On the Menu for May 1, 2018

Listen to this article

On the Menu provides the latest news from the Charleston area’s culinary community, including new restaurants, new menu items and upcoming events, as well as details about local chefs. ATTENTION: Submissions should now be made using our online form.

Merchants Hall, a private event space on the second floor at 36 N. Market St., is now open.

The building was constructed in 1856 for J.C.H. Claussen and Co., a wholesaler of crackers, cakes, candies and other goods. After undergoing extensive renovations, the event space now includes a 2,808-square-foot ballroom with capacity for 180 people standing or 150 seated.

Merchants Hall has high ceilings, a bridal or host suite, and a warming kitchen. Planners can also use the optional stage, custom-built bar carts and elevator.

Morgan Creek Grill is planning a Cinco de Derby party on Saturday. The event will celebrate Cinco de Mayo and the Kentucky Derby falling on the same day. There will be a taco bar, mint julep specials and live music.

On Forty One is set to host a Mother’s Day brunch and dinner buffet on May 13. Brunch will be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner seatings will be at 5 and 7 p.m.

Blue Bicycle Books’ Charleston Author Series will host Holly Herrick and The New Charleston Chef’s Table Cookbook for a luncheon at noon Friday at Halls Signature Events at No. 5 Faber. Chef Matt Greene will prepare Lowcountry shrimp and grits, the dish on the cookbook’s cover, and wine and cocktails will be available for purchase.

Tickets are $31 for lunch and $59 for lunch and a copy of the cookbook.

Edmund’s Oast is hosting a Kentucky Derby & Cinco de Mayo Party at 3 p.m. Saturday in The Bower. The event will include a themed drink menu created by Jayce McConnell, and executive chef Bob Cook will serve food specials. Items include mint juleps, pitchers of margaritas and tacos. The Kentucky Derby will be shown on TVs in The Bower.