By Jessie Taylor
30A’s Jessie Taylor with Hanie and Marie of Marie’s Bistro
People say that Scenic Highway 30A is the best-kept secret in the South. Within five minutes of entering Marie’s Bistro, I knew that this restaurant was the best-kept secret on 30A.
Hanie and Marie Nasri opened the doors to Marie’s Bistro four years ago, and it has been a local favorite ever since.
They wanted the Bistro to be a “nice neighborhood place,” offering something unique for everyone, but especially for locals.
Upon entering the restaurant I was greeted by Hanie and offered something to drink. Hanie and I sat down at a table very casually, and he began to tell me about the history of Marie’s Bistro and happily answered all of my questions.
The sushi chef walked in and Hanie requested two of their most popular roles, the Blue Mountain Roll and the Christmas Year Round Roll. Hanie then welcomed me into their kitchen with no hesitation to film the sushi being rolled and preceded to sit me down at a table with soy sauce and chop stix to try the sushi.
Throughout my interview with Hanie — which felt more like a casual lunch date with an old friend — he gave me all of the exclusive details about what makes Marie’s Bistro the best-kept secret on 30A. Here are just a few of the awesome things that really set Marie’s Bistro apart:
— All art on the walls is local, and they proudly display it for free (they don’t take a commission when a piece of art sells).
— They politely turn people away once the restaurant is full, so that their current customers get their undivided attention.
— They have Gluten-free menu options.
— They host live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
— They also have a Ladies Night every Friday.
— They host a Karaoke Night every Tuesday and Wednesday (they’re open until 1:30-2:00am).
— They have daily Happy Hour specials from 3-7pm.
— They have great a Late Night menu.
— They have a separate Lunch Menu with daily specials.
— They take reservations.
I had never been into Marie’s Bistro before interviewing Hanie, and after the awesome experience that I enjoyed the other day, I think that it is going to turn into one of my go-to spots on 30A.
