Mount Pleasant has more Mediterranean spots than a tourist has sunscreen bottles, but just because a place serves falafel doesn’t mean it’s worth your Friday night. When you’re craving something beyond grocery-store hummus and want to feast like you’re seaside in Santorini (without the flight), these are the tables to book. Print this, save it in your phone’s emergency contacts, then work your way through the list—your taste buds will thank you.
Stella’s
$$ | (843) 400-0026 | WEBSITE
Yes, Stella’s is another Greek restaurant and yes, it’s exactly what you picture when you close your eyes and imagine one. It’s cozy and chic with whitewashed walls, blue accents, and olive branches hanging from all surfaces. But we love the authenticity and the fact that they go hard on the tradition doesn’t mean it isn’t a relaxing place.
It’s also open late into the evening, so it’s a spot you might head to while it’s still light outside and leave wondering what time it is and if you missed your reservation. If you get hungry, start with the flaming Feta cheese and avoid the urge to try everything at once. Just follow the server’s recommendations – they’re friendly and sincerely frown on skipping the lamb shank, trust us.
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill – Mt. Pleasant
$$ | (843) 352-2862 | WEBSITE
We’ve all dreamed of finding that perfect neighborhood spot. There would be friendly faces who remember your order, fresh food that feels like a celebration, and that cozy feeling of being exactly where you belong. The restaurant that delivers on that dream is The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill. From the warm welcome at the door to the generous portions on your plate, you’ll feel like someone who’s discovered a hidden treasure, even if you’re just stopping by for a quick lunch.
The food is affordable but delicious and includes things like the traditional gyro (get it with extra tzatziki) and the Greek salad wrap topped with feta. And if you want to extend that welcoming atmosphere for a while, there’s outdoor seating on pleasant evenings and a menu full of healthy choices (and amazing chicken fingers).
Kairos Mediterranean
$ | (843) 606-9314 | WEBSITE
Whether you decided to check out the best Mediterranean spots in Mount Pleasant, or you needed to grab a quick bite after a day at the beach, you’re in the area and in need of a satisfying meal. Kairos Mediterranean, which is conveniently located and easy to spot, is a great place to escape the usual fast-food options. With its clean, well-lit atmosphere and simple menu, it’s not the place to bring a huge group looking for a fancy dining experience (and will definitely keep coming back for).
Instead, come with your family or a few friends, make your way through the affordable menu options like the Med Salad or Kairo Bowl, and enjoy the friendly service from employees who always have smiles on their faces.
Taverna Philosophia: Aegean Brasserie
$$$ | (843) 984-5005 | WEBSITE
The last three times you looked down at your plate it was empty, so you suddenly realize two things: you definitely shouldn’t have worn those tight jeans and it’s way more delicious than you thought it would be. Sure, you should probably save room for dessert, but when you want one last bite to savor, have it at Taverna Philosophia. It’s upbeat and a great place to get some fabulous Greek Med dishes and feel like royalty.
There’s also amazing Tomahawk Ribeye alongside sides like spinach and Brussels sprouts, and if you’re lucky, you might taste some perfectly cooked branzino being recommended by a very attentive server that might soon become your favorite, even though you only met a few minutes ago. If you get thirsty and it’s before closing, order some oysters or the lobster that pairs beautifully with the clean, family-like atmosphere.
Wally Gyros
$ | (843) 926-1811 | WEBSITE
Finding all the top Mediterranean spots in Mount Pleasant can be overwhelming, but one that absolutely deserves your attention is Wally Gyros. Tucked away as a food truck, Wally Gyros delivers some of the most authentic Greek flavors in the area. This might be a food truck first, but it consistently serves up some of the best gyros around.
Their menu focuses on classic Greek staples, featuring standout items like the lamb gyro—juicy and perfectly seasoned—along with fresh Greek salads and crispy falafel. Plus, their prices are incredibly reasonable, with most items under $12, making it a fantastic value for such high-quality, family-owned cooking.
Taziki’s Mediterrnaean Cafe – Indigo Square (Mount Pleasant)
$ | (843) 883-8478 | WEBSITE
Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe has a deceptively strong takeout game for a casual Mediterranean spot in Mount Pleasant. They focus on classics with standout dishes like the salmon, perfectly cooked with great flavor, and they have plenty of fresh options as well as affordable lunch specials, most around $10-12. If you order for takeout, you can enjoy the clean and inviting atmosphere without the wait, making it a great spot for a quick meal.
Just make sure you give them a chance since initial service may have been lacking, but later visits show friendly and fast staff who take care of issues promptly.
CAVA
$ | (843) 984-2789 | WEBSITE
After a long day exploring Mount Pleasant’s historic sites and craving something fresh and satisfying, CAVA is the perfect spot to unwind with friends or family. With its welcoming atmosphere and spacious dining area, it’s easy to grab a table whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner where you can catch up on the day’s adventures. The attentive, kind staff like Ella make navigating the menu a breeze, helping you find the perfect combination of flavors to suit your mood.
At around $12-15 for a generously portioned bowl, you get incredible value—the chicken is juicier than gossip at a family reunion, the hummus so smooth it could negotiate peace treaties, and the rice so fluffy and flavorful it feels like a spiritual experience. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or just want to share bites with your table, CAVA delivers a delightful dining experience that keeps you coming back.
Bar167
$$ | (843) 253-0300 | WEBSITE
You’re only in Charleston for a weekend and tonight’s the evening you’ve decided to finally try that new linen shirt you impulsively and optimistically purchased for 60% off right after you confirmed this getaway. The only way to do it justice is to wear it restaurant-hopping through Mount Pleasant, and Bar167 is where you should begin. They serve creative cocktails and fresh seafood, along with a menu of small plates and nibbles.
It’s the type of place you’ll end up inviting the couple next to you to share some oysters – then probably the rest of the night’s drinks too.
Opal Restaurant & Bar
$$$ | (843) 654-9070 | WEBSITE
Once you’ve enjoyed the She Crab Soup at Opal, head to the bar area. You’ll be immediately and pleasantly struck by the sophisticated yet relaxed vibe – from the elegant lighting to the comfortable seating to the classy wine displays – since this place is half restaurant, half upscale lounge. You could linger a while admiring the polished wood and soft lighting around you, but you might as well have a cocktail in your hand – they have plenty of wine, beer, and creative mixed drinks.
They also serve excellent food, like ricotta gnocchi in brown butter from their kitchen, and surprisingly tender veal meatballs.
Ali Baba Deli & Catering
$ | (843) 377-8666 | WEBSITE
Finding Ali Baba Deli & Catering feels a bit like searching for hidden treasure, with its signage sometimes obscured by the lush Mount Pleasant trees. Thankfully, once you step inside, you’re immediately transported to a vibrant Mediterranean oasis instead of just another Charleston strip mall spot. They serve the most generous portions in the area, so the right move here is to order a few dishes to share, though their gyro platter alone could easily satisfy if that’s not your style.
Between the warm lighting, authentic aromas, and their welcoming mix of regulars and first-timers chatting over meals, this unassuming deli is a perfect spot for a satisfying lunch, family dinner, or solo feast when you’re craving something truly delicious.
The Grocery
$$$ | (843) 302-8825 | WEBSITE
Odds are after a day spent exploring the historic streets of Mount Pleasant, you’re going to need a truly memorable meal. Make your way to The Grocery for an upscale Mediterranean experience where reservations are recommended. They have an impressive selection of signature dishes, fresh from local sellers, as well as expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines, and mixed drinks that set the perfect tone for your evening.
And if you happen to be celebrating a special occasion, indulge in standout plates like the creamy gnocchi that melts in your mouth, the perfectly cooked steak verde, or the potato crusted grouper—all served with the kind of fabulous attention you’d expect from servers like Evan. The limited beer list is easily overlooked when every entrée arrives cooked to specifications and superb, right down to desserts like the apple pie Sundae.
It’s that fine dining experience suitable for any night out or just a delicious bite.
Kid Cashew
$ | (843) 352-7585 | WEBSITE
Mediterranean spots in Mount Pleasant often bring to mind predictable gyro platters and family-friendly patios. So when you walk past the bustling Ben Sawyer activity to find a huge outdoor dining area and Kid Cashew’s menu with things like an au poivre burger and creamy polenta alongside vegan options, you’ll have to reconsider your expectations. That might just be the motto for a meal here, though.
Sitting at the spacious patio is perfect for people watching or enjoying a lunch special while testing out your new work-from-restaurant routine that starts with a delicious mac and cheese before mumbling something about lamb skewers being surprisingly tender and introducing yourself to the friendly staff.
Fiat Lux
$$ | (855) 577-7561 | WEBSITE
Fiat Lux is the rooftop equivalent of those fancy hotel lobbies your parents always insisted on visiting (that were never actually for staying). It’s a lounge-within-a-hotel spot perched atop Hotel Bennett, offering sweeping views of the Charleston skyline and teasing glimpses of the water.
Their menu features drinks like the excellent espresso martini and small bites meant for nibbling on the rooftop couches, though the bartenders—including Larry, Heather, and Bri—are more than happy to offer kind and professional suggestions about Charleston. This is the perfect spot to unwind with a few friends when you want to feel a little elevated.
Leyla Fine Lebanese Cuisine
$$ | (843) 501-7500 | WEBSITE
Maybe you wandered into Mount Pleasant for some waterfront views, or you were exploring Charleston’s historic streets. Either way, you’ve found yourself in this charming area, and you should stop by Leyla Fine Lebanese Cuisine before you return to the city center. This authentic Lebanese spot consistently delivers homemade-style dishes with incredible seasoning and minimal oil, like their must-try lentil soup or the highly praised falafels.
They’re also focused on dietary inclusivity, so chances are you’ll discover clear vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options among the warm, intimate atmosphere and family-oriented vibe. The attentive service from staff like Mike makes every bite of dishes like the flavorful Shish Tawook a delightful experience, though the prices can feel a bit steep for the generous portions. It’s the kind of place you’d visit regularly if you lived nearby.
Lola Rose
$$ | (843) 388-7940 | WEBSITE
Lola Rose is Mount Pleasant’s go-to Mediterranean spot and has been serving gourmet food with excellent service since it opened. Now they feature dishes like Tuna Tartare, Shrimp Provencal, and Margarita Pizza cooked in a traditional Neapolitan wood-fired stove. This is definitely the place to bring your foodie friends and show them the trendy, clean atmosphere that makes it popular among locals.
And if you want something special, try the Sunday Brunch that competes well with places in downtown Charleston.
Adam’s kitchen
$ | (843) 800-5411 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Mount Pleasant is Adam’s Kitchen, which is one of our favorite spots to grab a fresh meal after a long day of exploring. There are clean tables, friendly service, and consistently tasty Mediterranean food, along with surprisingly good lunch specials. Their chicken platter with Baba Ghanoush and spicy red pepper sauce is great, but it’s a lot of fun to make your way through the vegetarian options and desserts, like the creamy hummus and sweet Baklava.
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill – Charleston, SC
$ | (843) 588-5660 | WEBSITE
Mount Pleasant sometimes feels like one large, predictable coastal town. So when you get to The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, walk past the counter ordering station, and hear vaguely familiar music, you might worry the area found a way to import a generic fast-casual chain into Charleston.
Thankfully, though, mass-produced dining is miles away from this spot and instead of assembly-line food, you’ll find a way nicer Mediterranean grill than the one you dragged your family to on vacation years ago. There’s a long list of fresh bowls and even vegetarian falafel, in case you really want to embrace the authentic feel.
Muse Restaurant & Wine Bar
$$$ | (843) 577-1102 | WEBSITE
There are a few essential elements to any memorable Charleston dining experience – historic charm that whispers of the past, impeccable service that feels personal, and dishes that tell a story. And if you were looking for a spot that captures all three, you’d find yourself at Muse. Everything is warm-toned and there are elegant wine glasses, knowledgeable staff like Donnie who guide you through the menu, and standout plates like the salmon ricotta bruschetta and tagliatelle Bolognese.
Regardless of the occasion, you’ll leave satisfied, so come with a date for a special celebration or for one of the coziest dinners you can find in Mount Pleasant.