Most people going into Charleston for the first time have a loose vision of what they're about to get: amazing service, good ambiance, and most importantly, a meal to remember. I am here to give you the juicy details of what I did get - which, effortlessly, took my vision, smothered it with lobster and buerre blanc, and served it to me on a gold plate with a bottle of champagne.

I'm exaggerating of course - but not by much! I start with the most concentrated shellfish bisque, topped with tender chunks of lobster and tiger shrimp. Next up was a tranche of turbot, seared in plenty of butter so that the edges were browned and crispy. As satisfying as the fish was, it wouldn't be fair if I didn't mention the flavorful medley of wild mushrooms nestled underneath.

My third course is another perfectly seared portion of sweetbreads, with two dipping sauces: buerre blanc (do I see a theme here, Cindy?), and the richest veal reduction. I've been yammering on for a while now, so I'll just skip over the fourth course boar chop, and get right to the foie gras finale. Now, just suspend your judgment for a second, and hear me out. This is.. the.. best... foie.. i have ever... indulged in. And it needed nothing more than four slices of lightly grilled end-of-season peaches as the perfect accompaniment.

Dessert was another 4-course affair (7 if you count the creme brulees trio), but worth every bite. And I didn't even mention all the wonderful forkfuls stolen from the bf's plates. I went over the top with my tasting menu, I know. But honestly, I couldn't have resisted anything from that kitchen. Needless to say, my reality of dining at Charleston was even better than all the anticipation and hype combined.

My family and I went to Charleston to celebrate my father's 60th birthday. The service was impeccable and the food was delicious. The staff was very knowledgeable about the menu and the wine list. Very impressive. The price tag is hefty but definitely worth it for those special occassions!

The Charleston is an unbelievable dining experience. One of the best restaurants in Baltimore hands down. Only four stars because this place is not cheap. However, the Charleston is an experience that I will never forget as long as I live. Seriously, best that money can buy. Best food, best service, best wine selection, best deserts.

I agree with fellow reviewers, this place has the hands down best service in the city. That alone should garner the great reviews Charleston deserves. Probably Baltimore's best shot at a Michelin starred restaurant, but will unlikely ever happen. If you don't have deep pockets, don't go, quite expensive.

Great food, top shelf service, and a great atmosphere make this a contender for the best in the city.