Palais De Jade

Saturday night rolled around and, for once, i wasn't out in town clubbing. Instead, i was at a new Chinese restaurant over the Cooper river in Mount Pleasant with a group of workmates. One of our chinese colleagues had heard good things about the new place - and so arranged for a group of us to go and eat. What with my ongoing mission to find the nicer places in Charleston to dine, how could i refuse? Anyway, initial impressions were good. The decor was pleasant - and not over the top - and there was a hint of music in the background; enough so as to add to the ambience without being overpowering (as can be the case in some places). With such a large party, we had also been seated in a little side room where one main grumble was that we had to be put on two separate tables. But, still, at least we could freely move about without interfering with other customers or waiters.

The menu was a good size - not too big so as you have to spend a good time agonising over things - but not too small as to leave no choice at all. Anyway, after a few minutes, i chose one of the Set Menus - where you get soup, starters and an entree (with rice). Going for my old fave - hot and sour soup which was, to be blunt, bloody brilliant. The starters - a mix of spring roll, wonton etc. were also very good indeed - not dripping in fat as they sometimes can be. Finally, for a main it was Kung Pao beef - a quite spicy dish with peanuts and peppers, and big chunks of beef in a very tasty sauce. All in all, very very passable indeed. If there was any grumble to be had, it's that the service was a bit threadbare - there seemed to be only two waiting staff (and one of those was the manager/part owner). But they were both very cheery and gave us a discount on the bill (we didn't ask for) as well as some complimentary dessert. And it all came to $18 including tip and with chinese tea on top as well (that's about 10 pounds). Top notch value, i'd say. Thus, it's a matter of waiting a few weeks for them to get on their feet properly and then, hopefully, the service will match the excellent food.