Welcome, food lovers! If you find yourself in the crown jewel of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Hilton Head, nestled cosily between Savannah and Charleston, prepare your palate for a culinary journey to remember. This picturesque island, known for its golf courses and beaches, is also home to a rich food scene that will have you falling in love with the south’s culinary charm.
With an array of various international cuisines and the delectable seafood fresh from the Atlantic Ocean, the food scene here in Hilton Head truly represents a melting pot of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a gourmet dining experience, toe-licking barbeque, piquant seafood or hush puppies to die for, we’ll guide you on a gastronomic adventure across this island paradise. So, loosen your belts and ignite your taste buds as we embark on this scrumptious journey across Hilton Head, South Carolina.
From the upscale bistros along the harbour to the casual seafood shacks on the beach, every eatery in Hilton Head offers its own unique take on Southern cuisine. It’s a delicious symphony of flavors where the culinary traditions from the south meet the fresh, local ingredients from the sea and the land. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will be dancing with joy at all the delectable dishes you can savour here.
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey where each bite is infused with a little bit of that Southern charm and hospitality. Whether it’s your first time visiting Hilton Head or you’re a seasoned regular, prepare to have your culinary expectations surpassed as you experience the delicacies of Hilton Head, South Carolina!
Most Popular Restaurants in Hilton Head
If you’re exploring Hilton Head, South Carolina, one thing you shouldn’t miss is the fantastic dining scene. From fresh seafood joints to gourmet restaurants, this charming coastal city offers a diverse range of establishments that cater to all kinds of palates. Here are a few of the most popular restaurants in Hilton Head you should check out.
Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte is a local favorite, known for its delightful French-American cuisine, presented in a laid-back yet elegant setting. With a daily-changing menu that displays the freshest of ingredients, it creates a truly unique dining experience. Their Pan Roasted Mussels and Grilled Swordfish are a must-try. They’re located at 8 New Orleans Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks sets the standard for seafood in Hilton Head. Their menu, derived from Lowcountry recipes, is full of dishes like Shrimp and Grits or the Soft-Shell Crab, straight from the water. Dine with a stunning view of Port Royal Sound for a truly memorable meal. You can find them at 1 Hudson Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.
Next up is the The Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar. This one-of-a-kind restaurant offers an innovative menu that fuses Southern comfort food with culinary artistry. Their famous Lucky Rooster Fried Chicken is renowned throughout the city, and their wine list is nothing short of impressive. They’re situated at 841 William Hilton Pkwy, Unit A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.
Old Oyster Factory is a classic Hilton Head landmark that has been serving up tasty seafood meals for over 30 years. With sweeping water views and a menu featuring specialties like their Fresh Catch Piccata and Bacon Wrapped Lobster Tails, this restaurant remains a top choice for both locals and visitors. You’ll find them at 101 Marshland Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.
Finally, Red Fish is a must-visit, particularly for wine enthusiasts. Pair their unique blend of cuisines – steaks, seafood, and more with a choice of over 1,000 wines from their retail store. From Crispy Duck to Grouper Picatta, Red Fish offers an incredibly indulgent dining experience. Their address is 8 Archer Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.
These are just a few of the amazing restaurants that Hilton Head has to offer. Make sure to explore these local gems on your next visit to this charming Southern city!
Most Unique Restaurants in Hilton Head
If you’re searching for a unique dining experience in Hilton Head, look no further than Old Fort Pub. This establishment is a waterfront restaurant situated in Hilton Head Plantation at 65 Skull Creek Drive, offering guests an unforgettable culinary experience paired with mesmerizing views of Skull Creek. The restaurant is known for its Southern-inspired cuisine and features a menu packed with local seafood, fresh ingredients, and delectable flavors.
The establishment has a rich history, being named after an old fort from the Civil War era, which can be viewed from the restaurant. If you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, there’s no better place in Hilton Head than Old Fort Pub, especially at sunset when the views are most striking. Their signature dishes like Shrimp and Grits or Braised Short Rib are a must-try.
A short trip away, at 405 West Lane Street, you can find Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana. This restaurant takes you on a gastronomic journey to Italy and back with its authentic Italian dishes. Since its opening in 2002, Chef Michael Cirafesi continues to impress with his exquisite pasta dishes and fresh seafood, all prepared with an Italian twist.
This unique restaurant offers an interactive experience with its cooking school where you can learn the art of Italian cooking directly from their expert chefs. Whether you’re in the mood for some homemade pasta or a classic tiramisu, Michael Anthony’s will not disappoint.
If you are a seafood enthusiast, heading over to Red Fish is a must. Red Fish, located at 8 Archer Road, focuses on serving the freshest local seafood packed with flavor. The restaurant also doubles as a wine shop, boasting a selection of over 1,000 bottles to choose from!
What sets Red Fish apart is their ‘Build Your Own Seafood Platter’ option. Guests are given the opportunity to select from a range of fresh seafood and have it cooked to their liking. In addition to the unique dining options, the restaurant’s unique interiors, adorned with local art, make it a must-visit location in Hilton Head.
For those who love Asian cuisine, ELA’s On the Water is a perfect blend of the exotic East and Southern hospitality. Located at 1 Shelter Cove Lane, ELA’s offers panoramic waterfront views and a menu featuring fresh catch seafood and premium steaks.
The restaurant is highly praised for its seafood and sushi options, along with its award-winning wine list. ELA’s also offers a Sunday Brunch that’s not to be missed, featuring favorites like Blue Crab Omelette and Bottomless Mimosas.
Please note that reservations are recommended for all these restaurants to ensure the best dining experience.
Best Casual Restaurants in Hilton Head
For those visiting the picturesque beach town of Hilton Head, South Carolina, a delectable world of casual dining awaits! Whether you’re yearning for fresh seafood, classic American cuisine, or Southern comfort food, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this idyllic vacation spot. So, pack your appetite because here’s a list of some of the best casual restaurants to indulge in during your stay.
The first spot on our list is O Lucky Basil. Located at 101 A/B Pope Ave., Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, this Asian-inspired restaurant delivers a perfect fusion of fresh, robust flavors in a laid-back yet stylish setting. Their signature dishes such as the Basil Chicken and the Shaking Beef are a must-try. But don’t overlook their refreshing salads and creatively flavored mojitos.
Next, we move on to Charbar Co. Known for their gourmet burgers, Charbar Co, located at 33 Office Park Rd suite a, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, takes the concept of the humble burger and elevates it to new culinary heights. Their Duck Fat Fries and Signature Charbar Burger are sure to tantalize your taste buds. And don’t miss their extensive beer list!
If you’re a seafood aficionado, make your way to Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks. With a stunning view of Port Royal Sound, Hudson’s (1 Hudson Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926) is renowned for offering some of the freshest seafood on the island. Their menu changes based on what’s been caught for the day, making for a unique and enjoyable seafood experience.
For a taste of traditional Southern fare, you’ll want to visit One Hot Mama’s. Situated at 7 Greenwood Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, One Hot Mama’s is a family-friendly restaurant that offers mouth-watering Southern-style food. From their award-winning wings to their scrumptious BBQ platters, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Last but not least, Skull Creek Boathouse at 397 Squire Pope Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, is a fantastic place to enjoy not only delicious food but also a fantastic waterfront view. The Dive Bar, a raw bar featuring fresh sushi, oysters, and sashimi, is a patron favorite. Add in the stunning sunset views, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect casual dining experience!
Best Family Restaurants in Hilton Head
Located in the heart of Hilton Head Island, Old Fort Pub is a waterfront family restaurant that offers the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence. Tucked away in 65 Skull Creek Drive, it boasts an unmatched historic charm enhanced by a breathtaking view of the marshland. This New American establishment is lauded for its exquisite Sea Island cuisine featuring fresh seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen.
Your family’s dining experience at Old Fort Pub starts with a warm welcome from their friendly staff. The menu covers a wide array of classic favorites and innovative dishes. The signature dishes include their Crab Cake and She Crab Soup; both dishes are a symphony of flavors that perfectly showcase the restaurant’s culinary ambition. If you have children, there is a comprehensive kid’s menu that offers staples like chicken tenders and macaroni and cheese.
Furthermore, Old Fort Pub houses an award-winning wine list that perfectly pairs with their dishes. Its Sunday Brunch has always been a great hit among locals and tourists alike, replete with classic Southern brunch favorites. No matter when you choose to visit, this restaurant permeates an air of elegance and comfort that makes you feel at home.
Another restaurant that is a must-visit on Hilton Head Island is Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks. This family-friendly seafood restaurant is situated on the serene waters at 1 Hudson Rd, flaunting splendid views of Port Royal Sound. The restaurant has been serving locals and visitors since 1967, priding itself on casting its nets to reel in the freshest seafood from the harbor.
Among the crowd-pleasers are the super fresh oysters harvested from local beds and the signature Lump Crab Cake. Equally enticing are the low-country dishes like Shrimp & Grits and the Seafood Platter. For the little ones, they offer a dedicated kid’s menu featuring bite-sized portions of their popular dishes.
What sets Hudson’s apart from other restaurants is its commitment to sustainable fishing. The restaurant holds strong relationships with local fisherman, which allows them to bring in the freshest catch daily. If you’re in Hilton Head, make sure to reel in your family for a meal at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks for a true taste of the Lowcountry.
Finally, one cannot talk about family restaurants in Hilton Head without mentioning Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza. Located at 7 Trent Jones Lane in the Palmetto Dunes Resort, Big Jim’s is a family-friendly restaurant where casual dining meets heartwarming comfort food.
This restaurant takes pride in its authentic southern BBQ, burgers, and hand-tossed pizzas. The star of their menu is undoubtedly the BBQ Ribs, slow cooked to perfection and smothered in their homemade savory sauce. Additionally, their hand-tossed pizzas, loaded burgers, and southern-style sides are a real treat for the entire family.
Big Jim’s also boasts multiple HD TVs, making it a great place to enjoy a casual meal while watching your favorite sports. It’s the kind of place where everyone feels welcomed, and leaves satisfied. So next time you’re in Hilton Head, be sure to swing by Big Jim’s for some hearty southern comfort food.
Best Takeout Food in Hilton Head
When visiting Hilton Head Island, you’d be forgiven for being overwhelmed by the stunning landscapes, sandy beaches and of course, the exciting variety of takeout food options. The culinary scene here is every food lover’s paradise, with traditional southern comfort foods, fresh seafood delicacies, exquisite fine dining, and everything in between! Here are a few local favorites where you can get top-notch takeout food to enjoy on the beach, in your hotel room, or wherever your adventures take you.
At the top of the list is Truffles Cafe, a local favorite that has been serving delightful and hearty American fare since 1983. Nestled in 71 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC. Their Shrimp and Lobster Pot Pie and the Truffle Cheddar Burger are just two of the mouth-watering entrees you can carry out. Add a slice of their homemade Apple Pie, and you’ve got yourself a feast!
Seafood lovers should make a beeline for Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks located on 1 Hudson Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC. Known for its locally-sourced seafood, Hudson’s is a must-visit for its traditional Lowcountry dishes. Try their famous Hilton Head clam chowder or the freshly caught Shrimp and Grits, both of which are available for takeout!
If you’re craving some spicy Mexican food, then Holy Tequila is the place to go. Located at 33 Office Park Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC, Holy Tequila offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. A must-try from their takeout menu is the Holy Guacamole, which is freshly prepared at your table, and the Holy Quesadilla which is a fan favorite. Their extensive selection of tequila-based cocktails is also available for takeout, providing the perfect accompaniment to your meal.
If you have a palate for Italian fare, then Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana should be on your list. This award-winning restaurant located at 37 New Orleans Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC, serves classic Italian dishes with a modern touch. Their Eggplant Parmesan and Scallopini Michael Anthony, available for takeout, will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
These are just a few of the many delicious takeout spots that Hilton Head has to offer. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or just looking for a quick, delicious meal to enjoy on the go, these beloved local spots are sure to satisfy. Bon Appétit!
What Foods is Hilton Head Known For?
Perhaps the most iconic food you’ll encounter in Hilton Head, South Carolina is Lowcountry cuisine. This traditional Southern style of cooking includes fresh seafood, locally-grown fruits and vegetables, and plenty of hearty grains. Here, the food reflects the rich history and bountiful natural resources of the area, resulting in dishes that are simultaneously comforting and delightful.
One dish that is simply a must-try is the Lowcountry Boil or Frogmore Stew, as locals like to call it. This delectable pot of goodness usually comprises fresh shrimps, corn on the cob, smoked sausage, and red potatoes, all seasoned and boiled together for a blend of flavors that are quite unmatched.
If you’re keen on sampling this traditional dish, head over to the Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks. Located at 1 Hudson Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, Hudson’s takes immense pride in using local ingredients, including seafood caught daily by their own fishing boat named “The Bulldog.”
Another Hilton Head Island classic is she-crab soup, a creamy, delicious concoction made from Atlantic blue crab meat and crab roe. The soup is thick, rich, and slightly sweet, with a hint of sherry that creates a refined finish. Oceans at The Sea Pines Resort located at 72 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, serves a divine version of this dish.
And if you’re in Hilton Head, South Carolina, you can’t miss out on the fresh oysters, whether they’re served raw on the half shell, steamed, fried or baked into a creamy oyster pie. For this coastal delight, visit Bluffton Oyster Company at 63 Wharf St, Bluffton, SC 29910. Being the last hand-shucking house in South Carolina, they offer an authentically local dining experience.
Lest we forget, Hilton Head is also ripe with juicy, fresh-from-the-tree peaches. And while they’re delightful on their own, they’re absolutely divine when transformed into a cobbler. For a mouthwatering bite of peach cobbler, pop into Signe’s Heaven Bound Bakery & Cafe located at 93 Arrow Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928. It’s a sweet end to a flavorful journey through South Carolina’s Lowcountry cuisine.
Eating Your Way Around Hilton Head: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Seafood Delight
We’re starting our culinary journey in Hilton Head with a visit to Old Oyster Factory. Located at 101 Marshland Road, this stunning waterfront dining venue specializes in impeccably fresh seafood. Their Oysters Rockefeller is a must-try. Make sure to reserve a window table for awe-inspiring views of Broad Creek.
Day 2: Italian Cuisine on the Island
Today, we’re treating our taste buds to Italian flavors at Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana. This upscale restaurant at 37 New Orleans Road offers a wide selection of classic Italian dishes with a contemporary twist. Don’t miss the Risotto Pescatore or freshly made Pasta dishes.
Day 3: Tantalizing Grill Tastes
On the third day, we’re heading to Charlie’s L’etoile Vert. Located at 8 New Orleans Road, this family-owned and operated dining spot offers delicious and creative American grill specialties. Their Crispy Duck is an absolute delight.
Day 4: Exquisite French Fare
It’s time for some French gourmet at HH Prime. Situated inside the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort at 23 Ocean Lane, the restaurant serves mouthwatering steaks and seafood. Make sure to try their French Onion Soup and Prime Ribeye.
Day 5: Southern Comfort and Seafood
Round off your culinary journey at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks. Located at 1 Hudson Road, this seafood restaurant is a popular local haunt known for its fresh, delicious seafood caught daily by their own fishing boats. The Hudson’s Seafood Platter is a must-have.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question: What are the top restaurants in Hilton Head, South Carolina?Some of the top-rated restaurants in Hilton Head include The Pearl Kitchen and Bar, which is famous for its contemporary American cuisine, and Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana, known for its traditional Italian dishes. The Jazz Corner, which offers southern cuisine with live jazz performances, and Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, a seafood restaurant with wonderful views of the Port Royal Sound, are also popular dining spots.
Question: What types of cuisine are popular in Hilton Head?The variety of cuisine in Hilton Head is quite broad, with a big emphasis on seafood due to its coastal location. You’ll find excellent oysters, shrimps, crabs, and fish. There’s also a strong influence of Southern cuisine, so expect dishes like shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and cornbread. Restaurants also offer Italian, Mexican, and French cuisine, among others.
Question: Are there budget-friendly dining options in Hilton Head?Yes, there are many affordable restaurants in Hilton Head. You might want to check out The Salty Dog Café in South Beach Marina, which has a great selection of budget-friendly seafood dishes. For a quick bite, Hilton Head Ice Cream offers a variety of unique flavors like peach praline and blueberry pie. Giuseppi’s Pizza and Pasta also offer tasty meals at reasonable prices.
Question: Are there fine dining options in Hilton Head?There are definitely numerous fine dining establishments in Hilton Head. Check out Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte for fancy French cuisine, or The Studio for a romantic atmosphere and artistically prepared dishes. Other high-end restaurants include The Old Fort Pub, which offers beautiful views of Skull Creek alongside southern specialties, and ELA’s On The Water, a seafood restaurant with stunning waterfront views.
Question: Are there vegan or vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Hilton Head?Absolutely! There are several options for vegan and vegetarian diners in Hilton Head. The Island Green with its delicious, plant-based smoothies and sandwiches, and Delisheeeyo, which offers organic salads, bowls, wraps, and juices, are perfect for health-conscious diners. There are also many traditional restaurants which offer vegetarian or vegan dishes on their menu.
Question: What kid-friendly restaurants are there in Hilton Head?Hilton Head has many family-friendly dining options. Marleys Island Grille, with its casual atmosphere and a variety of dishes that kids love, is a great choice. The Island Fudge Shoppe is a must-visit for families with a sweet tooth. Skull Creek Boathouse also offers a kid’s menu with a wide variety of options, making it a good choice for families.
Question: What are some unique food experiences in Hilton Head?For a unique food experience in Hilton Head, you might want to try the Lowcountry boil, a local dish consisting of shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes. Enjoying fresh seafood on a dock, like Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks or Skull Creek Boathouse, is also a unique Hilton Head experience. Don’t miss Bluffton’s Farmers Market to explore and taste local products and foods.
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