Hilton Head and the Low Country Restaurants

We’ve compiled the best of the best in Hilton Head and the Low Country - browse our top choices for Restaurants during your stay.

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  • 1. Captain Woody's

    $$ | South End | Seafood

    If you're looking for a fun, casual, kid-friendly seafood restaurant, this vibrant joint offers creamy crab bisque, oysters on the half shell...

    If you're looking for a fun, casual, kid-friendly seafood restaurant, this vibrant joint offers creamy crab bisque, oysters on the half shell, and a sampler platter that includes crab legs, shrimp, and oysters. Open daily for lunch and dinner, plus a Sunday brunch, Captain Woody's has indoor and outdoor seating. A second location in Bluffton features a rooftop deck.

    6 Target Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–2400

    Known For

    • Grouper sandwiches, including the buffalo grouper, grouper melt, and grouper Reuben
    • A lively atmosphere
    • Football-watching crowds on fall weekends
    • Good happy hour
  • 2. Claude & Uli's Bistro

    $$$$ | European

    It's hard to go wrong with a chef who has cooked at Maxim's in Paris, the Connaught Hotel in London, and Ernie's in San Francisco. Chef Claude...

    It's hard to go wrong with a chef who has cooked at Maxim's in Paris, the Connaught Hotel in London, and Ernie's in San Francisco. Chef Claude Melchiorri, who grew up in Normandy, France, and his wife, Uli, offer divine food at this atmospheric restaurant tucked away in a strip mall right before the bridges to Hilton Head. Candles and fresh flowers top the white linen–covered tables. Parisian art lines the walls; a large painting of dogs at a French bar adds a touch of humor. The French-European cuisine is simply irresistible. Before ordering appetizers and dinner, order the soufflé Grand Marnier with chocolate sauce ahead for dessert, then start with the seafood crepe with white-wine sauce. For the entrée, try the veal Normandy with brandied mushroom cream sauce. All the seafood is fresh, and all the sauces are handmade.

    Moss Creek Village, 1533 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton, South Carolina, 29926, USA
    843-837–3336

    Known For

    • Intimate ambience
    • French-bistro feel

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch Sun.–Tues. No lunch in summer.
  • 3. Coast

    $$$ | South End | Seafood

    An oceanfront restaurant can often count on its real estate to bring in diners, but this casual yet upscale seafood spot at the Sea Pines Beach...

    An oceanfront restaurant can often count on its real estate to bring in diners, but this casual yet upscale seafood spot at the Sea Pines Beach Club doesn't cut corners in the kitchen. There is plenty of Southern-inspired fare for landlubbers, but the real gems are the raw bar platter and the day's featured fish entrée.

    87 North Sea Pines Dr. , Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-842–1888

    Known For

    • Lively patio (and indoor) dining with horizon views across the ocean
    • A Cajun-influenced lobster roll
    • The adjacent Ocean Lounge cocktail bar
  • 4. Hilton Head Social Bakery

    $ | Mid-Island | Bakery

    It's impossible to stop in just for a baguette or sourdough loaf at this unassuming French-owned bakery and bistro—you'll inevitably be tempted...

    It's impossible to stop in just for a baguette or sourdough loaf at this unassuming French-owned bakery and bistro—you'll inevitably be tempted by the lush pain au chocolat and cinnamon buns. The owner/chef, a Normandy native, was the executive chef at New York's Tavern On the Green and Windows on the World before relocating to Hilton Head.

    Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, 17 Harborside La., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-715–3349

    Known For

    • Savory tarts and croque-monsieur for lunch
    • Thoughtfully sourced ingredients
    • Decadent eclairs washed down with good coffee

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. seasonally
  • 5. Hudson's Seafood House

    $$$ | North End | Seafood

    Built over the water on Port Royal Sound, this classic seafood joint buys its fish and shrimp directly from the boats that dock there, and the...

    Built over the water on Port Royal Sound, this classic seafood joint buys its fish and shrimp directly from the boats that dock there, and the staff raises their own oysters and soft-shell crabs with an in-house mariculture program. Dining here feels like stepping back 50 years into an authentic waterfront dive, including the locally sourced, same-day-fresh seafood that's now often hard to find.

    1 Hudson Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29926, USA
    843-681–2772

    Known For

    • Sunsets at the open air waterfront bar
    • Happy hour mai tais and seafood specials
    • Oysters grown by the restaurant-owned Shell Ring Oyster Company
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  • 6. Lowcountry Produce

    $ | Downtown Historic District | American

    If you don't impulsively order the tomato pie atop the glass display case—and you won't go wrong if you do—try the fried oysters, a lobster...

    If you don't impulsively order the tomato pie atop the glass display case—and you won't go wrong if you do—try the fried oysters, a lobster po'boy, or what may be the best shrimp and grits in town. There's table service and counter-order options, and plenty of jams, relishes, and pickled okra in their on-site market to stock your pantry at home.

    302 Carteret St., Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, USA
    843-322–1900

    Known For

    • Excellent selection of culinary gifts and souvenirs
    • Colorful, airy decor that welcomes you in
    • Hearty, satisfying breakfast entrées
  • 7. Lucky Rooster

    $$$ | Mid-Island | American

    From its unassuming perch at the corner of a strip mall, the ever-changing daily menus at this chef-owned farm-to-table establishment sit quietly...

    From its unassuming perch at the corner of a strip mall, the ever-changing daily menus at this chef-owned farm-to-table establishment sit quietly on par with the very best dining in neighboring Charleston. Whether it's braised short rib, Korean-style fried chicken, or roasted octopus, the Rooster's kitchen serves plates brimming with pride and inspiration.

    841 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-681–3474

    Known For

    • The island's best cocktail program, including speakeasy mixes on tap
    • Every ingredient sourced with care
    • Sunday night burger deals

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch
  • 8. Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana

    $$$$ | South End | Italian

    This restaurant has a convivial spirit, and its innovative pairings and plate presentations are au courant. Expect fresh, top-quality ingredients...

    This restaurant has a convivial spirit, and its innovative pairings and plate presentations are au courant. Expect fresh, top-quality ingredients, simple yet elegant sauces, and waiters who know and care about the food and wine they serve.

    Orleans Plaza, 37 New Orleans Rd., Suite L, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–6272

    Known For

    • Cooking demonstrations/classes
    • On-site market with fresh pasta
    • Wine tastings
    • Cooking demonstrations

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch
  • 9. Old Bull Tavern

    $$ | Downtown Historic District | European

    This neighborhood gathering spot has a daily-changing menu heavy on pasta, wood-fired pizza, and hearty entrées. The cocktail menu is equally...

    This neighborhood gathering spot has a daily-changing menu heavy on pasta, wood-fired pizza, and hearty entrées. The cocktail menu is equally appealing, as are the wines and local beers on tap.

    205 West St., Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, USA
    843-379–2855

    Known For

    • Gourmet thin-crust pizza that's served until late
    • Ricotta gnocchi that melts like heavenly pillows
    • Tempting, creative cocktails

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon.
  • 10. Plums

    $ | Downtown Historic District | American

    This popular local eatery still uses family recipes for its soups, crab-cake sandwiches, and curried chicken salad. Open daily for breakfast...

    This popular local eatery still uses family recipes for its soups, crab-cake sandwiches, and curried chicken salad. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, Plums is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal outside and to take in the beautiful views of downtown Beaufort.

    904 Bay St., Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, USA
    843-525–1946

    Known For

    • Raw bar
    • Inventive burgers, sandwiches for lunch
    • Sophisticated dinner menu
    • Inventive burgers and sandwiches for lunch
    • Live music and hopping nightlife on weekends
    • Tasty raw bar
    • Great location on Waterfront Park
  • 11. Red Fish

    $$$$ | South End | Contemporary

    Appealing to locals and tourists alike, the menu at upscale Red Fish features classic seafood dishes, mouthwatering apps, and delicious desserts...

    Appealing to locals and tourists alike, the menu at upscale Red Fish features classic seafood dishes, mouthwatering apps, and delicious desserts. The contemporary restaurant's wine cellar is filled with some 1,000 bottles, and there's also a retail wineshop as well as indoor and outdoor seating.

    8 Archer Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-686–3388

    Known For

    • Fabulous food
    • Fabulous service
    • Gluten-free selections
    • An award-winning burger
    • Produce grown on the restaurant's own farm
    • Award-winning burger

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch
  • 12. Signe's Heaven Bound Bakery & Café

    $ | South End | American

    Since 1972, Signe's has been serving freshly made baked goods as well as delicious breakfast and lunch options on Hilton Head. Signature dishes...

    Since 1972, Signe's has been serving freshly made baked goods as well as delicious breakfast and lunch options on Hilton Head. Signature dishes range from deep-dish French toast and crispy polenta to curried chicken salad and specialty quiches. The intimate eatery features indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a to-go counter. It's the perfect place to grab sandwiches or salads for a picnic lunch. Don't forget the hand-crafted cakes, pies, and pastries for dessert.

    93 Arrow Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–9118

    Known For

    • To-die-for baked goods
    • The “beach bag” (a lunch packed with goodies to take to the beach)
    • Cozy, friendly atmosphere
    • Melt-in-your-mouth cakes and the rave-worthy breads
    • Homemade breads, cookies, cakes, and pies

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun.
  • 13. The Sea Shack

    $ | South End | Seafood

    Heaping plates of fried seafood and hearty po'boys are worth the long line at this local staple counter-serve. The humble dining room and open...

    Heaping plates of fried seafood and hearty po'boys are worth the long line at this local staple counter-serve. The humble dining room and open kitchen suit the mouthwatering platters perfectly. Local tip: During the busy summer months, call in your order for pickup and skip the line.

    6 Executive Park Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–2464

    Known For

    • Eclectic seafood options like gator, frog legs, and conch fritters
    • Blueberry key lime pie
    • Over a dozen varieties of fish on the daily menu

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun.
  • 14. A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant

    $$ | South End | American

    This unassuming little restaurant located off Palmetto Bay Road serves excellent seafood dishes with Southern flavor in a laid-back setting...

    This unassuming little restaurant located off Palmetto Bay Road serves excellent seafood dishes with Southern flavor in a laid-back setting with indoor and outdoor seating. Don't ignore the full bar that serves South Carolina moonshine. The outdoor area also has games for kids as well as a water feature and quirky decor.

    The Village Exchange Shopping Center, 32 Palmetto Bay Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–9273

    Known For

    • Funky atmosphere
    • Excellent shrimp and grits
    • Fun for kids and families
  • 15. Black Marlin Bayside Grill

    $$$ | South End | Seafood

    This busy restaurant specializing in seafood dishes such as chowder and fish tacos is open for lunch and dinner every day, and brunch on the...

    This busy restaurant specializing in seafood dishes such as chowder and fish tacos is open for lunch and dinner every day, and brunch on the weekend. Located in Palmetto Bay Marina, the Black Marlin has indoor and outdoor seating, as well as family-style meals available for takeout.

    86 Helmsman Way, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–4950

    Known For

    • A hopping happy hour
    • An outdoor Hurricane Bar with a Key West vibe
    • An outdoor Hurricane Bar
    • Weekend oyster roasts during winter
  • 16. Breakwater Restaurant & Bar

    $$$ | Downtown Historic District | Eclectic

    This classy downtown restaurant offers small tasting plates such as tuna crudo and fried shrimp, as well as main dishes like lamb meat loaf...

    This classy downtown restaurant offers small tasting plates such as tuna crudo and fried shrimp, as well as main dishes like lamb meat loaf and filet mignon with a truffle demi-glace. The presentation is as contemporary as the decor. There's an attractive bar area and an impressive and affordable wine list.

    203 Carteret St., Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, USA
    843-379–0052

    Known For

    • Contemporary approach to Lowcountry cuisine
    • Elegant atmosphere
    • Local loyalty

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun.
  • 17. Charlie's L'Etoile Verte

    $$$ | Mid-Island | French

    This family-owned culinary landmark has been serving French cuisine with a Lowcountry flair since 1982. While the handwritten menu changes daily...

    This family-owned culinary landmark has been serving French cuisine with a Lowcountry flair since 1982. While the handwritten menu changes daily, classic dishes like escargot, pate, and rack of lamb remain the same. From lunch, dinner, desserts, and curbside pickup, the "green star" shines.

    8 New Orleans Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–9277

    Known For

    • Extensive wine list (more than 500) from California, Bordeaux, and the Rhône Valley
    • 14 varying seafood entrées offered nightly
    • Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere
    • Extensive wine list (more than 500 bottles)

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.
  • 18. Frankie Bones

    $$$ | North End | Italian

    The early '60s theme here appeals to an older crowd that likes the traditional Italian dishes on the early dining menu, but younger patrons...

    The early '60s theme here appeals to an older crowd that likes the traditional Italian dishes on the early dining menu, but younger patrons who order flatbread pizzas and small plates can be found at the bar area. Some dishes have innovative twists, including the 16-ounce rib eye with a sweetened coffee rub. Reservations are accepted at both the Hilton Head and Bluffton locations.

    1301 Main St., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29926, USA
    843-682–4455

    Known For

    • Cool twists on traditional dishes
    • Drinks for dessert (the tiramisu martini is to die for)
    • Drinks for dessert, like a key lime colada martini and house-made limoncello
    • The 24-ounce "Godfather Cut" prime rib
  • 19. Harold's Country Club Bar & Grill

    $ | American

    Not the "country club" you might expect, Harold's is a remodeled gas station in the little town of Yemassee, just east of Interstate 95 in northern...

    Not the "country club" you might expect, Harold's is a remodeled gas station in the little town of Yemassee, just east of Interstate 95 in northern Beaufort County. There's a buffet every Thursday and steak night on Saturday that requires ordering in advance. Seating is family-style in one of the large, kitschy dining rooms. With a large bar area, pool tables, and karaoke after dark, Harold's is a one-of-a-kind experience.

    97 U.S. 17A, Yemassee, South Carolina, 29945, USA
    843-589–4360

    Known For

    • Cheerful ladies slapping meat on your plate cafeteria-style
    • Great music
    • Kitschy dining rooms
    • A worthy stop on your way in or out of town
    • Great live entertainment
    • Kitschy dining rooms
    • A worthy stop on your way in or out of town

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun.–Wed.
  • 20. Hinoki

    $$ | South End | Japanese

    Slip into a peaceful oasis through a tunnel of bamboo at Hinoki, which has arguably the best sushi on the island. Try the Hilton Head roll,...

    Slip into a peaceful oasis through a tunnel of bamboo at Hinoki, which has arguably the best sushi on the island. Try the Hilton Head roll, which is whitefish tempura and avocado; the Hinoki roll with asparagus, spicy fish roe, tuna and avocado; or the amazing tuna sashimi salad with spicy mayo, cucumbers, onions, salmon roe, and crabmeat.

    Orleans Plaza, 37 New Orleans Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–9800

    Known For

    • Superfresh sushi
    • Extensive sake menu
    • Superfresh sushi with more than 50 menu items
    • Udon noodle dishes and bento boxes
    • Super-fresh sushi with more than 50 menu items

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. No lunch Mon. and Sat.

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