It has been two years since Bertha’s Kitchen in Charleston won the prestigious James Beard “America’s Classics” award and the time-honored soul food restaurant seems humbly unchanged. Still a hub of activity each day during the lunch rush, Bertha’s Kitchen is exactly as it has been for decades. With the unexpected award in 2017 came a landslide of local, regional, and national media attention. Yet, this unpretentious little restaurant is exactly the same – in the best way possible.
In fact, except for the James Beard Foundation Award plaque proudly displayed in the restaurant, you'd never even know Bertha's had been flown all the way to Chicago to receive the award on the national stage.
The first James Beard award was presented in 1998 and since then, it has become one of the most sought after and recognized restaurant and chef awards in the country.
In the last 38 years, the menu at Bertha's has remained relatively unchanged and loaded with soul food classics like fried chicken, pork chops, collard greens, yams, and even the occasional special featuring pig's feet. (Don't knock 'em until you've tried them.)
At lunch time, people know to arrive early because, at times, the line can reach all the way out the door and begin to meander up the block. Yes, the food is worth the wait.
If the dining room is already filled, most folks will happily settle for taking their to-go container to their car, back to the office, or home to dig in to the delicious fare awaiting inside.
It's a casual restaurant; the 'come as you are kind,' where everyone is treated like family. If there's a line, wait your turn and then order at the counter. It's a simple system that hasn't failed, ever.
Some people show up having read the outrageously positive reviews online concerned that the food just can't measure up. But they're pleasantly surprised when they discover it's even better than anyone can possibly describe with words.
Bertha's Kitchen began more than 30 years ago in a tiny building in the not-so-pretty part of Charleston. It's only a short drive up U.S. 52 (Meeting Street), yet worlds and worlds away from the chaos and expensive meals found in the historic district.
Have you discovered the goodness found at this James Beard award recipient? Bertha’s Kitchen is a neighborhood icon worth seeking out. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday.
Address: 2332 Meeting Street Road, Charleston, SC, 29405
