6 Best Restaurants in Hilton Head and the Low Country, South Carolina

Hilton Head Social Bakery

$ | Mid-Island Fodor's choice
It's impossible to stop in just for a baguette or sourdough loaf at this unassuming French-owned bakery and bistro—you'll inevitably be tempted by the lush pain au chocolat and cinnamon buns. The owner/chef, a Normandy native, was the executive chef at New York's Tavern On the Green and Windows on the World before relocating to Hilton Head.

Lowcountry Produce

$ | Downtown Historic District Fodor's choice
If you don't impulsively order the tomato pie atop the glass display case—and you won't go wrong if you do—try the fried oysters, a lobster po'boy, or what may be the best shrimp and grits in town. There's table service and counter-order options, and plenty of jams, relishes, and pickled okra in their on-site market to stock your pantry at home.

Red Fish

$$$$ | South End Fodor's choice

Appealing to locals and tourists alike, the menu at upscale Red Fish features classic seafood dishes, mouthwatering apps, and delicious desserts. The contemporary restaurant's wine cellar is filled with some 1,000 bottles, and there's also a retail wineshop as well as indoor and outdoor seating.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Signe's Heaven Bound Bakery & Café

$ | South End Fodor's choice

Since 1972, Signe's has been serving freshly made baked goods as well as delicious breakfast and lunch options on Hilton Head. Signature dishes range from deep-dish French toast and crispy polenta to curried chicken salad and specialty quiches. The intimate eatery features indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a to-go counter. It's the perfect place to grab sandwiches or salads for a picnic lunch. Don't forget the hand-crafted cakes, pies, and pastries for dessert.

93 Arrow Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
843-785–9118
Known For
  • homemade breads, cookies, cakes, and pies
  • the “beach bag” (a lunch packed with goodies to take to the beach)
  • cozy, friendly atmosphere
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun., Credit cards accepted

Breakwater Restaurant & Bar

$$$ | Downtown Historic District

This classy downtown restaurant offers small tasting plates such as tuna crudo and fried shrimp, as well as main dishes like lamb meat loaf and filet mignon with a truffle demi-glace. The presentation is as contemporary as the decor. There's an attractive bar area and an impressive and affordable wine list.

203 Carteret St., Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, USA
843-379–0052
Known For
  • contemporary approach to Lowcountry cuisine
  • elegant atmosphere
  • local loyalty
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun., Credit cards accepted

Charlie's L'Etoile Verte

$$$ | Mid-Island

This family-owned culinary landmark has been serving French cuisine with a Lowcountry flair since 1982. While the handwritten menu changes daily, classic dishes like escargot, pate, and rack of lamb remain the same. From lunch, dinner, desserts, and curbside pickup, the "green star" shines.

8 New Orleans Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
843-785–9277
Known For
  • extensive wine list (more than 500 bottles)
  • 14 varying seafood entrées offered nightly
  • fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. No lunch Sat., Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential