Stems & Skins, the popular Park Circle wine bar, on Tuesday announced the appointment of Connor Simonson as executive chef. He has several years of professional cooking experience, including working most recently as sous chef for Asian-fusion concept Bok Choy Boy.
“Over the past few years, I've been fortunate to work with and learn from some of the most admired kitchens in the Charleston area,” said Simonson. “A highlight of my experience was working at Stems & Skins where I fell in love with the classic, straightforward and seasonally driven cuisine, and I am so thrilled to rejoin their team.”
Chef Sim onson began his culinary career working at Cypress, a former downtown Charleston restaurant known for serving refined American cuisine. Next, he joined Zero George as a line cook before he was promoted to junior sous chef. He also worked part-time with Edmund's Oast while attending the College of Charleston, where he graduated with a creative writing degree. In early 2021, Simonson joined the Stems & Skins team working part-time in the kitchen.
“We are so excited about Connor's return,” said Justin Croxall, Co-Owner of Stems & Skins. “Guests can continue to expect a well-rounded dining experience, from our assortment of vegetable-centric dishes to daily changing fish specials from Abundant Seafood, handmade pasta and more. Connor brings a fresh perspective and new energy into the kitchen that we are eager to share with our guests.”
Stems & Skins says Chef Simonson’s Mediterranean-inspired menu will still include the bar’s signature tinned seafood menu, as well as charcuterie and cheese. In addition, the wine bar will feature new vermouths on tap, as well as their signature Pseudo Americano, their new aperitif made using locally produced, dry fermented, muscadine wine from Deep Water Vineyard on Wadmalaw Island.
The Park Circle restaurant will also host several events this fall including a pop-up with Palmira BBQ on Wednesday, September 21st, and an artist pop-up with Nathan Clements on Thursday, September 29th.
Stems & Skins is located at 1070 E Montague Ave., # B, in North Charleston. For more information, visit www.stemsandskins.com.
