"The next twenty minutes became a lively discussion about pizza options in the Charleston area, which, unfortunately, seemed to have more drawbacks than benefits. However, after much deliberation, we decided on Vespa, mainly for its convenient location.
As we drove down Seven Farms Drive, we saw a large Charleston Police Command Center RV parked without authorization right across from Credit One Stadium. Clearly, they were preparing for potential fallout from the Paris riots spilling over into Daniel Island. Looks like they mean business!
Approaching Vespa, it became apparent that it didn’t offer much in terms of curb appeal. There was an enormous generator-like contraption that looked like it could power a small city, presumably used for serving frozen drinks. Scattered throughout the courtyard were various carts, likely used to transport firewood for the pizza oven. To our surprise, some brave souls were dining outside, enduring the oppressive heat and humidity. They must have been Swedish tourists seeking an authentic Southern experience.
Once we stepped inside the pleasantly cool restaurant, a lovely hostess welcomed us and showed us to our table. Oddly enough, there was a sign taped to a wall of stacked wood that read, “DON’T WRITE ON WALL.” I assumed they must have had their fill of patrons from the Tattooed Moose at Park Circle, where customers are encouraged to unleash their creativity using Sharpies.
The restaurant was bustling with impeccably dressed Southern families in gingham dresses and bow ties, making me feel quite underdressed in comparison. (At least I wasn’t in flip-flops or a backward baseball cap.) For some reason, I asked our cheerful server about the soup of the day, and to my surprise, she replied, “Miso.” MISO? What happened to the classic Minestrone soup in Italian restaurants? (If anyone knows of a place in the Low Country that still serves it, please let me know!)
While we waited for our salad and pizza, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of organization. Boxes were haphazardly piled everywhere, and the overall aesthetic felt somewhat shabby. The courtyard outside looked disheveled, and inside, cardboard boxes were strewn about. The silverware, wrapped in napkins, gave off a distinctly cheap vibe. No tablecloths, disposable plastic cups, or cheap plates—definitely not the kind of place we’d bring out-of-town guests, but I must admit, THE FOOD IS REALLY GOOD and THE PRICES ARE REASONABLE, plus the TIPS ARE CALCULATED PRE-TAX.
We were genuinely impressed and will certainly be back. P.S. The Garlic Knots are absolutely amazing!"
