Group behind Husk to open new downtown Charleston restaurant

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Those that brought us Husk, Minero, The James and the Delaney Oyster House are now ushering in a new restaurant slated to open in February.

According to David Howard, founder of The Neighborhood Dining Group (NDG), Marbled & Fin will open at 480 E. Bay St. in Charleston, which, for 60 years operated as a cleaning business known as the East Bay Cleaners.

“When I looked at the interior, I saw a large space with plenty of light and 17-foot ceilings and thought that it was a great environment to promote socialization and be configured as a steakhouse,” Howard said.

According to Howard, NDG chose the neighborhood because it’s up and coming.

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“It’s located a little off Main Street in downtown Charleston,” Howard said, explaining why the NDG views the project as a good investment. “Part of the business side of what we do is not only to find a unique space, but also to make sound financial decisions. With elevated costs, we found that the rent was more palatable at the location a quarter mile away.”

Add that to the fact that condominiums, which will cost in the neighborhood of $2 million and $4 million, will be located a mere 500 yards away and it’s not difficult to come to the conclusion that future residents will find the restaurant convenient.

Another plus for the restaurant is plenty of parking, a bit of a rarity for restaurants located in cities today.

“Guests will be able to choose from onsite parking, parking in the aquarium garage and valet,” said Howard of the eatery that will seat approximately 150.

As for food, with a name like Marbled and Fin, it’s easy to determine that the stars of the show will be seafood and steak. When it comes to décor, Howard reports that they will deviate from the standard, clubby steakhouse atmosphere.

“It will be just a little more sophisticated: sleek and elegant with ample natural light,” Howard said, adding that the goal is to make it comfortable, inviting, fun and vibrant with a lighthearted, energetic space.

Marbled & Fin will also feature a full bar.

“Our highly skilled cocktail team is currently developing the program which will contain classics, along with more modern drinks, an extensive whisky and bourbon program and a well-vetted and worldly wine list,” said Howard.

With this newest addition to their portfolio, NDG brings their employment numbers up to a total of 325, according to Howard.

“Because we provide jobs with lots of benefits, we’re a leader in the area and blessed with a lot of highly skilled food and beverage people who are very loyal to our team” said Howard, adding that he and his colleagues are proud to play such a pivotal part of the restaurant scene in the Charleston area.

“It’s our fifth Charleston restaurant, we’re a Charleston-owned company and all our partners are Charlestonians,” he said, adding that he’s looking forward to what the future will bring to the area.

Stephanie Kalina-Metzger is a contributing writer for SC Biz News.