Stella’s – Charleston, SC

Stella’s is a Charleston gem that serves up Greek and Mediterranean delights. If you’re in the mood for meze, you’re in for a treat. The Grilled Octopus will have you believing Poseidon himself sent his culinary blessings; it’s tender, smoky, and oh-so-divine. Not to be outdone, the Keftedes (Greek meatballs) are like Zeus’s thunderbolts of flavor. The Hummus is so smooth it should have its own jazz album and the Lamb Frites? Oh, they are a symphony of savoriness, the hearty golden fleece of appetizers and worth the odyssey.

Now, let’s set sail to the entrée waters, where the Grilled Whole Fish of the Day awaits. One of the most popular dishes known for being fresh, flaky and cooked in a sauce of lemons and Stella’s signature olive oil. Then there’s the Shrimp Ouzo Bucatini, which is well-liked for its tender shrimp and the luscious ouzo tomato cream sauce. And of course, the Braised Lamb Shank – it’s hearty, tender, and has a richness that has garnered quite a few fans. For the herbivores among us, there’s a delightful twist on Moussaka featuring artichokes, fennel, caramelized onions, and zucchini. It’s a dish that would make even the pickiest veggie sing praises.