Restaurant Review: A Taste of the Mediterranean – Warm Hospitality and Inspired Cuisine at Taverna Philosophia in Mount Pleasant
By Mark A Leon
For many that have called Mount Pleasant / Charleston home for many years, Bacco Italian was a destination for authentic Italian cuisine. So much so that the team closed for 2 weeks annually to study in Italy and re-discover the menu. Bacco Italian is but a memory, but Taverna Philosophia has stepped into the space at 976 Houston Northcutt Blvd, Suite O with the same level of thoughtful culinary quality, menu design and excellence. We feel strongly this should be on your Lowcountry dining bucket list. It certainly has become one of our favorite spots.
Mediterranean Ambiance
Taverna Philosophia in Mount Pleasant delivers a slice of the Greek islands with its open layout, high ceilings, and striking old brick accent wall. The Mediterranean decor is both casual and elegant, creating a comfortable yet sophisticated setting perfect for sharing mezze and mains with friends or family.
Exceptional Customer Service
Service at Taverna stands out as truly exceptional. Servers are attentive, replacing utensils between courses and ensuring water glasses are always full. Staff are highly knowledgeable about the menu and wine pairings; when a guest requested wine advice, the sommelier personally offered recommendations. Owners and servers frequently check in, making guests feel genuinely welcomed and cared for throughout the meal.
Menu highlights
• Lamb Porterhouse: This dish is a standout, cooked perfectly and served with a fresh romaine salad, goat cheese, and a drizzle of lemon and Greek olive oil. The mint gremolata brings a bright, herbal finish that complements the rich lamb beautifully.
• Local Snapper: The whole snapper is expertly prepared, with moist, flaky meat and a delicate flavor. While the skin can be a bit charred, the fish itself is a testament to the kitchen’s skill with seafood.
• Lamb Ravioli: Among the many wonderful appetizers including escargot, roasted oysters, Greek sausage, seared scallops and saganaki, the lamb ravioli stood out as a favorite. This exceptional starter is prepared with braised lamb, marinated goat cheese, wild mushrooms, skordalia soubise and horta. What a way to begin the evening.
• Grape Leaf Wrapped Salmon: The earthy tang of grape leaves to compliment the salmon makes for an authentic Greek experience. This dish includes Kalamata olive and tomato atuffing, spanikorizo, Htipiti pesto and Buerre Blanc.
• Raw Bar: The raw bar, located at the far left end of the bar, is a highlight, especially the calamari and octopus cocktail. Marinated in a pepper, caper, fennel, and citrusy ladolemono dressing, this dish is both refreshing and full of depth, with a pleasing steak-like texture. The ceviche and fried calamari are also frequently praised for their freshness and tenderness.
A strong recommendation
Taverna Philosophia is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Mediterranean cuisine and top-tier hospitality in Mount Pleasant. From the thoughtful service to the expertly executed dishes and inviting decor, the experience is consistently memorable and satisfying.
We were truly taken back by the exceptional dining experience. We can only sum it up with the phrase “elegant warmth and casual family-like feel”.
- The restaurant is open Tuesday – Saturday only (Closed Sunday and Monday) – 4:30 – 9:00 (Tues-Thurs) and 5:00 – 9:30 (Fri-Sat).
- Stay connected and follow Taverna on Instagram.
Photo Credit: Jonathan Boncek
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