Charleston is a culinary mecca, often recognized as the #2 travel destination in the world. While most restaurants are trying to out-Southern each other, Bon Bahn Mi is Southeast Asian-ing to an epic yet simple proportion. I’ve been begging the universe for more ethnic offerings in this scrumptious town , and BBM does not disappoint.
Just across the iconic Ravenel bridge is the suburban utopia of Mt. Pleasant, where several restaurants from the peninsula have put satellite locations. Many downtown staples will branch out to the various suburbs, thus the “satellite” concept. Mt. Pleasant is often the first place they choose to come. We have a large local population, plus we pull the beach tourists from the two barrier islands.
This fresh, fast-casual restaurant offers rice bowls, salads, Bahn Mi sandwiches, noodles, and other ethnic dishes that we’ve been craving across the harbor. But guess what??? In addition to their bowls, sandwiches, and salads, one notable side dish is…you guessed it…homemade pickles!
Dubbed “Sweet + Spicy” on the menu, the name is spot on. These gems fit my perfect pickle profile: crisp, thin, and vinegary. Upon the first perfectly-brined, crispy, thinly sliced bite, the sweet quickly takes over. A few moments later, the heat shows up around the middle of the tongue thanks to what looks like chili pepper flakes. (I suspect another hidden ingredient is in there!) The heat is at perfect pitch — enough to get your attention, then you’re romanced by the sweet return to make you want to eat more. The balance of vinegar, sugar, salt and spices is perfect. Sweet and spicy combos often make for a surprise addiction.
The outdoor picnic tables are fun for large groups, and the wine and beer selection is impressive. Half-sweet jasmine tea and lychee sangria dot the bar. And I have to applaud any Asian joint that pairs Taylor Ham Pork Roll and eggs in a bowl/taco/sandwich. That’s next on my list. Along with a side of Sweet + Spicy, of course!
PS: I went back for the Taylor Ham Pork Roll bowl and it was absolutely perfect! If you’ve never pork roll, it’s a New Jersey breakfast sandwich staple. Think of it as Spam in a tuxedo.
Pickle Picker 