Top 50 Locally Owned Restaurants on Hilton Head

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Top 50 Locally Owned Restaurants

Top 50 Locally Owned and Operated restaurants to eat at. The following are listed in order of ratings and number of reviews between platforms. With over 200 places to eat in the area, it is hard to know which ones are worth going to. The following is a list of all Top-Rated, great restaurants. Any one of them would be happy to provide you with a great dining experience!

Masala Mantra Indian Bistro

Naan bread, samosas, and tikka masala are among the Indian offerings at this eatery.

Open for: Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: Their Garlic Naan, Samosas, and Korma

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegan diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please let the staff know, and we will do our best to accommodate you to ensure your safety.

Hudson’s Seafood on the docks

Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks - Hilton Head, South Carolina

Sitting right at the edge of Port Royal Sound, all the tables in our waterfront restaurant and outdoor bar feature extraordinary views for a truly special low-country dining experience. Hudson’s uses one of only two remaining local fishing fleets on Hilton Head Island to bring in fresh-caught seafood straight to our docks and to your table. Our guests often get to share the excitement as fishing crews unload thousands of fresh oysters, shrimp, and soft-shell crabs from each day’s catch.

Open for: Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: Their oysters, shrimp, and crab cakes

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please ask a staff member, and we will do everything we can to accommodate to ensure your safety.

Alfred’s Restaurant

Cozy spot with an open kitchen & dining counter and outdoor seating. Serving German & creative American fare.

Open for: Dinner (No Kids meal, Well-behaved children who will eat or split an adult entrée are welcome)
Known for: Their Potato Crusted Halibut, Veal, and Sauerbraten

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian and vegan diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member for assistance.

Cactus Street Cantina

Here you will find a delicious blend of traditional Mexican cuisine while also adding a twist of Island flavor to some menu favorites. Our cozy atmosphere and welcoming ambience create the perfect setting, whether you are looking for a quick bite, leisurely meal, or drinks with friends. Our restaurant offers a relaxed and friendly environment that will make you feel right at home.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their street corn, nachos, blackened shrimp, and pork belly tocos.

Café Al Dente

Cafe Al Dente- Hilton Head Island - Coligny Plaza, Hilton Head Island, SC

Casual spot at Coligny Plaza prepping Italian dishes such as meatballs and rigatoni a la vodka.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner
Known for: - Their Meatballs, Rigatoni, and chicken parmesan

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegan diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a member of our staff for assistance.

AllJoy Donuts (Bluffton)

Open for: - Breakfast (plenty of options for kids) Friday – Sunday 7 – 1 pm
Known for: - Their Specialty Donuts and fritters

Lincoln and South Brewing Company

Craving delicious food to pair with your favorite craft beer? At Lincoln & South Brewery, we take pride in serving a menu as exceptional as our brews. From our signature house-made charcuterie boards featuring premium artisanal cheeses and meats to crispy onion rings, juicy burgers, stacked sandwiches, and flavor-packed tacos, there is something to satisfy every craving. Bringing the family? We've got a kids’ menu too!

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Burgers and Charcuterie Boards

Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café

Neighborhood café serving American breakfast all day & lunch classics, with outdoor seating.

Open for: - Breakfast and Lunch (Kids Menu) Open Wednesday - Sunday
Known for: - Their eggs benedict, crab cake benedict, stuffed French toast, and Bloody Marys’

Cahill’s (Bluffton)

Fresh produce & Southern cooking, featuring farm-to-table ingredients offered in a country cottage. Where they grow and use their own vegetables.

Open for: - Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Kids Menu) 8 am – 7 pm daily
Known for: - Their Chicken and Waffles, Fried Chicken, Sausage Gravy, and Sweet Potato Casserole

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian.

Charlie’s L’Etoile / Charlie’s Coastal Bistro

Charlie's L'Etoile Verte | Seafood Restaurant

Warm, French American venue featuring a seafood-focused menu & an extensive wine list.

Open for: - Lunch (Monday – Friday) and Dinner (Mon – Saturday) - Kids Menu
Known for: - Their Swordfish, Mahi Mahi, Scalloped potatoes, and Escargot

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member for assistance.

Nunzio’s

Low-key dinner-only eatery offering locally sourced, Italian cuisine, wine, and happy-hour specials.

Open for: - Dinner (No Kids Menu but has some kid options)
Known for: - Their Veal chops, Parmigiana di Pollo (Chicken Parmesan), and homemade meatballs

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, and low-carb diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member for assistance.

The Farm (Bluffton)

Rustic-chic pick for seasonal southern fare with wine and craft cocktails in snug, bustling digs.

Open for: - Dinner and Brunch on Sunday (No Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Roasted Oysters, Corn Bread, and Burrata & Ham

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian and gluten-free diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member for assistance.

Red Stripes

Laid-back locale offering up a menu of Jamaican comfort food.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Oxtails, Jerk Chicken, and Curry Goat.

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member for assistance.

The Bluffton Room (Bluffton)

Inspired American cuisine & Cocktails in a modern, rustic setting with open-air bar & patio.

Open for: - Dinner & New Orleans style Lunch on Fridays (No Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Grilled Mediterranean Octopus, Prime Ribeye, and Dover sole & Shrimp Meuniere

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member for assistance.

Chez Georges Bistro

Classic French fare with a local twist, offered in a bistro setting with a bar

Open for: - Dinner 7 nights a week, Lunch Wed, Thursday, and Fri., and Brunch on Sunday (No Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Escargots, Moules-Frites and Boeuf (beef) Bourguignon

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, and Kosher diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member staff for assistance.

The Sugaree (Bluffton)

Casual café and bakery, serving quick bites, baked fresh daily.

Open for: - Breakfast and Lunch. Open Tuesday - Saturday
Known for: - Their Lobster rolls, Bagels

Dietary Information – If you have any food allergies, please inform our staff, and they will direct you to the appropriate items on the menu. We can accommodate most allergies.

River House (Bluffton)

River House River House Restaurant | Montage Palmetto Bluff

Local, organic New American fare is the draw at this elegant restaurant with water views and a patio. Located at Palmetto Bluff near the Montage Hotel.

Open for: - Dinner
Known for: - Their Oysters with A5 Japanese Wagyu

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian diets. They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member for assistance.

Piatti

Italian Restaurant | Hilton Head | 33 Office Park Road #224, Hilton Head Island, SC, USA

Italian entrees from Calamari to lobster bisque served in a romantic setting with wines. Opened in February 2023.

Open for: - Dinner (No Kids Menu; however, the chef and staff love to accommodate kids)
Known for: - Their Lobster Ravioli (Ravioli di Aragosta), Veal, and Pici Alla Carrettiera

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please ask a Staff member, and we will do everything possible to accommodate to ensure your safety.

(The next few are a little newer but have great reviews)

Zunzibar

It has outdoor seating and live music.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Conquistador, Falafel bites, and Bloody Marys

Dietary Information – They can accommodate most food allergies; simply ask a staff member for assistance.

Sundown Saloon

Bringing excellent food, great drinks, cold beer, and a fun country vibe to the north end of Hilton Head. Discover a symphony of flavors at Sundown Saloon, featuring our thoughtfully curated menu. From Southern Classics to innovative culinary creations, each dish is a masterpiece crafted to delight your palate.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (No Kids Menu, however has several options for kids)
Known for: - Their Burgers, Philly’s, and Hot Honey Chicken

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, we will accommodate by switching gloves, utensils, and doing everything possible to ensure your safety. Simply ask a member of our staff for assistance.

Dive Bar and Grill

Our simple & focused mission is to combine superior customer service with a relaxed, upscale atmosphere, great food, signature cocktails & a wide selection of good beers & wines.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their PEI Mussels, Wings, Reuben Egg Roll, and Poutine

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please ask the staff, and we will do everything we can to accommodate.

Tin and Tallow

New Home located at 2 Spanish Wells Rd. Offering craft coffee, beer, wine, and seltzers.

Open for: - Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Kids options) Open Tuesday - Sunday
Known for: - Their Smash burgers, truffle & parmesan waffle fries, fried chicken sandwich, & egg rolls

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please note that we do not use peanuts. We will accommodate by switching gloves, utensils, and doing everything possible to ensure your safety. Simply ask a member of our staff for assistance.

Chef Lynn Michelle

Open for: - Serving Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner - She comes to you as a private chef, offering lots of kids' options as well
Known for: - Their Biscuits and Sausage Gravy, Fudgy Brownies, Chicken & Beef (or Tofu) Kabobs, Lowcountry Boil, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, and Shrimp Burger Sliders

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. Since she comes to you and cooks just for you, she can accommodate just about any food allergy your group might have. Just make sure to communicate that to her ahead of time.

Hilton Head Social Bakery

Open for: - 7 am to 7 pm Wed – Sat. 8 am to 4 pm Sunday (Options for kids)
Known for: - Their Desserts and tarts, quiches, macarons. and lattes

Dietary Information – Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, we will do our best to accommodate; simply ask a member of our staff for assistance.

Nonna Maries Gelato

Gelato is Italian ice cream. While gelato and American ice cream are similar, there are differences. Gelato is churned much slower than ice cream, which means there is less air in it, making it more flavorful than ice cream. Gelato is also served a bit warmer, so it is creamier than ice cream because your taste buds are not frozen when you eat gelato. Oh... and did we mention the best part? Gelato has MUCH LESS FAT than traditional American ice cream! What are you waiting for? Have more taste, without the uncomfortable "overfull" feeling!

Open for: - Dinner hours (5 pm – 10 pm) – Great for kids too!
Known for: - Gelato and Sorbetto

Dietary Information – Offering no dairy and zero fat / low fat options.

The Sea Shack

Unpretentious, blue-walled eatery where simple seafood plates are ordered at the counter, with outdoor seating.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Build your own combo meal, Shack Attack, Fried Shrimp, and Grouper

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please ask the staff and we will do everything we can to accommodate.

Hilton Head Ice Cream

Since 1982, Hilton Head Ice Cream has been making real, homemade, award-winning ice cream for locals, tourists, and local area restaurants. With a variety of traditional as well as unique flavors like Chocolate Cayenne, Cookie Monster, and Peach Pecan, there is a flavor for everyone…

Open for: - 12 – 9 pm
Known for: - … Ice-cream😊

Southern Coney and Breakfast

Pancakes are the specialty of this homey breakfast & lunch spot (as their slogan is “best pancakes ever”), also serving burgers & biscuits.

Open for: - Breakfast and Lunch (Kids menu)
Known for: - Pancakes (of course) but also their Michigan Coney and Fries

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please let the staff know, and we will do our best to accommodate to ensure your safety.

Gringo’s Diner

Low-key restaurant offering American comfort fare & Mexican cuisine, plus patio seating.

Open for: - Breakfast and Lunch (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Huevos Rancheros, Burgers, Philly Cheesesteak, and Nutella Pancakes

Pomodori

At Pomodori, we serve traditional, made-from-scratch Italian food. Inspired by Chef Amanda’s southern Italian culinary training in Calabria, our goal is to nourish your body and soul – one dish at a time.

Open for: - Monday – Saturday for Dinner (Kids Menu) – 2 locations (Hilton Head and Bluffton)
Known for: - Their Orecchiette Con Salsiccia, Lasagna, and Ravioli Di Casa (house-made)

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please ask a member of our staff, and we will do everything possible to accommodate by switching gloves and utensils to ensure your safety.

Ombra Cucina Italiana

Stylish spot for elevated Italian cuisine, including locally sourced seafood dishes & premium wines.

Open for: - Dinner (No Kids Menu; however, the chef and staff can accommodate kids)
Known for: - Their Veal and Ravioli

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please ask a member of our staff, and we will do everything possible to accommodate by switching gloves and utensils to ensure your safety.

Crane’s Tavern

Prime rib, seafood & curated wines presented in a clubby, white-tablecloth space with an ornate bar and outdoor seating.

Open for: - Dinner
Known for: - Their Prime rib, scalloped potatoes, scallops, and crab cakes

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please let the staff know, and we will do our best to accommodate you to ensure your safety.

The Sage Room

Elevated American fare & wines in a casually upscale space with an open kitchen and chef’s table, Fine dining on Hilton Head.

Open for: - Dinner
Known for: - Filets, Scallops, and Seabass

Gruby’s New York Deli

Laid-back place for classic breakfasts, overstuffed sandwiches, soups, salads & burgers.

Open for: - Breakfast and Lunch (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Corned Beef, Pastrami, and Roast beef

Dietary Information – Offering options for vegetarian and gluten-free diets. If anyone has any other food allergies, simply ask a member of their staff and they will do their best to accommodate.

Island Fudge Shoppe

Long-time family-owned candy shop offering a variety of homemade chocolates and pralines. They ship their goodies to you if needed, 20 types of fudge, 40 different candies, and pralines.

Open for: - Dessert 10 -8 pm, Sunday 12-6 pm
Known for: - Their Fudge, Handmade Chocolates, and Pralines

Dietary Information – Offering low-sugar options, Gluten-free fudge (most varieties). If anyone has any other food allergies, simply ask a member of their staff and they will do their best to accommodate.

Bowdie’s Chophouse

Bowdie’s delivers exquisite cuisine, exceptional drinks, and unparalleled service for a luxury experience you will not forget. Ideal for date nights, business dinners, and late-night cocktails, it is the type of high-class steakhouse that will leave you wanting more.

Open for: - Dinner (No Kids Menu; however, the chef and staff will accommodate kids)
Known for: - Their 6 cuts of prime beef, their 26 oz ribeye, and crab cakes (deconstructed)

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, simply ask our staff, and we will do everything possible to accommodate, to ensure everyone’s safety.

Celeste

Upscale Hilton Head Restaurant featuring American cuisine with Creole and Cajun accents, plus live music on the weekends.

Open for: - Dinner & Sunday Brunch (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Tuna Crudo, Chargrilled Oysters, and Blackened Redfish

Mixx on Main

Eclectic fare and cocktails - served in a trendy restaurant that is popular with the locals.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Fried Shrimp

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any other food allergies, simply ask a member of their staff and they will do their best to accommodate.

A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant

Casual Lowcountry fare, from seafood to sandwiches, served in an atmospheric setting with a garden. Made fresh every day, all day!

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Shrimp and Grits, Crab cakes, and May River Blue Crab dip.

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies. We will do our best to accommodate additional food allergies by switching gloves and utensils, we will do everything possible to ensure your safety. Simply ask a member of our staff for assistance.

It’s Greek to Me

Casual standby with a cozy bar & Charming patio for Greek cuisine, cocktails & imported wine.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Greek Chicken Salad, ½ Lemon Chicken, and Gyros

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, simply ask a member of our staff, and we will do everything possible to accommodate to ensure everyone’s safety.

Harold’s Diner

Harold’s has been an HHI icon for decades, serving up the island's best made-to-order food – fast! Harold’s features a one-of-a-kind experience with a rowdy staff that insists on customers who enjoy a little something extra with their meal…Attitude!

Open for: - Breakfast and Lunch (Kids options) – CASH ONLY!
Known for: - Their Sarcasm, anything breakfast, and Philly Cheese steaks.

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, we will do our best to accommodate; simply ask a member of our staff for assistance.

Dough Boy’s Pizza

The Best-Tasting Pizza in Hilton Head Island, SC

Intimate joint featuring classic & unique pizzas, sandwiches & Calzones in a low-key setup. Small family-run business with two locations to serve you (Bluffton and Hilton Head)

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (No Kids Menu; however, the chef and staff will accommodate kids). Open for lunch Wednesday – Saturday.
Known for: - Pizza (of course), homemade sauce, fresh ingredients, and made-to-order

Street Meet, the American Grill

Tavern highlighting craft beers along with American bar food such as wings, sandwiches, and burgers.

Open for: - Lunch - Dinner, and late-night snacks (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Fish and Chips, Hotdogs, and Burgers

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free buns, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, simply ask a member of our staff for assistance, and we will do everything possible to accommodate.

Red Fish

Red Fish specializes in cuisine where an eclectic blend of seafood, steaks, fresh local fruit, and vegetables is combined with Lowcountry specialties. We are committed to serving our guests the freshest ingredients possible, using home-grown produce from our own Bear Island Farms. A Southern-leaning American dining room complete with a great outdoor patio seating area, a fireplace, and a wine shop.

Open for: - Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Chilean Sea Bass, Scallops, ribs/steaks

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, and Kosher diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please let our staff know, and we will do everything we can to accommodate, by switching gloves, utensils, and doing everything possible to ensure your safety.

Bad Biscuit

Classic Lowcountry & Southern Dishes, sometimes with a twist! Funky and fun is a common description of our place, and that’s the only way we want to be.

Open for: - Breakfast. Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Rooster Biscuits N Gravy

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, everything is Gluten-Free (except for the biscuits and offers a Keto bowl. Please note that we do not use peanuts at all.

Mainstreet Island Pub

Relaxed choice for Southern-inspired American chow, offering all-you-can-eat crab legs.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Parmesan Crusted Grouper

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free diets. If anyone has any food allergies, please note that no peanuts are used. Simply ask a member of our staff, and we will do our best to accommodate other food allergies.

The Pearl Kitchen / Bar: (Bluffton)

Located in Old Town Bluffton, SC. The Pearl Kitchen and Bar brings a bright, fresh take on the dining experience. Casual restaurant & bar offering coastal seafood dishes and grilled fare, with front porch seating.

Open for: - Dinner (no Kids Menu; however, they will accommodate kids)
Known for: - Their Redfish, Lobster + Shrimp Carbonara, and their NY Strip

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, Keto, Kosher, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, we will do our best to accommodate; simply ask a member of our staff for assistance.

Hinoki Japanese

Japanese restaurant with serene, contemporary décor. Serving sushi, steaks, wine & Sake.

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Sushi, Teriyaki steak/chicken/shrimp, and Scallops

Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana

Authentic Italian favorites are served in this contemporary eatery that also holds cooking classes. Fine dining in Hilton Head.

Open for: - Mon – Sat Dinner (No Kids Menu; however, the chef and staff can accommodate kids)
Known for: - Their Tagliatelle Alla Bolognese, and their Vitello Alla Scarpariello

Captain Woody’s

Crab legs & Fried fish are offered at this seafood place. Two locations to serve you (HHI and Bluffton).

Open for: - Lunch and Dinner (Kids Menu)
Known for: - Their Grouper, Hush Puppies, crab soup, shrimp and grits, and Low Country boil.

Dietary Information – Offering options for Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, and low-carb diets. If anyone has any food allergies, we will do our best to accommodate; ask a member of our staff for assistance.

If you were counting, we just hit 50 places; however, the following are great places, and we feel we need to mention them.