Portrait of Michael Zentner
i. Biography
Michael Zentner is the executive chef and co-owner of Merci, a European-inspired bistro in Charleston’s Harleston Village, alongside Petit Merci and The Drifter. Merci opened in 2025 in a restored 1820s townhouse at 28 Pitt St. where Zentner’s menu emphasizes seasonal plates, local purveyors, and Old World techniques. He previously cooked at Charleston Grill under chef Michelle Weaver and was a Culinary Institute of America graduate before building his career across multiple kitchen opening teams.
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