Dine on a Mat

For our 20th anniversary, Charleston Wine + Food is proud to co-present alongside the International African American Museum, a one-of-a-kind culinary experience: Dine on a Mat, the nomadic restaurant founded by internationally celebrated Chef Fatmata Binta, in collaboration with Charleston’s own Chef Bintou N’Daw. Hailing from Freetown, Sierra Leone, Chef Binta is a modern nomadic chef and Fulani culinary ambassador, recognized globally for her work in promoting indigenous African ingredients and sustainable food systems. Her accolades include the Basque Culinary World Prize, the Best Chef Rising Star Award, and recognition as a Rockefeller Foundation Fellow.

This special evening, hosted at the International African American Museum, brings the immersive Dine on a Mat experience to Charleston. Guests will share communal mats and dishes, stepping beyond the formality of traditional dining to engage in a true cultural exchange that celebrates connection, community, and the joy of gathering.

The evening features a multi-course menu inspired by indigenous African ingredients, paired with traditional drinks, a tea ceremony, and storytelling that illuminates the richness of African gastronomy and food systems. Each bite is a bridge between continents, generations, and cultures—offering profound insight into the roots of African culinary traditions and their lasting influence.On this milestone anniversary, Dine on a Mat is a celebration of heritage, innovation, and connection, bringing the flavors and stories of Africa to Charleston while honoring the city’s deep historical ties to the African diaspora. Guests will leave with an unforgettable experience where food becomes more than a meal—it becomes a bridge between people, culture, and history.