Mount Pleasant Magazine Jan/Feb 2024

79 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com 2024 WWW. BESTOFMP.COM www.BestOfMP.com | www.BestOfMP.Video | www.BestOfMPpodcast.com BEST ISLE OF PALMS HAPPY HOUR With their newly-redesigned bar, outdoor performance space and unbeatable specials, it’s no wonder The Dinghy is the locals’ choice for best IOP happy hour. The relaxed vibe, friendly bartenders and live music make The Dinghy the perfect spot to meet up after work or grab a libation before a show. Other finalists: The Windjammer, Islander 71 BEST ISLE OF PALMS RESTAURANT Don’t let the unassuming name fool you, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen blends elements of upscale and casual coastal cuisine and makes locallysourced ingredients a focal point. In addition to daily specials, they offer a range of seafood including scallops, shrimp and crab cakes, as well as short ribs and fried chicken. Other finalists: Coda Del Pesce, Long Island Cafe BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT Inspired by her grandmother Savanelle Marino, SAVI Cucina + Wine Bar owner Karen MennutiRaju brings the Italian flavors to Mount Pleasant. The passion for quality food is apparent in every dish that’s delivered and has propelled SAVI to win top honors again in 2024. Italian like Nonna used to make. Other finalists: Cuoco Pazzo, La Pizzeria BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT It’s one thing to be a kid-friendly restaurant, but Coastal Crust takes it to a whole new level by offering a kid and parent-approved gourmet menu with authentic Neapolitan specialty pizzas. With plenty of outdoor seating and a large kids’ play area, it’s clear why Coastal Crust reigns supreme for family dining. Other finalists: Home Team BBQ, Dog and Duck BEST MAC ‘N CHEESE The people have spoken, and what do they crave? Crave Kitchen & Cocktails award-winning gourmet mac ‘n cheese made with cave-aged sharp cheddar, imported parmesan, mozzarella, Italian and cavatappi pasta. Customize it by adding scallops, short ribs, shrimp, smoked bacon and even truffled mushrooms. Who said mac ‘n cheese was just for kids? Other finalists: Home Team BBQ, Page’s Okra Grill BEST MARGARITA With flavors like Fresh Berry, Jalapeno Cucumber and Habañero Citrus, SOL Southwest Kitchen margaritas have taken top honors once again in 2024. They start with premium tequilas, then add fresh-pressed juices and house made mixes to blend the perfect cocktail. The aged Double Barrel Reserve margarita features a Herradura Reposado created exclusively for Sol. Other finalists: Mex 1 Coastal Cantina, Guadalajara Bar & Grill BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT Inspired by trips along the California coastline, Mex 1 Coastal Cantina exudes surfer vibes and pays homage to the fresh flavors found at local cantinas along the Baja Peninsula. Tacos, salads, rice bowls, signature cocktails and margaritas will put you in a beach mindset no matter the time of year. Other finalists: San Miguel Mexican Grill & Bar, Guadalajara Bar & Grill BEST NEW RESTAURANT (opened past 12 months) From the creative minds behind SAVI comes Sommba Cocina & Cellar. Sommba is a unique gastropub experience focusing on Spanish-style small plates, tapas and paella. Much like their sister restaurant, Sommba features a specially-curated selection of wines, cocktails and in keeping with their “unapologetically Spanish” motto, a selection of sangrias. Other finalists: Sunsets Waterfront Dining, Bohemian Bull

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1