The Beloved Hole-in-the-Wall That Serves Arguably the Best Bread in All of South Carolina

The beloved hole-in-the-wall in South Carolina, Gaulart & Maliclet, known as "Fast and French," serves arguably the best bread in the state. Walking in is transformative, as the building, located in Charleston's Old and Historic District, comes with a colorful past. The earliest known use of this charming space starts with the rear portion, dating back to approximately 1735. It was owned and built by a succession of physicians, with the front section built in about 1835. It seems the tradition of healing is fitting for G&M, as the food here has one arriving through an intoxicating aroma of fresh herbs, soups cooking, and breads baking, that fortify even the hardiest appetites.

Since 1984, the small French restaurant Gaulart & Maliclet has been serving arguably the best bread in South Carolina. The location on busy Broad Street has made it a popular spot for people working nearby. Walk through this door and hear the happy chatter from folks enjoying more appetizing meals like this one, always served with delicious bread, cheese, fresh fruit, and your choice of soup.

Hot or cold, it's up to you for these soup options, which change daily. Our favorite is the vegan split pea, which is rich, creamy, and fortifying. Served with a baguette, it is only $5 a cup. Bread choices include croissants, baguettes, sourdough, or Candian rye, toasted or not, served with black olive tapenade, paté, or just butter and jam if you like.

Meat lovers will enjoy this roast beef and Swiss melt. Even the hotdogs are fancy here, featuring the broiled beef, open-faced Le Hot Dog, served on a baguette, with Dijon and yummy melted cheese.

The choices also extend to seating. If people-watching is of interest, dine al fresco in this quaint little courtyard. Or sit indoors and enjoy the detailed architecture and embellished antique fireplace mantels, crown moldings, and interesting doorways, some of which date back to the 1800s. Most of the tables are community seating, and there is also a counter to watch the interesting workings of the staff while you're dining.

As anyone can taste, freshness is the hallmark of G&M, with these ingredients prepared for a hand-crafted roasted veggie tapenade. And if your sweet tooth is yelling, don't forget the dessert selection, such as bourbon pecan cheesecake with cassis, a lemon tart, and carrot cake, which all go perfectly with G&M's own blend of coffee beans, for there or to-go.

Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, add this to your itinerary while visiting Charleston. Grab some friends and take them to enjoy this beloved hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Charleston, serving arguably the best bread in all of South Carolina. Or take some out, nibbling along as you explore this fascinating, historic town. Here is an example of the perfect weekend itinerary. And don't forget to return to G&M for coffee and dessert.

Love exploring all things Charleston? So do we! Check out this list of unique places to stay in Charleston, South Carolina.