We heard from a friend at Martin Gallery that this year’s Palette & Palate Stroll was smaller than past events. There were fewer restaurants participating and fewer tickets sold (though for a higher price tag). Still, the Charleston Fine Art Dealers’ Association galleries downtown were full of patrons nibbling delights from 12 local restaurants.
More than a few offered gazpacho (both McCrady’s and High Cotton flavored theirs with watermelon). Most offerings were simple, though a few were ambitious, especially Social (at Robert Lange Studios, which offered smoked duck, Thai shrimp, and truffles) and Blu (at Ella Walton Richardson Gallery, with a beet salad, tuna confit sandwiches, and a shrimp appetizer that was particularly delectable).
Our favorite stop of the night was by far the Wells Gallery, partnered with Charleston Grill. Mickey Bakst greeted us at the door with a tray full of salty chocolates, and we also found spiked Arnold Palmers, halibut ceviche, a chilled soup, and, best of all, popcorn with truffle butter and parmesan, served in adorably authentic bags. We were tempted to camp out at the Meeting Street spot — until we heard they were out of cocktails and chocolates.
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