Hot Mustard, located at 428 Meeting St in Charleston, SC, has quickly garnered a reputation as a must-visit Chinese eatery. Customers like Ivan Penkov share their pleasant surprises after years of hesitance, praising the delicious wonton soup and spring rolls, complemented by attentive service. Arianna Drayton highlights their impressive delivery speed, sharing that her food arrived steaming and flavorful, perfect for a bustling downtown lunch.
However, it's Cameron Wasilewsky's perspective that offers a compelling insight into what truly sets Hot Mustard apart. He emphasizes that this is not a place for fine dining but rather a haven for those who crave authentic, comforting "dirty Chinese" fare. The couple running the restaurant may appear direct, a nod to traditional Chinese hospitality, but their efficiency ensures that patrons receive exactly what they desire. With a focus on unpretentious dishes that are both flavorful and affordable, Hot Mustard invites diners to indulge in classics like noodles and stir-fried options without any pretense.
Charles Bingham has been a loyal customer for over two decades, affirming the consistent quality of the takeout. Meanwhile, Timothy Scott sings praises of their wings and overall customer service. For those seeking genuine and hearty Chinese comfort food, Hot Mustard delivers a warm, nostalgic experience, making it a true gem in Charleston’s culinary scene.
Amenities and More
Service options
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Photos
Reviews For Hot Mustard
ivan penkov
Jun 15,2025
Live right next to the restaurant for 3 years now, but was hesitant to try it, I finally ordered wonton soup and 2 spring rolls just to be on the safe side. Pleasantly surprised, service was good, food was delicious even talked to the owners. Very affordable.
Arianna Drayton
Jun 8,2025
I work downtown I placed an order at 4:40, received my order at 5:15. I wasn’t able to go on my break until 6:15, my food still has steam coming off of it!! So good I recommend to anyone wanting hot food delivered!
Cameron Wasilewsky
May 27,2025
Hot Mustard in Charleston is an absolute gem of a Chinese restaurant, though it's clear from some reviews that not everyone understands what makes it special. Let me set the record straight: this is a five-star experience for those who know and appreciate authentic "dirty Chinese" food in all its glory. First, let's address the so-called "rude" service. This perception likely comes from Americans unfamiliar with the no-frills, direct style typical of many traditional Chinese establishments. Here, the couple running the show—cooking and taking orders—are incredibly efficient and helpful, ensuring you get exactly what you pay for. It's not rude; it's refreshingly honest and straightforward. And what you pay for is an incredibly affordable, flavorful meal. The dishes are exactly what you'd hope for: comforting, unpretentious, and absolutely delicious. Whether you're craving noodles, stir-fried dishes, or classic Chinese appetizers, every bite is packed full of authentic flavor. This is not the place for fine dining or fusion creations. It’s a place to indulge in classic Chinese comfort food done right. The ambiance? Exactly as you'd expect—a casual, laid-back vibe where the focus is solely on the food. We dined in and had an unforgettable time. The service was as expected: efficient, direct, and perfectly fitting for the environment. Hot Mustard is not for those seeking high-end or experimental cuisine. It's for people who love great food at a ridiculously reasonable price and can appreciate the charm of a hardworking, no-nonsense kitchen. If you approach it with the right expectations, you'll find it’s an incredible example of what a local Chinese restaurant should be. In short, Hot Mustard delivers exactly what it advertises: delicious, affordable Chinese food served with a side of unpretentious honesty. I couldn’t recommend it more for anyone craving authentic, no-frills Chinese dining. Just don’t come expecting luxury—come expecting a great meal and a genuine experience.
charles bingham
Apr 27,2025
Best Chinese takeout downtown. Been ordering for 20 years with quality staying excellent throughout.
timothy scott
Apr 25,2025
Food was awesome and the wings were great will return good customer service no public restroom but overall great food
Jon Teall
Apr 25,2025
Best wonton soup in downtown Charleston, the broth has a ton of flavor, and the wontons are fresh and not overcooked. I just tried out the other nearby restaurants wonton soup in the same night, and this location is taking the gold medal. Best egg rolls downtown, too.
Christian Zehntner
Apr 13,2025
Used to live down the street. Have eaten here for years. I now live in James island and will go out of my way to drive downtown to get hot mustard. I work in the food and beverage industry as a chef and have to say their food is always consistent and great. I have not once had any issues from here other than waiting a little longer than normal once because they were busy. But that's understandable. It happens. Great food. Great staff. 5*
Dennis Wong
Mar 5,2025
The best Chinese take out ever! We ordered house special rice noodle. We can’t even make it so good at home. The chicken meat, shrimp, and mixed vegetables they put in are top quality. The serving size is so generous. We are very satisfied with a hot delicious home style meal away from home. Best of luck to your business. Dennis, NJ
Reviews For Hot Mustard