7 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.

Plums

$ | Downtown Historic District Fodor's choice

This popular local eatery still uses family recipes for its soups, crab-cake sandwiches, and curried chicken salad. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, Plums is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal outside and to take in the beautiful views of downtown Beaufort.

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.

The Sea Shack

$ | South End Fodor's choice

Heaping plates of fried seafood and hearty po'boys are worth the long line at this local staple counter-serve. The humble dining room and open kitchen suit the mouthwatering platters perfectly. Local tip: During the busy summer months, call in your order for pickup and skip the line.

Harold's Country Club Bar & Grill

Not the "country club" you might expect, Harold's is a remodeled gas station in the little town of Yemassee, just east of Interstate 95 in northern Beaufort County. There's a buffet every Thursday and steak night on Saturday that requires ordering in advance. Seating is family-style in one of the large, kitschy dining rooms. With a large bar area, pool tables, and karaoke after dark, Harold's is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Kenny B's French Quarter Cafe

$ | South End

Surrounded by Mardi Gras memorabilia, owner Kenny himself cooks up jambalaya, gumbo, and muffaletta sandwiches at this family-run, Cajun-inspired restaurant that has been serving locals and tourists since 1999. The extensive menu also features Southern staples such as crab cakes and shrimp and grits.

Hilton Head and the Low Country

Recommended Fodor's Video

Follow Us

Thank you for your interest!