Dedicated to all those who own, or are employed by, or have been employed by, the many fine restaurants on Hilton Head Island. You deserve our thanks and our sincere gratitude for all you do, and have done, throughout this most challenging time while enduring the Coronavirus pandemic. We stand with you as we go forward, never knowing what can and will happen. We do also continually acknowledge the enjoyment and enrichment that you bring to our lives. Thank you. May God bless us all.
JME (May 2020)
HILTON HEAD RESTAURANT GUIDE
Updated June 2025 by Marty (jme)
New places are added & tweaks made to all the formerly listed ones.
This is my personal list and reflects my own opinion. The list is not meant to be exhaustive, as I’ve only listed places that meet my criteria. Restaurants are listed in categories.
CATEGORIES:
Traditional Seafood
Fine Dining "Sweet 16”
Fine Dining (continued)
Casual places
Lunch
Italian
Pizza
Breakfast
IMPORTANT: Reservations are highly recommended, even days ahead. I like to use Open Table or Resy for online reservations because it’s easy. Check to see which service your restaurant of choice uses, if any. Your resort concierge can also help. Also, Marriott has an exclusive arrangement with several restaurants for CALL AHEAD through the resort concierge only, when regular reservations are not accepted. The restaurant only allots a few call ahead tables each day, so have your concierge call early in the day to secure your table. This priceless service usually allows seating within 10 minutes of arrival. If you see the “SERG” designation by a restaurant’s name, it’s managed by the SERG restaurant group, and you’ll have the knowledge that these are consistently outstanding restaurants, and all could be said to fall into my favorites list because they’re all good.
FRONT DESKS (ask for concierge desk)
Grande Ocean……(843) 686-7343
Barony……………...(843) 342-1608
Surfwatch……….…(843) 363-3400
Also pick up any Menu Guide from the lobby racks to peruse individual restaurant menus that might look good to you.
TRADITIONAL SEAFOOD:
Skull Creek Boathouse (SERG)…. a favorite of locals and visitors alike—great for couples, small groups, large groups, or families. Known for its huge menu variety of consistently delicious seafood and more. Probably THE most popular seafood place on the island. Inside and outside dining (outside is open air, not covered, with picnic tables, and fans in summer). Outside has a nice inland waterway view and is fairly close to the waterway, and any sunset that happens is very enjoyable from there over the water/through the trees. There are two bar areas, one inside & one and out, and both are first come, first served. Bar/stools inside, hightop/chairs outside. [Hint: If you’re a couple or group of 4 and didn’t have call ahead seating (shame on you), and face a 1-2 hour wait, AND don’t mind a hightop meal, walk out back and strike a “ next-up” deal with someone to surrender their table to you after they’re finished, and of course buy the guy a drink. You’ll have made a great deal there.] Marriott Concierge call-ahead seating is a MUST here for any night, any season. Another tip—if parking is horrendous and vehicles are lined up looking, use the Valet parking and keep driving forward until you get to the restaurant entrance area, there’s a Valet podium there—use it and for $2 you can basically get out and walk in…it’s worth it.
Website:
https://www.skullcreekboathouse.com/ <<<<<<
Skull Creek Dockside (SERG)……a sister restaurant to Boathouse above, and located immediately adjacent to it. They share an inland waterway view that is nice. Menu is completely different so they are complementary rather than competing. Dockside only opened in late 2017 but has developed a huge following and is very popular in its own right. Inside and Outside dining (outside is covered). FWIW, there are more large booths at Dockside. Parking lot is huge and is shared with another restaurant, so if you have a guest who has difficulty walking, take them close to the entrance and go back to park.
Website:
https://www.docksidehhi.com/
Dinner menu:
https://www.docksidehhi.com/dinner <<<<<<
Quarterdeck…….Harbour Town has finally returned to glory as a genuine dining destination with the opening of the new blockbuster two-story structure at the Harbour Town Lighthouse in Sea Pines. It is both massive and magnificent. It just opened in early April and it’s already booked for the whole month of April and beyond. I walked through this past weekend and it’s beyond impressive just based on the views alone. Their website ad says this: “Serving as the cornerstone of Harbour Town, the all new Quarterdeck offers 270-degree sunset views overlooking Harbour Town Yacht Basin, Calibogue Sound, and the famed 18th hole of Harbour Town Golf Links, making it one of the most sought-after dining venues on Hilton Head Island.” Guests will enjoy a generous selection of indoor and outdoor seating options which will include an expansive wraparound deck, indoor bar and dining area on the first floor, as well as a new rooftop oyster bar. The menu is outstanding and offers great seafood options and other dishes with a Southern flair. The myriad of accommodations inside the Sea Pines Resort will now have a place within walking distance to enjoy. Reservations can be made online by using Resy, but booking anytime soon will require immediate attention and that’s just for something a month or two out. Going forward after that, it will require making reservations at least 3+ weeks out. If you’re traveling to Hilton Head, call well ahead.
…….There is more than just the restaurant, as this Savannah writer explains:
https://eatitandlikeit.com/first-look-hilton-head-islands-brand-new-quarterdeck-restaurant/
Website:
https://www.quarterdeckhhi.com/ <<<<<<
Menu:
https://www.quarterdeckhhi.com/_files/ugd/966e29_95dd7a45fe6b4b3181ab8c77e7ce4359.pdf
Fishcamp at Broad Creek…. …Opened in 2016, a small gem of a place on the banks of the inland waterway on Simmons Rd, a couple of miles south of Old Oyster Factory off Marshland Rd. Nice menu of seafood items and more. Interesting history of building and location. Inside and outside dining. Inside booths/tables, Outside has expansive decks on either side of large bar area (TVs all around). One deck covered, other has tables/umbrellas. Always fun, energetic vibe always present. No reservations outside (first come, first served), but reservations accepted for inside. More of an upscale seafood place. One of Hilton Head’s most popular restaurants, so book way ahead. Parking lot under trees on dirt lot, and it fills up each evening, so ride through, something always opens. Has kids’ menu items, but geared toward adults. Yard games always ongoing outside.
Website:
http://www.fishcamphhi.com/ <<<<<<
Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/wsg47G8oDU62
Old Oyster Factory……very popular seafood restaurant, family friendly, large groups welcomed, huge beautiful building with very attractive knotty pine interior/high exposed beams. Nice atmosphere, always busy, huge menu and widely varied selections. Probably has the most stunning marsh views you’ll ever see. Inside dining, outside dining when weather permits. Good food, great service, and T-shirts! Concierge call ahead seating highly recommended. Best tables for marsh views are main level and straight back. Been around many years, always a hit. Please pass the hushpuppies.
Website:
http://www.oldoysterfactory.com/ <<<<<<
HAS MOVED TO NEW LOCATION OFF ISLAND, across from Moss Creek in the plaza across the street, only 13 minutes from old location. It’s bigger & better!!!
Kenny B’s…….beyond casual and fun, truly great seafood, With lots of choices. Seafood, imho, is better and tastier here than at the other more well-known bigger places, and LESS EXPENSIVE! Family owned and family run. Cajun theme, so some dishes are Cajun, but mostly it’s traditional items, all delicious. Kenny personally knows and is friends with all the New Orleans chefs, so rest assured he knows how to cook. A lesser-known spot but a real gem. Always busy—you’ll walk in door and get in the long line at the counter to order and pay first. Tables will always open up, so waits are not too long and worth it. Inside/outside dining. One of the best breakfast spots you’ll ever find, but the big surprise to most is that it has a fantastic and extensive dinner menu. Great for take-out too. Good value. We dine here every trip.
Website:
http://www.eatatkennybs.com/ <<<<<<
Poseidon (SERG)…….located in Shelter Cove Towne Center off Hwy 278. Busy, busy place all the time, very popular.…..good food and decent service given the short-staffing and other issues post-pandemic. Huge menu with wide variety of items. Impressive upstairs bar on second level, can be a great spot to hang out. Crowds are drawn upstairs in evening and later, so one of the better bars for young people and young at heart. Inside and outside dining. Kids’ menu available.
Website:
https://www.poseidonhhi.com/ <<<<<<
Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar (SERG)……
RENOVATED RESTAURANT 2 years ago (gutted and redone completely) … it’s awesome, much larger, and has a huge bar area. Modern, comfortable, really a spectacular job, and insanely popular right now. Great menus, the "Early Dining Daily” is a killer deal…..$22.50 for many entrees, $25 for others!!!!!! Inside/outside dining. This place has now catapulted to one of my top 3 seafood places on the island, and it’s well-deserved.
Lots of inside tables/booths and outside covered tables on their patio. Very relaxed setting…..GREAT traditional seafood restaurant with extensive menu. Food is superb, the talk of the restaurant scene. Nice brunch on weekends only. Family friendly, large groups are welcomed. Consistently great food and great service…… Outside area great for drinks and conversation under the oaks. Live entertainment often.
Website
: https://blackmarlinhhi.com/.
<<<<<<
Photos: (click on “see photos” on right)
https://www.google.com/search?gs_ssp=eJzj4tVP1zc0zEhKtyjIScszYLRSNaiwsEhLNrcwsUwzN7RMNDK1tDKoMDMzMDZLNTKxSLMwSUw2NvOSSMpJTM5WyE0sysnMU8jIzCnJB1KpiSkAlF4X-A&q=black+marlin+hilton+head&oq=black&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqEggBEC4YQxivARjHARiABBiKBTIGCAAQRRg8MhIIARAuGEMYrwEYxwEYgAQYigUyDAgCEEUYORixAxiABDIMCAMQLhhDGIAEGIoFMgYIBBBFGDwyBggFEEUYPDIGCAYQRRg8MgYIBxBFGDzSAQgzMTU0ajBqN6gCALACAA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#lpg=cid:CgIgAQ==,ik:CAoSLEFGMVFpcE5rc3U1aWpUaUxBV2RjMEdpOEhBQjRjb29JeC1TbnJMcmI3SGVB
Captain Woody’s Bar & Grill……(Hilton Head & Bluffton locations)…. a very, very casual grill & bar which has sustained its place as a popular go-to spot for great traditional seafood & large portions of it. Locals love it. Add a few great drinks & some conversation, and it’s a fun night out.
Website:
https://hiltonhead.captainwoodys.com
Menus:
https://hiltonhead.captainwoodys.com/hilton-head-island-captain-woody-s-hilton-head-food-menu <<<<<<
Crazy Crab (2 locations)….prefer the Jarvis Creek location along Hwy 278 just past the merging of the Cross Island Pky & Wm Hilton Pky. Great fun in a most casual setting and atmosphere…..large building has indoor/outdoor dining, and the very popular outdoor covered bar area has lots of tables, and many will already be taken. Exceptional marsh views off the back porch where you can also dine outdoors. Lively crowd every night, people coming and going nonstop…..gets busy early, so make reservations days ahead. Huge menu & good basic seafood, good service. Great for families who want to satisfy everyone. Reasonable prices, good value.
Website:
http://thecrazycrab.com/crazy-crab-j...od-restaurant/ <<<<<<
Benny’s Costal Kitchen……….new place on Squire Pope Road, already becoming a popular go-to spot for good seafood. Located on the inland waterway, half-way between Bluewater Resort/Hudson’s/Skull Creek restaurant area and Highway 278 near where Crazy Crab/Jarvis Creek is located.
Website:
https://bennyshiltonhead.com/
Location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/absZM9emgbNCFS896
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks…..Beyond casual, has all the traditional seafood items on their multi-page menu. Definitely the oldest seafood spot on the island going back to 1968, and very popular with tourists. Lots of tables inside multiple large rooms, so lots of groups and large family meals are served here. Modest, unremarkable decor, nothing fancy, but always packed with hungry folks, so go early.
Food & service sometimes mediocre, but it never diminishes the crowd or the enthusiasm. A good value.
Website/menu:
http://www.hudsonsonthedocks.com/hudsons-dinner-menu/ <<<<<<
Salty Dog Cafe……very popular seafood/sandwich/burger spot in Sea Pines’ South Beach village area. It’s like a small harbor area with lots of quaint shops. Don’t miss the 2 huge, gorgeous parrots. Has good lunch or dinner, indoor dining, & one of the island’s best outdoor dining areas…..both stay very crowded……outside tables under umbrellas, and frequent live entertainment outside in evening. Truly a fun evening to just hang out and enjoy having no agenda. Always fun to walk around and check it all out. Can’t miss the Salty Dog T-shirt shop, just gotta do it. It’s one of the USA's most famous T-shirt and sweat shirt shops. Plentiful island seafood, and the good times outside afterward are golden. Great family spot.
Website:
http://saltydog.com/ <<<<<<
Sea Shack…….a hole-in-the-wall place located off Pope Ave along Executive Park Rd., about midway around the loop. Always fresh seafood for dining in or take-out. Inside dining tables are a scant few, & you'll wait outside until yours comes up. Sometimes a long line, but bear with it. Inside it’s bare ugly walls and absolutely nothing to see. Regardless, it’s stays extremely busy, cars coming and going, and the awesome seafood will make up for the lack of a nice sit-down spot. A well-known place for everyone on the island who doesn’t need glam meals out. As one ad says, “Unpretentious blue-walled eatery where simple seafood plates are ordered at the counter.” Enjoy, and you will.
Website:
https://sites.google.com/view/theseashack/ <<<<<<
**************************************************************************************************
FINE DINING: (varied menus, all different but all special, and all consistently great)
(
** = Really Fine Dining)
(
* = Fine Dining)
Not necessarily in any ranked order, as that's impossible to do because they're all truly great, yet also quite different. So that's hard to quantify. But they do as a group stand alone as Hilton Head's finest.
My personal "Sweet 16" list of fine dining establishments follows:
The Bluffton Room**…. GREAT restaurant in Old Town Bluffton, as good as it gets. Get this: Ranked by TripAdvisor in the “Top 10 restaurants worldwide". That got my attention, so we went there a couple of times with another couple, and another time by ourselves, and we were very impressed. Everything about it was perfect——great menu, great food, superb service, wonderful vibe, and a super bar! Not much else to say, so please take the time to make the 15-20-minute drive to Bluffton to have a most memorable evening. Request a booth, they’re fun. NOT for kids.
Website:
https://www.theblufftonroom.com/
Map & directions:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dhdHdmAuxXsXbsiv9
The Sage Room**…very fine, top notch dining but still casual. Highly rated and a popular well-hidden gem, frequented by the most discriminating locals and guests. Cozy & romantic with exceptional, creative food and great service, with a small intimate bistro feel. Nice bar area very popular, and frequently serves as the “Chef’s Table” (book ahead!!)…Reservations a must, several days ahead. Located off Pope Avenue near/behind the new Courtyard Hotel (see map below). On my "Sweet 16" list of restaurants on the island. Listed in this position for a reason....Not for kids.
Website:
https://www.thesageroom.com/
Map:
https://goo.gl/maps/xMk8Vp6YzZ82 <<<<<<
Ombra Cucina Rustica**….. very fine dining authentic Italian, but also many other menu choices…sort of expensive, but a most memorable evening. Beautiful elegant decor, wonderful romantic ambiance, with perfect low lighting, great service, amazing food and an excellent wine list. Yes, all of that and more, it’s special! On my "Sweet 16" list. Not for kids.
Website:
http://www.ombrahhi.com/ <<<<<<
Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana**……Three choices here: 1. The Main Dining Room for a great Italian dining experience. 2. Market Cafe, 3. Chef's Kitchen.
Main dining room: it’s all it’s cracked up to be….exquisitely fine-dining Italian food & service, exceptional in every way. Wide variety of authentic Italian dishes, and even the simplest is divine. A most cozy, romantic ambiance in low light, like it should be. Reservations WELL in advance, I’d say at least a week or two. Request downstairs dining…..location, location. They do have booths, and imho they’re the best spot for a relaxed, quiet, and special evening….(downstairs preferred over the upstairs dining!) On the "Sweet 16" list. Not for kids.
The Market Cafe..... a more casual venue with its own menu.
Chef's Kitchen....to serve by request only (couples, groups, special events) & the Cooking School.
Website:
http://www.michael-anthonys.com/ <<<<<<
Alfred’s**….. a high, high, high favorite on my list! It’s a newcomer to my list despite being around a long time. Now a definite “Can’t miss!" Previous owner established his niche, and served a small percentage of dedicated locals, and always with excellence. New owners (wife worked there previously) have continued that calling, and it is exceptionally good! It’s still small and intimate although not fancy, but as always the food is excellent and the service superb. Dishes are served perfectly regarding temperatures, and "all is done right". It’s a low key, casual but outstanding meal. Located adjacent/behind Santa Fe and Sea Grass Grille off Hwy 278. Easy to walk right past it, but worth looking for. The ad may say “German" restaurant, but the German items are actually very few. The Italian items are great, as are the steaks, chops, fish, etc. On "Sweet 16" list. Not for kids.
Website:
https://www.alfredshhi.com/ <<<<<<
Menu:
https://www.alfredshhi.com/menu
Crane’s Tavern**……a traditional steak and seafood tavern, and one of the best you’ll experience anywhere. Delicious food and superb service, and a quiet, relaxed, romantic evening in a cozy yet casual surrounding. A fiercely loyal following by locals. Everything is delicious. We dine there often, and even our "30-something” children love it. On my "Sweet 16" list. Not for kids.
Website:
https://www.cranestavern.com/ <<<<<<
Nectar Farm Kitchen**…..(Brunch & Dinner—OPEN ALL DAY 8am-10pm EVERY DAY!!!!). Perhaps one of the most talked-about and popular new restaurants on Hilton Head Island, it began as a partnership of three local Chefs who collaborated to offer a new creative, healthy dining experience featuring farm-to-table choices. Vegan options available. Now the menu has expanded and has an unbelievably varied list of selections. Seafood, steaks, and lots moe, even a couple of German dishes. I just recently had a special of Blackened Swordfish and it was amazing. Located along Hwy 278 about 1/4 mile south of Santa Fe/Sea Grass Grill/Alfred’s in Plantation Center plaza (formerly Lucky Rooster). Next door to new Italian place Coastal Capri.
Website:
https://nectarfarmkitchen.com/ <<<<<<
Menu:
https://nectarfarmkitchen.com/hilton-head-menu/
The Studio**….very fine dining, as good as it gets at Hilton Head. Very interesting & intriguing mix of cuisine and visual art, Walls abound with outstanding works of art, many for sale. Consistently superb food and service, and a strong local following, and a perfect spot for any special Occasion. My wife and I, with another couple, celebrated our mutual anniversaries there this year. It was a surprise destination I chose for everyone, and they absolutely adored it. GREAT evening. Not for kids. On my "Sweet 16" list.
Website:
http://www.studiodining.com/ <<<<<<
Sea Grass Grille** ..... has emerged over the past 2 years as a truly great spot for fine dining. The menu is wonderful and the food execution ranks high among the island's best. You won't hear much about it, as the clientele is mostly locals, "regulars", and visitors who know about it, of which we are now firmly implanted. It’s a "sneaky quiet" favorite that delivers an outstanding meal and great professional service! They always offer several fish items daily----also duck, pork, lamb, steaks, and specials-- all perfectly presented. Adjacent to Santa Fe in Plantation Center off Hwy 278, one block south of Palmetto Dunes entrance. On the "Sweet 16" list. Not for kids.
Website:
http://www.seagrassgrille.com/. <<<<<<
[Note: it is appropriate here & now to mention this ---There is a grouping of three adjacent restaurants in one small location, one block south of the Palmetto Dunes entrance
--Alfred's, Sea Grass Grille, and Santa Fe--which I lovingly refer to as the "Golden Triumvirate" of great fine dining at HH. All are superb, and all are seldom touted or hyped like many already mentioned, but they are all three consistently among the best, and provide exceptionally enjoyable evenings for my wife and me, and that includes when we have friends or guests (TUG members included) join us for evenings out together.]
Ela’s on the Water**.......located in Shelter Cove Marina down at far end closest to Harbour Point. A truly wonderful place, and everything is executed perfectly. Dining is on second floor overlooking harbor & boats, other direction is the inland waterway as you look to harbor entrance. Great sunsets. Truly elegant and imho, the most romantic spot on the island. Exceptional food (fish & steaks are as good as it gets),with superb, attentive service by longtime professionals. Three special booths & many great tables. Great food and wine, coupled with gorgeous views, come together to make for a fabulous, memorable experience. A definite special occasion choice. For the last two years in a row it was the choice for co-celebrations of our own anniversary and that of another couple who joined us both times. All our memories there are special. Another on my "Sweet 16" list. Not for kids.
Website:
http://www.elasgrille.com/ <<<<<<
The Pearl**…..located in Bluffton. Small charming cottage with inside dining or wonderful tables outside on the covered front porch. Torches lit at night outside, can hear live guitar player whether dining inside or out…..music perfectly done, not overbearing but very appropriate. One of the most romantic evenings you’ll have anywhere. Tables #71, 70, 72 outside….oh yeah! Great food, great service, it’s an enjoyable & memorable evening--- On the "Sweet 16" list. Not really for kids.
Website:
http://www.thepearlbluffton.com/ <<<<<<
CQ’s**………fine dining in a cozy, romantic but casual atmosphere. Been around since 1970, and always highly rated. Sometimes it seems to get lost among the myriad of great restaurants on the island, but it has remained consistently good, and flies under the radar. Still a favorite among locals. Hidden away in Harbour Town immediately adjacent to Marriott’s Harbour Club, and walkable from anywhere in Harbour Town. Has three small rooms. Two booths & several half-booths. Larger tables in back room. Great food & service. Nicely varied menu, with several fish options and good steaks, chops. We prefer the middle room where the booths & half-booths are located. One of our favorites…a low-key, casual spot, and always enjoyable. Top 10 -#7. Not for kids.
Website:
https://www.cqsrestaurant.com/ <<<<<<
Nunzio Restaurant & Bar**...opened in 2019, a fine dining Italian plus more, huge "new construction" building on New Orleans Rd with gorgeous interior & high ceilings. Already a favorite and stays very busy. Book reservations way ahead. Menu is extensive, and as for Italian, it has it all. Food is excellent and service is good. Ambiance is very relaxed but energetic---lots of cheer and conversation. Will be a wonderful evening. It garners a lot of hype on the island dining scene, and has been consistently ranked very high. It's a good one!!! Not for kids.
Website:
https://nunziohhi.com/ <<<<<<
Charlie's Coastal Bistro (L'Etoile Verte)**….. definitely an island favorite. (temporarily under renovation as of January 2025, so check back to get the reopen date.) Been around a long time, and for that length of time a top choice for many. Fine dining with traditional elegant bistro decor, always a new hand-written menu daily, lots of fresh fish selections and more. One of the most consistent and best "all-around” restaurants, & most consistent restaurants on HH island. Romantic and vibrant, and a solid local following. A most enjoyable evening out. On the "Sweet 16" list. Not for kids.
Website:
http://charliesgreenstar.com/ <<<<<<
Santa Fe**... OK, now it gets personal! My wife and I have dined here more than any other place on the island, going back 25+ years. All during that time it has solidly held our "PERSONAL FAVORITE" restaurant designation, and it will continue, despite the addition of many great establishments since. It's that good and it's that special. It's always our first evening out for dinner when we arrive on the island, and sometimes the last. It has a "fine dining” ambiance but it's still casual and comfortable. It’s like "coming home" for us. We love the window tables in the back room/right side near the Chef's grill, but we do have one special table which is usually held for us----they know which one it is. The menu has a Southwestern flair but they have other things too. It's not Mexican which some people mistakingly think. All the dishes are unique, and you’ll never get that flavor anywhere else. Close your eyes and pick, it will be delicious. Signature dishes include the Grouper (guaranteed amazing), Pork Tenderloin, Burrito, Blackened Redfish, the Cowboy Cut Ribeye (it's the best steak on the island, hands down, and I know the other great steak places, too), the Outrageous Chimichanga, Lamb Chops, and the unparalleled and world-famous Painted Desert Soup. I mention all this because the excellence of the place jumps out at me each time I enter the front door---the smell is awesome, and they still love it there too. When Mona and I sit down at our favorite table, this happens: we turn and smile at each other because "we're home" and nothing else needs to be said. Not really for kids, but items are available & they are welcomed. Say Hello to owner Marshall, & tell them that Mona & Marty sent you!
Website:
http://www.santafehhi.com <<<<<<
Celeste** ……..brand new sister restaurant to Ela’s & The Pearl with same family ownership. Located just off William Hilton Parkway (Hwy 278) next to Walmart Supercenter and just south of Indigo Run entrance. Lovely clean modern decor, nice menu and food, and superb attentive service. Expect the same excellence that you see at Ela’s & The Pearl. Cozy and romantic and already receiving extremely good reviews. Varied menu with several fish options, steaks, and pork chop, etc. Our evening there was great so we’ll be returning soon. Good spot for couples or groups, and very nice for special occasions. I believe you’ll find it to be another special top-rated fine dining establishment.
Website:
https://www.celestehhi.com/ <<<<<<
This concludes my new innovation, the "Sweet 16" list of Hilton Head's best fine dining restaurants, which is simply my "short list" of our most favorite places. Not to diminish the remaining amazing restaurants, but I had to narrow it down in some way to create a magical line that delineates, imho, the really great from the great. So below are the rest of the amazing Hilton Head "fine dining" restaurants:
****************************************************************************************************************
(Continued Fine Dining)
RedFish**...very popular with those who expect a great, yet fun, dining experience. A longtime popular spot for wonderful cuisine, great wines, and a special evening with friends. Outstanding menu items with a chic bistro vibe.Great wait staff. Romantic & refined while still cozy & casual. Exceptional wine list. You'll hear lots of laughter and glasses clinking. Not for kids. Always booked so get reservations early.
Website:
http://www.redfishofhiltonhead.com/ <<<<<<
May River Grill**....located in Old Town Bluffton, not far from HH's off-island bridge. WORTH THE TRIP and one of our favorites. Not for kids. Popular with locals, definitely not touristy. Highly varied menu with specials nightly---great food, wine, service. Bistro-like, romantic but with an undeniable energetic ambiance, and really fun. Everyone is having a great time and enjoying the experience, a sign of a well-run restaurant. Don’t let the small strip plaza location fool you. Steaks, seafood, fish, duck, veal, chicken, pork chop, and more. Must call for reservations 2 weeks ahead. A fun, energetic bistro atmosphere with delicious food.
Dinner Menu:
http://www.mayrivergrill.com/#!dinner-menu/cxnc <<<<<<
Location:15-18 min from approx mid-HH Island. (Minimize the upper box and the lower thumbnail strip for better viewing. Zoom if needed.)
Map and Directions:
https://goo.gl/maps/iGytT71s1WTPteSw5 <<<<<<
Sunset Grille**.....this was Dave M’s absolute favorite! (a tribute to Timesharing's Lifetime "Professor" & Moderator Emeritus of TUG fame!), and he should know, he's a friend of the Chef. Fine dining establishment that cuts no corners, and forget where it's located in the RV Park off 278 because it's wonderful. Fantastic sunset views from their upstairs dining area. Romantic, energetic ambiance. Their renowned Chef knows great cuisine, and boasts a superb wine list. A locals’ favorite. Highly rated. Not for kids.
Website:
http://www.sunsetgrillehhi.com/ <<<<<<
LuLu Kitchen and Bar**....... a fairly new cafe which already has a lot of buzz, and a lot of potential. Offering a "modern dining and healthy cuisine" experience. Wonderful decor, awesome bar area, high quality seating at the booths and tables. Menu is creative with interesting specialty items. Focusing on fresh ingredients with vegan options available. I believe it’s going to be a good one, and should develop its own prominent niche at Hilton Head. Located in the plaza along Hwy 278 where Fresh Market is located. The new website ad says, “Where exquisite cuisine is paired with an exceptional service and eclectic ambiance”, and I cannot improve on that comment. Not for kids.
Website:
https://www.lulukitchen-hhi.com/ <<<<<<
Menus:
https://www.lulukitchen-hhi.com/menu
Photos:
https://www.google.com/search?sourc...IIBAC&cshid=1629650555920804&biw=1280&bih=664
Chez Georges Bistro & Bar**…… a new French bistro with a definite Low Country flair, a new concept and dining experience for Hilton Head. Interesting culinary presentations. Not for kids.
Website:
https://www.chezgeorgeshhi.com/ <<<<<<
Catch 22**....on New Orleans Rd in plaza, adjacent to Michael Anthony’s…. nice varied menu, lot of varied options, nice wine list, good food & service, always busy especially weekends. Fine dining yet very casual. Large booths in front half, more intimate tables in back. Strong following by locals and discriminating island guests.
Website:
http://www.catch22hhi.com/ <<<<<<
Jazz Corner*.....live Jazz entertainment and an excellent dinner, too? Yes, and it has a fiercely dedicated local following. Known for superb food and service. Very popular and a most fun evening, unlike any dining experience you’ve had before. Can be a bit loud, but serious fun when you're in the mood. Cover charge required. Not for kids.
Website:
http://www.thejazzcorner.com/ <<<<<<
Wiseguys Modern American Restaurant* (SERG group)...Fine dining atmosphere with outstanding traditional items—steaks, fish/seafood, veal, lamb. Always popular, always busy. Reservations needed several days ahead. Name suggests a casual lively spot but surprisingly it’s a low-light, white tablecloth kind of place for discriminating diners. Has loud energetic vibe because everyone’s having a great time. Not for kids.
Website:
https://www.wiseguyshhi.com/ <<<<<<
Fishcamp at Broad Creek*…Opened in 2016, a small gem of a place on the banks of the inland waterway on Simmons Rd, a couple of miles south of Old Oyster Factory off Marshland Rd. Nice menu of seafood items and more. Interesting history of building and location. Inside and outside dining. Inside booths/tables, Outside has expansive decks on either side of the large bar area (TVs all around). One deck is covered, the other has tables/umbrellas. Always fun, energetic vibe always present. No reservations outside (first come, first served), but reservations accepted for inside. More of an upscale seafood place. One of Hilton Head’s most popular restaurants, so book way ahead. Parking lot under trees on unpaved lot, and it fills up each evening, so ride through, something always opens. Has kids’ menu items, but geared toward adults. Yard games always ongoing outside.
Website:
http://www.fishcamphhi.com/ <<<<<<
Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/wsg47G8oDU62
Alexanders*….an old favorite in Palmetto Dunes community that’s been around a long time…..very romantic & quiet ambiance, white tablecloth, varied menu, fine wines & excellent food. Great evening for couples. Not for kids.
Website:
http://www.alexandersrestaurant.com/ <<<<<<
Frankie Bones* (SERG group)...Large menu with widely varying food selections—beef, seafood, pork, Italian, German, and much great starters.Really fun & uniquely "Sinatra cool”. Reservations a MUST, best at least a week in advance, maybe more in high season. Large high-back maroon leather booths, low lights, "Club” atmosphere, love it!!! Busy bar scene, with high-tops available—"first come, first served”. Adjacent to Wiseguys. Not for kids but a few items that work, like the "S'mores” dessert (a mini Hibachi for roasting marshmallows at the table).
Website:
http://www.frankieboneshhi.com/ <<<<<<
Bistro 17*.....in Shelter Cove near bronze Neptune statue. Inside/Outside dining, nice atmosphere, good service, good food. All tables nice but have a private single table available for special occasion on request, inside a nook among the wine racks, but not totally separated from the rest (still nice view to outside porch/harbor), a romantic spot. Will change table for 2 or 10. Impressive and memorable evening.
Website:
https://www.bistro17sheltercove.com/ <<<<<<
Gusto Ristorante*….a small casual authentic Italian restaurant whose doors have thankfully swung open again after the pandemic. The location is in the plaza along Hwy 278 across from HOME GOODS store. They are eager to share the very best of traditional Italian fare again. The food offerings and wine selections are wonderful, the service great, and the decor and ambiance cozy and romantic. If you’ve ever been to Italy and experienced the unbelievable cuisine and feel of the family-owned mom & pop cafes, go here to revisit them again. Reasonable pricing and great value. Definitely one of our all-time HH favorites. Small but special, therefore I’m awarding it an"honorable mention” in my Top 10-(h) HH restaurants. Ciao Ciao.
Website:
https://gustohiltonhead.com/ <<<<<<
Jane Bistro……Inside/outside dining. Clean, modern decor & relaxed atmosphere. Awesome lunch, also great dinner menu. Food absolutely the best, one of best lunches on island, if not #1. Lots of choices…great soups, delicious sandwiches, salads, and more…. all great. Located off Hwy 278 in Shelter Cove Towne Center, just up from the Belk Store.
Website:
https://janehhi.com/ <<<<<<
Dinner menu:
https://janehhi.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/dinner-2021.jpg <<<<<<
Il Carpaccio*…….”Ristorante Italiano”…….great menu, food, and service, highly rated and good reviews. (lots of good solid Italian places!)
Website:
http://www.ilcarpaccioofhiltonhead.com/ <<<<<<
Pomodori Italian Eatery*…..popular Italian spot, good food and service. Not fancy but authentic food in a comfortable, casual setting. Very good reviews and highly rated. Located in the corner plaza at the end of New Orleans Rd. Just short of the Hwy 278 intersection, at far end of building.
Website:
http://www.gopomodori.com/ <<<<<<
Poseidon Coastal Cuisine…….(SERG)…….located in Shelter Cove Towne Center of Hwy 278. Busy, busy place all the time, very popular.…..good food and decent service given the short staffing and other issues post-pandemic. Huge menu with wide variety of items. Impressive upstairs bar on second level, can be a great spot to hang out. Crowds are drawn upstairs in evening and later, so one of the better bars for young people and young at heart. Inside and outside dining. Kids’ menu available.
Website:
https://www.poseidonhhi.com/ <<<<<<
The Cottage Cafe, Bakery & Tea Room, Bluffton…… very quaint and cozy “GrandMa’s cottage” kind of place. Delicious specialty items, known for their Gumbo. Huge local following and definitely worth the drive. Delicious desserts. Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner… (plus Sunday Brunch). Takes about 20 minutes (maybe 5 minutes past the island bridge, about 2 miles from Tanger Outlet Mall area). Use Bluffton Parkway to get there. Take the new ramp off Hwy 278 > Bluffton Parkway which goes behind the two Outlet Malls.
Website:
http://thecottagebluffton.com/ <<<<<<
Calhoun Street Tavern, Bluffton…..a small tavern in the heart of Bluffton with a great lunch and dinner. Hours are 11am-9pm weekdays and until 10pm weekends. Definitely worth the drive to Bluffton. Walk around the small old historic town and visit the wonderful shops, or the open-air street market on Saturdays, and don’t miss grabbing lunch or dinner here. It’s a wonderful spot with creative cuisine with a southern flair. The shrimp burger with the spinach and orzo salad are both delicious and. An instant favorite. We were ecstatic to find this little gem. It’s been there a good while but somehow we missed it,but no more.
Website with menu:
https://www.calhounstreettavern.com/ <<<<<<
Pour Richard’s, Bluffton…….a small tavern-like place in downtown Bluffton, well worth the trip…..it will be an instant favorite for a casual yet delicious change of pace. Frequented by locals but discerning foodies always find gems like this. Wonderful for a drink and a fantastic meal with friends or your significant other. Great atmosphere and vibe. All bottles of wine $36.
Website:
https://www.pourrichards843.com/ <<<<<<
Photos are definitely warranted here:
https://www.google.com/maps/uv?pb=!...=2ahUKEwixtu2W_5D3AhXwJUQIHYaLC8AQoip6BAhfEAM
Coast at Sea Pines Beach Club (downstairs, ground level deck)
Ocean Lounge & Bar at Sea Pines Beach Club (second floor)
Two restaurant spots located at the Sea Pines Beach Club (adjacent to Marriott’s Monarch Resort) …….Nice lunch or dinner. Family friendly, OK for kids. One of the best ocean views on island, which are few for restaurants….popular lunch spot.
Website:
http://www.coastoceanfrontdining.com/ <<<<<<
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CASUAL PLACES:
(NOTE: These are great for a typical night out with the family & kids. Not fine dining by any stretch, and varies from "OK to Good to Pretty Darn Good”. If inconsistent on occasion, still worth considering. If you don’t want to research a place to go after a long day at the beach or pools, or simply worn out, give it a shot. Not in any particular order.)
MOVING TO NEW LOCATION IN DECEMBER 2024…. >> 35 Office Park Road, Where Marley’s used to be, near Mellow Mushroom and Harris Teeter Grocery Store.
One Hot Mama’s (SERG)…..Very popular family spot. Great food and service, maniacally busy, and loud, cheerful, frenetic atmosphere and nothing but fun…What could be better than that? Excellent BBQ, ribs, brisket, sandwiches, and all else that goes with that. No reservations accepted, so use your resort's concierge "call-ahead seating" service…you’ll be glad. Good for a respite from seafood. Booths and tables, inside and outside dining. We love it.
Website:
http://www.onehotmamas.com/ <<<<<<
Tio’s …… the BEST Mexican on the island!!!! Conveniently located in Shelter Cove Towne Centre near the Poseidon restaurant, on back side of the mall. Absolutely great food and service, and it’s clean and modern. What a great place! Absolutely our new go-to spot for Mexican.
Website:
https://tioshhi.com/.
<<<<<<
A Lowcountry Backyard…… Great for lunch or dinner, inside/outside dining. A small family-owned restaurant, down-home Southern selections, all tasty and hearty. Casual, good food, good service, nice people. Highly rated and loyal following.
Website:
http://www.hhbackyard.com/ <<<<<<
The Frosty Frog…….a great spot for families or a group of friends, hidden in the Coligny Plaza maze of shops near the "ocean end" of Pope Ave. Menu is huge, and they have all the great items you’ll want. Awesome outdoor seating area. Pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, seafood, crab legs, salads, wraps, tacos, and dozens more items, all in a fun atmosphere. Great spot to eat, talk, and have a good drink.
Website:
http://frostyfrog.com/
Menu:
http://frostyfrog.com/new-food-menu/ <<<<<<
Zunzibar……. New to Hilton Head, very casual bar & bar food. Will be very popular and a go-to spot.
Website:
https://www.zunzibar.com/ <<<<<<
The Bank …… Essentially a beer garden….already wildly popular, with plenty of space to have fun. Huge outside dining/drinking area, with Huge Screen TV. Located about midway between the two traffic circles on either end of Pope Avenue.
Website:
https://thebankhhi.com/.
<<<<<<
The Smokehouse……..Beautiful new building. Now reopened after being completely destroyed by fire in 2019. Great BBQ and food which includes sandwiches, seafood and steaks, and more. Family & kid friendly, wide variety of menu items. Very popular, located off Palmetto Bay Rd 1/4 mile from Greenwood traffic circle. Consistently good.
Website:
https://www.smokehousehhi.com/ <<<<<<
Forest Fire BBQ …… lunch and dinner. A new barbecue spot located in Coligny Plaza, already popular and a go-to place for down-home cooking.
Website:
https://forrestfirehhi.com/.
<<<<<<
Reilley's Grill & Bar……. Located about a block off the Greenwood Traffic Circle toward the Sea Pines entrance gate, among a cluster of other restaurants. Has good steaks and good food in general, huge menu with an array of choices. Unpretentious traditional casual restaurant. Tables & booths. Family & kid friendly.
Website:
http://www.reilleyshiltonhead.com/ <<<<<<
Top Dawg Tavern ………. Lunch & Dinner at the open-air covered bar and terrace with lots of dining tables. Also hightop chairs at the continuous dining surface along the surrounding rail facing the water. Located in Shelter Cove on the harbor, with great view of the boats in the water & the sidewalks. Shops and more restaurants are all around the harbor area. Has a 1/4 mile water/harbor frontage to dine, hang out, or take a leisurely walk. Park benches everywhere. Lamplights line the wide walkway for after-dark strolls. Top Dawg Tavern has a great menu with almost anything you can think of when you hear “tavern”. Good food in a most casual and paid back setting——15 starters, 14 flavors of both wings and nuggets, 6 types of burgers, 11 sandwiches & wraps, 8 salads, several tacos, and everybody’s favorite “regular entrees” with a large selection of sides. Also a large drink menu. And as always, a popular kids menu with 7 items. Great spot for the whole family, a couple, or a group of friends to chill and enjoy a waterside venue while dining or just hanging out. Definitely family-friendly and a good value.
Website:
www.topdawgtavern.com <<<<<<
Mi Tierra (Mexican)………a nice solid spot for Mexican, and a convenient location off Arrow Rd. Food is good and service is also good. I like their Ribeye Fajita. Decor is fun and it's an enjoyable experience.
Website:
https://www.mitierrahiltonhead.com<<<<<<
Bad Biscuit…..a totally new concept & venture for Hilton Head, which offers a wide variety of items in a biscuit. The two Owners/Partners are from Low Country Backyard & Pool Bar Jim’s, hardly unknown around HH Island, & they should know what’s good. Sounds and looks delicious.
Website:
http://www.badbiscuit.com/ <<<<<<
San Miguel’s Mexican Cafe….. A good Mexican establishment which has been around for decades. Inside & Outside dining. They are still crazy busy, and offer live entertainment outside on their patio in Shelter Cove on the marina. Wonderful spot, great place to hang out, eat dinner, grab some ice cream after, and watch a gorgeous sunset over the harbor. Always a fun time for our family, going way back. Good Margaritas, lots of smiles. "OK to very good", confident in saying, "Try it”.
Website:
https://www.sanmiguels.com/ <<<<<<
CharBar Co….touts good gourmet burgers, sandwiches, salads, & more. Very casual. Some inconsistent reviews, but still enjoyable.
Website :
https://charbarhhi.com <<<<<<
Hilton Head Brewing Company……popular with mostly good reviews. Sandwiches, BBQ, appetizers, good drinks, many beer selections.
Website:
https://www.hhbrewingco.com/ <<<<<<
Annie O's Southern Eats……beyond casual, modest decor, but offers down home Southern cooking like Fried Chicken and made-from-scratch items. A favorite of locals, especially the other working restaurant people, so it does have a loyal following. Large portions and inexpensive, so a great value and family-friendly. An occasional inconsistent review, but we liked it.
https://static1.squarespace.com/sta...4af7579/1591798428137/dINNER+Menu+rev0620.pdf
https://www.facebook.com/annieohhi/photos <<<<<<
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LUNCH:
Note the combination of meals offered at each establishment (Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch/Dinner). These places are great, and the cuisine is outstanding, rendering these the favorites for Lunch.
Jane Bistro….Lunch & Dinner. Inside/Outside dining. Hands down our favorite lunch spot, with French Bakery in second. Menu items are delicious, surroundings wonderful, & each selection will have you coming back for more. Great salads, soups, sandwiches, and specialty items. Located on front side of Shelter Cove Town Center. Sleek contemporary decor, awesome menu & food, large portions, superb service. Simply a well-run place. My #1 top-rated lunch spot.
Website:
http://janehhi.com/ <<<<<<
Menu:
https://janehhi.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/lunch-2021.jpg
The French Bakery & European Cuisine……Brunch & Lunch. Inside/Outside dining. One of the most popular spots on the island. Opens early, and it’s already busy. Located on backside of, and down from, Kroger Superstore in Shelter Cove Towne Centre. Great varied menu, modern creative choices and also traditional items. French bistro decor, very bright, colorful, and cheerful. And fun. It’s also a tie for my #1 TOP RATED lunch spot. Both different, so see what you think!)
Website:
https://www.facebook.com/thefrenchbakeryhhi/menu/ <<<<<<
A Lowcountry Backyard…..Lunch & Dinner. Inside/Outside covered dining. Small family-owned casual place with attentive service and down-home Southern food. Very loyal following, mostly locals but popular with island guests who have tried it.
Website:
http://www.hhbackyard.com/ <<<<<<
Calhoun Street Tavern, Bluffton…..a small tavern in the heart of Bluffton with a great lunch and dinner. Hours are 11am-9pm weekdays and until 10pm weekends. Definitely worth the 20 minute drive to Bluffton. Walk around the small old historic town and visit the wonderful shops, or the open-air street market on Saturdays, and don’t miss grabbing lunch or dinner here. It’s wonderful spot with creative cuisine with a southern flair. The shrimp burger with the spinach and orzo salad are both delicious and. An instant favorite. We were ecstatic to find this little gem. It’s been there a good while but somehow we missed it, but no more.
Website with menu:
https://www.calhounstreettavern.com/ <<<<<<
Delisheeyo….Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free. Hidden in a small cluster of places on Palmetto Bay Rd & near Lowcountry Backyard (out from Greenwood Circle).
Website:
https://www.delisheeyo.com/ <<<<<<
Relish……located off Office Park Rd among the many restaurants in the complex, down from Harris Teeter grocery store….Their ad says, "Elegant, eclectic fusion of Southern & Asian culinary traditions.” Small and tricky to find, but fun.
Website:
http://www.relishcafehhi.com/ <<<<<<
Hilton Head Social Bakery……pastries, tarts, LUNCH, & cakes!……..locations in the shops at Shelter Cove Harbour and at 1018 Wm. Hilton Pkwy (278) next to My Sister's Closet and Slapfish.
Website:
https://www.hiltonheadsocialbakery.com/
So special, here’s the menu:
https://www.hiltonheadsocialbakery.com/menu <<<<<<
Truffles……Lunch & Dinner. Has long been a favorite lunch spot with more traditional menu, and always delightful. Located in Sea Pines Center Plaza in second row of buildings from parking lot. Tables and booths. VERY cozy, varied menu with many made-from-scratch items, all consistently wonderful, a locals’ favorite and ours. Love the black bean burger, chicken pot pie, mango iced tea.
Website:
http://www.trufflescafe.com/ <<<<<<
Main Street Cafe & Pub…..Lunch & Dinner. Very popular cafe mostly with locals, non-touristy, huge menu with many options. Traditional selections done very well. Soups, sandwiches, salads, and much more.
Website:
http://hiltonheadcafe.com/ <<<<<<
HAS MOVED TO NEW LOCATION OFF ISLAND, across from Moss Creek in the plaza across the street, only 13 minutes from old location. Food is the same, space is much larger. WORTH THE TRIP!!!!
Kenny B’s…….Wildly popular for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner…..Wow, what to say? It’s all great. One of the most funky and comfortably fun places on the island. Family-owned and run, they know how to cook, and they’ve been around a long time. Always a delicious meal, and always served perfectly. A secret seafood Mecca that’s often overlooked except by those who know. Breakfast is as good as you’ll ever get. Stand in line and order inside, and pay first. The line can be slow sometimes, but it’s Kenny and one helper cooking, so RELAX and savor the experience. The line moves along just fine, and tables always open up. Another secret—Kenny is personal friends of most of the famous New Orleans French Quarter chefs, and that definitely explains Kenny’s extraordinary talent and flair for his passion. An original painted Mardi Gras wall mural—see if you can tell which character looks like YOU. Great service, casual and most enjoyable. Sit and relax. One of the 3 (really 2) best breakfast spots on the island. Hello to owners Laverne & Kenny from Mona & Marty.
Website:
http://www.eatatkennybs.com/ <<<<<<
Watusi Cafe…….Breakfast & Lunch…..Vegetarian & Vegan options….It’s a small contemporary cafe, now expanded due to popular demand! It’s remained strong and very popular, and has a very loyal following. Great sandwiches, good service. Located off Pope Ave near Aunt Chilada’s. Have to be looking real well to spot it.
Website:
https://www.watusicafe.com/ <<<<<<
Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/JYZccUVFN7ZPHrMg8
Daily Cafe & Market ……. Serving Breakfast/Brunch & Lunch. A new place which already has a good following, and located in Shelter Cove Harbor.
Website:
https://www.dailyhh.com/
Photo Gallery:
https://www.dailyhh.com/gallery
The Cottage Cafe, Bakery & Tea Room…….Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (and Sunday Brunch) in Olde Town Bluffton. Very quaint and cozy “GrandMa’s Cottage” type of place. Delicious specialty items. The Jambalaya & Gumbo are as good as you’ll find. Huge local following and definitely worth the short drive from Hilton Head. It might take 20-25 minutes at most. Delicious entrees and desserts, great coffee and drinks. Afterward, enjoy the walk around the wonderful Bluffton shops & boutiques.
Website:
https://thecottagebluffton.com/ <<<<<<
Location/drive:
https://goo.gl/maps/eVAgZsqyRDTf7TNAA
Coast…….Lunch & Dinner. Located in the beautiful Sea Pines Beach Club (adjacent to Marriott’s Monarch Resort). Family friendly of just couples, always fun. Great ocean views. Not a huge menu, but tasty options. Casual.
Website:
https://www.coastoceanfrontdining.com/ <<<<<<
Harbour Town Bakery & Cafe…….Breakfast & Lunch. Inside or front porch/outside dining. Picnic tables too. Great selection of items- sandwiches, salads, pastries, & more. Located in the small cottage across from the Harbour Town parking lot & playground.
Website:
https://www.seapines.com/dining/the-harbour-town-bakery.aspx <<<<<<
British Open Pub ….Lunch & Dinner. Both include delicious traditional British & American items. Small cozy cafe, with tables and booths. Soups, sandwiches, salads, and large selection of entrees. And of course the bar and wonderful drinks.
Website:
https://www.britishopenpubhhi.com/ <<<<<<
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ITALIAN:
(Beach and Italian?---an unlikely marriage, right? Maybe, but HILTON HEAD has a fantastic array of wonderful Italian restaurants. Need a seafood break? This is the ticket.)
Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana**……Three choices here: 1. the Main Dining Room for a great Italian dining experience. 2. Market Cafe, 3. Chef's Kitchen.
Main dining room: it’s all it’s cracked up to be….exquisitely fine-dining Italian food & service, exceptional in every way. Wide variety of authentic Italian dishes, and even the simplest is divine. A most cozy, romantic ambiance in low light, like it should be. Reservations WELL in advance, I’d say at least a week or two. Request downstairs dining…..location, location. They do have booths, and imho they’re the best spot for a relaxed, quiet, and special evening….(downstairs preferred over the upstairs dining!) On the "Sweet 16" list. Not for kids.
The Market Cafe..... a more casual venue with its own menu.
Chef's Kitchen....to serve by request only (couples, groups, special events) & the Cooking School.
Website:
http://www.michael-anthonys.com/ <<<<<<
Ombra Cucina Rustica**......Very fine dining, top notch authentic Italian, but also many other menu choices, & great specials. Sort of expensive but in line with the others. Definitely a most memorable evening. Beautiful elegant decor, wonderful romantic ambiance, with perfect low lighting, great service, amazing food and an excellent wine list. Yes, all of that, and actually more….it’s quite special. A definitive pick for one of the island’s very best Italian. Absolutely one of the top restaurants on the island. Not for kids.
Website:
http://www.ombrahhi.com/ <<<<<<
Nunzio*….opened in 2019…..fine dining Italian, huge new construction building on New Orleans Rd with gorgeous interior & high ceilings. Already a favorite and stays very busy. Food is excellent, service good. Will be a wonderful evening. Definitely knocking on the door for a Top 10 spot, and garners a lot of hype on the island dining scene. (Note: That said, my personal favorite Italian restaurants on the island, however, are Ombra and Michael Anthony’s. They both have something very elegant & special, & the service is more attentive. They have a slight edge for delivering a relaxed, enjoyable, non-rushed experience. Not for kids.
Website:
https://nunziohhi.com/ <<<<<<
Pomodori Italian Eatery*….. popular Italian spot, very good food and service. Not fancy but delicious authentic food in a comfortable, casual setting. Good reviews and highly rated, located on New Orleans Rd. at the Hwy 278 intersection, at far end of building.
Website:
http://www.gopomodori.com/ <<<<<<
Gusto Ristorante*…..a small casual authentic Italian restaurant whose doors have thankfully swung open again after the pandemic. The location is in the plaza along Hwy 278 across from HOME GOODS store. They are eager to share the very best of traditional Italian fare again. The food offerings and wine selections are good, the service great, and the decor and ambiance cozy and romantic. If you’ve ever been to Italy like we have, and experienced the unbelievable cuisine and feel of the family-owned mom & pop cafes, go here to revisit them again. Reasonable pricing and great value. Definitely one of our all-time HH favorites. Small but special, therefore I’m awarding it an honorable mention in my Top 12 restaurants.
Website:
https://gustohiltonhead.com/ <<<<<<
Coastal Capri Ristorante*…
…..a brand new Italian restaurant located where Flora’s used to be, in a plaza along Hwy 278 about 1/2 mile south of the Palmetto Dunes gated community entrance. Chef Johnny Rovito and his wife Michelle are the new owners, and are carrying on the wonderful legacy of fine Southern Italian food, family, and authenticity. Chef Johnny was born in Italy, and knows firsthand what fine Italian food is, and how it is supposed to be enjoyed, or rather savored, at the family table, surrounded by laughter and happiness. Chef has enjoyed 3 decades of culinary experience, and boasts of using only the best and freshest of ingredients, making each dish from scratch, and serving it perfectly as he would if you were dining at his own home. He and Michelle are overjoyed to be welcoming both new and former customers to be part of his “new" family. This was very evident when we dined at Coastal Capri Ristorante for the first time only a few nights ago. We invited another couple to join us and we had a great time, and a great meal. Our entrees included Veal Parmigiana, Pappardelle Bolognese, Linguini with Clams, and Lasagna. They all looked amazing as they were presented at the same time perfectly, and hot, and the portions were quite large. Most of all, everything was delicious. The wine list was nice too. They even presented us with cannoli as a post-dinner gift. Of note, which we appreciated, Michelle greeted us with an ebullient smile upon arrival, honored our table request, checked on us several times during the meal, and expressed her heartfelt thanks for being there as we left. A very enjoyable evening!
Website:
https://coastalcapri.com/.
<<<<<<
Menu:
https://coastalcapri.com/pages/coastal-capri-menu
Piatti*………a popular Italian ristorante, open about 2 years, off Office Park Road in the same shopping center as the Harris Teeter Grocery Store and UPS Store. Located 1/4 mile from the first Traffic Circle at the west end of Pope Ave. Upon entering you’ll find a beautiful Old World decor, both comfortable and clean, with nice stone arches through which you pass as you enter into the main dining area. You might just feel like you're in a fine cafe in Italy. Seems far removed from the rest of the plaza, and the island for that matter. There’s also a private glass-enclosed “wine room” with about four 4-top tables to serve as a venue for small-to-medium parties. There’s smaller second dining room with 4-tops that create some degree of separation and intimacy. Large semi-circular leather booths, plus tables, adorn the main dining room, and a great looking Italian mural. Very authentic and enjoyable setting, and romantic. We dined there tonight (January 2024) and it was really good. Food was delicious, service excellent, and the menu included a wide variety of favorite Italian dishes. Nice wine list with a broad spectrum of Italian selections, and non-Italian ones.
Website:
https://www.piatti-hhi.com/ <<<<<<
Menu:
https://www.piatti-hhi.com/menu
Il Carpaccio*…...”Ristorante Italiano”…...great menu, food, and service, highly rated and good reviews.
Website:
http://www.ilcarpaccioofhiltonhead.com/ <<<<<<
Giuseppe’s Pizza and Pasta House……for 2 decades it’s been a very popular, casual Italian restaurant for families. Located in The Plaza at Shelter Cove Shopping Center near TJ Maxx store. Great pizzas and other wonderful dishes like the Spaghetti or the Eggplant Parmesan. At one time (maybe 15+ years ago) it was voted as one of the TOP Italian family-owned restaurants in the US.
Website:
https://www.giuseppispizza.com/
Menu:
https://www.giuseppispizza.com/hilton-head-menu/.
<<<<<<
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PIZZA:
Mellow Mushroom…….Very popular spot for pizza. Consistently good, easy to find, quick service for dine-in or take-out. Very nice restaurant interior for dine-in, lots of booths and tables, and a large bar. Located in shopping center adjacent to Harris Teeter Grocery Store off Office Park Rd. Always fresh ingredients, and our favorite go-to pizza.
Website:
http://mellowmushroom.com/store/hilton-head <<<<<<
Giuseppe’s……for 2+ decades it’s been a very popular, casual Italian restaurant for families, located in The Plaza at Shelter Cove Shopping Center near TJ Maxx store. Great pizzas and other wonderful dishes like the Spaghetti or the Eggplant Parmesan. At one time (maybe 15+ years ago) it was voted as one of the TOP Italian family-owned restaurants in the US.
Location:
https://www.giuseppispizza.com/locations/
Menu:
https://www.giuseppispizza.com/hilton-head-menu/ <<<<<<
Il Carpaccio*…….”Ristorante Italiano”…….great menu, food, and service, highly rated and good reviews.
Website:
http://www.ilcarpaccioofhiltonhead.com/ <<<<<<
Fat Baby's Pizza and Subs……on Arrow Rd one block from Hwy 278. Rated as one of HH’s best pizzas. Appetizers, Subs, Salads, Bruschettas, Calzones, Pastas, Burgers/Hot Dogs, Wraps, Desserts.
Website:
https://www.fatbabyspizza.com/ <<<<<<
New York City Pizza…….casual pizzeria with NY Style pizzas and many other Italian basics….. Has a bar. Pretty good reviews and two convenient locations. It’s there if you need it.
On the south end of the island on Pope Ave (two blocks from Coligny Circle) in the Heritage Plaza:
https://www.newyorkcitypizza.com/location/heritage-plaza-south-end/
On the north end of the island on Pembroke Drive (across 278 from Main Street) at the Festival Centre plaza:
https://www.newyorkcitypizza.com/location/festival-centre-north-end/ <<<<<<
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BREAKFAST:
(First 3 restaurants below are overwhelming favorites, all very different, but all three are tied for my #1 ranked spot. Big or small, fancy or not….all are awesome and fun in their own way. Here I’m doing photos because these places deserve to be seen.)
1-1.
Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe…..Breakfast & Lunch. Inside/Outside dining. IMHO, the best breakfast restaurant on the island. Best menu by far, with unique items and specials, and probably the best I’ve ever seen for ANY breakfast restaurant anywhere. Truly delicious food, varied choices, and each day has 3-4 different Specials. Servers use the "swarm method” always roaming around and watching everyone for needs, and pitch in instantly to do whatever arises. Most friendly staff on the island, and all have been there forever. Great coffee, great Bloody Marys, and more. Consistently the best since opening in 2001. I love the Sunrise Benedict (no meat, poached egg on English muffin, avocados, tomatoes, onions, Hollandaise sauce).
Website:
https://www.palmettobaysunrisecafe.com/ <<<<<<
Menu:
https://www.palmettobaysunrisecafe.com/menu
Photos: (worth the look)
https://www.google.com/maps/uv?pb=!1s0x88fc7849f719a259%3A0xf9a2bbf666468012!3m1!7e115!4shttps%3A%2F%2Flh5.
googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipNMirRJ1V_uyRb2jNfIvDN2yeln0FIlTgUmNGkU%3Dw568-h320-k-no!5swhen%20did%20palmetto
%20bay%20sunrise%20cafe%20open%20-%20Google%20Search!15sCgIgAQ&imagekey=!1e10!2sAF1QipNMirRJ1V_uyRb2jNfIvDN2yeln
0FIlTgUmNGkU&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjz8Pqz5sXyAhX2VTABHWYOAu0QoiowFHoECFcQAw
HAS MOVED TO NEW LOCATION OFF ISLAND, across from Moss Creek in the plaza across the street, only 13 minutes from old location. Food is the same, space is much larger. WORTH THE TRIP!!!!
1-2.
Kenny B’s……..Breakfast & Lunch. Inside & Outside dining. Family-owned and family-run place. ALSO THE BEST breakfast restaurant on island, just different. A much more simplified menu, less choices, but absolutely delicious items. If Southerners EVER dream about grits, they are dreaming about these. These people can cook. We always visit without fail. Cajun flair but really it’s traditional stuff done Kenny's way. Breakfast can be so fulfilling when you experience their food. Lines can be out the door, but relax, they move. Wonderful funky wall mural inside depicting caricatures in the French Quarter during Mardi Gras… cool and quirky characters, it’s amazing. Which one is YOU? Kenny is personal friends with all the famous N.O. French Quarter Chefs, so yes, he knows how to cook!
Website:
http://www.eatatkennybs.com/ <<<<<<
Photos: (mostly dinner photos, but a few breakfast)
https://www.google.com/maps/uv?pb=!1s0x88fc79058a6df435%3A0xbe0816b61b4a5403!3m1!7e115!4shttps%3A%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2
FAF1QipNHZbs5BelQSkkFgFMCMdVgaPxtqN3xSm7zcnpn%3Dw568-h320-k-no!5skenny%20b%27s%20hilton%20head%20-%20Google%20Search!15sCgIgAQ&imagekey=!1e10!2sAF1QipNHZbs5BelQSkkFgFMCMdVgaPxtqN3xSm7zcnpn&hl=en&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwjA7
tv56MXyAhUVSfEDHRLpB5cQoiowG3oECGkQAw
1-3.
The French Bakery & European Cuisine…Brunch & Lunch. Inside & Outside dining. Located on the back side of Shelter Cove Town Centre buildings, just down from Poseidon.cLook for orange umbrellas on sidewalk. One of the best breakfast/lunch spots on the island. French bistro decor and feel. Superior food and very good service. Wonderful varied menu. Coffees, Quiches, Crepes, pancakes, French Toast, omelettes, pastries, & traditional items too. Sandwiches, burgers, salads, and soups. It’s a must-do.
Menus:
https://www.facebook.com/thefrenchbakeryhhi/menu/ <<<<<<
PHOTOS:
https://www.google.com/maps/uv?pb=!1s0x88fc70b8d4fe79bf%3A0x9987f21e14971bc2!3m1!7e115!4shttps%3A%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp
%2FAF1QipM31R150PiOqSjw0a_xzj4jOJKTyahObNJb_e--%3Dw568-h320-k-no!5sfrench%20bakery%20hilton%20head%20-%20Google%20Search!15sCgIg
AQ&imagekey=!1e10!2sAF1QipM31R150PiOqSjw0a_xzj4jOJKTyahObNJb_e--&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjD85jd6sXyAhXulOAKHT9kClUQoiowEnoECFwQAw
Watusi Cafe…….Great Breakfast & Lunch…..Vegetarian & Vegan options….It’s a small contemporary cafe, now expanded due to popular demand! It’s remained strong and very popular, and has a very loyal following. Great sandwiches and good service. Located off Pope Ave near Aunt Chilada’s. Have to be looking real well to spot it.
Website:
https://www.watusicafe.com/ <<<<<<
Location:
https://goo.gl/maps/JYZccUVFN7ZPHrMg8
Plantation Cafe & Deli…….traditional breakfast restaurant, recently renovated. Located on Pope Ave a couple of blocks from Coligny Circle. Really nice decor and a good solid breakfast served hot and fast by experienced wait staff. Busy but efficient. Favorite of locals, now discovered by the rest of us. Be glad they allow us to participate. Food is excellent, prices even better.
Website:
https://plantationcafeanddeli.com/ <<<<<<
Nectar Farm Kitchen**…..(Brunch & Dinner—OPEN ALL DAY 8am-10pm EVERY DAY!!!!). Perhaps one of the most talked-about and popular new restaurants on Hilton Head Island, it began as a partnership of three local Chefs who collaborated to offer a new creative, healthy dining experience featuring farm-to-table choices. Vegan options available. Brunch menu is a good one, if you like a bit more of an upscale experience. (FYI: Dinner ----Now the menu has expanded and has an unbelievably varied list of selections. Seafood, steaks, and lots moe, even a couple of German dishes. I just recently had a special of Blackened Swordfish and it was amazing.) Located along Hwy 278 about 1/4 mile south of Santa Fe/Sea Grass Grill/Alfred’s in Plantation Center plaza (formerly Lucky Rooster). Next door to new Italian place Coastal Capri.
Website:
https://nectarfarmkitchen.com/ <<<<<<
Menu:
https://nectarfarmkitchen.com/hilton-head-menu/
Hilton Head Diner……an old-fashioned Diner serving a great breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Food is surprisingly good. Located on Hwy 278 across from the Palmetto Dunes entrance. Extensive menus for all meals, and they do have everything! Dined there twice within the last 2 weeks, once for dinner and once for breakfast, and it was wonderful. The "Steak & Eggs" is awesome….a 10-oz sirloin perfectly grilled---plump, juicy, delicious. They also have a hamburger that our family calls the “Cheeseburger in Paradise”. The fried shrimp were also quite good, especially for a diner. It’s open 7 days a week from 7am - 10pm. Great for a quick bite, or for a relaxed spontaneous meal when you forgot to make reservations elsewhere. For us, it’s also a chosen destination.
Website:
http://www.hiltonheaddiner.com/ <<<<<<
Daily Cafe & Market ……. Serving Breakfast/Brunch & Lunch. A new place which already has a good following, and located in Shelter Cove Harbor.
Website:
https://www.dailyhh.com/ <<<<<<
Photo Gallery:
https://www.dailyhh.com/gallery
Skillets Cafe & Grill…….Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner…..it’s been around a long time. Traditional non-fancy restaurant with good solid food and good prices. Good reviews but can occasionally be inconsistent. Still a convenient location in Coligny Plaza, and it’s a quick meal. Dined there many times.
Website:
https://www.skilletscafe.com/ <<<<<<
Southern Coney…Classic "eat & run" dive, located in the shopping center where Kenny B’s is located, but at other end, off Pope Ave. Good reviews, so if you’re in a hurry, try it. Favorite of locals & island working people, but aren’t we that too? We can pretend…...
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Southern-Coney-Breakfast-116698091715605/ <<<<<<
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THE END
Updated JUNE 2025 by JME
That’s all for now, but will be continued as needed.
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