Hilton Head Island, SC

Eating out in Hilton Head Island, SC

With more than 150 restaurants to choose from, diners find European, Asian, and Mexican cuisine, as well as all the specialties of the Low Country. Local favorites include Frogmore stew, roasted oysters, and Daufuskie crab. Atmospheres range from atmospheric dives to elegant waterfront restaurants.

Gourmet

Charlie's L'Etoile Verte is reminiscent of a Paris bistro, decorated with Gallic and Low Country memorabilia. The bright décor and French artwork set the scene for a wonderful meal. Scrumptious favorites include grilled tuna with jalapeno beurre-blanc sauce, and grilled quail with shiitake mushrooms and Merlot sauce. The wine list is impressive, and the desserts are irresistible, especially the Sailor's Trifle - sponge cake layered with blackberry marmalade, custard, and rum. 1000 Plantation Center.

Highly Recommended

Chart House is part of a chain that runs from California to the Virgin Islands. This one, with its gorgeous view of Broad Creek, is by far one of the best. The staff is attentive and the atmosphere and dress are casual. Juicy prime rib is the house specialty, and the catch-of-the-day, often grouper, is always fresh. Unlimited fresh hot bread starts the meal off right, and Mud Pie is the perfect finishing touch. Palmetto Bay Marina.

Local Flair

Lagniappe (Lan-Yap) has a bright, colorful atmosphere and is part restaurant, part art gallery. Favorites include homemade crab cakes with green curry aioli and roasted yellow pepper puree, and a sea scallops/shrimp mixture sautéed in a yogurt curry sauce with sundried berries. 1000 William Hilton Parkway.

Romantic

Café Europa is set at the base of Harbour Town Lighthouse - the most photographed spot on the island. At this cheerful, casual spot, you can gaze out at Calibogue Sound and Daufuskie Island. House specialties include local favorites such as "Charleston" chicken with honey, fresh cream and pecans. The mouth-watering pastries are made on-site, and include a chocolate fudge cake with three layers of chocolate mousse smothered in chocolate glaze. Harbour Town, Sea Pines Plantation.

Going party in Hilton Head Island, SC

The nightlife on Hilton Head may not be wild as in nearby Myrtle Beach, but there is still plenty to do. Bars and clubs offer live music, and the arts center holds frequent shows.

The Self Family Arts Center

This entertainment center has a theater and art gallery, and features a theater program for children and young adults. Shelter Cove Lane.

The Hilton Head Playhouse

Boasts an outstanding theatrical reputation and holds a range of musicals, comedies, and dramas in a state-of-the-art theater.

Jazz Corner

A cozy bar with live jazz. About 25 tables are set along a small dance floor, and more seating is available at the copper-canopied bar. Paintings and lithographs of the jazz world's greats are scattered around the room. The Village at Wexford.

The Quarterdeck

A charming lounge at the foot of the Harbour Town Lighthouse, is a great spot to watch the sun go down. Dancing to beach music and Top 40 hits goes on every night. Harbour Town, Sea Pines Plantation.

The Salty Dog Café

Relax on the deck overlooking the sound and enjoy the many specialty drinks like Kiwi Coladas, Coco Kabanas, and Tropical Freezes while soft guitar music plays in the background. South Beach Marina.

Common events in Hilton Head Island, SC

Springfest

Seafood specialties, live music, and stage shows liven up the island. Tennis and golf tournaments also take place. March.

Family Circle Magazine Cup

Held at the Sea Pines Racquet Club, this $750,000 tournament draws the world's best women tennis players. March - April.

MCI Classic

This $1.3 million tournament that brings a fantastic roster of PGA tour professionals. The week-long event is held at Harbour Town Golf Links. April.

Harbourfest

A great summer festival that includes golf tournaments, watersport activities, fireworks, kayak and boat cruises. July - August.

Hilton Head Celebrity Golf Tournament

A big favorite on the golf circuit, this event is held at Palmetto Dunes and Sea Pines Plantation. September.

Corel Championships

This tournament is a preparation for a year-end championship and draws world-class male tennis players. October.

St Luke's Tour of Homes

Just as it sounds, you'll tour distinctive contemporary houses. October.