40 Best Restaurants in Hilton Head, SC — Top-Rated Places to Eat!

Hilton Head in South Carolina is every foodie’s paradise.

The island has a lot to offer, from delicious seafood plates to local cuisine.

Enjoy your food while watching live performances or soaking in breathtaking ocean views.

I guarantee the experiences are worth it—that’s what I felt during my visit to the island.

I immersed myself in the culinary culture, seeing firsthand how some chefs prepared the plates.

And I did all this to create this curated list of the best restaurants in Hilton Head so you can plan your culinary adventure.

In this article, I’ll also make comparisons of the restaurants, add tips and details, and evaluate each eatery based on different criteria.

So, check out my in-depth reviews below.

Best Restaurants in Hilton Head Compared

With the island’s many casual eateries and fine-dining establishments, you have many options for that perfect gastronomic experience. Here are our top picks:

Here are the top 40 Hilton Head restaurants open right now.

1. Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana (Editor’s Choice)

37 New Orleans Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-6272
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This dining spot with a rustic vibe is one of the best places to eat in Hilton Head for its authentic Italian dishes served in artful presentations.

Ratings Criteria

• Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
• Service: 5/5
• Atmosphere: 4.5/5 
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4.5/5

Pros

• Authentic Italian plates with an award-winning wine list
• Relaxing, rustic ambiance

Cons

• Slightly expensive rates

Why It Made The List

This is your slice of Italy in Hilton Head, trust me.

Savor only authentic Italian flavors from each dish prepared following original recipes.

The restaurant will make you feel like you’re in Italy, too, with its gorgeous paintings that pay homage to the culture.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Spaghetti Con Vongole is what makes this restaurant one of the best dinner places in Hilton Head.

The incredible saffron sauce gives that soft pasta those creamy flavors you won’t get enough of.

With the fresh clams into the mix, the dish is absolutely perfect.

2. Chez Georges Bistro and Bar

37 New Orleans Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-3200
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This outpost with a beautiful interior is one of the great Hilton Head eats that serve amazing bistro staples made with locally sourced ingredients, plus wine imported from France.

Ratings Criteria

• Taste & Variety: 4/5
• Service: 4.5/5
• Atmosphere: 4.5/5 
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4.5/5

Pros

• Delectable French bistro food made with locally sourced ingredients
• Beautiful rustic-modern ambiance

Cons

• Long wait times

Why It Made The List

Step inside this place and you’ll feel like you’re in a Victorian home but with a modern twist.

The flowery wall design and beautiful carpeting give the sprawling space that 1830s vibe you’ll love.

The green posts and chic chairs add that touch of the cosmopolitan for the win.

Popular Dishes to Try

Have your best lunch in Hilton Head with the Boeuf Bourguignon.

The juicy short rib smothered in delicious red wine sauce is as exquisite as it sounds.

The roasted new potato is the perfect side dish, with its complementary fresh taste.

3. The Jazz Corner

1000 William Hilton Pkwy
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 842-8620
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In operation for around 23 years, this eatery is a fixture in Hilton Head, serving amazing Southern flavors in a bustling space.

Ratings Criteria

• Taste & Variety: 4/5
• Service: 4/5
• Atmosphere: 4.5/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5

Pros

• Delicious contemporary Southern food with an extensive wine and bourbon selection
• Elegant ambiance

Cons

• Limited seating

Why It Made The List

You’ll delight your senses in this restaurant, for sure.

Savor exquisite flavors from the food plated so beautifully in front of you.

While you’re at it, listen to amazing jazz music performed by talented artists for that dining experience that’s one for the books.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Pomegranate Duck will titillate your taste buds, really.

The exquisite meat on that pomegranate and amarena cherry glaze is so flavorful you’ll ask for a repeat, I’m sure.

With that sprinkle of goat cheese crumbles, the dish is hands down the best food in Hilton Head.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

4. Delisheeyo

32 Palmetto Bay Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-3633
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This dining establishment, housed in a wooden structure, is one of the best-rated restaurants in Hilton Head, serving scrumptious vegetarian dishes in relaxing environs.

Why It Made The List

Delisheeyo is an excellent alternative to Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana and Chez Georges Bistro and Bar with its all-vegetarian plates and affordable rates.

Get up close and personal with nature in this place.

Enjoy an amazing meal indoors, with all those beautiful plants in pots and vines surrounding you.

Outside you get the real deal, with all that lush greenery keeping you company while you eat.

Popular Dishes to Try

The So-Cal Wrap is an absolute delight.

The dish is an amazing fusion of veggie flavors, with those alfalfa sprouts, mixed greens, beets, and carrots mixing wonderfully in that delicious wrap.

Topped with that apple cider vinaigrette, your epicurean experience is complete.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Inn and Club at Harbour Town

5. Nunzio Restaurant + Bar

18 New Orleans Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 715-2172
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Located in the heart of the island, this cheery outpost is one of the top Hilton Head restaurants that serve delicious Italian dishes, plus California and Oregon wine.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant is beautiful, to say the least.

The gorgeous blue carpeting and wall accents will catch your eye when you enter this place.

The beautiful wooden chairs and ceiling give the colorful space that rustic vibe, making it truly a visual treat.

Popular Dishes to Try

Get your taste buds going with the Petto di Pollo Marsala.

Sink your teeth into that incredible chicken breast to feel that juicy goodness all around.

On that exquisite demi-glace as base, the meat is definitely a culinary masterpiece.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head

Related: Best Hilton Head Pizza

Also See:
Restaurants: Charleston, SC
Restaurants: Beaufort, SC

6. Jane Bistro and Bar

28 Shelter Cove Ln
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 686-5696
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This restaurant with outdoor seating is exactly where to eat in Hilton Head for a taste of amazing American favorites such as sandwiches and steaks, plus wine and cocktails.

Why It Made The List

Experience modern fine dining in Hilton Head in this place.

Feast on delicious flavors in this beautiful space with a chic vibe, made obvious by those trendy lamps hovering over you and those gorgeous sleek chairs.

You’ll want to take pictures of those dishes, too, with their amazing plating.

Popular Dishes to Try

Your taste buds will absolutely love the Greek Chicken Wrap.

The lemon dill sauce gives the exquisite chicken on that pita bread that tangy taste that makes it stand out.

The grilled onion, tomato and cucumber add those fresh flavors, creating that culinary work of art.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

7. Java Burrito Company

1000 William Hilton Pkwy
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 842-5282
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This mainstay in Hilton Head known for its huge food portions is one of the restaurants near you that deserve a visit for its incredible Mexican fare paired with specialty coffee and lattes.

Why It Made The List

It’s easy to see why this is one of the casual spots to eat in Hilton Head.

Have a cup of hot coffee outside, in the open air, while you catch up with friends.

Or you can just stay in the main dining hall and watch your favorite program while feasting on that exquisite burrito.

Popular Dishes to Try

Whether for breakfast or brunch, the Classic Sandwich is just perfect.

The dish is an amazing combination of creamy and meaty flavors, with exquisite eggs and bacon on that locally baked maple brioche.

Smothered in that freshly grated cheese, the sandwich is divine.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beach House Resort Hilton Head Island

8. Vine

1 N Forest Beach Dr
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 686-3900
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This eatery with a standout facade is one of the best restaurants Hilton Head has to offer, with its delicious global dishes served in rustic-modern environs.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant beautifully combines traditional and cosmopolitan elements in a single space.

Picture that gorgeous wooden bar and chandelier on the one hand, and colorful guitar decor and a TV on the other.

It’s a visual experience you definitely won’t forget.

Popular Dishes to Try

Satiate your seafood cravings with the Salmon Linguine.

The smoked fish on that delicious bed of pasta tastes incredible as it is.

Add the lemon dill cream sauce for those even richer flavors and your gastronomic experience is something that will stay with you for long.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Resort – Hilton Head Island

9. Flora’s Italian Cafe

841 William Hilton Pkwy
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 842-8200
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This family-owned dining spot is one of the good restaurants in Hilton Head that serve amazing Italian fares such as risotto and lasagna and other European classics.

Why It Made The List

Don’t look any further for the best birthday restaurants in Hilton Head.

This one will definitely fit the bill, with its roomy space that can accommodate all your guests.

The restaurant serves huge food portions, too, so you can rest assured all your guests will get their fill of exquisite flavors.

Popular Dishes to Try

Stimulate your taste buds in every way with the Capellini Dora.

The angel hair pasta tossed with crab meat and shrimp is oozing with rich flavors that are just perfect for the palate.

With the garlic and white wine into the mix, your meal is officially amazing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Hilton Head

Also See:
Restaurants: Myrtle Beach, SC
Places to Eat: Columbia, SC

10. Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte

8 New Orleans Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-9277
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This dining establishment with a name that literally translates to “Charlie’s Green Star” is one of the most popular restaurants to try for its incredible French fare, plus wine.

Why It Made The List

Make sure you bring your camera when you visit this place.

Everything in this restaurant is definitely worthy of those camera shots, from the lush greenery out front to the beautiful curtains and carpeting inside.

Even those dishes are Instagram-worthy, with their gorgeous plating that stands out.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Lamb Shank will invigorate your palate, really.

The meat is so soft and juicy that it feels like it melts in the mouth with every bite.

You’ll taste those tangy flavors from the red wine sauce that seeps into the meat for the win.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Hilton Head Island

11. Alfred’s Restaurant

807 William Pkwy
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 341-3117
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This dining establishment with a courtyard patio is one of the best restaurants downtown that serves exquisite German fare and other European dishes.

Why It Made The List

You can have two dining experiences in one go in this place.

For that ritzy feel, eat inside the main dining hall, with those gorgeous paintings and white columns surrounding you.

For a casual and relaxing vibe, the patio is the place for you, with the beautiful plants surrounding you while you eat.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Sauerbraten will satisfy the cravings of any carnivore foodie.

The slow-cooked boneless short rib marinated to perfection will make your palate rejoice with every bite.

The spätzle, or noodles with eggs, on the side, is just as delicious, with its creamy flavors.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Hilton Head

12. Links, an American Grill

11 Lighthouse Ln
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 363-8380
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This dining place with an upscale vibe is one of the local restaurants that deserve a visit for its elevated American dishes served in a space with amazing views.

Why It Made The List

You’ll have the dining experience of a lifetime in this restaurant, really.

Delight in exquisite flavors in modern Victorian-like surroundings, with those gorgeous wooden floors, paintings, and a centerpiece fireplace.

The curtains with chic wavy designs and the TV give the space that hint of the cosmopolitan that makes the place such a feast for the eyes.

Popular Dishes to Try

Don’t miss out on the Chicken Fricassee.

The incredible meat sitting on that pan just as base is so juicy that your palate will ask for more.

With the roasted mushrooms and braised greens, expect a meal that’s absolutely phenomenal.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Coral Sands Resort by Palmera

13. Pomodori

1 New Orleans Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 686-3100
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This chef-owned restaurant that first opened its doors in 2013 is the go-to place for made-from-scratch Italian dishes such as linguine and ravioli, plus wine.

Why It Made The List

Get transported to Italy when you eat in this cozy spot.

The dishes prepared by talented culinary staff follow original recipes from the European country so you’ll definitely taste those authentic flavors.

The place itself will make you experience Italy, too, with that huge map that stands out when you enter.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Linguine E Polpette is just incredible.

The soft pasta smothered in delicate tomato sauce and topped with meatballs is so delightful your taste buds will swoon with every bite.

The parmigiano reggiano and basil add those creamy and fresh flavors that make the dish a culinary standout.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palmera Inn and Suites

14. Stu’s Surfside Subs

1 N Forest Beach Dr
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 686-7873
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This outpost with a beachy vibe is the place to be for a taste of delicious subs, soups and sides, plus ice cream for dessert.

Why It Made The List

This is one of the coolest places in the area, trust me.

Experience that beachy vibe as you enter the place, with those surfboards literally hanging on the flawless green walls and from the ceiling.

The beachy vibe extends to the restaurant’s outdoor seating, with those tall palm trees giving you shade while you eat.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Zohan Cubano Sub is a house specialty so make sure you try it.

The roasted mojo pork on that exquisite bread is brimming with so much taste that will stick with you for long.

With that Swiss cheese lather, the sub is definitely one for the books.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Hilton Head

15. Ocean Lounge

32 Greenwood Dr
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 842-1888
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Located on the second floor of the Sea Pines Beach Club, this eatery continues to make its mark in Hilton Head’s culinary landscape with its scrumptious global dishes, plus cocktails.

Why It Made The List

You won’t get enough of this place, for sure.

Sit outdoors and soak in the sights and sounds of beautiful Hilton Head while you enjoy your amazing food.

You’ll definitely feel that relaxing vibe, with those majestic waters of the Atlantic Ocean literally just in front of you.

Popular Dishes to Try

Have a go at the delicious Pan-Roasted Atlantic Salmon.

The exquisite fish in that sherry butter sauce has those creamy flavors that will energize your palate, trust me.

The salad made from Brussel sprouts, butternut squash and hazelnuts is just as incredible on the side, with its fresh taste.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Inn and Club at Harbour Town

16. Poseidon Coastal Cuisine

38 Shelter Cove Ln
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 341-3838
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This eatery, housed in a two-story structure, is a crowd favorite for its seafood and steak dishes, plus wine and cocktails, served in a bustling space.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant is absolutely gorgeous, with its screaming blue chairs and flags that add that tinge of color to the rustic space.

Those gorgeous native lamps enhance the restaurant’s beauty, with its incredible dim blue lighting you can’t miss.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Big Eye Tuna Bowl is a winner.

Set your taste buds on fire with that exquisite fish on top of sticky rice smothered in spicy mayo.

Eat it with the wasabi and you’ll get the ultimate fiery experience with this one.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Simple Rewards Inn

17. Nectar Farm Kitchen

35-A Office Park Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 682-2337
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This dining establishment with a unique modern farmhouse atmosphere is famous for its amazing Southern dishes plated with creative flair.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant’s farmhouse vibe will catch your eye once you enter the place.

The gorgeous wooden floors, walls and tables, and hanging plants all contribute to that feeling you’ll definitely appreciate.

The chic blue chairs and TVs add that modern twist to the rustic feel, creating a space that tantalizes the visual sense every time.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Coastal Hospitality Burger is a culinary treat.

The grass-fed beef on that seed bun is brimming with so much juicy goodness that will make your taste buds happy.

The bacon pepper jam and the pimento cheese elevate the meat to a whole new level, trust me.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

18. Catch 22

37 New Orleans Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-6261
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In operation since 2001, this dining spot is a fixture in Hilton Head serving incredible seafood and steak dishes in an artsy space.

Why It Made The List

Your visual sense will absolutely adore this fixture in Hilton Head.

The beautiful paintings hanging on those flawless walls and the gorgeous dark wood chairs and floors make for a gorgeous scene that stands out.

Expect an unforgettable visual experience here, seriously.

Popular Dishes to Try

Delight your taste buds with the Carolina Trout.

The exquisite fish over that salad of artichokes and red onions is tender and soft to the palate.

Finished with the roasted red pepper aioli, the plate is truly a gastronomic gem.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Resort – Hilton Head Island

19. Ombra Cucina Italiana

1000 William Hilton Pkwy
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 842-5505
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Located in the heart of Hilton Head, this eatery continues to gain recognition for its elevated Italian cuisine plus wine and cocktails served in a laid-back setting.

Why It Made The List

The flawless orange walls and booths stand out in this artsy space that will stimulate your visual sense.

The gorgeous paintings of food and the huge map of the world in the middle of the dining hall will complete that visual experience of a lifetime, trust me.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Linguine alla Mediterranea is amazing.

The soft pasta sauteed with white wine, garlic, and tomato sauce tastes as amazing as it sounds.

Add the shellfish into the mix for that dine-in you’ll always remember.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Hilton Head Island

Related: Things to Do in Hilton Head, SC

20. Sage Room Restaurant Bar

75 Pope Ave
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-5352
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This upscale restaurant with a chef’s table is just the place to eat elevated Italian cuisine served in masterful presentations, plus wine.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant is an absolute visual delight.

Rustic elements such as dark wood chairs, panels, and doors combine to create a space that pays homage to tradition.

The dim lighting from the restaurant’s lamps makes the place’s rustic beauty stand out for that viewing experience you won’t forget.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Ribeye is a must-try.

The delicious meat is so soft and smooth in the mouth with every bite.

Served with the bleu cheese sage au gratin and the haricot vert, your meal will definitely make you happy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head

21. The Studio

20 Executive Park Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-6000
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The restaurant, housed in a glass building, is a culinary mainstay in Hilton Head, serving exquisite global fare in an art gallery setting.

Why It Made The List

You’ll make both your taste buds and eyesight happy in this place.

Apart from that amazing gastronomic experience, you’ll get with a taste of those exquisite flavors, you’ll get mesmerized by the gorgeous paintings of local artists filling every wall space.

The restaurant is gastronomic and visual nirvana in one!

Popular Dishes to Try

The Grass-Fed Filet Mignon is just perfect for the palate.

The delicious beef gets its rich flavor from that cabernet reduction sauce as base.

With the goat cheese on top, the dish will invigorate your taste buds in every way.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beach House Resort Hilton Head Island

22. Annie O’s Kitchen

11 Target Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 341-2664
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This dining spot with a homey vibe is a must-visit for its delicious Southern plates such as fried chicken and biscuits.

Why It Made The List

You’ll feel at home in this place, seriously.

Savor delicious home-cooked flavors from plates that will remind you of the ones your grandparents prepare for you.

Even the restaurant exudes that homey feel, with its cozy chairs and friendly staff who go out of their way to give you that amazing dine-in.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Southern Grilled Cheese Sandwich will take your breath away.

The exquisite bacon on that soft bread has all that crispy goodness that makes the palate want more.

Smothered in that jalapeño pimento cheese and with that tomato, the dish is definitely a gastronomic treat.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palmera Inn and Suites

23. WiseGuys

1513 Main St
Hilton Head, SC 29926
(843) 842-8866
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This restaurant that houses an expansive bar is the place to be for a taste of delicious steaks and sides served in a chic setup.

Why It Made The List

Experience dining in a beautiful cosmopolitan space, with edgy chairs, booths and sleek chandeliers all around you.

Check out the long hallway awash in beautiful red lighting as you head to the main dining hall for that added cosmopolitan feel you’ll appreciate.

Popular Dishes to Try

Try that Steakhouse Meatloaf, trust me.

The house-ground ribeye and New York strip in tomato sage mushroom gravy will make your food buff self rejoice.

The gold-whipped potatoes and haricots verts are the perfect side dishes with their fresh taste that complements the meat’s flavor.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Island Links Resort by Palmera

Related: Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids

24. Palmetto Bay SunRise Cafe

86 Helmsman Way
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 686-3232
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This neighborhood cafe with outdoor seating first opened its doors in 2002 and has since continued to wow diners with its amazing early-morning dishes and other menu options.

Why It Made The List

Start your day right in this cozy retreat in Hilton Head.

Enjoy your meal in saloon-like surroundings, with those gorgeous wooden walls, tables and chairs filling that sprawling space.

If you prefer the outdoors, eat your delicious food on the porch, with an incredible view of lush greenery.

Popular Dishes to Try

Take a bite of the Shrimp Hash and you’ll absolutely swoon with delight.

The sauteed shrimp peppers, onions, and broccoli with hash browns will satisfy your cravings for fresh and veggie flavors for sure.

Topped with two eggs and in that creamy hollandaise sauce, the dish is a delicacy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Coral Sands Resort by Palmera

25. Relish

33 Office Park Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 715-0995
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This dining spot near the Park Plaza Cinema is a frontrunner in Hilton Head culinary scene with its amazing Asian dishes and other classics served in a rustic setup.

Why It Made The List

This is the perfect place to just eat and hang out at the same time.

Sit beside those oversized windows for an amazing view of the neighborhood while you eat.

Or just sit in those cozy booths and read a book while you feast on those amazing flavors.

Popular Dishes to Try

Try the Pork Pao, a dish you’ll typically find on the streets of Taiwan.

The roast pork stuffed inside those steam buns makes your mouth water with its rich flavors.

Add the bean sprouts and cilantro into the mix and the food is just really incredible.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Head Island Beach and Tennis Resort

26. Gusto Ristorante

430 William Hilton Pkwy
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 802-2424
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This family-owned food joint with al fresco dining features scrumptious Italian dishes with a focus on pasta such as lasagna and rigatoni.

Why It Made The List

There’s a cheery vibe to the restaurant you’ll definitely feel once you enter.

The screaming yellow walls and chairs will make you want to smile while you feast on your plates.

The staff here are very friendly, too, and embody the restaurant’s unique vibe with their joyful disposition.

Popular Dishes to Try

Have a taste of that Spaghetti Alla Amatriciana.

The pasta with those chunks of exquisite bacon is absolutely delightful, with its creamy and meaty taste.

Smothered in that light spicy tomato sauce, the dish is truly one-of-a-kind.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Hilton Head

27. The Smokehouse

34 Palmetto Bay Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 842-4227
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This sports bar with a bustling vibe is a favorite hangout for its delicious pub grub such as burgers and chicken wings, plus handcrafted cocktails.

Why It Made The List

This is definitely the place to be if you love to feel that vibrant atmosphere when you eat.

Watch your favorite team slug it out with another in an exciting sports match showing on the restaurant’s TVs while you enjoy your food.

With those other diners cheering as loudly as you, your vicarious experience is definitely one for the books.

Popular Dishes to Try

You’ll love that Porterhouse Pork Chop.

The meat, char-grilled and glazed in the restaurant’s teriyaki sauce, is oozing with that juiciness that will stimulate your taste buds in every way.

Add those fresh flavors from the Caesar salad on the side and your meal is officially epic.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Coral Reef Resort

Related: Hotels in Hilton Head, SC

28. Old Oyster Factory

101 Marshland Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29926
(843) 681-6040
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This dining establishment is Hilton Head’s prime destination for exquisite seafood dishes and amazing desserts, served in a space with amazing views.

Why It Made The List

If you’re a nature lover, this is just the place to be.

Enjoy your meal outside so you can take in that amazing view of the marshland landscape.

If you’re an indoor type of person, you can still enjoy the view from the main dining hall, with those oversized windows overlooking the beautiful scenery.

Popular Dishes to Try

Have a go at the Oyster Banh Mi, seriously.

The freshly-caught oysters on that baguette will leave an incredible taste in your mouth with every bite.

The chili lime sauce adds those tangy and spicy flavors that make the sandwich such a culinary delight.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites Hilton Head Island

29. Truffles Cafe

71 Lighthouse Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 671-6136
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This is just one of the two Truffles Cafe locations in South Carolina, serving exquisite farm-to-table dishes, plus beer, wine and cocktails.

Why It Made The List

Savor only fresh flavors from this restaurant, with its dishes prepared every single day for your palate’s enjoyment.

The culinary staff also sources each ingredient locally, ensuring that each plate has all that freshness that will delight your taste buds.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Mango Chicken Sandwich is definitely something you want to try.

The chicken breast smothered in that delicious mango barbecue sauce is brimming with such an amazing taste you won’t get enough of it.

The jack cheese and mayonnaise add those creamy flavors that will complete your amazing dining experience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Royal Dunes

30. Lowcountry Backyard

32 Palmetto Bay Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-9273
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This eatery downtown is a definite must-try for its incredible Lowcountry dishes served in a beautiful space with live music.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant is a beautiful homage to food, with that spoon and fork decor hanging on the flawless white walls, and the pots and pans stacked on shelves.

You’ll find the same tribute outside, with the beautiful paintings of raw ingredients and real herbs surrounding you.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Lowcountry Shrimpburger is perfect for the palate.

The exquisite shrimp on that kaiser roll is brimming with that incredible fresh taste that will make your palate scream with delight.

In that green tomato tartar sauce, the burger is an amazing treat.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

31. Santa Fe Cafe

807 William Hilton Pkwy
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-3838
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This cantina on a rooftop is the place to go for a taste of amazing Mexican plates served in a cultural space.

Why It Made The List

Experience Mexico when you’re dining in this place.

You won’t just taste those authentic Mexican flavors oozing from each dish served here.

You’ll get transported to the country in this place, too, with its traditional Mexican house vibe made prominent by those red-tile roofs and arched ceilings.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Ribeye Burrito is a favorite so you should definitely have a go at that.

You’ll love the taste of that exquisite meat smothered in jack cheese in that flour tortilla.

Finished with the ancho chile sauce and sour cream, you’ll have a gastronomic experience of a lifetime.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

Related: Hilton Head Resorts for Families

32. Bullies BBQ

3 Regency Pkwy
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 686-7427
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This dining spot with a standout blue roof is the place to be for those craving slow-cooked barbecue dishes and sides, served in a relaxing setup.

Why It Made The List

This is just the place to satisfy those meat cravings.

Just take your pick from the wide selection of barbecue dishes in this place, from the pulled pork, and beef brisket to the full slabs of meat.

You’ll get generous food portions, too, so your tummy will definitely get its fill of amazing meat flavors.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Jumbo Pulled Pork Sandwich is a mouthwatering dish, seriously.

The delicious pulled pork hickory-smoked to perfection on that soft bread is so tasty your palate will get going with every bite.

Add the barbecue sauce on top for that amazing gastronomic experience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hilton Head Island, an IHG Hotel

33. One Hot Mama’s American Grill

1 Greenwood Dr
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 682-6262
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This family-owned dining spot is just one of the two One Hot Mama’s American Grill locations in South Carolina famous for its delicious baby back ribs and chicken wings, plus sides.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant is the epitome of fun.

Just savor those amazing flavors while you watch an exciting sports match on any of the restaurant’s TVs.

You’ll feel like you’re watching the match live, with all those diners cheering loudly for their teams.

Popular Dishes to Try

Get your fill of those amazing Baby Back Ribs.

The amazing meat brushed with perfect barbecue sauce will tantalize your palate, with its incredibly rich taste.

Get the French fries on the side for that epic meal that will absolutely stand out.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Hilton Head Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection

34. Skull Creek Boathouse

397 Squire Pope Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29926
(843) 681-3663
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This waterfront restaurant is the perfect gastronomic destination for a taste of amazing seafood dishes, plus beer, served in a laid-back setting.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant is a favorite hangout for so many reasons.

You can enjoy your food in beautiful rustic surroundings with live music playing in the background.

Eat outdoors for that relaxing vibe, with an incredible view of Skull Creek right in front of you.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Boathouse Scored Flounder is just the dish for the food buff craving seafood.

The scrumptious fish flash-fried in seasoned flour is so crispy you’ll ask for a repeat after every bite.

In that jezebel sauce, the dish will definitely stimulate your palate.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Hilton Head

35. Crazy Crab

149 Lighthouse Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(846) 363-2722
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This marine-themed dining establishment specializes in all things crab and other seafood dishes, plus cocktails, wine and beer.

Why It Made The List

You’ll definitely appreciate the restaurant’s beautiful tribute to the sea.

Take pictures of that fish decor and the lifebuoys hanging in every corner of the place.

With those halyards that run from the ceiling to the floor, your vicarious experience is just perfect.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Blackened Mahi Mahi is something you should definitely taste.

The delicious fish gets its rich flavor from that exquisite mango papaya sauce.

Get the key lime pie for dessert for that sweet tangy taste that will make your dining experience a winner.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Bluffton at Hilton Head Area, an IHG Hotel

36. Skillets Cafe and Grill

1 N Forest Beach Dr
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-3131
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Since its opening in 2013, this dining spot with a huge pet-friendly patio has received popular acclaim for its mouthwatering made-from-scratch dishes, from steaks to Southern classics.

Why It Made The List

You’ll notice the restaurant’s unique tropical vibe from the get-go, with its leafy wall designs and plants in pots surrounding you.

Even the ceiling fans align with that tropical vibe, with their leaf-like structure that’s definitely worth taking pictures of for posterity.

Popular Dishes to Try

Feel that full explosion of fresh flavors in your mouth with every bite of the Seafood Newburg.

The shrimp, scallops and flounder simmered in the lobster cream sauce will delight your palate, for sure.

Served over puff pastry, expect an incredible dining experience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Ocean Breeze Inn

37. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks

1 Hudson Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29926
(843) 681-2772
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Originally built as an oyster factory, this eatery is diners’ food destination for a taste of incredible seafood and sandwiches, plus delectable desserts.

Why It Made The List

Soak in the amazing scenery when you eat in this restaurant.

Eating outdoors and the busy docks right in front of you will give you a visual sense of that satisfaction it’s looking for.

Look up and you’ll see that gorgeous sky, with the fluffy clouds and the sun creating a scene that’s definitely picture-worthy.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Stuffed Flounder is absolutely exquisite.

The fish with that delicious jumbo lump crab mixture as the filling is so soft and oozing with flavor in the mouth you’ll definitely ask for more.

The shrimp Creole sauce gives the fish that incredible creamy taste that makes the plate a culinary masterpiece.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Simple Rewards Inn

38. Fishcamp on Broad Creek

11 Simmons Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29926
(843) 842-2267
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This waterfront outpost, housed in a 1955 building, is the place to enjoy amazing seafood dishes and steaks, plus beer, cocktails, and wine.

Why It Made The List

Commune with nature while you savor exquisite flavors in this relaxing eatery.

Visualize eating in the middle of grassy space, complete with a view of tall trees and the beautiful Broad Creek.

The view is even more amazing at night, with the stars from the sky adding to that picture-perfect scene.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Seafood Risotto is an amazing plate.

The dish is an incredible combination of seafood tastes, with the lobster tail, shrimp, and mussels mixing incredibly on a single plate.

On that bed of saffron lemon risotto, the food is absolutely scrumptious.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Hilton Head

39. Sea Shack

6 Executive Park Rd
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 785-2464
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This ocean-themed restaurant is a known culinary destination for its incredible seafood plates customized according to your gastronomic preferences.

Why It Made The List

The restaurant will definitely make you feel like you’re at sea, with those standout walls in blue that match the color of the ocean.

The gorgeous mural depicting a beach scene further highlights that unique theme for that visual experience that’s worthy of every praise.

Popular Dishes to Try

Get those fresh flavors you’re craving from the Shack Attack Combo.

Your stomach will get its fill of amazing seafood flavors, with the crab cake, fish, shrimp, scallops and oysters on that big platter.

Get the Blueberry Key Lime Pie for dessert and your meal is absolute perfection.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Head Island Beach and Tennis Resort

40. Salty Dog Cafe

232 S Sea Pines Dr
Hilton Head, SC 29928
(843) 671-2233
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This gastronomic spot first opened its doors in 1987 and has since become one of the best restaurants in Hilton Head, serving incredible seafood plates in generous portions.

Why It Made The List

Make memories in a beautiful dining spot right on the docks, in plain view of the boats and the lush greenery ahead.

The dishes here will also stay in your memory, with the exquisite flavors that make them stand out in Hilton Head’s culinary scene.

Popular Dishes to Try

The Lobster Grilled Cheese is divine.

You’ll satisfy your cravings for meat and seafood with this plate, with the lobster and the hickory-smoked bacon on that soft cornbread.

Smothered in that amazing remoulade sauce, the dish just tastes beautiful.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Coral Reef Resort

Dining Guide

Comparing Restaurants: Which One Is Right For You?

When comparing Hilton Head’s top restaurants, consider the type of food and the ambiance you’re looking for.

It’s also essential to know how one restaurant stands up against another. 

Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana, with its heavenly flavors and rustic setting, is the perfect spot for those craving authentic Italian plates.

But their rates can be pricey.

For authentic French bistro food and a rustic ambiance with a touch of modernity, Chez Georges Bistro and Bar is ideal. 

This restaurant offers an exceptional French experience but be prepared for the wait.

If you’re all about musical settings and delectable Southern fare, The Jazz Corner is your spot.

Just be sure to get there early since they only offer limited seating.

Each restaurant on this list has a specialty.

That’s why choosing according to your gastronomic and dining preferences, the occasion to be celebrated, if any, and your budget is essential.

How I Picked The Restaurants

I’m a travel writer and certified foodie.

I explore the gastronomic landscape of every place by visiting eateries and trying out their dishes.

And during my visits to Hilton Head, I can confidently say that it’s a treasure trove for food lovers.

To ensure the credibility of my reviews, I dined at the eateries on the list and talked to fellow diners about their own gastronomic experiences.

I also contacted local food connoisseurs to gather valuable insights that supplement my collated data.

Our Restaurant Rating Method 

I rate these restaurants based on the following criteria. 

• Taste & Variety: I use this to evaluate the variety and food quality served at every restaurant. Does the restaurant serve tasty dishes with unique flavors? Does the restaurant’s menu cater to different dietary preferences, like vegetarian and gluten-free? I ask myself these questions to evaluate the taste and variety criterion. 
• Service: This is used to evaluate the quality of service provided by the restaurant’s staff. Are their servers knowledgeable about their food? Are they friendly, prompt, and courteous? These are important questions I ask myself whenever I rate the service of every restaurant. 
• Atmosphere: This evaluates the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Is the restaurant comfortable and inviting? Does the restaurant’s atmosphere match the type of cuisine they serve? I consider these factors when evaluating the restaurant’s atmosphere. 
• Affordability: I use this to assess the value of money provided by the restaurant. Are the food portions ideal for the price? Are the guests going to be satisfied with what they pay for? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the restaurant’s affordability. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the place is for the guests. Is the restaurant in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to assess the accessibility of every restaurant. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Most Popular Fine Dining Restaurants In Hilton Head?

The most popular fine dining restaurants in Hilton Head are Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana, Chez Georges Bistro and Bar, and Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte. 

What Are The Most Popular Restaurants For Families In Hilton Head?

The most popular restaurants for families in Hilton Head are Delisheeyo, Java Burrito Company, and Links, an American Grill.

Conclusion

These eateries are the best restaurants in Hilton Head. 

They uphold culinary excellence and impeccable service, boasting beautiful settings guaranteed to delight the most discerning diners.

For instance, Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana offers outstanding value with its authentic plates and award-winning wine list.

But it’s still worth noting that even that restaurant and some on this list have several drawbacks.

Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana is slightly expensive, and Chez Georges Bistro and Bar has long wait times during peak times.

Meanwhile, as mentioned, The Jazz Corner has limited seating.

So, if you’re looking for a good place to eat at affordable rates, Delisheeyo is an excellent alternative.

This place is a delightful surprise for families or friends looking for healthy vegetarian options.

Despite the drawbacks, the restaurants are worth it.

They consistently adapt to ensure pleasant dining experiences and uphold their reputations of culinary excellence. 

And for our number one pick? 

Savoring the flavors of Hilton Head, Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana stands out with its authentic Italian plates and award-winning wines. 

The heavenly tastes and rustic ambiance justify its slightly higher price tag. 

While each restaurant here has its charm, for an unforgettable family dining experience, Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana is the clear winner.