Best Southern Food in Hilton Head

Q: What's the difference between lowcountry, Cajun, and Creole food?

Lowcountry is Hilton Head-rooted coastal comfort (shrimp and grits, frogmore stew). Cajun comes from Louisiana swamps; Creole from New Orleans city blends. 39 restaurants specialize in these styles.

Q: Where can I try authentic soul food in Hilton Head?

Several of Hilton Head's 39 southern spots focus on soul food classics — mac and cheese, collard greens, fried chicken, and biscuits. Look for family-run places with long histories.

Q: Do southern restaurants in Hilton Head serve lunch and dinner?

Most of the 39 spots do both, though lunch service and hours vary. Check listing hours and menus before you visit — some are lunch-only.

Experience authentic southern cuisine in Hilton Head. 39 restaurants serving comfort food, lowcountry dishes, and more.

Shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, buttermilk biscuits — Hilton Head is southern cooking territory. These 39 restaurants celebrate lowcountry and comfort food traditions that have been passed down for generations.

Closed

A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant

32 Palmetto Bay Rd

4.5

This restaurant serves Lowcountry-style American fare, featuring seafood and sandwiches in a relaxed garden setting. The menu reflects the coastal influences typical of the Lowcountry region. The atmosphere is casual with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The price level is moderate, and the venue offers a full bar and live music, making it suitable for groups and families.

Closed

Nectar

841 William Hilton Pkwy

4.4

Nectar serves Southern classics including grits, fried chicken, and catfish in a relaxed, farm-inspired setting. The cuisine reflects traditional Southern dishes prepared in an approachable style. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating and operates at a moderate price level. It features a full bar and welcomes families with children.

Closing Soon · 53min

Street Meet The American Tavern

95 Mathews Dr

4.5

Street Meet The American Tavern serves American bar food including wings, sandwiches, and burgers. The tavern also features a selection of craft beers to accompany the food offerings. The setting includes both indoor and outdoor seating with a moderate price level. The venue offers a full bar and has a kid-friendly atmosphere.

Closed

Truffles Cafe

71 Lighthouse Rd

4.6

Truffles Cafe offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and grilled dishes in an upmarket setting. The menu reflects classic American fare served in a casual yet refined atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy a range of cocktails, beer, and wine to complement their meal. The restaurant provides a comfortable spot for dining with moderate pricing.

Closed

CharBar Co. Burgers & Sushi

33 Office Park Rd

4.5

CharBar Co. Burgers & Sushi offers a combination of classic American comfort food and Japanese sushi. The menu includes burgers alongside sushi options, reflecting its dual focus on these cuisines. The setting is casual with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The price level is moderate, and the restaurant features a full bar and regular happy hours, creating a relaxed atmosphere suitable for a range of guests.

Closed

Fishcamp on Broad Creek

11 Simmons Rd

4.5

Fishcamp on Broad Creek serves Southern-style seafood in a setting that resembles a cabin, offering a relaxed atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. The venue features a patio and a fire pit, creating a comfortable environment to enjoy meals throughout the day. The price level is moderate, and the presence of a full bar along with live music adds to a lively and inviting vibe suitable for a range of guests, including families and groups.

Closed

Carolina Crab Company

86 Helmsman Way

4.5

Carolina Crab Company serves Southern-inspired seafood dishes in a festive setting. The restaurant offers a range of seafood options in a spacious environment that includes both indoor and outdoor seating. The atmosphere is lively with live music and a full bar, making it suitable for groups and families. The price level is moderate, reflecting a casual yet vibrant dining experience.

Closed

Skull Creek Boathouse

397 Squire Pope Rd

4.5

Skull Creek Boathouse serves seafood alongside Southern classics in a lively waterfront setting. The menu reflects coastal flavors and traditional dishes typical of the region, offering options for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with both indoor and outdoor seating including a large tree-shaded bar area. The price level is moderate, making it suitable for a relaxed meal with family or friends.

Closed

The Sandbar

101 Pope Ave

4.5

The Sandbar serves Southern and Caribbean comfort food in a relaxed setting. The menu includes dishes inspired by these regional flavors alongside a selection of drinks. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating with a patio, creating a lively atmosphere suitable for groups and families. The price level is moderate, and a full bar is available.

Open Now

Reilley's Grill & Bar

7D Greenwood Dr

4.4

Reilley's Grill & Bar serves seafood and pub-style dishes in an upscale setting. The venue features a mahogany bar and offers meals throughout the day including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. The space includes convertible walls that open to a patio, blending indoor and outdoor dining experiences. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a moderate price range and amenities such as live music and a full bar. The establishment is suitable for both families and groups, providing a versatile dining environment.

Closed

Harbourside

147 Lighthouse Rd

4.4

Harbourside is an outdoor American eatery known for serving steamer favorites like crab legs and peel-and-eat shrimp. They also offer classic American fare such as burgers and hotdogs. In addition to the food, Harbourside functions as a bar and cocktail spot, making it a place where guests can enjoy drinks alongside their meals. The casual setting fits well for those looking to relax outdoors while dining.

Closed

Flatbread Grill & Bar Hilton Head

2 N Forest Beach Dr

4.1

Flatbread Grill & Bar Hilton Head offers American-style dishes including wood-fired pizzas and other grill items in a modern setting. The restaurant features two patios and serves cocktails alongside its menu. The venue has a relaxed atmosphere with moderate pricing. It provides both indoor and outdoor seating and includes a full bar.

Closed

$$$

ELA'S on the Water

1 Shelter Cove Ln

4.1

ELA'S on the Water serves Southern-influenced seafood and steak dishes in an upscale bistro setting. The restaurant offers harbor views and features local art that enhances the dining atmosphere. The venue has both indoor and outdoor seating and includes a full bar. It operates with a moderate to higher price level and welcomes families as well as groups.

Closed

Beautiful Island Square

15 Marshland Rd

4.8

This Mexican food court serves Mexican cuisine in a casual setting. It offers outdoor seating and takeout options. The venue is kid friendly and suitable for groups, with dinner service available and a relaxed atmosphere.

Closed

Al's Aloha Kitchen

70 Pope Ave

4.7

Al's Aloha Kitchen serves Hawaiian-style dishes including poke bowls and açai and pitaya bowls topped with various ingredients. The eatery offers a casual setting where guests can enjoy these island-inspired meals. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating and is kid friendly. It operates at a moderate price level and provides options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between lowcountry, Cajun, and Creole food?

Where can I try authentic soul food in Hilton Head?

Do southern restaurants in Hilton Head serve lunch and dinner?