Alright, let’s get one thing straight about Hilton Head Island. You might think it’s all about world-class golf, miles of bike trails, and those beautiful Atlantic beaches. And you’re right.
But what truly sets this Lowcountry paradise apart is a food scene that’s absolutely bursting with flavor. This isn’t just another resort town with chain restaurants.
We’re talking about fresh-off-the-boat seafood, innovative farm-to-table creations, and cozy neighborhood spots where the shrimp and grits will change your life. If you leave this island hungry, you did your trip all wrong.
Get ready to loosen your belt a notch. We’re ditching the ordinary and diving fork-first into the real, delicious heart of Hilton Head dining. This is your exclusive guide to the absolute best restaurants to visit in Hilton Head Island.
From upscale waterfront gems perfect for a special sunset dinner to the laid-back, family-friendly shacks locals swear by, we’ve got your next incredible meal covered.
Whether you’re craving the perfect flounder or a plant-based masterpiece, consider this your treasure map to an unforgettable culinary vacation. Let’s eat!
1. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks
You haven’t really tasted Hilton Head until you’ve eaten at Hudson’s. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a living piece of island history and a true institution.
Since 1967, Hudson’s has been operating from a weathered, no-frills building right on the historic Skull Creek docks. The magic here is in the direct line from boat to table.
Their own fishing fleet brings in the daily catch, which means the seafood on your plate was swimming in local waters just hours before.
The atmosphere is pure, laid-back coastal charm. You can watch the boats come and go from the expansive deck. The menu is a celebration of simplicity and freshness. You must try their steamed local oysters or the legendary fried seafood platter.
The she-crab soup is a rich, savory delight. Dining at Hudson’s is more than a meal; it’s an authentic taste of the island’s working waterfront and a cornerstone of Hilton Head dining. It’s a must-visit Hilton Head restaurant for anyone who wants the real deal.
2. The Lucky Rooster Kitchen & Bar
Forget stuffy fine dining. The Lucky Rooster is where Hilton Head’s food scene gets fun, creative, and seriously delicious. Tucked away in the Village at Wexford, this spot has a vibe that’s both hip and welcoming.
The chefs here are masters of “New Southern” cuisine, taking classic Lowcountry comfort food and giving it a vibrant, global twist that will surprise and delight you.
The menu changes with the seasons, but you can always expect bold, shareable plates bursting with flavor. Think crispy Brussels sprouts with a sweet and tangy glaze, or their famous shrimp and grits with a creative, savory sauce.
It’s the perfect place for a group where you can order a bunch of dishes and pass them around. The energy is lively, the food is inventive, and every bite tells a story. For a top Hilton Head Island restaurant that’s as exciting as it is satisfying, The Lucky Rooster is a sure bet.
3. Skull Creek Dockside
If you’re dreaming of a massive, lively waterfront spot with sunset views that’ll knock your socks off, you’ve found it. Skull Creek Dockside is a sprawling paradise for seafood lovers and families.
With multiple decks overlooking the marsh and Skull Creek, the vibe is festive, energetic, and pure Hilton Head fun. It’s the kind of place you go when you want to make a whole evening out of dinner.
The menu is huge and focuses on local seafood with a Southern accent. Their she-crab soup is award-winning, and the wood-grilled fish is always a winner. They also have fantastic salads, burgers, and options for every taste.
The live music and stunning sunset views make it an experience you’ll remember. For a fun, flavorful, and quintessential waterfront meal, Skull Creek Dockside is a fantastic place to eat in Hilton Head.
4. Nectar Farm Kitchen
Calling all veggie lovers and health-conscious foodies! Nectar Farm Kitchen is your sunny oasis on the island. This bright, modern spot in Bluffton (just a short drive from the island) is 100% plant-based, but you don’t have to be vegan to fall in love with it.
The food here is so vibrant, flavorful, and creative that it turns the idea of “rabbit food” completely on its head. It’s a celebration of what comes from the earth.
Their menu is a rainbow of goodness. The “Not Your Mama’s Meatloaf” is a savory, satisfying wonder, and their jackfruit tacos are a total flavor explosion. Even the most dedicated meat-eater will leave feeling amazing.
With fresh juices, smoothies, and decadent desserts, Nectar is a breath of fresh, healthy air. For anyone looking for the best vegan food near Hilton Head, this spot is a non-negotiable stop.
5. The Sea Shack
Don’t let the name or the simple, shack-like exterior fool you. The Sea Shack is a Hilton Head legend for a very good reason. This is no-frills, counter-service seafood at its absolute finest.
The line often stretches out the door, but trust us, it moves fast and is worth every minute of the wait. The prices are incredibly reasonable, and the portions are famously huge.
You come here for perfectly fried, incredibly fresh seafood. The fried shrimp basket is iconic, the fish and chips are crispy and light, and their garlic crab legs are messy, fun, and delicious.
Grab your food, find a spot at a picnic table, and dig in. It’s an institution that proves you don’t need fancy tablecloths for an unforgettable meal. The Sea Shack is a beloved Hilton Head eatery that keeps people coming back year after year.
6. ELA’S on the Water
For a special occasion or a truly elegant night out, ELA’S delivers. Perched on the scenic banks of the Intracoastal Waterway in Bluffton, this restaurant offers a sophisticated, relaxed atmosphere with breathtaking views.
The interior is chic and coastal, but the spacious patio is where you want to be for sunset. The service is impeccable, making you feel like a VIP from the moment you arrive.
The menu focuses on expertly prepared seafood and steak, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and beautiful presentation. Dishes like their miso-glazed sea bass or their simply grilled local catch are executed with precision.
It’s the perfect spot for an anniversary, a birthday, or when you just want to treat yourself. ELA’S provides a fine dining experience near Hilton Head that is both refined and deeply satisfying.
7. Kenny B’s French Quarter Cafe
Craving a taste of the Big Easy right here in the Lowcountry? Kenny B’s brings the vibrant, soulful flavors of New Orleans to Hilton Head.
This cozy, bustling cafe in South Beach is always full of energy and the incredible smells of Cajun and Creole cooking. The atmosphere is fun and friendly, with colorful decor that transports you straight to the French Quarter.
You have to go for the classics. Their shrimp and grits are a rich, flavorful masterpiece, and their gumbo has the perfect depth of flavor. The beignets, dusted with powdered sugar, are a must for dessert.
The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and authentic. For a fun, festive meal with a New Orleans twist, Kenny B’s is a standout restaurant on Hilton Head Island.
8. The Black Marlin Bayside Grill
Tucked away in the Palmetto Bay Marina area, The Black Marlin is a favorite “local’s secret” that offers a fantastic all-around experience.
The setting is pure Lowcountry charm, with a relaxed, nautical vibe and lovely views of the marsh. It’s equally great for a casual lunch on the patio or a relaxed dinner under the stars.
The menu has something for everyone. Their seafood is always fresh and well-prepared, but they also have excellent burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The she-crab soup is a highlight, and their fish tacos are a popular choice.
It’s the kind of reliable, welcoming spot where you can show up in your flip-flops and know you’re going to have a great meal. The Black Marlin is a wonderful local Hilton Head restaurant with heart.
9. Fishcamp on Broad Creek
Located at the historic Marshland Road dock, Fishcamp offers a warm, rustic-chic atmosphere that feels like a cozy gathering place.
With its reclaimed wood, fireplace, and sweeping views of Broad Creek, it’s the perfect blend of upscale and comfortable. You can arrive by car or, even better, by boat.
The menu is a love letter to coastal cuisine, with a focus on wood-fired cooking and local seafood. Their wood-grilled oysters are a smoky, buttery delight, and their whole grilled fish is a showstopper.
They also have excellent burgers and creative small plates for sharing. With its friendly service and beautiful setting, Fishcamp is a top-rated Hilton Head spot for a memorable waterside meal.
10. Poseidon Rooftop Bar
For the best views on the entire island, you have to head up. Poseidon, perched atop the Sage Inn in Shelter Cove, offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic vista of the harbour, the Atlantic Ocean, and the island’s lush greenery.
The vibe is chic, relaxed, and perfect for watching the sunset paint the sky in brilliant colors.
While known for its views, the food here is excellent, focusing on coastal-inspired small plates and creative entrees perfect for sharing. The crispy calamari and tuna poke are fantastic starters.
It’s the ideal spot for a late lunch, an early dinner, or just drinks and appetizers while you take in the breathtaking scenery. For incredible views and food in Hilton Head, Poseidon is hard to beat.
11. Hudson’s on the Deck
From the same legendary family as the original Hudson’s Seafood House, Hudson’s on the Deck offers a more polished, modern waterfront experience right next door.
The focus here is still on impeccably fresh, local seafood, but the atmosphere is brighter and more contemporary, with a gorgeous, expansive deck that’s perfect for al fresco dining.
The menu features classics from the original Hudson’s alongside new, creative dishes. You can’t go wrong with their fresh catch of the day, prepared simply to let the quality shine.
The service is excellent, and the water views are uninterrupted. It’s a fantastic option when you want the Hudson’s quality and heritage in a more upscale setting, making it one of the best waterfront restaurants in Hilton Head.
12. The Bluffton Room (in Old Town Bluffton)
Just over the bridge, a short drive from the island, you’ll find one of the area’s most celebrated culinary destinations.
The Bluffton Room, located in charming Old Town Bluffton, is an intimate, chef-driven restaurant that focuses on hyper-local ingredients and stunning technique. The vibe is warm, sophisticated, and focused on the food.
The menu is seasonal and tells a story of the Lowcountry. Dishes are beautifully composed and full of layered, thoughtful flavors. Whether it’s a perfectly seared scallop or a decadent pasta, every plate is a work of art.
For a truly special, destination-worthy meal that represents the pinnacle of Lowcountry fine dining, The Bluffton Room is an unforgettable Hilton Head area restaurant.
13. Big Bamboo Cafe
A Hilton Head institution since 1979, the Big Bamboo Cafe is the island’s ultimate fun, family-friendly, and reliably great spot. With a massive, tiki-themed dining room and a huge menu, it’s built for good times.
The walls are covered in signed dollar bills from decades of happy visitors, adding to its quirky charm.
The menu is a crowd-pleasing mix of everything: fantastic wings, fresh seafood, huge salads, juicy burgers, and amazing nachos. Their signature “Cafe Shrimp” is a must-try.
It’s loud, lively, and absolutely perfect for a relaxed dinner with the whole family after a day at the beach. For a classic, fun Hilton Head restaurant that everyone will love, the Big Bamboo delivers every time.
14. Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte
A hidden gem tucked away in a small shopping plaza, Charlie’s has been a local favorite for over 30 years. This intimate, chef-owned bistro offers a daily-changing menu based on what’s freshest at the market.
The atmosphere is cozy and romantic, with a small dining room that feels like a secret you’ve been let in on.
The food is French-inspired with a strong Lowcountry accent. You might find bouillabaisse one night and a perfect beef dish the next. The personal touch from the chef and staff makes the experience feel special.
For a quiet, romantic, and incredibly fresh meal, Charlie’s is a unique Hilton Head dining experience that feels a world away from the tourist bustle.
15. Scott’s Fish Market Restaurant & Bar
Situated in the Coligny Plaza area, Scott’s Fish Market offers a bright, airy, and modern take on the classic seafood restaurant. The vibe is upscale-casual, with a beautiful interior and a great bar area.
They have a strong commitment to serving sustainable, traceable seafood, which they proudly display on their menu.
You can choose your fresh fish from their market case and have it prepared your way—grilled, blackened, or fried. Their raw bar is excellent, and they also have fantastic steaks and pasta dishes.
It’s a great option for groups where some want seafood and others might want something different. Scott’s is a top choice for fresh seafood in Hilton Head with a conscience.
16. The Smokehouse at Shelter Cove
Sometimes you just need some serious, slow-smoked Southern barbecue. The Smokehouse, located near Shelter Cove Harbour, is where you get it.
This casual, order-at-the-counter joint serves up tender, flavorful pulled pork, fall-off-the-bone ribs, smoked chicken, and all the classic sides. The smell alone will make your mouth water.
The platters are huge and perfect for sharing. The mac and cheese, collard greens, and baked beans are the real deal. It’s messy, it’s delicious, and it hits the spot.
For a change of pace from seafood and a taste of authentic Lowcountry barbecue, The Smokehouse is a must-try Hilton Head spot for meat lovers.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—your ultimate passport to the incredible, diverse, and downright delicious world of Hilton Head Island dining.
You’ve got your historic dockside shacks and your elegant waterfront venues, your innovative farm-to-table kitchens and your legendary family-friendly institutions.
This island feeds your soul with its beautiful views and fills your belly with some of the South’s most memorable flavors.
Now, the fun part is all yours. Will you go for the iconic fried shrimp at a legendary shack or a chef’s tasting menu overlooking the marsh? A plant-based feast or a pile of smoky barbecue? My advice? Try a little bit of everything.
Let the fresh sea breeze guide your appetite from one amazing meal to the next.
Don’t just dream about these amazing restaurants to visit in Hilton Head Island—start planning your culinary getaway today.
Make those reservations, pack your stretchy pants, and get ready to create memories that are as much about the food as they are about the beach. Your perfect Lowcountry meal is waiting. What’s the first stop on your list?