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 Contributed by Nicky Gleason, Realtor®, PSA, Luxury Home Certified

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Are you planning a trip to Hilton Head Island, SC, and looking to satisfy your taste buds but not wanting to cook? Look no further! Hilton Head Island and its neighboring town, Bluffton, offer a bunch of different dining experiences to suit every palate and occasion. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, gathering with a large group, or simply craving some delicious seafood, we've got you covered. Read on for our comprehensive restaurant guide, complete with the best times to visit each spot. Keep in mind that hours are subject to change depending on the time of year, and you should reach out to the restaurant to see if reservations are needed.

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Special Occasion Dining

  • Charlie's L'Etoile Verte (Hilton Head): Experience upscale French cuisine in an intimate setting. Dinner service starts at 5:30 PM.

    CQ's Restaurant (Hilton Head): A cozy and intimate spot with upscale American cuisine located in Harbourtown. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM. You will need to purchase a Sea Pines day pass at the front gates if you don't already have one.

  • The Bluffton Room (Bluffton): Elegant dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.

Large Groups

  • Skull Creek Boathouse (Hilton Head): Spacious waterfront dining suitable for accommodating large groups. Open for lunch and dinner on a 1st come, 1st served basis. Keep in mind that sunset is a very popular time (those views!), so you may want to get there early. If you've got kids with you, don't worry. They have lots of oversized games to keep them engaged while you wait for your table.
  • Truffles Cafe (Bluffton): Creative American cuisine with something for everyone. For large groups, make a reservation for one of their private rooms. It's a great way to gather together! Truffles is open for lunch and dinner.

Local Seafood

  • ELA's Blu Water Grille (Hilton Head): Dine elegantly with waterfront views of Shelter Cove's marina and a diverse menu. Dinner service begins at 5:00 PM.
  • The Crazy Crab (Hilton Head): Casual restaurant offering a wide selection of seafood dishes. Lunch and dinner service available at both locations. The North End location is free to access. If you want to go to the Harbourtown location, you will need to purchase a Sea Pines day pass at the front gates if you don't already have one.
  • Bluffton Oyster Co. (Bluffton): With its rich history dating back over a century, this iconic establishment is a beloved culinary landmark, cherished by locals and visitors alike. Offering a genuine taste of the region, the Bluffton Oyster Company is renowned for its freshly harvested oysters, clams, and shrimp, sourced directly from the pristine waters of the May River. Whether you're indulging in a casual lunch on the outdoor deck or savoring a seafood feast with friends and family, Bluffton Oyster Company invites you to savor the simple pleasures of life on the waterfront. Open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday-Saturday from 11 am - 9 pm.

Great Views

  • The Quarterdeck (Hilton Head): Laid-back seafood restaurant with ample seating. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are strongly encouraged especially if you want to experience the sunset from its new rooftop bar. You will need to purchase a Sea Pines day pass at the front gates if you don't already have one.
  • Fish Camp on Broad Creek (Hilton Head): Relaxed setting with a variety of seafood options. Open for lunch and dinner. Sit outside for 1st come 1st serve. Make a reservation for inside seating.
  • River House at Palmetto Bluff (Bluffton): Overlooking the majestic May River, River House offers breathtaking views paired with exceptional Lowcountry cuisine. Whether you're dining on the outdoor terrace or enjoying the cozy interior, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas that capture the essence of the South Carolina coast. From sunrise breakfasts to sunset dinners, River House invites you to savor unforgettable moments along the scenic banks of the May River.

Best Brunch Spots

  • Stack's Pancakes of Hilton Head (Hilton Head): Wide range of breakfast and brunch options. Open for breakfast and brunch.
  • Link's American Grill (Hilton Head): Modern American cuisine with an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. Also open for lunch and dinner. You will need to purchase a Sea Pines day pass at the front gates if you don't already have one. Unlimited Brunch cocktails available.
  • British Open Pub (Bluffton): Transport yourself to the UK with a hearty brunch at British Open Pub. This cozy pub offers traditional British breakfast favorites like full English breakfasts, savory pies, and bangers and mash, along with a selection of refreshing beers and ciders on tap. Open for brunch on weekends with bottomless mimosas.
  • First Watch (Bluffton): Offering a fresh approach to brunch, First Watch in Bluffton provides an extensive menu of delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. From savory omelets to fluffy pancakes and refreshing brunch cocktails, First Watch is the perfect spot to start your day in Bluffton.

Note: If you are going for Sunday brunch, be advised that some places may not be able to serve alcohol prior to 10 AM as they may not have a special Sunday liquor license.

Kid Friendly Places

  • Frosty Frog Cafe (Hilton Head): Lively spot in Forest Beach/Coligyn known for frozen drinks and casual fare. Lunch and dinner service available.
  • Skull Creek Boathouse (Hilton Head): Spacious waterfront dining suitable for accommodating large groups. Open for lunch and dinner on a 1st come, 1st served basis. Keep in mind that sunset is a very popular time (those views!), so you may want to get there early. If you've got kids with you, don't worry. They have lots of oversized games to keep them engaged while you wait for your table.
  • Captain Woody's Bar & Grill (Bluffton & Hilton Head): Relaxed seafood spot ideal for families and groups. Open for lunch and dinner.

Foodie Hot Spots

  • CQ's Restaurant (Hilton Head): A cozy and intimate spot with upscale American cuisine located in Harbourtown. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM. You will need to purchase a Sea Pines day pass at the front gates if you don't already have one.
  • Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar (Hilton Head): Farm-to-table restaurant with seasonal ingredients. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.
  • The Pearl Kitchen & Bar (Bluffton): Upscale seafood and steak restaurant with a sophisticated atmosphere. The Pearl Kitchen & Bar in Bluffton offers an elevated dining experience, blending coastal flavors with modern culinary techniques. From expertly prepared seafood dishes to prime cuts of steak and a carefully curated wine list, The Pearl promises a memorable dining experience for food enthusiasts. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.
  • The Farm (Bluffton): A farm-to-table spot offering seasonal ingredients and an innovative approach to Southern cuisine. From fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and locally sourced meats, The Farm celebrates the flavors of the Lowcountry in every dish. Menu changes seasonally. Open for brunch on Sunday.

Great Steak Houses

  • WiseGuys (Hilton Head Island): Upscale steakhouse offering prime cuts of beef and an extensive wine list. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.
  • Chophouse 119 (Hilton Head Island): A premier steakhouse offering USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection. With an elegant ambiance and exceptional service, Chophouse 119 promises a memorable dining experience. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.
  • Bowdie's Chophouse (Hilton Head Island): Known for its aged steaks, fine wines, and elegant atmosphere, Bowdie's Chophouse offers a sophisticated dining experience on Hilton Head Island. Whether you're indulging in a classic filet mignon or a perfectly grilled ribeye, Bowdie's Chophouse ensures a memorable meal in a refined setting. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.
  • River House at Palmetto Bluff (Bluffton): Overlooking the majestic May River, River House offers breathtaking views paired with exceptional Lowcountry cuisine. Whether you're dining on the outdoor terrace or enjoying the cozy interior, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas that capture the essence of the South Carolina coast. From sunrise breakfasts to sunset dinners, River House invites you to savor unforgettable moments along the scenic banks of the May River.
  • The Bluffton Room (Bluffton): Elegant dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.

Upscale Dining Experiences

  • Nunzio's (Hilton Head): Authentic Italian restaurant offering an upscale atmosphere. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM. They do not currently have lunch hours.
  • Red Fish (Hilton Head): Delight in upscale dining featuring locally sourced seafood. Reservations recommended for dinner service starting at 5:00 PM.
  • Okan (Bluffton): Upscale restaurant with a sophisticated atmosphere, each dish at Okan is carefully crafted with premium ingredients and artistic presentation, creating a feast for both the eyes and palate. A nod to the roots of Southern Cuisine through West African dishes. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.
  • Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant (Bluffton): Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant offers an upscale dining experience featuring authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Bluffton. From classic pasta dishes to flavorful seafood and decadent desserts, Dolce Vita brings the flavors of Italy to the Lowcountry with style and sophistication. Dinner service starts at 5:00 PM.

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As you explore the vibrant culinary scene of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, we hope you've discovered new flavors, created unforgettable memories, and experienced the rich cultural tapestry of our coastal communities. From waterfront seafood feasts to upscale dining experiences, each restaurant on this list offers a unique taste of the Lowcountry that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.

If you've fallen in love with the cuisine and lifestyle of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, why not make this beautiful area your permanent home? With its stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and thriving culinary scene, it's no wonder that so many people choose to live here year-round.

Whether you're seeking a cozy cottage by the sea, a luxurious waterfront estate, or a charming home nestled among the moss-draped oaks, our team of real estate experts is here to help you find your perfect piece of paradise. Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest listings, market updates, and exclusive insights into the Hilton Head Island and Bluffton real estate market. Your dream home awaits in the heart of the Lowcountry!