Courtesy of Sean Pavone/Getty Images/iStockphoto
What to Eat in Hilton Head
While in Hilton Head, there are two dining experiences you absolutely cannot forgo. The first, dine on as much low country cuisine as you can. Second, make sure you do so alongside some water views. Skull Creek Boathouse offers both. Located in northern Hilton Head, the Skull Creek Boathouse dishes up classic low country dishes, such as Carolina shrimp and grits and the low country boil. The low country boil is a big dish that is meant to be shared, featuring a mash up of red potatoes, corn on the cob, spicy sausage and shellfish (usually shrimp or crab) all of which are boiled in a giant pot. Once the ingredients have cooked to perfection, they are then traditionally served in one big pile on a picnic table covered in newspaper. From there, patrons are encouraged to pour on the sauces, which typically include cocktail sauce, hot sauce and tartar sauce.
If you aren't traveling with a big party, grubbing down on any seafood will get you the proper low country foodie experience you're looking for. The cuisine's identity is based entirely on the bounty of the coast, which technically stretches 80 miles from the Savannah River in Georgia to Pawleys Island in South Carolina. Seafood reigns supreme, by default, as well as grits and rice, which, due to the climate, flourishes in the surrounding region. You'll find these staples at A Lowcountry Backyard, which features a cozy, backyard-style outdoor eating area with small stage for live music. Here, you'll find low country-style sandwiches and burgers as well as fried green tomato dishes and fresh catches from the nearby Calibogue Sound. Another popular spot for seafood is The Crazy Crab, which boasts locations in both Harbour Town and Jarvis Creek. For some South Carolina-style barbecue, hit up One Hot Mama's for wings and ribs, or Bullies BBQ or some pulled pork sandwiches.
If it's fine dining you're after, head to The Quarterdeck, located along the water right next to the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse. Though southern cuisine is the backbone of Hilton Head's dining scene, other flavors are represented here, including Italian. Heed the advice of past visitors and try Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana or OMBRA Cucina Italiana. There's also The Sage Room, which has its own chef's table, an on-site sommelier and hearty dishes that range from a house filet and champagne poached scallops.
Find the Best Restaurants in Hilton Head
- #1
The Jazz Corner#1 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head
$$ | American1000 William Hilton Pkwy Ste C1, Hilton Head, SC 29928-6136Read More » - #2
Sno Cones by Chris#2 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #3
Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana#3 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head
$$ | Italian, Tuscan, Central-Italian37 New Orleans Rd Suite L, Hilton Head, SC 29928-4747Read More » - #4
Charlie's L'Etoile Verte#4 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #5
Delisheeyo#5 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #6
Ombra Cucina Italiana#6 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #7
Hilton Head Social Bakery#7 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #8
Vine#8 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #9
Java Burrito Company#9 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #10
Poseidon Coastal Cuisine#10 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #11
Sage Room Restaurant Bar#11 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #12
WiseGuys#12 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #13
Catch 22#13 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #14
Pomodori#14 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #15
Nunzio Restaurant + Bar#15 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #16
Jane Bistro & Bar#16 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #17
Ocean Lounge#17 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #18
A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant#18 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #19
Stu's Surfside Subs#19 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head - #20
Flora's Italian Cafe#20 of 286 Places to Eat in Hilton Head
Explore More of Hilton Head
If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.