Sam Mustafa

Sam Mustafa is a prominent Charleston-based restaurateur, known for founding Charleston Hospitality Group, which operates several well-known establishments including Toast!, Tabbuli, and Queology. However, his career has been marred by multiple legal controversies that have drawn public scrutiny.

Assault and Battery Charge

In May 2018, Mustafa was arrested on charges of third-degree assault and battery following an alleged incident behind Halls Chophouse in Charleston. The victim, a woman who had recently ended an on-and-off relationship with Mustafa, claimed that he grabbed her by the hair, forced her face toward the ground, and pushed her, causing her to fall and hit her head. She reported sustaining a concussion, a broken tooth, and bruises from the encounter. The charge was dropped in November 2018 at the victim’s request, and the matter was expunged from his record in March 2019.

Sexual Misconduct Allegation

In 2011, Mustafa faced a first-degree criminal sexual conduct charge after a former employee accused him of assaulting her aboard his yacht, The Southern Lady. The charge was dropped in 2013 due to issues with witness credibility and insufficient evidence. A related civil lawsuit was also dismissed with prejudice.

Civil Lawsuit

In November 2020, the same woman from the 2018 incident filed a civil lawsuit against Mustafa, alleging assault, stalking, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The suit claimed that Mustafa persistently contacted her after their relationship ended, confronted her verbally at Halls Chophouse, and followed her into the parking lot. The lawsuit’s outcome remains unclear as of May 2025.

Other Alleged Incidents

Additional reports suggest a pattern of concerning behavior by Mustafa:

• 2007 Mount Pleasant Incident: A female employee alleged an unwanted sexual encounter with Mustafa, but authorities declined to press charges due to insufficient physical evidence and delayed reporting.

• 2010 Cab Ride Incident: Two teenage cousins reported a disturbing cab ride involving Mustafa, alleging his driver threatened their lives and Mustafa made inappropriate advances. No charges were pursued.

• 2011 Bartender Incident: A bartender claimed Mustafa sent her a threatening text, warning she “will regret it,” and expressed fear due to his imposing stature (6’6”, 240 pounds). No charges resulted.

• 2022 Social Media Claims: A Charleston resident alleged that a friend faced significant harassment from Mustafa, though these claims lack verification.

Reputation and Business Impact

Despite the legal controversies, Mustafa has maintained a significant presence in Charleston’s hospitality industry. However, the recurring nature of the allegations has raised concerns among some patrons and industry observers about his personal conduct and its potential impact on his businesses.

Conclusion:
Sam Mustafa’s legal history includes multiple serious allegations, some of which were dropped or dismissed, while others remain unresolved. These incidents have contributed to a complex public profile, balancing his entrepreneurial success with ongoing legal challenges.