Hilton Head Island, South Carolina is not only known for its pristine beaches and numerous golf courses but also for its vibrant dining scene that caters to every palate.
On your next visit, make sure to indulge your taste buds at these 10 best restaurants in Hilton Head that guarantee an unforgettable culinary journey.
Table of Contents
1. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks
Type of Cuisine: Seafood
Not-to-miss Dish: Crab Cakes
History, quality, and sustainability come together at Hudson’s.
Located on the Port Royal Sound, Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks has been serving fresh, locally sourced seafood since 1967.
Hudson’s takes pride in their commitment to sustainability, using fish from their in-house seafood market and oysters grown in their beds.
Savor a scrumptious dining experience with dishes such as signature crab cakes, shrimp, and grits, and the tempting Low-Country boil.
Don’t forget to finish your meal with a slice of their homemade key lime pie.
Reservation is highly recommended.
Dress comfortably, and enjoy the panoramic waterfront view.
Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM (Daily)
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Casual
Payment Methods:Â All Major Credit Cards
2. Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana
Type of Cuisine: Italian
Not-to-miss Dish: Veal Osso Buco
Authentic Italian cuisine with an upscale, exceptional experience.
Recognized as one of the island’s finest Italian restaurants, Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana promises an exquisite fine dining experience inspired by the culinary heritage of Italy.
Executive Chef and owner Michael Cirafesi is dedicated to using the finest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create captivating dishes like the Veal Osso Buco, homemade gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce, and tiramisu.
Hours: 5 PM – 9:30 PM (Tuesday to Saturday)
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Upscale Casual
Payment Methods:Â All Major Credit Cards
3. Red Fish
Type of Cuisine: Seafood and Steak
Not-to-miss Dish: Pecan-Crusted Fish
Where fresh seafood meets fine wine.
A blend of seafood, steak, and an impressive wine collection make Red Fish a can’t-miss dining destination.
The restaurant’s dedication to incorporating seasonal produce, fresh seafood, and premium steaks makes its menu a gastronomic delight.
The pecan-crusted fish with jalapeño-cheddar grits is a must-try, based on the chef’s daily catch recommendation.
Hours: 5 PM – 10 PM (Daily)
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Upscale Casual
Payment Methods:Â All Major Credit Cards
4. A Lowcountry Backyard
Type of Cuisine: Southern Lowcountry
Not-to-miss Dish: Shrimp and Grits
An unforgettable taste of Hilton Head Island.
Soak in the Southern hospitality and enjoy traditional Lowcountry favorites at A Lowcountry Backyard.
Located at the iconic Harbour Town Marina, this family-style restaurant brings together local flavors and friendly service.
The menu includes dishes like coconut shrimp, classic shrimp and grits, boiled peanuts, and more.
Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM (Daily)
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Casual
Payment Methods:Â All Major Credit Cards
5. The Sea Shack
Type of Cuisine: Seafood and Barbecue
Not-to-miss Dish: Fried Oysters
A local favorite for mouthwatering seafood and barbecue.
The Sea Shack is a classic spot for fresh seafood and delicious barbecue.
From the traditional fish fry to the house-smoked pulled pork, you are sure to find something to please your palate.
The fried oysters tossed with local greens and sweet chili sauce are particularly tasty, as is the smoked salmon dip.
Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM (Monday); 11 AM – 9 PM (Tuesday to Saturday); Closed Sunday
Reservations: Not Required
Dress Code: Casual
Payment Methods:Â Cash Only
6. Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar
Type of Cuisine: American and Global Tapas
Not-to-miss Dish: Shrimp Toast Tacos
A modern take on American favorites.
A perfect blend of American favorites and global tapas, Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar is a must-visit for foodies who crave something different.
The menu features dishes like sea scallop ceviche, seared halloumi cheese, shrimp toast tacos, and more.
Wash down your meal with one of their classic cocktails or choose from the extensive wine list.
Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM (Daily)
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Upscale Casual
Payment Methods:Â All Major Credit Cards
7. The Reel Bar & Grill
Type of Cuisine: Seafood and American
Not-to-miss Dish: Fried Shrimp Platter
A local favorite for fresh seafood.
The Reel Bar & Grill invites guests to enjoy a casual dining experience complete with fresh seafood, generous portions, and warm hospitality.
With classics like fried shrimp platters, crab cakes, and fish tacos, you are sure to find something that will please your palate.
Sample one of their signature cocktails and explore the wide selection of craft beers on tap or by bottle.
Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM (Monday); 11 AM – 10 PM (Tuesday to Saturday); Closed Sunday
Reservations: Not Required
Dress Code: Casual
Payment Methods:Â All Major Credit Cards
8. The Salty Dog Cafe
Type of Cuisine: Seafood and American
Not-to-miss Dish: Fried Calamari
A classic seafood spot on the boardwalk.
The Salty Dog Cafe offers some of the freshest seafood around, served in a casual atmosphere right on the boardwalk.
Enjoy favorites like handcrafted burgers, fish tacos, fruity cocktails, and more for lunch or dinner.
Don’t forget to try their fried calamari appetizer—it’s one of their signature dishes!
Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM (Daily)
Reservations: Not Required
Dress Code: Casual
Payment Methods:Â All Major Credit Cards
9. Gullah Grub
Type of Cuisine: Local Gullah Cuisine
Not-to-miss Dish: Fried Shrimp Po’Boy
Experience Gullah cuisine at its best.
Gullah Grub is an authentic eatery that showcases the local Gullah culture and cuisine.
They offer a variety of dishes, from fried shrimp po’ boys to crab stew and seafood gumbo.
All ingredients are locally sourced, making for a truly unique dining experience. For dessert, try their sweet potato pie!
Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM (Monday); 11 AM – 9 PM (Tuesday to Saturday); Closed Sunday
Reservations: Not Required
Dress Code: Casual
Payment Methods:Â Cash Only
10. The Fish House
Type of Cuisine: Seafood and Sushi
Not-to-miss Dish: Spicy Tuna Roll
Fresh seafood with a twist.
The Fish House offers fresh seafood with a unique twist.
From creative sushi rolls to traditional fried fish platters, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Try the signature spicy tuna roll or the tempura salmon roll for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM (Daily)
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Casual
Payment Methods:Â All Major Credit Cards
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are any of the top 10 best restaurants in Hilton Head family-friendly?
Yes, many of the top 10 best restaurants in Hilton Head are family-friendly. Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar, The Reel Bar & Grill, The Salty Dog Cafe, Gullah Grub, and The Fish House all offer casual dining experiences that are suitable for families.
Is The Reel Bar & Grill open on Sundays?
No, The Reel Bar & Grill is closed on Sundays.
Are there vegan options at The Fish House?
The Fish House does not offer any vegan options on its menu. However, they do have a wide selection of fresh seafood which is a great option for those looking for plant-based proteins. They also offer vegetarian options like avocado rolls and vegetable tempura.
Can I use my credit card to pay for dinner at The Salty Dog Cafe?
Yes, The Salty Dog Cafe accepts all major credit cards for payment.
Where can I get a spicy tuna roll near Hilton Head (2023)?
The Fish House is a great option for a spicy tuna roll near Hilton Head. The Fish House offers fresh seafood with a unique twist, featuring creative sushi rolls and traditional fried fish platters.
What time does Gullah Grub serve lunch and dinner?
Gullah Grub serves lunch and dinner from 11 AM to 8 PM on Monday, and 11 AM to 9 PM from Tuesday to Saturday. They are closed on Sunday.
Is there an extensive wine list offered by Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar?
Yes, Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar has an extensive wine list with a wide variety of wines from around the world. They also offer classic cocktails and beer.