In January 2005, Chef Brett McKee thrilled local diners when he opened Oak Steakhouse at 17 Broad Street, bringing a beloved icon of American dining to the cobblestone streets of Charleston. Since, it’s been featured in Bon Appetit, National Geographic Adventure, Charleston Magazine, and Health, and was named “Best New Restaurant” by Charleston City Paper.

Oak Steakhouse offers an historical setting to rival all others, and, a personal variation on the American Steakhouse. Raised in Brooklyn among the neighborhood’s Italian-American flavors and smoky steakhouse aromas, Chef McKee’s culinary career culminates in his version of a refined Italian Steakhouse.

As the spectacular setting for his signature restaurant, Chef Brett McKee collaborated with Architect Dan Sweeney on a restoration and renovation to artfully blend the Old World with the new. Built in 1850, original features such as the arched doors, eighteen foot ceilings, mahogany paneling and 150 year old heart of pine floors were restored to create the foundation for this sublime dining setting that once housed South Carolina’s Loan & Trust.

Seamlessly, Sweeney carved five unique dining rooms out of this two-story historic landmark building, providing intimate dining areas and distinctive tables throughout. On the first floor, near the Old World-style bar, locally commissioned art work hangs above tall chocolate-colored leather banquettes. The Chef’s Table for four is situated across from the semi-open kitchen and bar, next to the exquisite gold-hued bank vault, now encasing wine. On the mezzanine, diners enjoy a mezzanine overlooking the entrance, while the third floor features 3 main dining rooms united by custom designed modern chandeliers, intricate one-of-a-kind “wine lockers” and fireplaces. The setting is at once powerful and elegant, creating one of the most stunning dining spaces in the US.

The menu, composed of traditional items such as Steak Tartare, Shrimp Cocktail, Porterhouse and New York Strip, appears to offer classic steakhouse fare. At second glance, it weaves Italian flavors and dishes throughout. As Chef McKee explains, “These two cuisines work so well together. They’re both known for their bold flavors and comforting dishes; it’s the perfect pairing of two cuisines.”

Upon first bite, Italian flavors ring true. Wood-fired steaks and chops benefit from McKee’s signature rub – an Italian blend of fennel, red pepper, espresso bean, and herbs, while homemade Cottage Fries are improved with a generous dose of Gorgonzola Fondue. Full fledged Italian specialties such as Steak Pizzaiola and Veal Parmigiana are available, alongside classic Creamed Spinach and Hash Browns. And as with the Italian theme, luxurious ingredients are also woven throughout. Macaroni & Cheese is enriched with Lobster, Potato Gratin is creamy from Parmigiano Reggiano, and Foie Gras-Black Truffle Butter is just one indulgent accompaniment for Steaks and Chops. And after almost two decades, Charleston’s influence on Chef McKee’s cooking is evident – especially in his moist Southern Style Buttermilk Fried Chicken and shrimp speckled Crab Cakes.

To complement hearty steaks, McKee designed a wine program emphasizing wines with backbone and longevity. California Cabernets and Old World reds from France and Italy dominate the selection. At Oak Steakhouse, the oenophile will feel at home thanks to gorgeous “wine lockers” located on the third floor that act as a private “cave” for regular patrons. At the bar, enjoy signature Martinis with the “17 Burger” or Brett’s Veal Meatballs, featured on the Bar Menu.

With the opening of Oak Steakhouse, Chef Brett McKee has enlivened Charleston’s dining scene, breathing new life into 17 Broad Street, and into the classic Italian Steakhouse in the US.