Taverna Italian-American Bistro

Incredible food, service, and experience. Not lots of places to park, but very important to always make a reservation! Italian appetizers, seafood, Italian main pasta dishes with Chicken, Beef, Shrimp, Seafood, etc. Favorites like seafood fettuccine, chicken parmesan, spaghetti and meatballs, etc. Never had a bad meal and there are lots of meals to choose from!

Delicious as always! I should have posted a long time ago. Great greeting at the door, great service, allows shared plates, portions are large, such a delightful restaurant, one of our faves.

Planned to try Taverna this evening. We had a party of four (which included my 90 year old disabled mom). After waiting about 20 minutes, a group of 5 came in behind us with no reservation and loudly spoke about working their connection to get seated. Sure enough, the restaurant chose to seat their “friends” instead of our group. We left and won’t be going back. Poor start for what we hoped was going to be a good new restaurant.

our server was awesome! (young girl with dark hair) but we were very disappointed with the food. we ordered Nona’s meatball for an appetizer and had high hopes. it came barely warm with cold ricotta just plopped on top. then i ordered the veal parmesan and my boyfriend ordered the penne pasta with a bunch of meat and a brandy sauce. the veal parmesan was HUGE, pretty much a whole baby cow haha. it was super good, but my boyfriends meal was disappointing. the “filet” steak was shriveled meat and 2 pieces of boiled shrimp. we ordered drinks from the bar, an apperol sprits for me and a basil hayden on the rocks for my boyfriend, and there were black pieces IN the ice. that indicates the ice machine needs a good cleaning. overall, we didn’t have a horrible experience and we didn’t complain. our food came out at reasonable times and so did our drinks.

1st experience (over a year ago) the host was kind of rude when we called to inquire about a table because it was somewhat close to closing time. We came anyway. Food was good & our server was great. 2nd experience (more recent) our server was excellent & even provided some recommendations. We were not impressed with the pork chop. Not really sure how to describe it, but the flavor just wasn't there. Honestly, the bread plate was our favorite thing so far. Still open to coming back. I'll try a pasta entree next time. Impressed with the portion sizes I've seen at other tables.

It was my first time going to this restaurant and had such a great experience! First of all the service was excellent especially by Fred the bartender. He was friendly and knowledgeable. I had a chocolate and cream martini which was like my liquid dessert and also the appetizers were delicious!! The calamari was one of the best I had. I will be definitely be back soon to try new dishes.

Got take out - Linguine with meatballs and Pomodoro sauce Linguine - great Pomodoro sauce - really really good Meatballs - not so much. They were dry. But they just opened, so hopefully they'll figure it out. I'll be back

Better than expected! The Calamari appetizer was to die for. Meatballs enormous...salad fresh...sauce could have been a little thicker for me but it had a good taste . Nice place open early on Saturdays☺️

I wasn't able to dine here, so I can't speak to the food or service inside the restaurant. However, a big part of running a business is being reachable for customers who are trying to make reservations. I called multiple times over the course of the day and the phone just rang and rang with no answer, voicemail, or answering service. For anyone trying to plan a visit, that makes it difficult to know if the restaurant is open or accepting reservations. The number I called (803-701-7788) is the one listed across Google and online listings, so I'm hoping this was just an off day or a phone issue rather than a regular occurrence. I'd be happy to update this review if I'm able to get through and visit in the future, because I've heard good things and would still like to try it.

The food was decent but over priced. Maybe because some of the dishes are really big, they raise the prices. I had salmon which was a normal portion size. My husband had the spaghetti and meatballs which was large. . I just feel the days of giant portions are outdated. That is the whole problem with Lily's. Everything is just outdated. At the same time, I wouldn't call it retro, classic or nostalgic. It was just dumpy. The vinyl tablecloth was stick and old. Nothing felt clean. Service was really off. Took forever for a cocktail, even though the place was empty. But the appetizer came out immediately, followed by our main courses in a couple minutes. We sent the main course back since we had just started the appetizer. The server looked at us like we were crazy when we said it was too soon. We won't be back. I'd be surprised if it stays in business much longer. I may be generous with giving it 3 stars.

The food was delicious and delicious the amount was HUGE! The service was friendly and the atmosphere was family style warm.

We went with friends on Friday night. We had a 6:00 reservation, arrived early, and were seated early (at 5:45). The restaurant had a great ambiance. Our server Holly was GREAT! Yes, the prices are a bit high, but I had the $34 Chicken Parm, and it was enough for three meals; one at the restaurant and two at home. The pasta was 'al dente', which was alright, but I prefer my pasta softer. The calamari appetizer was slightly undercooked (but still good), and was plentiful, and served with the two delicious dipping sauces. The tiramisu came with hard chocolate chips on top, which I scraped off. I think most people prefer the soft and creaminess of tiramisu sans hard chocolate chips. Again, great ambiance, good food, and great service! We will be back during lunch to try some of their sandwiches!

Food is very good and portions are huge. Nice ambiance. I had the veal Parmigiana which was excellent.

As always the food and deserts are over the top good. I wanted to post a menus as all the reviews speak for themselves

Worst service and food ever! Arrived at 6:30 left at 10 pm because service was sooooo slow. Served wrong wine, took 30 minutes just to get initial drinks then it was wrong! The food was tasteless, served a lb of spaghetti in a pink watery sauce, chicken parm dry, beet salad inedible, meatball tasteless and dry. Two servers working, they could not keep up! Not their fault, the owner needs to hire more people and consider reducing the massive size of food to smaller portion that is edible. Sometimes less is more!! Then to top it off a lady next to us passed out on table then throwing up on floor. Been once before...was horrible then worse now. Never stepping foot in this place again!!

Great local spot for lunch or dinner. Small but lively bar with great apps, fresh salads & amazing meatballs!

Most consider this the nicest restaurant in Lake Wylie. It's very clean, great service and amazing food!! Highly recommend

This place is ridiculous! Their reviews on Google are fake! The food is horrible and so salty! The server was so rude and not forthcoming. In addition we inquired about the kids menu and they said they had one. Well they ended up charging us $29.00 for a lousy bowl of penne pasta with Alfredo sauce with no meat.And $6.00 for a side of broccoli. So $35.00 for a meatless kid's dish. The whole experience left a salty taste in our mouths literally, and the service was just bad! And you have to pay for bread before you get your meal. Get real!! Not a good option in the York/ Lake Wylie area. Don't go!

A group of 8 of us came for dinner. One guy in the group ordered the steak medium and it came out well-done, so he sent it back. When they brought out the next steak it was raw. He didn't eat it and they took it off his bill. I felt so sorry for him. So, I guess the lesson here is skip getting the steak. Everyone else enjoyed their dinner. My husband got the pork chop and really liked it. I got the seafood pasta and there was enough food for 2 meals. Definitely worth it.

Everyone's palate is different. The prices are expensive for what you get. I ordered the penne with Gorgonzola sauce. I compared a $36 dish to a microwave meal. The crème brûlée was old, tasted like pudding that had been left out to long. If the details in plating matched the taste of the meal it would be better.

I typically choose Sweetwater or Copper...first & last time eating at Lily's Bistro. For starters the host reminded me of Joe Biden... no clue what was going on... I should've walked out at that point. After getting our table and waiting 45 mins for our food I received my $45 steak. It's was over cooked and looked like it had been shut in a car door. Elected to send it back and just wait for my wife to finish her meal. In my opinion, Lily's Bistro is a poor attempt to be an upscale restaurant. Will not be going back.

Consistent food quality, love the mussels, fish dishes, the grilled Caesar. Great wine selection. Swell owner. It's our special spot, thank you

Where do you even begin? Reservations definitely recommended, especially on weekends. From sign on door, closed Mondays. From your meeting with Maxine, the hostess with the mostess, this intimate family style restaurant is no joke in the portions department. Bring your appetite, or your special someone to "share" these enormous plates. Amazing appetizers to get the party started. Little something on the menu for every palate. I was smart... knowing we were sharing the Caprese Salad and the Calamari, I ordered from the kids menu. Small plate of penne fra diavlo (sp?). Perfect portion! Left overs for days. Pretty interesting desserts but absolutely no room after a hearty meal. Server Tito was awesome and a wealth of knowledge. Referring to freshly grated parmigiana as "Italian glitter".... I can't. Will be using that in my repertoire for sure. Second time here and can't stop raving. Priced accordingly. Private parking lot for venue.

Incredible. No other Italian joint within an hour can touch it. I drive past here everyday a since moving to Lake Wylie and am surprised this is my first time.

This has to be one of the best restaurants we have been to since we moved here just over a year ago. The service was over the top amazing and the food devine. My husband had meatballs and spaghetti, and I had the Scottish salmon with wonderful risotto. The cheesecake dessert, which we shared, was so smooth and creamy. We will definitely be back. Just know, the portion sizes are large, but we have plenty for another meal, which we are looking forward to.

I was by myself and decided to sit at the bar. There was maybe 3 to 4 seats open. Mind you the bar isn't that big and there was only 2 to 3 people sitting. I was not allowed to sit at the bar. The reason I was given by the bartender was that the seats were reserved. I said I didn't know we could reserve seats at the bar and the hostess then responded saying normally they don't but that the bartender had been working there a long time. I was offered a table which I didn't take because I was only there to have a drink or 2. No more then 30min because I had to be somewhere else. Will not be coming back even though it was my first time there. 0 out 10 do not recommend

We just had our company Christmas party here. There was a party of 10 or so. Everyone's food is outstanding. I've only been here once and I have to tell you that there is not an Italian joint within 45 minutes that can touch them! This place is a gem in our area. Fiamma's is excellent and the ambience is better, but if we are simply judging on food and service, this restaurant is by far the best around. seafood is exceptional. Shrimp, lobster, and the best scallops I've ever had. Thank you for having us we will be back.

Really hit the jackpot today when trying Lily's for lunch. It has an elegant feel and was able to carry on a conversation without raising our voices. The food is farm to table with fresh everything. Grilled chicken had a great grill taste with subtle seasoning. Caprese chicken used roasted red peppers instead of tomatoes which was a hit with my wife. Service was great but only 16 tables of various sizes so make a reservation for a weekend night.

They catered our xmas party. Did a good job. Food was very good. Everyone liked it. Have not been there for dinner yet.

Maybe this was good once upon a time The vents are filthy The server was not sure of the menu. The runner brought one meal incorrect and tried to talk one of the guests into taking it anyway. Wrong drink delivered..... Lake Wylie is growing...so step it up Lily's or there will be many more reviews like mine!

The food was very good, however, it's quite expensive for the ambiance (not great), waitress attire, etc. The expense, I felt, warranted better of the above mentioned.

I loved the grilled romaine salad. The salmon dish did not disappoint. The pasta dish and meatball was very good and enough for two meals. Tiramisu was delightful. I was happy we had a reservation as we watched multiple people get turned away. Don't judge this place by the outside is what the community Facebook page said. We were surprised how busy it was.

Super good food. I love the risotto with salmon and asparagus! Their calamari is outstanding. Hubby loves the pasta with seafood. It's super casual but quality food. Go!

Lily's Bistro!!! Oh my GOODNESS!!! Visiting my hometown I wanted to visit my favorite place in Gastonia...learning they moved to Lake Wylie, SC which was only a few more Mika away made the drive an adventure! Walking in for our reservation, I was amazed at first the visual ambiance of the interior and then to get a glimpse at the custom deserts of the night as your lead to your table, will make you drool! Logan my server was probably the best I have had in months! She was attentive, and me loving the old menu, asked if they could do something and had a recommendation for what you see pictured! The Chicken Scarpariello was beyond what I ever could have even tasted! So when you visit...make sure you ask for Logan...she will meet your expectations and exceed them, as well as the food!!!

This was our first time dining at Lily's. We made reservations and were seated right away. We were excited to see that they had a Primativo Red wine on their wine list, so that's what we ordered for our meal. Our entrees were, Lamb chops and Petite Filet and Shrimp Scampi. Our server, Shelly, was very informative and attentive. We enjoyed the flavors of our dishes and the steak was cooked exactly to order. The outside of the restaurant kind of blends in and is hard to see. They need someone waving an Italian flag or something that draws attention to the door front. We enjoyed our first visit and are so happy to have found this hidden gem for a nice dinner out!

Outstanding food! Huge portions! Chicken parm is the best I've ever had. Calamari is worth it alone!

Great food and service Huge meatballs!! Nice wine selection Live music Super nice people

I was looking for a nice local spot not too far from my home and not towards the city. Thanks to Yelp this place popped up. I am so glad I gave this place a try and definitely will be coming back. First off walking in I was greeted with the most amazing smell of the food. The staff there was so friendly and our dinner was a pleasant experience. Let's get to the food! Ok We ordered the fried calamari lightly breaded and cooked perfectly not rubbery at all. Let me tell you the tomato sauce here is absolutely to die for, I had to ask for another cup because the appetizer portion was a pretty good size. I had the Penne Chicken with white wine sauce, One of the best meals I've ever had, my mouth is watering just thinking about it. Chicken was cooked wonderfully and just had the right amount of olives, capers, and peppers. My fiance enjoyed her shrimp and angel hair, it had nice large shrimps in it and again cooked to perfection! Portions for both meals were great. If you're in the area and want to go to a nice local gem Lily's is a must. I was a little nervous originally pulling up because the parking lot was empty but as I was leaving the parking lot sure did fill up so you know it's good!

Food is delicious with huge portions. Some, not all, of the wait staff is less than friendly

I have came here on more than one occasion and every time I come I enjoy every bit of my bites. This place is probably one of the most underrated restaurants in Charlotte . They never fail or disappoint me when I come to enjoy a nice meal . I feel like the location is hard for some to find and easy to by pass . One thing that can't be denied is the delicious food . Everything was simply delicious!

We finally made it here!! It will be our new go-to when we have people from out of town. Service - excellent!! Food was perfect. My wife had the filet, I had scallop, our my brother-in-law had rack of lamb, his buddy had pork porterhouse. Also got the clams which were great!! Not cheap but we'll worth it. We will be back!!

We chose Lilly's for our 42rd Anniversary Dinner and were totally disappointed in the quality of our meals. Their was no sauce on the pasta dishes - just tomatoes in water. The clams and shrimp linguini was in dish water - but described as "white wine!" No way. We ordered the chocolate dessert to go and were shocked to see how tiny the piece was for $8. Sub-par.

A friend has been raving about this place in Lake Wylie so after a trip to Lowe's this evening we decided to stop in and give it a try. I started with Annabelle Cab and it was light and easy drinking. Reasonable at $12/glass :: $39/btl. There were many tempting offerings on the menu. We opted for a few tapas, with calamari to start. I'm not a huge calamari person but bf is and I have to say, it was fried to perfection and served with fresh tomato marinara and house made remoulade and was quite good. The small plates we ordered were lamb lollipops, prosciutto-wrapped shrimp, braised short-rib with a burgundy sauce and Margherita flatbread which was tasty with fresh marinara and buffalo mozz. Oooh! I loved the blue and white plates on which the tapas were served! I've had the best short ribs (I think) anywhere - in Chicago and I'm telling you, these were on par. The wine sauce was rich and savory and the beef cooked to perfection. The Lamb Lollies were DELICIOUS. I love lamb and these did not disappoint - full of flavor, cooked just right, also a rich Demi glacé and a delicious cauliflower-potato cake. Last but not least, the prosciutto-wrapped shrimp served on risotto. YUM, why didn't I think of this - though not sure I'd have done it as well. The salt from the prosciutto was the right compliment to the perfectly grilled shrimp. Our server was Rachel and she was both professional and friendly, enthusiastic about Lily's and the menu and checked on us just the right amount to take care of everything without being intrusive - 5 Stars! I think the reason we waited so long to try Lily's is that the name/logo had us thinking it was yet another Asian kitchen and most of the advertising I've seen was on Instagram, after I started following Lily's. Also, it's not an 'Italian' restaurant though they have Italian dishes. I think having that in the sign pigeon-holes them and therefore doesn't allude to the wider range of dishes available. And although MUCH nicer than anything nearby; I always feel the term 'fine dining' is used entirely too loosely in advertising many restaurants. Fine dining means silver service, white tablecloths and multiple courses. It doesn't mean the dining at Lily's and other places is not 'fine' or great; it's that the definition of "Fine Dining" is specific. Also, the space itself seems slightly older and we had an AC vent blowing directly on our booth - however the hostess warned us of this before we were seated and my bf retrieved a light sweater from our car for me so I was comfortable and we ate everything before it could get cold! I have to be honest, I didn't have huge expectations for Lily's based on other fare available in the immediate area, I just hoped it was a little nicer than our NUMEROUS wing, bbq, Asian, Mexican and fast food joints in this area. I was surprised that it will actually be a future contender for eating uptown, Plaza Midwood or Southpark. We are so very glad they are in the LKW area. All in all, Lily's is a very welcome addition to our neck of the woods. Keep it up guys, we need you.

Service is great. Staff are wonderful. Food is Delicious, great choices. Ambiance is quent. Suggest rsvp, fills up quick.

We had horrible service and the food was WAY overpriced for the quality that we received. The sauce ranks among the worst I've ever had. Decent ambiance but once is enough for us.

Delish! Starting and ending our vacation in this amazing spot! Food, drinks and deserts delicious!!!

Initially after they opened, the food was exceptional. Now it seems kind of hit and miss. The last couple times there were disappointing in both service and food. Usually the pasta is quite good. The wedge salad isn't a wedge at all, and was not great.

The owner approached me and asked me to come drink with him outside. It was very weird. My food that I paid $30.00 for was 3 shrimp. 1/2 head of iceberg lettuce with 1tbs avocado onion and some white dressing. I was disgusted to say the least to have had to pay that much for nothing. I wouldn't go there it's overpriced and the owner shouldn't be approaching young woman to come drink with him. It just isn't professional.

We we're in the area, spotted Lilly's and stopped in for lunch today. It might be easy to overlook from the outside but the inside is beautifully decorated with a fine dining ambience. I chose the penne Bolognese and my wife chose the daily special carbonara with angel hair. The pasta was perfectly al dente and to our tastes. The Bolognese sauce was wonderfully flavorful and my wife's carbonara was also delicious. We felt like we got the meals for half price because The generous portions allowed us both to take half of our dishes home for another meal. We highly recommend Lilly's and will return again.

I had the Pork Porterhouse with red skin mashed potatoes and bacon Brussels spouts. The food was amazing! I have to say the Brussel sprouts were so good I could have ate a bowl full. Our server, Logan was great. She is so sweet and attentive! If you are in the area definitely check out this quaint Italian a Bistro! Eat Local! Great wine and dessert selection as well!

Food is great owner is an arrogant A Hole | Support Brian and Maxine and Barbara hit Simonettis in Belmont for a less expensive and better experience and Food

Took the family here to dinner tonight and while it was overall a good meal I was expecting more traditional Italian dishes then what was offered. The Italian entrees we had were large portions, but not as flavorful as we were expecting. The Frute de Mare was plentiful but the wine sauce was rather bland. The calamari is excellent and set the bar higher than the entrees delivered. The staff was amazing and very attentive!

Great food nice atmosphere. Comfortable friendly place. Can handle 1 or more in a group. Takes reservations

Fantastic experience from start to finish! Hidden gem for sure! Our server was Ryan and if you have a chance, request him! He was super knowledgeable and attentive! Our meal was spectacular! Started with the clams for an appetizer! The sauce was fantastic! My husband had the filet and lobster with the most amazing pan seared scallops! I had the Penne Pasta with filet, shrimp, Italian sausage and asparagus! Again, it was all about the fresh ingredients and the SAUCE! Outstanding! Food was fresh, service was impeccable! I am not sure who the head chef is but he's talented and has the kitchen running like a top! Items plated beautifully! So many other items on the menu to try! We can't wait to go back! Best dining experience we have had in quite some time! Thanks for all the attention to detail!

I have been to this place a number of times now, I have ordered almost every entree they have. All of them are amazing. My partner get the same pasta dish every time, it's always cooked perfectly. Service is outstanding, we love cutting up with the hostess, she is a doll. The whiskey selection is outstanding. They always have Blantons, and we love to try new selections. It's not terribly priced as far as liquor goes. The food is a bit pricey, but definitely worth it. Whoever came up with the recipes.... well done, and the kitchen staff is very consistent. I was sad our favorite waitress left but everyone has been great. We love this place 10/10 highly recommend

I ate dinner at Lily's Bistro Lake Wylie after 18 holes of golf on Friday 4/16/2021. I was in search of higher quality food and a nice red wine. I found it at Lily's! I ordered the meatball appetizer and it was fantastic. I don't even like meatballs! I then ordered a filet accompanied with asparagus and fried spicy onions (I think that's what they were) as well as a side grilled Caesar salad. I was amazed with every bite. As a Lake Wylie resident I look forward to supporting Lily's for many years to come! Oh yea, did I mention Tiramisu!?!?

Another terrific meal this past Saturday evening. Quality of food is excellent. Prices very fair. Portions are generous. Highly recommend!