Mpishi is a tasteful new addition to Daniel Island dining

Mpishi, the new eclectic eatery in downtown Daniel Island, opened its doors on May 6 in the space formerly occupied by Honeycomb Café.

The name “Mpishi” (pronounced MU-PEE-SHE) means “chef” in Swahili and has special significance for the owners, Andy and Allie Clay.

“We realize it’s not an easy one to pronounce, but it’s sentimental to us,” explained Allie, who serves as pastry chef for the restaurant, while Andy is head chef. “We met in Tanzania while Andy was a consulting chef for a safari lodge and I was doing research as a wildlife biologist. Mpishi is my nickname for Andy.”

The couple selected the DI restaurant location so they could spend more time together with their two children.

“We chose Daniel Island because this is our home,” said Allie. “We’ve lived here since 2011, but that entire time Andy was working out of state and commuting. We wanted him to be able to stay home with the us…[We] really wanted a business that was part of the community that we love.”

The family-friendly menu includes a variety of items that are sure to please any palate. Popular items on the menu include Challah Nutella French Toast, the Day After Thanksgiving Sandwich, and homemade cinnamon rolls.

So far, Mpishi has received rave reviews, especially from the locals. Both Allie and Andy are thrilled with the response from the community.

“We love our patrons!” exclaimed Allie. “The community has been incredibly supportive. We have had so many people we know come in, and have already made new friends.”

Cassie Cataline, who lives in Smythe Park, was hooked after her first visit. They even accommodated her request for a vegan meal.

“The restaurant is a great addition to the island line-up and we’re already planning date night for Thursday’s burger night - with a veggie burger option,” Cataline said.

Steve McManus has already been to Mpishi four times with his wife, Rita, since the restaurant opened.

“The atmosphere is very fresh and welcoming,” he said. “The owners and wait staff make you feel comfortable and provide excellent service.”

Sean McColl was impressed by both the food and the ambiance.

“The major renovations the new owners have done to the space have created an atmosphere that is light and welcoming and features great local artwork, including some by the chef,” McColl said. “This is a wonderful addition to Daniel Island.”

New Daniel Island resident Susan Cloyd tried the soup on her first visit.

“It was great!” noted Cloyd. “I had Yiayia’s soup, which means Grandma’s soup in Greek. It was very authentic. I’m half Greek and my dad used to make that soup all the time and theirs was just as good.”

Currently the restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch Wednesday through Sunday, and for “pop-up dinners” on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. All dinners feature a special theme and are price-set family-style meals.

To learn more about Mpishi’s offerings, visit their Facebook page or website at www.mpishirestaurant.com.