Outstanding Dining At Char 32

𝙄𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙖𝙧, 𝙞𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚:

It’s hard to believe that she has put up with her husband this long, but since it’s a special occasion, Colleen and I wind up at Char 32 in Point Clear for dinner NOV 26th 2025. On the night before Thanksgiving, most folks have thoughts of turkey in their heads, but we think of something else. With its reputation for excellent steaks (the name of the place should be a clue), Char 32 has become a favorite for a number of eastern shore locals. We know this because we see some of the same people dining here from one visit to another. We love the welcoming atmosphere at this place. Upon stepping inside, the surroundings suggest that a great experience awaits–and we intend to take full advantage of it. The high ceilings, curved brick arches, fireplace and soft smooth jazz music with small lights at each table are downright classy, setting a relaxing mood. We’re greeted by owner Daneen Buck and Ryan, our server, who fills us in on options that include a few items not on the menu. When he mentions an appetizer of two crab cakes ($18), we can’t resist. When the cakes show up, all it takes is one bite and I’m secretly hoping Colleen will say, “I’ve decided that I don’t want my crab cake. Will you eat it?” Not happenin’. With their light, crunchy coating, these are among the best we’ve had anywhere. Run them through the accompanying remoulade sauce and you’ve got a serious treat that’s a definite plate scraper. Dinner salads that are fresh and lightly chilled show up next, and we have no problems knocking those down.

For entrees, Colleen chooses the Filet Mignon ($45). Although some of the menu’s other options look tempting, based on past experience when I ordered this previously, the sixteen ounce Ribeye ($42) again calls my name. When our steaks arrive (with loaded baked potatoes), we know immediately: Tough job, but we’re gonna have to do it. Colleen loves her filet. When she shares a bite, I understand why. As for my ribeye, the charred exterior gives a hint about what to expect. With clear proof that the folks here know how to grill steaks, every bite is delicious. The steak is huge, with the marbling adding tenderness and flavor. As I’m working through the beef that’s cooked just as requested, I’m thinking to myself, this has to be as good as it gets. The baked potatoes draw our attention, too; they’re fluffy and really good, especially with the generous amounts of butter and sour cream.

While visiting with us, Daneen mentions that the place is short-staffed that evening because she wants her employees to be with family at Thanksgiving. We wouldn’t know this had she not mentioned it, because the service throughout the evening is very good, with she and Ryan checking on us regularly to see if there’s anything we need.

Normally, we would call it quits after the main entree. But hey, this is a special occasion. And it’s Char 32. So, when Daneen mentions that the banana pudding ($8) is her Mom’s recipe, it’s game over. We cave. That decision, it turns out, is a good one. The pudding, which is a little more cake-like than I was expecting, is wonderful. And so, just like the crab cake appetizer, we have another case of plate cleaning to the max.

Our total without tip winds up at $127.54 if paid with cash. There are other places in the area where you can pay more for a special meal out, but I’m not convinced that you’d have a better dining experience.

Daneen opened Char 32 in January, 2018, but this isn’t her first food rodeo. Her food service background includes managing Buck’s Diner in downtown Fairhope for eleven years. In the nearly seven years since launching Char 32, Daneen and crew have built the type of dining experience that Colleen and I keep on our short list for what we consider A+ places around the eastern shore. It seems that, no matter what you order here, it’s going to be good. Service? Always good. For anything from a casual meal to a date night, anniversary or entertaining out of town visitors, this place is a perfect fit.

Char 32 is located on Tennis Club Dr at the Point Clear Tennis club, northwest of the intersection of S Section St and Hwy 32. Open TUE-SAT, reservations are recommended by calling 251-517-7700.