Best Hilton Head Restaurants

Look no further for the best Hilton Head restaurants including everything from top seafood restaurants, family-friendly dining, local favorites, fine dining, and more.  Hilton Head, South Carolina is filled with amazing Lowcountry places to eat on your vacation and I've handpicked my favorites!

Planning a trip? Start with my Hilton Head Travel Guide, 25 Can't-Miss Hilton Head Activities & Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids.

Best Hilton Head Restaurants

Hilton Head restaurants are so delicious.  This small South Carolina island is a hotspot for local food and is filled to the brim with over 250 restaurants, with many being locally owned and independent.  The island is best known for its gorgeous beaches and Spanish moss-lined trees, but it's also a place to visit to eat really good food. Whether you are looking for casual seafood with a waterfront view, fine dining, kid-friendly restaurants, homemade Italian food, local pizza, or Lowcountry favorites, this island has every type of food you could want on your trip.  Hilton Head is a surprising foodie destination, with so many delicious options.  But with so many choices, the only problem is figuring out which restaurants to add to your itinerary.

I've been visiting Hilton Head Island my entire life, and have been countless times in the past decade visiting many of the HHI restaurants.  I adore the food on this island and plan my trips around getting to eat at my favorite spots. I've dined at a lot of them and over time picked my favorites, which I'm sharing here with you as the best restaurants in Hilton Head.

If you are planning a trip to Hilton Head Island start with my Hilton Head Travel Guide which will help you plan your entire trip.

Also read, Hilton Head Takeout Options & Best Hilton Head Waterfront Dining

 

Best Hilton Head Restaurants

Charlie's Coastal Bistro

Charlie's Coast Bistro is a hidden gem, a local favorite of the best Hilton Head restaurants.  It's not on the water and is tucked away on a side street, but still super charming and is worth seeking out for casual fine dining featuring fresh local fish.  Its French-inspired menu is even handwritten daily according to what locally caught fish is available.  This might not be a traditional crab shack but is one of the best seafood restaurants in Hilton Head. The food is such high quality and impeccably prepared that is one of my all-time favorite restaurants anywhere.  You also can't beat the kind and attentive staff and servers.  I cannot rave about this place enough and I simply adore it.  It's a wonderful dining experience.

They recently changed their name from Charle's L'Etoile Verte to Charlie's Coastal Bistro, but it's the same wonderful restaurant.

Don't miss the She Crab Soup.

They switch their menu nightly according to the fresh catch with the fresh grouper with mushroom sauce is one of the best things I've ever eaten.  I also love their blackened fish special of the day.

You also can't miss their caramel cake.  It's so good the Hubs and I order two pieces because sharing this would just be offensive.

It's a local favorite and reservations book fast and early so call ahead of time to go.  You will not be sorry.

What to Order: She Crab Soup, Grouper with Mushroom Sauce, Blackened Fish (their menu changes daily but they usually offer one blackened choice a day,) and Caramel Cake.

 

Quarterdeck

The recently remodeled and reimagined Quarterdeck restaurant is now one of the best Hilton Head Restaurants.  The restaurant in this spot, at the base of the Harbour Town Lighthouse used to be not that fabulous, but it reopened in 2022 with a stunning remodel and amazing menu putting it back on my list of must-eat restaurants on Hilton Head Island.  The coastal decor inside is so charming, the views are incredible and the menu is so good including fresh seafood and more.

The Waterview from inside and outside the restaurant are gorgeous and if you get a table on the backside of the restaurant at sunset, you will have one of the most amazing sunset views on the island.

The menu is actually full of lots of options from fine dining with lobster and steaks, to more casual sandwiches, burgers, and more.  They even have non-seafood options if you are dining with a group with lots of different tastes.

My favorite thing to order is the Daufuskie Deviled Crab Dip.

They also have lovely fresh catch fish specials, which are incredible.

The Quarterdeck does take reservations, but they do get booked up quickly, so book early.  This spot is one of the new favorites on the island.

What to Order: Daufuskie Deviled Crab Dip, Fresh Catch Fish, & Lobster Thermidor.  They also have fabulous fresh oysters and a lovely cocktail menu.

 

Hudson's on the Docks

Hudson's on the Docks is a beloved Hilton Head institution loved by both tourists and locals.  They are all about local seafood.  If the weather is nice you can sit on their gorgeous docks.  Go to Hudson's Seafood House at sunset for some incredible views.  They also have a cozy indoor dining area, which also works great if the weather is not perfect.

If you go when local oysters are in season, get a BUCKET with all the fixings.  They serve it on this tray, and it is so fun and tasty.  The Chargrilled Oysters are also not to be missed, and one of my favorites anywhere.

They also fish for their own shrimp and have THE BEST shrimp you've ever had.  They are fresh, never frozen, and will ruin all other shrimp for you.

They also do a great job with their Blackened Fresh Catch Sandwich.  Hudson's is also known for their hush puppies, and fried seafood and has lots of Lowcountry favorites for brunch, lunch, and dinner.  They are super kid-friendly too.

They do not take reservations, so go at an off-time or go early especially in-season as the wait for this popular spot can be long. They also offer Sunday brunch.

What to Order: FRESH shrimp, Oyster Tray (when in season,) Chargrilled Oysters, Blackened Fish Sandwich, Fish tacos, anything is amazing!

 

Skull Creek Boathouse

I adore the Skull Creek Boathouse and it is one of the best Hilton Head Restaurants.  It's another local institution and is loved by both tourists and locals.  You can sit outside on the most gorgeous tree-covered patio and on a busy warm day, you can watch giant machines move boats from storage to the water on Broad Creek.  It's also a great sunset spot.  They also have indoor dining when the weather isn't great, but outside is where you want to be.

Some of my favorite things to order from Skull Creek Boathouse are from their raw bar.  I love their ceviche and tuna dishes.  They do lovely things with tuna including poke!  Get the Tuna 3 Ways.  I also like their clams and shrimp.

They also have regular sushi options on their menu in addition to a wonderful collection of regular seafood plates like Shrimp & Grits, Stuffed Flounder, and Broiled Seafood Trio.

Grab a table outside, a drink, and enjoy the afternoon with a cocktail!  This is another popular Hilton Head Restaurant that does not take reservations.  The only way to avoid a wait is to go at an off-time or early.

What to Order: Ceviche and Raw Bar Tuna, Clams, Oysters, Shrimp & Spinach Dip.

 

Salty Dog Cafe

You can't go to Hilton Head Island without visiting the waterfront Salty Dog Cafe!  It's at the end of the island in Sea Pines on South Beach and is an iconic, casual place with great food and drinks.  It's absolutely on the list of Best Hilton Head Restaurants.  The restaurant owns the entire surrounding shopping center and it's a great place to walk around, enjoy the water views and do some shopping before or after eating.  You can also often catch live music or live entertainment.

I love their Shrimp & Lobster Roll and the crab dip is one of the best on the island.  The homemade potato chips are also so good.

We also love their grilled oysters and their fish dinners.

For this place to be a cult favorite, the food is surprisingly tasty and the atmosphere will not disappoint.  Don't forget to get your T-shirt before you go.

This is another local hotspot that does not take reservations, so if you don't want to wait, go early or at an off time.

What to Order: Mango Mojito, South Beach Roll, Grouper Dog, or Fresh Catch Sandwich.  

 

Fishcamp on Broadcreek

Another best Hilton Head restaurant is Fishcamp on Broadcreek.  This is another well-loved restaurant by tourists and locals, with many folks visiting it again and again.  They have a gorgeous marsh view over Broadcreek with sunset and charming live oak trees.  They also have a cozy indoor dining area.

You can't go wrong with their Daufuskie Blue Crab Cake, chill bar oysters, royal towers of seafood, stuffed flounder, parmesan-crusted grouper, or lobster specials.

You can make reservations for the indoor dining room, but outdoor seating is first come first serve, and will often have a wait.

What to Order: Shellfish Towers, Roasted Stuffed Flounder, Parmesan Crusted Grouper

 

OMBRA Cucina Italiana

If you've had enough traditional seafood restaurants, OMBRA Cucina Italiana is a good place to mix it up and a spot that has to be on the list of best Hilton Head restaurants and a wonderful spot for Italian cuisine.  They make delicious, authentic Italian food with a seafood twist.  Try their homemade ravioli of the day.  This doesn't look like much, but it tastes like pillows of pasta heaven.

They are located in a shopping center, without a view, but the food makes up for the lack of a view.

Their mussels are also incredible.

They also have a fresh catch entree and seafood dishes with an Italian flare.  Their mussels and scallops are also dreamy.  The Spaghetti with Clams is another favorite of mine.

Also, don't leave without one of their cannolis!

OMBRA is a hidden gem on Hilton Head and a restaurant I totally adore.  You can't go wrong here.  They do take reservations, so book ahead.

What to Order: Mussels, Homemade Ravioli, Spaghetti with Clams, Gnocchi, Seafood Pasta and Cannoli.  Everything I've ever ordered here has been amazing.

 

Red Fish

Red Fish is another one of the best Hilton Head restaurants.  It's also tucked away near a shopping center and not on the water but is so good.  You must try the Cajun Lobster and Shrimp Burger.  It's epic.

I also love their Lobster Mac & Cheese and scallops.  The menu is delicious with lots of non-seafood options too.

Go early and pick out a bottle of wine from their fun wine store up front.  They will open it for you at the table and it's just about the perfect night out!

They do take reservations, so you can book ahead without waiting.

What to Order: Shrimp & Lobster Burger

 

Coast

If you are looking for a lovely outdoor waterfront meal with beach views, Coast is a great bet!  It is in Sea Pines at the Sea Pines Beach Club and has a wonderful atmosphere right on the Atlantic Ocean.  This is one of the best restaurants in Sea Pines Hilton Head SC.

I love their seafood tower with crab legs, shrimp, and fresh oysters.

They do take reservations, and book in advance, so book ahead.

What to Order: Raw Bar Full Platter, Blackened Shrimp Nachos

Nunzio Restaurant & Bar

Nunzio Restaurant & Bar is a newer addition to the best Hilton Head restaurants but has quickly made its way onto my list of favorite places to eat on the island.  They have fresh, vibrant Italian food with a coastal twist.

They are inland and do not have a view, but has a gorgeous new building and lovely staff.  The food is more elevated fine dining and the flavors are incredible.

One of my favorite things to order is the Polipo con Farro which is a grilled Spanish octopus.

We also love the Linguine Adriatica, which is filled with so much amazing seafood.

Nunzio does take reservations and also offers easy online takeout options.  It quickly jumped to the very top of my list of best Hilton Head Restaurants.

What to Order: Linguine Adriatica, Spaghetti con Vongole, Gnocchi, Spanish Octopus, Italian Cheese Board.  I haven't had a bad thing here!

 

Marley's Shrimp & Burger Shack

If you are looking for a more casual, counter-service seafood restaurant in Hilton Head, try Marley's Shrimp and Burger Shack.  It's another one of my favorite Hilton Head Restaurants because of its fast-casual menu with yummy seafood, cute outdoor dining space, and affordable menu options.  Plus, you can't miss the shrimp burger.

They also have amazing blackened seafood and fried seafood as well.

You can order ahead online or walk up to the counter to visit this fun spot to eat on the island.  This is such a fun, non-fussy place to eat.

What to Order: Shrimp Burger, Lobster Roll, Blackened Shrimp, French Fries

 

Island Bagel and Deli

The bagels at Island Bagel are the real deal, putting Island Bagel at the top of my list of best Hilton Head Restaurants.  It's a super casual place in a shopping mall but is great for breakfast and lunch sandwiches.

I always get us breakfast sandwiches to go on the first day of our trip and a dozen bagels with cream cheese to enjoy through the week.  They are tender and delicious.

This local favorite is a must-stop for any Hilton Head food tour.

What to Order: Bagel Sandwich on Everything Bagel, Dozen Bagels, and cream cheese to go!

 

Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe

Another great breakfast/ brunch spot is Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe.  They are super popular and run on a wait-in season, but it's worth it!  Look at this stuffed French toast.

I'm also a huge fan of their breakfast burrito with homemade salsa... but you can't go wrong with any of the picks on their menu.  This is absolutely one of the best breakfast restaurants in Hilton Head.

What to Order: Stuffed French Toast, Breakfast Burrito, Quiche

 

Al's Aloha Kitchen

Another more casual restaurant that still makes the list of best Hilton Head Restaurants is Al's Aloha Kitchen.  It's counter service casual and the simple menu features acai and poke bowls.  They are both dreamy and perfect to eat on their cute patio or at the beach.

If you are looking for some cheap eats, this is a wonderful option.

What to Order: Acai AND Poke Bowls

 

More Best Restaurants in Hilton Head

I listed my all-time favorite Hilton Head restaurants above, but here are some others that are also super delicious and worth a visit!

• A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant: This top-ranked Hilton Head Restaurant is a favorite for its Lowcountry and Southen-style food such as shrimp and grits, low country boil, tomato sandwiches, homemade pimento cheese, and more.  They have a charming outdoor patio and it's a great option if you are tired of the seafood restaurants.
• Lucky Rooster Kitchen:  A unique dining spot with refined comfort food. Try the Low Country Charcuterie with smoked fish dip, fried chicken, or Shrimp & Scallops.
• Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana: Another great spot for traditional fine dining Italian cuisine with homemade pasta, seafood, and steaks.
• Alexander's Restaurant & Wine Bar: Another Hilton Head restaurant that has been around for a long time.  With a prime location at the entrance of Palmetto Dunes, this charming spot is a fine-dining upscale seafood restaurant with lots of delicious options.  They have locally caught seafood and seasonally-inspired cuisine.
• Poseidon: Located in Shelter Cove, this tasty spot has a great menu with seafood, salads, steaks, and a raw bar.  It's the fun second-story rooftop bar room with a sunset view too.  They do take reservations.
• The Sea Shack: One of the best dive restaurants on the island with takeout super casual seafood.  Expect to wait in line in high season for this tasty menu!  It's a local favorite!
• The Sandbar Beach Eats: A fun, casual spot in Coligny Plaza with delicious seafood tacos.
• Old Oyster Factory: A classic Hilton Head Island restaurant with waterfront dining on a dock and an extensive seafood menu.  They do take reservations, which can come in handy on the island in high season.
• Crazy Crab: Loved by visitors, this fun crab house has a waterfront location on Jarvis Creek and a restaurant in Harbour Town in Sea Pines.  Go for the steam pots.
• Hilton Head Social Bakery: An amazing French bakery with locations in Shelter Cove Marina and a free-standing shop on the south side of the island.  You can't miss the gorgeous pastries, tarts, and more from Chef Philippe Feret.  They also serve lunch options like quiche and croissant sandwiches.  Great for breakfast or dessert.
• The Jazz Corner: The Jazz Corner is a really fun spot with great fine dining food and live jazz music nightly.  It's a unique and fun spot on the island that combines music and food wonderfully.
• Frankie Bones: Another favorite Hilton Head Restaurant because of its charming dining area, fun 50's Sinatra-themed room, and a menu that has something for everyone.   You'll love the steaks or seafood.
• Java Burrito: If you are looking for a local burrito shop, this is it!  So delicious and they also serve coffee and breakfast burritos too.  Also try the tacos, quesadillas, or salad.
• Holy Tequila: Often called Hilton Head's best Mexican restaurant, this fun spot uses local ingredients for a fun island twist on traditional Mexican food.  They also have 60 premium tequilas to try.
• Bullies BBQ: A local favorite for BBQ! It's located next to a quaint gas station and is a hidden gem on the island.
• Hot Mama's Amercian Grill: Another great non-seafood-centric restaurant, this spot is especially known for its baby back ribs, bbq, and wings.

 

So what are the best restaurants on Hilton Head SC?

So what are the best restaurants in Hilton Head?  My all-time favorites for dinner are Charlie's, Skull Creek Boathouse, Hudson's Seafood on the Docks, Quarterdeck, and Salty Dog. Nunzio and Cucina come in closely behind that.  For more casual lunch options I adore Al's Aloha Kitchen, Marley's Shrimp & Burger Shack, and Island Bagel.  Those are just personal favorites though, and there are so many tasty options on Hilton Head.  The island is filled with so much good food from seafood, Italian, and beach eats to even breakfast, you can't go wrong with any of these options.

Also if you are looking for which restaurants on Hilton Head are on the water, check out my complete dining guide to Hilton Head Waterfront dining.  And if you need takeout options, check out my Best Hilton Head Takeout Eats.

If there are any great Hilton Head Restaurants you love that I left out, please share in the comments below!  These are my favorites from my many trips to the island BUT I'm sure there are other favorites too.

 

 

More Hilton Head Travel Information:

Start planning your Hilton Head trip with my Hilton Head Resource Page with real photos of Hilton Head and read my guides below!

• Hilton Head Travel Guide
• 25 Can't-Miss Hilton Head Activities
• Top Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids
• Top Things to Do on Hilton Head in the Off-Season
• Best Hilton Head Waterfront Restaurants
• Best Hilton Head Takeout Restaurants
• Coastal Discovery Museum Visitor Guide
• Hilton Head Babymoon

 

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