A locally owned all-day American brasserie and market is preparing to debut this spring.
Melrose Market, owned by Chad and Ashley Esley, will open at 2710 Gervais St., with a mission centered on bringing people together to gather, celebrate and connect.
Chad, who has spent 15 years in the restaurant industry, told What Now Charleston he drew inspiration for the market from European-style cafes he has encountered over the years.
“The inspiration has been a lifetime of experience—everything from growing up in Charleston and seeing corner markets and restaurants, and going to places in New York that are American brasserie, to having the opportunity to travel to Europe and see European cafes,” Chad said.
Guests will be welcomed by a striking black-and-white striped awning, capturing the essence of a classic cafe.
“One of the appealing aspects of the space was that it had an outdoor area before, but we expanded it and rebuilt it, so it’s a huge outdoor patio with the big awning out front,” Chad said.
The interior will feature a palette of light and dark greens, accented by gold, with black-and-white tile lining the bar and bathrooms.
“We’re nestled right in the neighborhood. Folks can walk, they can take the golf cart. There’s also steps where you can access the building from the neighborhood directly so you don’t have to be on Gervais Street,” Chad said.
Melrose Market will cater to a wide range of guests, from morning coffee seekers looking for a kickstart to evening crowds winding down with a cocktail. The menu will reflect the same versatility.
“In the morning we’ll offer smoothies, pastries, ham and cheese croissants. We’ll also offer lattes, cappuccinos and espressos. We’ll move to lunch with sandwiches, salads and burgers. Then we’ll have a cocktail hour with more robust entrees,” he said.
The food program will be led by Executive Chef Josh Rogerson, known for his ingredient-driven approach, alongside Sous Chef Alex Runyan. The two co-founded Parapellum Mobile Eats, a concept blending fine-dining technique with elevated comfort fare.
“The theme of the restaurant is to go as local, fresh, organic and natural as possible. We’re working with large vendors as well as smaller vendors,” Chad said. “Even on the beer and wine side, we’re looking to work with local breweries and smaller natural vineyards, where we’re going to have a European lean.”
There will also be a retail section at Melrose Market, offering beer and wine to go, along with household staples such as milk, eggs and sodas.
The Esleys look forward to bringing a new destination to the neighborhood.
“We’re excited to get back to doing what we enjoy—just being in the restaurant, working with lots of great people and serving the community,” Chad said.
Melrose Market is planning to open at the end of May. The team plans to gradually roll out service, starting with either lunch or dinner before expanding into an all-day concept.
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