In 1984, two European artists opened Gaulart & Maliclet, also known as Fast & French, with a mission to "provide fresh, affordable, healthy, global cuisine with French flair in a social environment that encourages community, transparency and the Arts." And while co-owners Gwylene Gallimard and Jean-Marie Mauclet produced some controversial art in their time, everyone in Charleston can agree that the counter at their Gallic-influenced cafe is one of the most welcoming places on the peninsula.
When Gallimard and Mauclet decided to retire, they sold the restaurant to long-time employees Latonnya Wallace, Lawrence Mitchell, and Jennifer Bremer. The trio carry on the tradition of Fondue Nights on Thursdays. The melty cheese has flowed at Fast & French for almost 30 years, so we sent Eater photographer Jessika Stocker to capture the fun on a recent weeknight.