Best of St Simons Island

Q: How are "Best of" award winners chosen in St Simons Island?

Winners are selected through community voting and editorial curation by Best by Locals. Only listings that earn the official "Best of" designation appear on this page.

Q: How often are the awards updated?

Awards are refreshed seasonally so the list reflects current quality. Past winners keep their recognition but new standouts get added regularly.

Q: Are all award winners in St Simons Island restaurants?

No — "Best of" covers restaurants, activities, and services. This page shows 29 winners across all categories.

Discover award-winning restaurants, activities, and services on St. Simons Island, GA. Only "Best of" award holders.

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Iguanas Seafood Restaurant

Voted the Best Seafood Restaurant on St Simons Island 2025, serving fried shrimp and local catch along with all of the free ice cream you can eat, centrally located in the Pier Village.

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CJ's Italian Restaurant

CJ’s Italian Restaurant is a longtime St. Simons Island favorite serving authentic, made-from-scratch Italian comfort food in a cozy, casual setting. Established in 1988, it’s known for its handcrafted pizzas, house-made sauces, and classic dishes that deliver an old-school, family-style dining experience. The menu features a wide variety of options including hand-tossed and deep-dish pizzas, baked pastas, chicken parmesan, strombolis, and fresh salads, all made with quality ingredients and bold flavors. Generous portions and build-your-own options make it a go-to for families and groups. With its relaxed atmosphere and strong local following, CJ’s is a reliable choice for both dine-in and takeout. Why travelers love it: Authentic Italian flavors, standout pizzas, generous portions, and a casual, family-friendly vibe that makes it a true island staple.

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Palmer's Village Cafe

A popular cafe in the Pier Village offering one of the best breakfast and brunches on the island.

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Southern Soul Barbeque

A award-winning, oak‑smoke barbecue joint in a former gas station, serving ribs, brisket, sides, and a laid‑back, rustic vibe.

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Certified Burgers & Beverage

Certified Burgers & Beverage is a locally loved, family-owned spot on St. Simons Island known for serving up some of the most creative and flavorful burgers in the Golden Isles. Since opening in 2016, it has built a strong reputation for high-quality, made-from-scratch food, featuring house-made sauces, unique burger creations, and fresh ingredients in every dish. The menu goes beyond the basics with inventive options, hand-cut sides, fresh salads, and indulgent milkshakes, all paired with a full bar and an impressive whiskey selection. With full table service, a relaxed atmosphere, and a dog-friendly patio, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a great meal. Why travelers love it: Unique, chef-inspired burgers, fresh house-made ingredients, great drinks, and a casual yet elevated dining experience that makes it a standout local favorite on St. Simons Island.

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Don Que's Southern BBQ-Brunswick

Don Que’s Southern BBQ is a fast-rising Brunswick favorite serving authentic, slow-smoked barbecue and Southern soul food rooted in traditional pitmaster techniques. What began as a popular food truck has grown into a brick-and-mortar destination, earning a strong local following for its bold, handcrafted flavors. The menu features classic barbecue staples like brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken, alongside Southern favorites such as oxtails, mac and cheese, collard greens, and dirty rice. Each dish is cooked low and slow, delivering rich, smoky flavor and tender meats in every bite. With its casual, welcoming atmosphere and growing reputation, Don Que’s offers a true taste of Southern barbecue culture. Why travelers love it: Award-winning barbecue, authentic Southern flavors, and a fast-growing reputation that makes it one of Brunswick’s must-try BBQ spots.

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Barrier Island Brewing

Barrier Island Brewing Barrier Island Brewing is a lively, family-owned craft brewery and restaurant on St. Simons Island, offering a perfect blend of small-batch beer, elevated pub fare, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Since opening, it has become a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The menu features standout dishes like beer-brined wings, fresh fish tacos, wild Georgia shrimp, gourmet sandwiches, and shareable plates that go well beyond typical brewery food. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of house-brewed beers, from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, in a vibrant setting with indoor seating, a full bar, and an outdoor beer garden. Why travelers love it: House-brewed craft beer, elevated pub food, a fun and energetic atmosphere, and a laid-back coastal vibe perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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Coastal Tide Excursions

Guests are invited aboard the Lady Jane for educational shrimp‑boat tours through calm estuaries, with hands‑on marine wildlife experiences.

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Delaney's Bistro & Bar

Delaney’s Bistro & Bar is a longtime St. Simons Island favorite offering a refined yet welcoming dining experience rooted in creative, chef-driven cuisine. Known for its ever-changing menu, it features nightly specials highlighting fresh seafood, premium meats, and unique, thoughtfully crafted dishes. The menu blends coastal and classic bistro flavors with standout options like crab cakes, steaks, pastas, and inventive small plates, all complemented by an extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails. With its cozy, upscale atmosphere and strong local following, Delaney’s is perfect for both special occasions and relaxed evenings. Why travelers love it: Creative chef specials, high-quality ingredients, and a warm, upscale atmosphere that makes it a standout dining destination on St. Simons Island.

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Dunbar Yachts

Dunbar Yachts on Saint Simons Island offers a full-service marine experience, specializing in yacht sales, brokerage, service, and sailing experiences along the Georgia coast. Established in the 1970s, they are one of the region’s most experienced yacht dealerships, representing top brands and offering both new and pre-owned powerboats and sailboats. In addition to sales, Dunbar Yachts provides expert maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and customization, supported by decades of hands-on marine expertise. They also offer sailing charters, sunset cruises, and an American Sailing Association-certified sailing school, giving both beginners and experienced sailors the opportunity to learn and enjoy the water. Located at the marina on Saint Simons Island, Dunbar Yachts combines professional service with a personalized, customer-focused approach, making it a trusted destination for boating enthusiasts, visitors, and anyone looking to experience life on the water in the Golden Isles.

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ECHO

The island’s only beachfront restaurant, serving refined Southern coastal cuisine and creative cocktails with panoramic ocean views.

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Indigo Shanty-Brunswick

Indigo Shanty is an eclectic coastal‑vibe eatery in downtown Brunswick serving bold, flavor‑packed American fusion—seafood, burgers, salads, vegan options—beneath a grand oak tree, with warm, friendly service.

Open 24 Hours

Free

St Simons Island Pier

A scenic fishing pier at the end of the village shopping area with panaoramic views.

Ziggy Mahoney's

Blends lively pub vibes with comfort food, pool tables, live music, and casual American fare.

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Arte Pizza

Arte Pizza Located in the heart of Historic Downtown Brunswick, Arte Pizza delivers an authentic Italian dining experience centered around wood-fired, old-world–style pizza and fresh, made-from-scratch dishes. Known for its crispy, perfectly balanced crust and high-quality ingredients, the menu features everything from handcrafted pizzas and calzones to house-made pastas, paninis, and fresh salads. Beyond pizza, guests can enjoy favorites like shrimp pasta, chicken parmesan, and specialty salads, along with beer and wine in a cozy, casual setting. Whether grabbing a quick slice or settling in for a relaxed meal, Arte Pizza offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that blends traditional Italian flavors with a laid-back downtown vibe. Why travelers love it: Authentic wood-fired pizza, fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a welcoming, casual atmosphere that makes it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors exploring downtown Brunswick.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How are "Best of" award winners chosen in St Simons Island?

How often are the awards updated?

Are all award winners in St Simons Island restaurants?