Jour ($24) or Rendezvous for Two ($37).
- Use lunch specials ($16 with wine) for value.
Perfect For
- Casual lunch while exploring downtown
- Light dinner with a glass of wine
- Solo bite at the counter
- Low-key date night
Location Insights
Area: Historic downtown stretch with galleries, churches, and tourist foot traffic; attracts shoppers, sightseers, and office workers.
Safety: Well-trafficked historic zone with good lighting and regular police presence; typical downtown caution at night.
Nearby: Near landmarks, art spaces, and courthouse; walkable to Market and waterfront parks.
Charleston Historic DistrictThe Charleston Historic District offers a rich dining scene with a blend of upscale restaurants, casual cafes, and traditional Southern eateries. The atmosphere is lively yet refined, attracting visitors and locals who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and culinary experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–20:00
Tuesday08:00–20:00
Wednesday08:00–20:00
Thursday08:00–21:00
Friday08:00–21:00
Saturday08:00–21:00
Sunday08:00–20:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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