Is the best new restaurant in the US in SC? It was nominated for 2026 James Beard Award

There are plenty of great restaurants and eateries that grace South Carolina’s presence, but some are outstanding and even award-winning.

One restaurant in SC in particular may soon receive one of the nation’s greatest culinary honors, the James Beard Best New Restaurant Award.

For nearly four decades, the James Beard Awards have served as the pinnacle of culinary recognition in the U.S. A restaurant that wins the Best New Restaurant Award demonstrates supreme excellence in its food, atmosphere, service, hospitality and overall operations.

Here’s the restaurant that was nominated for the award:

SC restaurant finalist for James Beard Awards

Based in Charleston, Merci is a little French bistro that made a big enough impression to be a finalist for the James Beard Awards. They are one of 10 restaurants that were nominated, and they are the only SC restaurant that was nominated for 2026’s Best New Restaurant.

Merci opened last year in March and has served hungry Charleston residents European-inspired seasonal plates highlighting local purveyors and Old World techniques in a cozy and convivial setting.

The bistro frequently updates its menu to include small plates, entrees and desserts, along with wine, beer and non-alcoholic specialties. The minds behind the food are Chef Michael and Courtney Zentner.

While their menu changes daily, you can expect delicious salads, chicken, duck and even beef wellington. If you want to experience a French meal that was nominated for its excellence, book a reservation here.

They’re located at 28 Pitt St, Charleston, SC 29401.

There is another SC eatery that was nominated for a James Beard Award, but this time it’s a bakery. Here’s where it’s located.

SC’s Outstanding Bakery nomination

Also located in Charleston, Welton’s Tiny Bakeshop was a finalist for this year’s Outstanding Bakery award.

The cute bakery opened back in 2022 and specializes in sustainable, naturally leavened breads and pastries made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s less than 1,000 square feet, but the interior is welcoming, comforting and there is a lot of love and attention put into the shop, according to their website.

On their menu they serve coffee and espresso, as well as classic pastries such as croissants, sugar buns, kolaches, cookies, cakes, and much more. Menus are subject to change. Their pastries can sell out fast, so if you want to grab one, make sure to go early in the day.

Their address is 684 King St, Charleston, SC 29403.

The ceremony announcing the winners of the James Beard Awards will take place at the Lyric Opera of Chicago tonight. If either SC eatery wins an award, we will follow up with another story.