Best Places to Eat in Hilton Head, SC: Our Top 21 Favorites

Best places to eat in Hilton Head

Hilton Head Island, SC, is not just a paradise for beach lovers, it’s also a haven for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re searching for the best waterfront restaurants in Hilton Head, the best casual restaurants in Hilton Head, the best places to eat in Hilton Head with a view, or wondering where do the locals eat, we’ve got you covered!

Read on for our top 20 best places to eat in Hilton Head, SC.

Read Also: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in South Carolina: 19 Top Picks

Best Places to Eat in Hilton Head, SC

1. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks 

Best places to eat in Hilton head
Photo courtesy of DiscoverSouthCarolina.com

*Waterfront Restaurant in Hilton Head

A waterfront restaurant in Hilton Head that is a local favorite, known for its fresh seafood, tasty drinks, and excellent dining experience.

In our opinion a list of good places to eat in Hilton Head Island, SC, wouldn’t be complete without Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks! And, for all you pet owners, they are dog friendly!

2. The Crazy Crab

Best places to eat in Hilton head
Photo credit: “Crazy Crab” by cbgrfx123 is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

If you are looking for good places to eat in Hilton Head Island be sure to check out The Crazy Crab.

With two locations, and perfect for families, this restaurant offers delicious crab legs and shrimp in a fun setting.

3. Reilley’s Grill and Bar

*Best casual restaurants in Hilton Head

Enjoy classic bar and grill fare, including burgers, wings, and sandwiches, in a lively atmosphere.

4. Coco’s on the Beach

*Best casual restaurants in Hilton Head

If you are searching for good places to eat in Hilton Head Island, SC, where you can also enjoy a delicious beverage while enjoying the island vibes, then Coco’s on the Beach is for you!

Indulge in Caribbean-inspired cuisine and tropical cocktails while soaking in breathtaking ocean views. Just trust us, it’s worth checking out!

5. Poseidon Coastal Cuisine and Rooftop Bar

*Waterfront Restaurant in Hilton Head

Savor fresh seafood and global-inspired dishes in a chic waterfront restaurant in Hilton Head.

6. Skull Creek Boathouse

*Waterfront Restaurant in Hilton Head

Delight in classic Southern fare with a modern twist, all while enjoying stunning waterfront views. As a bonus, they are dog-friendly!

7. The Salty Dog Cafe

Best places to eat in Hilton head
At the Salty Dog Cafe, Hilton Head Island” by Lee Edwin Coursey is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

*Best casual restaurants in Hilton Head

We can’t talk about good places to eat in Hilton Head Island, SC, without mentioning The Salty Dog Cafe.

The Salty Dog Cafe is a Hilton Head institution serving up mouthwatering seafood and Southern favorites for over three decades.

8. Old Oyster Factory

Feast on freshly shucked oysters and other seafood delicacies while overlooking the picturesque Broad Creek.

9. Catch 22

This cozy bistro offers a diverse menu featuring seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

10. Santa Fe Cafe

Experience the flavors of the Southwest with dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, and homemade salsa at this lively eatery.

11. WiseGuys

Treat yourself to fine dining with a contemporary twist, featuring steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list.

12. Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana

Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, including homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, in a cozy atmosphere.

13. Kenny B’s French Quarter Cafe

Transport yourself to New Orleans with Cajun and Creole dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys.

14. ELA’s Blu Water Grille

*Waterfront Restaurant in Hilton Head

Enjoy upscale waterfront dining with a menu highlighting fresh seafood, steaks, and sushi.

15. Java Burrito Company

*Best casual restaurants in Hilton Head

Fuel up for the day with gourmet burritos, tacos, and coffee made with locally sourced ingredients.

16. The Jazz Corner

Immerse yourself in the sounds of live jazz while savoring classic Lowcountry cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.

17. Skillets Cafe & Grill

Start your day right with hearty breakfast classics like omelets, pancakes, and benedicts at this charming cafe.

18. Hilton Head Brewing Company

*Best casual restaurants in Hilton Head

Another good place to eat in Hilton Head Island, SC! Pair craft brews with pub fare like burgers, wings, and nachos at this laid-back brewery and restaurant.

19. Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe

Dive into Southern-style breakfast and brunch favorites like shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles.

20. Coast

*Waterfront Restaurant in Hilton Head

Last, but certainly not least, on our list of good places to eat in Hilton Head Island, SC, is Coast.

Enjoy beachfront dining and treat yourself to upscale seafood dishes featuring locally caught fish and shellfish at this elegant waterfront restaurant located at the world-class Sea Pines Beach Club.

21. Quarterdeck

*Waterfront Restaurant in Hilton Head

Best places to eat in Hilton Head
Photo courtesy of DiscoverSouthCarolina.com

Quarterdeck Restaurant on Hilton Head Island offers stunning waterfront views and a menu featuring fresh seafood and Southern cuisine. Enjoy a romantic sunset dinner or a lively brunch with friends on their scenic outdoor patio. Their expertly crafted cocktails and extensive wine list perfectly complement the delicious meals.

Ideal for both casual dining and special occasions, Quarterdeck provides an unforgettable culinary experience.

From waterfront restaurants in Hilton Head to upscale fine dining establishments, Hilton Head Island offers a culinary experience to suit every palate and occasion. 

So, whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, be sure to explore these best places to eat in Hilton Head Island, SC, and indulge in the flavors of the Low country.

Discover more from Carolina Explored

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading