Hilton Head, South Carolina, Restaurants
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About 5 years ago, a 25-mile stretch of 4-lane highway opened between I-95 and Hilton Head Island. It ran through largely undeveloped country and was a fast alternative to the side roads that had been used for Island access. As might have been expected, civilization and growth came to, and enveloped, this highway, and it is now surrounded by businesses and new home developments, while traffic lights slow everything down. The small town of Bluffton, just off Hilton Head Island, has experienced a population boom, and, with it, seen the opening of a number of restaurants. While these establishments are close to Hilton Head (some less than 2 miles away from the Island boundary), most are not special enough to cause diners on Hilton Head to fight the traffic necessary to get there. Thus, except for the dining room at the Inn at Palmetto Bluff, and Blake’s, which is just over the bridge, we limit our reviews to the Island restaurants.
Flash: Hilton Head joined the 21 Century by banning all smoking in restaurants as of May 1, 2007.
Preiser’s Top 10 (alphabetically):
-Blake’s Land, Sea & Spirits
-CQ’s
-Camillia Grill
-Michael Anthony’s
-Old Fort Pub
-Red Fish
-Sage Room
-Spice
-Studio
-Sunset Grille
ALEXANDER'S
PALMETTO DUNES PLANTATION
785-4999
This Island standard has upgraded its food quite a bit, and its wine list quite a lot. Alexander's is still not the elegant, fabulous place its advertising suggests, but the property is pretty, and with the improvement in cuisine, the expense is now more reasonable. Also on the plus side, the overbroad selection has been pared downt so that the chefs’ expertise can better shine through. Try the walnut sea scallops; the selection of Island food; or any of the grilled fish.
The wine list has earned a Wine Spectator "Award of Excellence," and the wine buyer is very knowledgeable and does not hesitate to stock good boutique selections.
Food rating: B+ Overall Rating: A-
ALLIGATOR GRILLE
PARK PLAZA OUTSIDE SEA PINES MAIN GATE
842-4888
Alligator Grille serves winning dishes such as roasted duck spring rolls, spicy tuna, crab and brie wontons, steaks, fish, and an excellent double cut pork chop topped with onion jam. And while the restaurant is not attempting to serve innovative cuisine, it certainly is successfully in paying attention to its wine list, which features some nice American selections along with a bevy of exciting and infrequently seen wines from Spain.
With friendly service, well made drinks, and home made desserts added in, Alligator Grille is a more than welcome addition to what is one of the best dining and entertainment areas on the Island – Park Plaza.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
AMIGOS CAFÉ y CANTINA
CIRCLE CENTER ON POPE
785-8226
To some extent, Amigos is the usual Mexican restaurant in a shopping center. However, there is a pleasant twist. The kitchen here actually pays some attention to the health desires of so many of today's diners, and, just to prove that it can be done, still creates some good Mexican food. The charbroiled chicken in soft corn tortilla, the veggie taco, and the skinless chicken breast grilled with cilantro and topped with low fat sour cream are worth a try. But if you are splurging, you may not want to miss the low country oyster taco. Don't expect much in the way of service here, and the utensils and plates are paper. Of course, traditional dishes are offered as well.
Food Rating: C+ Overall Rating: C
ANTONIO'S
VILLAGE AT WEXFORD
842-5505
The ambiance at Antonio’s is wonderfully inviting. Patrons enter a lovely room featuring original Italian art and are greeted by friendly staff. With the exception of the summer months, when the schedule varies, quality piano entertainment can be enjoyed in the bar area five nights a week. Many a night have we sipped wine, enjoyed an h'ors deuvre or two, and let the music take over.
Antonio’s continues to serve Tuscan cuisine, yet has added prime beef to its menu. We particularly enjoy the Shellfish en Brodo (in a tomato saffron broth) and Moroccan Chicken, but the menu has become more standardized than it used to be and we think this takes away from the individuality Antonio’s always offered. Nevertheless, the kitchen and management will work with you, and this is a nice place to concentrate on wine/food pairing. Most dishes are still very good - especially those involving pasta and cheese. The restaurant has garnered a Wine SpectatorAward of Excellence.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: B+
AQUA
10 NORTH FOREST BEACH DR.
341-3331
Less than a year old, this lovely oceanfront addition to the dining scene offers an interesting menu with heavy reliance on Pacific cuisine (though bowing to Hilton Head visitors and serving some low country cuisine as well). This is far from the stereotypical fusion experience, since these Asian dishes are often accented with local ingredients. The most inviting include a whole Dungeness crab sautéed in a hot and sour sauce with sake, scallions, mushrooms, and ginger; the lettuce wrap using low country tea smoked pork; the red snapper with chili, oyster mushrooms, and coconut cream; and the mixed Carolina satay.
The wine list here would be pretty good for most establishments, but more thought needs to be given to the type of cuisine that is being served. Rieslings and good cold sakes are now popular in most fine Asian houses, and they would be a good addition here. Word is that as soon as it is warm enough, beach dining will be available this year.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B+
AUNT CHILADAS
69 POPE AVENUE
785-7700
Though it certainly began as a Mexican restaurant serving Mexican standards, Aunt Chiladas has branched out to offer certain Italian dishes, seafood, and American fare. Some of the specialty dishes can be quite good (try the d. r. burrito, which comes stuffed with spaghetti and meatballs or sausage), and all portions are super sized. The margaritas are wonderful, good beer is available, and the service is friendly. This is a relatively easy place to have lunch or dinner if one desires, and is often crowded due to its popularity. Aunt Chiladas is mostly frequented in the evenings by the younger crowd.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
BISTRO MEZZALUNA
55 NEW ORLEANS RD.
842-5011
Serving more than passable bistro fare, such as grilled chicken, chicken parmesan, fried grouper, Philly cheesesteak, and pastas, this cute restaurant has recently added an average (but fine for the style here) wine list. Good to see they are trying.
Food Rating: B- Overall Rating: C
BLACK MARLIN BAYSIDE GRILL
86 HELMSMAN WAY (PALMETTO BAY MARINA)
785-4950
You might have known this as Hemmingway’s, but it seems the author’s estate didn’t care for that and caused a name change. But other than a few tweaks to the menu, all else is the same. This large restaurant will remind you of Key West (where “Papa” in fact spent so much of his time), and caters to visitors looking for an Island experience. The menu here is extensive and really not focused on any one cuisine (witness the lettuce leaf and Bangkok BBQ beef stick vs. the smoked trout and crab cake appetizers). For an entrée you can choose from the usual steaks, scallops, or seafood. Unfortunately, the dishes lack authenticity and balance. Wines at Black Marlin are sort of second fiddle, perhaps because so much of its clientele prefers Island drinks and beer. As a matter of fact, the outside bar is fun and inviting. So a stop here is OK for a raw bar lunch or drinks, but the kitchen sorely needs improvement for its more major dishes.
Food Rating: C- Overall Rating: C+
BLAKE’S LAND, SEA, & SPIRITS HIGHWAY 278
BLUFFTON (next to Home Depot)
815-1550
It doesn’t seem that long ago that chef/owner Brad Blake was cooking up a storm at the Sunset Grille. He now has brought his talent to Bluffton, and expanded his repertoire to include some very fine food in a chic atmosphere. The BBQ chicken (with white cheddar) and low country salads are particular favorites, as are the seared scallops and (though we don’t indulge too often) a very interesting southern style fried pork chop smothered in andouille gravy. You must ask about the specials here, as these creations are usually worth serious consideration.
Brad understands wine, and so works hard at providing a selection of note.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
BOATHOUSE II
397 SQUIRE POPE RD.
681-3663
Boathouse II is a “happening” and the ultimate in casual dining on Hilton Head. Sit outside in good weather, or, when cold or rainy, choose between the enclosed boathouse and lodge room with fireplace. Regardless of your location, you will relax to live music, gaze at beautiful views over the marsh, and enjoy well-prepared burgers, chicken, salads, sandwiches, and southern fare such as shrimp and stone ground grits. The Sunday brunch, featuring eggs Wellington, eggs Benedict, crab cakes and eggs, and a variety of Bloody Marys, is one of the Island's treats, as is the creative wine list. If you are on a boat, by the way, pull right on up.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: A-
BRICK OVEN CAFÉ
PARK PLAZA - NEAR SEA PINES CIRCLE
686-2233
One of the Island's few places offering a full late night menu, Brick Oven suffers from the opening of many places nearby that better serve the desires of the 21st century diner. The competition is simply serving better food, providing better service, and, most importantly, showing some understanding that not everyone likes to be inundated by smoke. This restaurant simply reeks of it on many nights (there is a potential ban on smoking in Island restaurants scheduled for May 1, but with appeals, who knows whether it will ever take effect?). Yes, you can still enjoy a good pizza at Brick Oven, but the once excellent entrees have become average. The wine list is only adequate.
Food Rating: B- Overall Rating: C
BRITISH OPEN PUB
VILLAGE AT WEXFORD
686-6736
If you want a semi-British experience with lots of golf overtones, this is the place to find it. The pub serves excellent beers, as well as traditional British Isles dishes such as Scotch eggs, fish and chips, Shepherd's pie, and bangers and mash. There are also more traditional pub preparations available all day such as hamburgers, crab cakes, etc. For dinner the menu expands, and you can enjoy a well prepared Porterhouse or Angus steak, lobster, or shrimp. We like the British Pub for a casual meal with nice people and good prices. New branches have opened close to Hilton Head in Beaufort and Sun City.
Food rating: B Overall Rating: B
BULLFEATHERS CHAR HOUSE
5 LAGOON RD.
341-5883
It is always nice to see a reasonably priced family steak and chop house. Even though reasonably priced, the meat and seafood is up to par. It is. We tried the shrimp kabob and filet and both were fine, if not succulent. We are suckers for lobster mac and cheese, and it is good here.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
CQ'S
HARBOUR TOWN
671-2779
There are seven or eight restaurants on Hilton Head that, at least in my imagination, vie for the title of "the best". The cuisine of each is different, yet wonderful in its own manner. Combining most of the elements we look for in a full dining experience, CQ's, located in easy to find romantic Harbour Town, allows one to dine in a beautifully restored inn. The restaurant also offers professional management, friendly and thoughtful service, a wine and food knowledgeable staff, a creative menu, fine cuisine, a cozy bar area, that certain feeling best described as warmth and ambiance, and an outstanding wine list (receiving the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence). Granted, it may not be the Island's star in each of these categories, but few places rank as high in so many. Savor the best lamb in town (medallions with cucumber mint cous cous and mint glaze) and the roasted Washington salmon. In fact, it seems that whatever we choose here becomes an instant favorite. What more can you ask?
You won't mind spending a bit more at CQ's than at most places on Hilton Head.
Food Rating: A Overall Rating: A
CAFÉ ST. TROPEZ
SOUTH ISLAND SQUARE
785-7425
If you have visited La Normandie, this is virtually the same restaurant with the same owners – only redecorated to, as the owners say, better reflect their heritage. We applaud the Chef/owner for choosing to prepare the foods for which he was trained in France at culinary school, and in some of Europe’s best restaurants. This may be the only classically French room on the Island.
We liked the new muted ambiance, which perhaps had something to do with the fact that we appreciated the food this time more than we had before. The Long Island Duckling and Dover Sole were close to perfect, though our tuna was overcooked (why do so many chefs assume their clients don’t know how to eat fish?). Appetizers and desserts were fine, though not notable. The wine list is Hilton Head OK, meaning there are some good choices but it is not creative.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: B+
CAMELLIA GRILL
PARK PLAZA
842-3727
Anuschka Schur is a chef who knows how to blend ingredients to create a true dining experience. In each dish we sampled, we thought we could identify an extra spice or an addition of a condiment that made the food special. Some of our selections included butternut squash, sweet potato, and white cheddar cakes with roasted tomato vinaigrette and saffron infused oil; crispy quail drizzled with raspberry coulis; fried green tomato and lump crab salad with lemon aioli and truffle scented greens; Amaretto pan seared Carolina trout with Vidalia flavored rice; and lemon scented black sea bass with an apricot glaze served over swiss chard, tasso ham, pistachio, and smoked gouda grits. Ambiance is warm, and the room bustles with anticipation. We are ready to go back right now. But there will be time. Camellia is here for a while.
Food Rating: A+ Overall Rating: A
CATCH 22
ORLEANS PLAZA OFF NEW ORLEANS RD.
785-6261
Open for a number of years now, Catch 22 is one of the two most under-the-radar restaurants on the Island. For those in the know, it is an “in” place to go, and deservedly so. It offers both ambiance (even without a water view to help) and excellent food. The combination raw bar/alcohol bar sets the pace for the charming front room. The servers are attractive, friendly, and professional throughout the establishment. The wine list has some fine selections. The chef is skilled at preparing the dishes on the menu. You can order full or half portions of many dishes. And, while not inexpensive, the price is fair. For what more can you ask? Our jumbo crab cocktail was full of fresh crab; the shrimp were large and not soggy; the pan seared scallops, a treat in themselves, came with mushroom filled ravioli, onions, goat cheese, and spinach; and the baked oysters topped with bacon, onion, and roasted pepper sour cream were a delight. Enjoy this one.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
CHARLIE'S CRAB
GUMTREE and SQUIRE POPE RD.
342-9066
A favorite of locals and tourists alike, Charlie's Crab is an attractive restaurant that serves well prepared and enticing fish dishes. You can choose from a variety of appetizers that include a wonderful mussel and clam pan roast, as well as excellent fried calamari. Six or seven varieties of fresh fish can be prepared by broiling, sautéing, blackening, or char grilling. Specialties and classics such as fried seafood platters, lobsters, salmon, Oysters Rockefeller, veal shank, seafood over pasta, and trout are also enticing. Drawbacks? Prices are not cheap, and the service is not always consistent.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: B
CHARLIE'S L'ETOILE VERTE
8 NEW ORLEANS RD.
785-9277
One of the few restaurants on Hilton Head that does not advertise because it is always crowded (lunch or dinner), Charlie has moved into the old Charleston’s location, which was always the prettiest restaurant in town. The ambiance is now on a par with his cuisine, and the restaurant is big enough to hold his legion of fans. The restaurant specializes in excellent preparations of fish, but the land side is well represented and served without apologies. The wines here are selected with care, and the lovely bar can create the most difficult of cocktails. The menu is charmingly handwritten daily, and I highly suggest the poached scallops, Carolina trout, or wild Coho salmon.
My complaint about Charlie's remains the same as it did when he was in his old location. It has to do with service, and the disadvantages are magnified in the new and larger building. He simply does not have enough help, and the wait staff that is there needs to be better trained in all areas to bring the establishment to the level of fine dining. The slowness of the service and the lack of attention can really be off-putting.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: B
CONROY'S
MARRIOTT in PALMETTO DUNES
686-8499
Yes, this nice addition to the Island restaurant scene is named for author Pat Conroy, but don't expect to see him there. What you will see are servers who have been well trained, a menu that features old favorites, and a lot of diners having a good time.
Almost all the dishes we have sampled inside the restaurant and out (Conroy's participates in Island wide food functions) are well prepared. If we had to recommend a few dishes, they would be the cornmeal-crusted oysters, the horseradish encrusted salmon, and a huge oak smoked pork chop. The wine list here is nice, yet could be a bit more inventive. The bar outside the restaurant features excellent entertainment and some of the best made drinks on the Island.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
CRANE'S TAVERN and SEAFOOD
26 NEW ORLEANS ROAD
341-2333
We enjoy the cozy bar area in this top of the line steakhouse and seafood tavern. Not only are the USDA Prime steaks well prepared, but Crane’s offers outstanding jumbo lump crab cakes and impressive oysters casino. While we give a special nod to these dishes, that should not detract from the balance of the fine food prepared here. This is one of the restaurants on Hilton Head where the owner cares about wine and offers a fabulous wine list – in fact, it competes for the Island's best. Negatives? The service is not always on top of its game, of late the salmon is oft times overcooked, and you can feel crowded at times. But the positives far outweigh these occasional inconveniences.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: B+
DI VINO
5 NORTHRIDGE PLAZA
681-7700
This is a very intimate Italian restaurant that has the loyalty of a number of Islanders and at least one nearby newspaper. We find that the menu offers a good variety of traditional Tuscan Italian fare, but is lacking in creativity and newer culinary concepts. The food itself, while certainly qualifying as more than adequate, is not as special as it might be if it incorporated a more modern approach. Nevertheless, we are aware that there are people who appreciate the consistency of a restaurant, and Di Vino offers that. Service is friendly, and a few good Italian wines can be enjoyed. We would recommend the charbroiled calamari - you can't find it in too many places, and rarely find it prepared as well. Our other favorite? Good ol’ Osso Buco.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
FLAVORS
81 POPE AVE. # 12A
785-3115
Nice concept – flavors from around the world. Nice people. To me, average food, and a floor staff that needs some instruction from a professional.
Food Rating: C- Overall Rating: C-
FLORA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ
841 WILLIAM HILTON PARKWAY (SOUTH ISLAND SQUARE)
842-8200
Reminiscent of New York Italian fare (not surprising – the owners are from New Jersey), Flora’s offers fine, though not spectacular, pasta and veal dishes. Service is inconsistent, and there is an attitude from some of the front of the house that the restaurant does you a favor to serve you. But if the right staff is on duty, dining can be a fun and satisfying experience. Their best dish might be an appetizer – the eggplant rolled with cheese, baked in a tasty tomato sauce, and topped with fresh mozzarella.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B-
FRANKIE BONES
1301 MAIN ST.
682-4455
We have to admit we really like this over the top tribute to the big city restaurants of the late 50’s and early 60’s. As Sinatra and his generation of singers croon in the background, the sharp crowd here is enjoying comfort food unlike any place else on the Island. Bacon wrapped shrimp, pizza, spaghetti, rigatoni, veal chops, fried and grilled seafood – Frankie Bones has it all. And it’s good. But you can’t go without ordering the mouth watering excellent lobster mac and cheese. And once you’ve done that, you might as well finish with s’mores, NY style cheesecake, or a root beer float.
Servers here are fun, and the wine list offers a wide variety at good prices. But even as much as we love wine, since the spirits and martinis are as good as any on Hilton Head, we are often attracted to the bar.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A
GIUSEPPIS
32 B SHELTER COVE LANE
785-4144
Clearly in the top three on the Island as far as pizza (and we refer to the restaurant at the above address only), Giuseppi's serves it all, from the traditional pizza, to white pizza, to chicken with roasted red pepper pizza. They offer original style or stuffed. They offer a wide variety of fresh toppings. They offer quality that makes one feel as if s/he was eating the best pizza on the streets of New York, though the owners of this establishment come from Pittsburgh. And they offer the not to be missed "Weggie", their own fabulous rendition of a calzone. Giuseppi's has a large salad menu, including garden salads, Caesar salads, tuna salads, etc., as well as a good variety of sandwiches and pastas. This is a perfect restaurant for pizza or a great place to bring the kids for lunch or dinner.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
GRUBY'S NEW YORK DELI
890 WILLIAM HILTON PARKWAY
842-9111
Would you think you could find a deli in Hilton Head where some dishes and meats almost compare to delis in New York or South Florida? I did not, and after sampling most of the Island's "delis" for 5 years I thought I was right. Then I found Gruby's, and when I savored their delicious corned beef on rye with New York style cole slaw, I knew I had been wrong. Since then I've tried numerous combinations of foods and have enjoyed most. And the menu looks like a mini Carnegie Deli menu with a number of the same type sandwiches.
Service has become professional and pleasant, a nice thing to see, especially on an early Sunday morning. If you are lucky Denise will wait on you. This is not New York, of course, but for an authentic deli experience, Gruby's is the only one on Hilton Head. Fortunately, it is quite good.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: B+
HARBOUR TOWN GRILL
HARBOUR TOWN CLUBHOUSE
363-8380
What was only a few short years ago the most underrated and perhaps best restaurant on the Island, the Harbour Town Grill failed to replace their talented chefs and excellent management. They did, however, upgrade the ambiance so that if you don’t expect gourmet dining, you can have a satisfying experience.
The menu is now quite classic (veal Oscar, grilled ribeye, chicken Cordon Bleu, etc.), but the dishes lack the flair of old. Service is friendly and the prices are quite competitive.
Food Rating: B- Overall Rating: C+
HINCHEY'S CHICAGO BAR AND GRILL
BEACH MARINA (NEAR COLIGNY CIRCLE)
686-5959
Despite a menu that might throw you off, Hinchey's is a typical shore front restaurant with service, food, and atmosphere geared toward the masses that visit the beaches. The food is actually a step up from most of the restaurants in its category, and if we are in the area we don't hesitate to stop here for a barbecue, burger, or Chicago strip steak. As the name implies, Chicago is the theme inside (tapes of Chicago TV, memorabilia, etc.). A fun spot.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
HINOKI
ORLEANS PLAZA OFF NEW ORLEANS RD.
785-9800
The prettiest Japanese restaurant/sushi bar on the Island, Hinoki is designed to offer a relaxing lunch or dinner with tableside service, where you can enjoy sushi or order from the Island's most extensive and authentic Japanese menu. Cold appetizers may include tuna sashimi three ways (spicy, carpaccio, Dijon), thinly sliced seared filet mignon, or sliced octopus with wasabi tobiko. Hot starters include various tempuras, edamame, dumplings, and a number of broiled fishes. Of course, for entrees there are traditional noodle dishes as well as numerous combinations of fish and beef served stir-fried, broiled, grilled, fried, or as part of soups and/or stews. We recommend accompanying your meal here with a nice cold sake or beer.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
HOMEPORT
PALMETTO BAY MARINA 785-9666
There are only a few truly good restaurants on Hilton Head with good views of the water and a sunset/sunrise, and Homeport is one of them. A couple of the best chefs on the Island oversee the kitchen at the time of this writing, which has served some excellent food during our visits. Though we aren’t lovers of fried lobster, it is tempura style at Homeport, and usually light. We also recommend the baked oyster combo (Rockefeller and Charleston), the char grilled NY strip and rack of lamb, and the seafood casserole (fresh fish, scallops, shrimp, and crab in mornay sauce).
The wine list is passable – if you care about a good pairing, call to see if you can bring your own because the food deserves a good wine. Service is spotty, primarily, we think, because the house does not plan for a large crowd and can be taken by surprise. And though our food has been excellent, word from many others is that the kitchen can be inconsistent. But we rate from our own experience.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: B+
HUDSON 'S ON THE DOCKS
1 HUDSON RD.
681-2772
To be fair, this long time Island seafood house is liked by many locals and veteran tourists. We, on the other hand, have not been in love with any of the food we have tasted, a motif that seems never to have changed, or the too casual for our liking service. The menu is certainly enticing, and the ambiance outside on the docks is great on a tourist island. But if you go, order accordingly. Try a few small things first to see if this one is for you.
Food Rating: C Overall Rating: C+
HUGO’S AT WEXFORD
VILLAGE AT WEXFORD 785-4846
Hugo, the former chef at Fitzgerald’s, one of the Island’s oldest restaurants, has opened his own place in this excellent location that has been without a successful restaurant for some years now. With Hugo’s following, that could change, especially if one is searching for comfort food over something more inventive. Prime rib, filet, fried chicken, and crab cakes are staples. All are good, but do seem like a throw back to another generation. We probably like the Sunday brunch here best, with fresh eggs Benedict, eggs Orleans, and a tasty seafood omelette.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
IL CARPACCIO
430 PINELAND STATION
342-9949
Il Carpaccio serves Italian food from all regions of the country. You will find veal topped with prosciutto, sage, and white wine sauce representing the north; pasta with shallots, mushrooms, sausage, and Madeira sauce from the Tuscan area; and the more familiar southern section checking in with a thin, crusty pizza. You won't find elegance, but Il Carpaccio isn't striving for it. You will, however, be comfortable, dine on food that ranges from good to excellent, and be treated well. The hot appetizers were the stars here the night we visited. The wine list needs improvement. All in all we enjoy this establishment, with our only problem being the lack of uniformity in the excellence of the cuisine. As mentioned above, some can be quite wonderful, but you just don't know which it might be.
Food Rating: A- sometimes and B at others Overall Rating: B
IMPERIAL DRAGON
33 OFFICE PARK ROAD
785-9999
This restaurant offers a very extensive, and often very good, menu of mixed cuisine from various provinces of China. A strong selling point is the excellent pricing of the dishes and the cheerful service. A minus is a lack of ambiance. The wine list is in vast need of improvement, but a good selection of beer is available.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B-
IT’S GREEK TO ME
1G NEW ORLEANS RD.
341-3556
This is a solid Greek restaurant with little atmosphere, but with lots of heart and large portions. The menu lists mostly the classics you would expect, and most are prepared well. Our only complaint is an over use of olive oil by some of the cooks.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B-
JAXX – THE RESTAURANT
FESTIVAL CENTER ON HWY. 278
342-2400
It’s not so easy to find Jaxx, but once you do, you should not be disappointed. Yes, the menu is populated by most of the same dishes you can find throughout Hilton Head, but the chef here knows how to distinguish a grouper from a tilapia, and do something about it. We enjoyed both of these fresh fish (blackened and parmesan encrusted), as well as the wiener schnitzel (hard to find a good one these days). Appetizers at Jaxx are also a treat. The oysters rivaled the Island’s best (both raw and Rockefeller) and the French onion soup was devoid of the over saltiness that dooms most soups. You can find some nice wines to accompany the food. If there is a major negative, it revolves around the service, which is friendly, but on the night we visited, not professional. It is just too easy to learn how to train staff to allow restaurants to escape criticism for not spending the money to do so.
Food rating: A- Overall Rating: B+
JULEPS
14 GREENWOOD DRIVE
THE GALLERY OF SHOPS
842-5857
Boasting a charming room and much of the same enticing menu it has always featured, Juleps is under new management and the new chef is getting the hang of the style that kept Juleps high on the list of preferred Island restaurants. Still tasty is the BBQ duck breast, the she crab soup, the veal chop, and the crab stuffed shrimp. Biscuits are also as good as ever, as is the service, which benefits from some long time people (ask for Karen). I do miss the departed quail with andouille sausage.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: B
JUMP & PHIL'S
HILTON HEAD PLAZA (NEAR GREENWOOD CIRCLE)
785-9070
You will discover Islanders of all ages here having a good time in this locally owned bar/bistro with surprisingly good food. Jump & Phil's succeeds because it accomplishes its exact goal - to provide a friendly place where you can find great hamburgers, crab cake sandwiches, dinner specials such as prime rib, lobster, or ribs, and other typical pub preparations prepared atypically well. It's a late night hang out for the young at heart, but fun all the time. Great prices, too.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B+
JUST PASTA
COLIGNY PLAZA
686-3900
A wonderful concept. Just Pasta does best when it is what it says - a restaurant that allows you to choose from a wide variety of pastas, and then select from numerous sauces, meatballs, sausages, etc... We like it a lot. Though the restaurant offers a wider menu of classics like lasagna and veal piccatta, or specialties like seafood fra diavlo, these dishes need to be tuned up a notch.
Food Rating: B+ (pasta) C+ (rest of menu) Overall Rating: B
KENNY B'S FRENCH QUARTER CAFÉ
BI-LO CENTER (OFF POPE AVENUE)
785-3315
This is billed as a New Orleans Style restaurant with low country influence. Some of the menu offerings are, in fact, reminiscent of the Crescent City, but too many use the same or incorrect ingredients, and so have no individuality or authenticity.
Our major problem with the food here, served in large portions, is a lack of balance. Some of the soups (primarily the gumbo ya-ya) are too salty, some flavors are dashed by the overuse of Tabasco sauce (as in the jambalaya), and some dishes are too bland (red beans and rice). We have mentioned this for years, yet as of 2007, no changes have been made. Some good beers are available, but you will have trouble finding a wine of distinction. The service is uncaring. You order from the counter before you sit, and whenever the staff gets around to serving the food, it will come to you.
Food Rating: C- Overall Rating: D+
KINGFISHER SEAFOOD AND STEAK
SHELTER COVE TO THE RIGHT OF NEPTUNE’S STATUE
785-4442
Kingfisher is a long time favorite of tourists for casual dining, and a choice of locals for its entertainment, which is varied and well done. With a nice menu which includes seafood quesadilla, oysters with a blend of spinach bacon, lobster cream and béarnaise; herb crusted catfish, beef tips bordelaise, filet with fried leeks and béarnaise, a Greek pasta, and lots of fresh fish prepared in interesting manners, we have no problem relaxing at this attractive establishment when we want some music and solid seafood. It isn't gourmet, though the chef is well trained, and the service, while friendly, lacks style. Still, you will probably enjoy your time here.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
KING’S WHARF
40 FOLLY FIELD RD.
686-5464
In the Hilton Head Beach and Tennis Resort, King’s Wharf has chosen its niche carefully. Not striving to compete with the finer dining restaurants on the Island, the Wharf cheerfully advertises fresh food in a casual setting for the best price that can be found for the quality offered. And they are succeeding in their goal.
There are three rooms in which to dine, weather permitting. We loved the outside oyster bar with its looooooooong table overlooking the water. Also enticing is Tavern, with a fascinating décor of antiques, and a local clientele that stays until the wee hours of the morning. We were not as impressed with the ambiance of the “Neptune Room,” a throwback to the 50’s. However, the food is the same in all three rooms. Try Neptune’s Feast with its shrimp, crab cakes, mussels, oysters, fish, and scallops for under $17 (ask for some sauces for dipping) as well as the many variations of baked oysters. We loved the large portion of salmon brushed with Ponzu sauce, and, while we don’t eat much fried seafood any more, we tasted it here, and highly recommend all of it, especially the clams, scallops, and catfish. An inexpensive, but well chosen wine list is available, but good beer goes with this food, too. King’s Wharf is just what it wants to be.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
KURAMA
9 PALMETTO BAY RD.
785-4955
This wildly successful sushi and steak house may be the most crowded restaurant on the Island, day in and day out. It offers fresh sushi and a limited grilled fish menu at each of the two sushi bars, as well as huge (and well prepared) dinners at the traditional Teppanyaki tables. We always love to watch a skilled chef at Japanese steakhouses, and most at Kurama fit the bill. The excellent food is a real bonus. The only problem here is that because of the crowds, you might have a bit of a wait, and usually the service is quite slow. But this allows you to meet your dining companions and strike up new friendships. This is a fun place offering good prices all the time, and some fabulous specials.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: B+
LITTLE VENICE
SHELTER COVE HARBOUR
785-3300
Little Venice is a very traditional Italian restaurant serving the normal dishes such as veal marsala, veal piccatta, grouper with olive oil, and different pastas with seafood or meats. The food is average to good, and the wine list is likewise. What Little Venice does have going for it is an attractive view of the harbor at Shelter Cove, which is a nice place to visit and relax in the early evening hours. This is an excellent restaurant for the kids, and the prices are quite reasonable. On some evenings there is entertainment in the square just in front of the restaurant.
Food Rating: B- Overall Rating: B
MARLEYS ISLAND GRILLE
35 OFFICE PARK RD. (PARK PLAZA)
686-5800
With a style that is quasi-Caribbean, and food that is fresh and flavorful due to the wood-fired hickory grill and the deft use of spices, Marleys has carved a niche for itself among a broad clientele. Take all of that and add a nice wine list, a rum bar, well made martinis, and an attractive room, and you have the elements of a very nice evening.
Consider at least the whole wood grilled fish of the day; the delicious spicy tuna sashimi (more like a tartar); the butternut squash soup; the sesame seared yellowfin tuna; the sugar cane scallops; and the Cuban style steak in lime, garlic, cilantro, and cumin. But the menu is vast (with so many choices we can't see how the chef can prepare them all well, though what we recommended above were expertly served), so you will have no trouble finding something you desire. The service is quite efficient and very pleasant, but the ever-present crowd slows things down.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: B+
MELLOW MUSHROOM
PARK PLAZA
686-2474
If you grew up in the Atlanta area in the late 60's or early 70's, you will remember the Mellow Mushroom, with a name that reflected the counter-culture of the day. Well, the child has grown up, branched out, and now offers pizzas, hoagies, salads, and calzones. We admire the many variations available, especially those with a health conscious bent, such as the mega-veggie pizza (sun dried tomatoes, spinach, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, feta, banana peppers, artichoke hearts) and the grilled tofu or grilled tempeh hoagies (the latter with balsamic vinaigrette, grilled onions, green peppers, mushrooms, and sprouts).
Of course, the more traditional pizzas and hoagies are here, too, and you can accompany them with one of about two dozen interesting beers on tap. Mellow Mushroom doesn't offer the best tasting pizza and hoagies on the Island, but it's still perfect for kids, pre and post movie meals, and a great beer experience.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
MICHAEL ANTHONY'S
37 NEW ORLEANS RD.
785-6272
Put succinctly, Michael Anthony's is the hottest and the best restaurant on Hilton Head. Beautifully run on the business side by Tony Fazzini, offering exquisite food from partner Michael Cirafesi, and presenting its best face in the front of the house with partner Becky Fazzini, G.M. Jill Boyd, and manager Chris Miller, this establishment has put it all together. While we used to believe there were other restaurants on the Island that might someday rival Michael Anthony’s, that no longer seems to be so, and as of now Michael Anthony’s is still the only restaurant that can compete nationally on all levels.
There are many factors that set Michael Anthony's apart from not only most restaurants on Hilton Head, but also anywhere. The owners are all daily (and nightly) involved with each aspect of dining, including customer relations. They have dedicated themselves to perfection and keeping abreast with the best new culinary techniques and wines. They take the time to hire intelligent, attractive, and professional staff. And they insist that all food and ingredients pass Chef Michael's trained and talented eye.
Without overstating our case, we can say that almost every dish is, or approaches, perfection. The menu changes, but hopefully you can find scallops, duck, gnocchi (perhaps the best we have tasted anywhere), or veal available on the evening you visit. But don't hesitate to order whatever is offered. The wine list is outstanding and well thought out (ask for the Captain’s List as well). The bar often remains crowded late into the evening as diners sip good wine by the glass and enjoy the terrific atmosphere. Make this your first stop for dining on Hilton Head, but call ahead for two reasons. One, reservations are often difficult to obtain, and two, the restaurant sponsors many special events of culinary and wine interest.
Food Rating: A+ Overall Rating: A+
NEW YORK CITY PIZZA
HERITAGE PLAZA ON 4TH AVENUE
842-2227
New York City Pizza offers excellent pizza and fair southern Italian fare. Unfortunately, the restaurant itself is usually hot (in the traditional sense, meaning temperature), and lacks any sort of ambiance. Service is mixed. We suggest you take the pizza home. This is a beer and soft drink place.
Pizza Rating: A- Other Food Rating: B Overall Rating: C
OCEAN GRILL
1 SHELTER COVE LANE
SHELTER COVE HARBOR 785-3030
This is clearly the finest seafood menu on the Island, and you can be assured of top flight food when a restaurant is run by the Lowrey Group. Yes, this was Harbormaster’s for many years, but in 2005 The Lowreys converted the name and style, so it is now more upscale casual and resort-like. Seafood is fresh, steaks are Prime, and the wine cellar has received numerous accolades.
We love the dish descriptions. How about oysters broiled on the half shell with reggiano parmesan, baby spinach, pernod, and lobster cream; or tempura fried lobster served with sweet Thai chili sauce for appetizers? And for entrees it is difficult to resist the Crispy Shellfish Assortment, which includes fried lobster tail, scallops, shrimp, oyster, assorted sauces, haystack fried potatoes and fried corn on the cob. But if you are a fan of a bit lighter cuisine, Ocean Grill specializes in that as well. Broiled/Roasted dishes usually available are the “Symphony” (lobster tail, mahi mahi, shrimp, scallops, assorted sauces, rice pilaf, and seasonal vegetables); Tangy Thai Tilapia (sesame scallion rice noodles, Asian ratatouille, teriyaki glaze); and Caribbean spiced Pork Loin with fried plantains, Vidalia whipped potatoes, and tropical fruit salsa.
The ambiance, service, people, and view are so nice at Ocean Grill that it pains us to say our food was inconsistent. Some was excellent, but some missed the mark in its lack of seasonings and spices. We feel sure, however, that the Lowrey Group will make certain all improves as they move into their second full year of ownership.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: A
OLD FORT PUB
HILTON HEAD PLANTATION
681-2386
Old Fort Pub is arguably the most elegant restaurant on Hilton Head. While always ranking in the upper echelon as far as cuisine (HOW good it is at any time depends on what chef the Lowrey group has assigned there at the moment), it always exudes the class and creativity of all the Lowrey restaurants. If you don't order wine anywhere else, at least do so here, as the wine list is a perennial award winner, this year being recognized with the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.
The “Pub” features some of the best Continentally inspired food on the Island. As with so many restaurants on Hilton Head, seafood is important here, but there is something about the classic and cozy atmosphere that seems to make us want to search out some of the other dishes and enjoy a big bottle of red wine. However, should you desire lighter food and lighter wine; they are there for you as well. Old Fort is consistently in our top 10 for the Island.
Food Rating: A- to A Overall Rating: A- to A
OLD OYSTER FACTORY
MARSHLAND RD. 1.1 MILES OFF MATTHEWS DR.
681-6040
Not just a seafood restaurant, Old Oyster Factory prepares the entire realm of a Continental menu and does it all well. Added bonuses are a beautiful water view and a wine list that offers over 50 wines by the glass and has received an Award of Excellence from The Wine Spectator.
We don’t need to recommend anything in particular because all the dishes are uniformly well prepared and tasty. Be aware, however, that this is not your average seafood restaurant price-wise. It is more of a fine dining restaurant that specializes in seafood, and, thus, your bill may reflect that. Our major problem at the Oyster Factory is that it does not accept reservations. The question becomes, then, whether it is so good that a wait, or the possibility of a wait, is worth the time to go. To me, the answer is “no.” It is good, yes, but not THAT good. I do hasten to add that I am probably in the minority since there always seems to be a crowd (and, correspondingly, a wait).
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFÉ
PALMETTO BAY MARINA
686-3232
Open from 6:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., Sunrise Café is deservedly crowded with lots of locals, as well as the visitors lucky enough to have made the discovery. All the food is fresh and well prepared. Breakfasts include the traditional pancakes, French toast, and eggs, but also feature quiche de jour, eggs Benedict, frog legs, and handmade crab cakes. For lunch the options are sandwiches, sunrise oysters, artichoke and crab dip, she-crab soup, and wonderful salads.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
RED FISH
8 ARCHER RD.
686-3388
There is probably no more versatile restaurant on Hilton Head than Red Fish. Here you may buy one of the best lunches in town (now overseen by one of our favorite chefs – Melissa Cochran), truly enjoy a dinner that features wonderful preparation with a "Cuban/Caribbean flare," purchase wine from the 1,000 bottle retail shop in the bar (there is no better wine selection on the Island), and just have a good time with friendly people and service.
We like dining in the bar room surrounded by all the wine for sale, and the restaurant permits you to buy retail and drink the selection with your meal for a small corkage charge. This would be great even if the lobster mac and cheese, Cioppino linguini, seared tuna, black bean soup, Latin ribs, fried oysters, and seafood dishes weren't so good. Red Fish is in the top ten of our places to recommend.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A
REILLY’S
PORT ROYAL PLAZA/SEA PINES CIRCLE
681-4153 and 842-4414
Reilly's is almost a semi Irish Pub and bar offering the traditional Irish foods (Shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, etc.), as well as the usual American lunches. They have a good selection of American and imported beers, friendly service, and usually a lively crowd. All the food is good, though this is not the place to eat if one is searching for any kind of healthy cooking. The restaurants are just not geared for it. On the other hand, they are fun and worth the trip (just wish they had some good Irish music except on St. Patty’s day).
Food Rating: B- Overall Rating: B
RENDEZ-VOUS-CAFE THE GALLERY OF SHOPS OF SEA PINES CIRCLE
785-5070
Rendez-Vous has always been a fun little French influenced room. We enjoy the wines and liberal wine policy, as well as the seafood over linguini, steak au poivre, steamed mussels, and frog legs. Mid week often finds some piano music. For a little romance, especially on a dark, cold, winter day (the restaurant is open for lunch Monday - Friday), rendez-vous at Rendez-vous.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: B
RUAN THAI
811 WILLIAM HILTON PARKWAY 785-8575
One of the few places I think we have missed on the Island, I cannot give you a personal review. However, my friends and colleagues tell me it is quite excellent, and the menu, just by perusal, is enticing and exciting.
No Rating
SAGE ROOM
13 HERITAGE PLAZA
785-5352
Owner/Chef Matt Jordan has another of the Island’s top 10 restaurants, and it seems to keep improving. Sage Room offers fine cuisine in an upscale atmosphere, and is frequented by those “in the know” on the Island, including many in the food and beverage industry.
The wine list borders on superb, and the service is first rate. As for the food, it rivals most any on the Island, and Matt changes his menu periodically. We can highly recommend the roasted pork tenderloin with blue cheese cream sauce; the butternut squash soup (in season); the braised beef short ribs; and the delicious Colorado lamb with a wild mushroom demi glace. Two thumbs up, as they say, for each dish, as each exhibits that little extra "something" that is the signature of an excellent chef. This is a fun and attractive place.
Food Rating: A+ Overall Rating: A
SAN MIGUELS
SHELTER COVE HARBOUR
842-4555
Located in beautiful Shelter Cove, San Miguels is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. It offers more sophisticated dishes and service than its competitors. The restaurant is blessed by being able to have an outside bar, some of the best margaritas on the Island, and, in season, entertainment. Prices are very reasonable. This is a very nice place to spend some relaxing time.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
SANTA FE CAFE
700 PLANTATION CENTER
785-3838
Here you will dine in the warmth of white washed adobe walls, fireplaces, vigas and Bancos, or enjoy the cozy roof top cantina. Legendary chef Jim Buckingham has sold the restaurant to former employees Marshall Sampson & Sean Crosby, and while there are some new items on the menu, many of the old remain. We are still hard pressed to get by the wonderful appetizers. The bartenders at Santa Fe Cafe remember how to make an excellent margarita, and the wine and beer list is very good. Santa Fe was one of our first favorites on Hilton Head, and we wanted so much for the new owners to have maintained the “A” quality. But, alas, things seemed to have slipped a bit. The basis for great food is still there, but that little something extra seems to be missing. The same holds true for the service. Let us hope that little something shows up.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: B+
SEA GRASS GRILL
807 WILLIAM HILTON PARKWAY
785-9990
This charming room set with low country beach themes is in the same location as was the popular Charlie’s Etoile before the latter’s move to New Orleans Rd. a few years ago. Terrell, Kathy, and Chef Chad, who had all been with Charlie for 15 years, just seemed naturals to re-open as owners of their own new place, and thus Sea Grass Grill was born.
The menu here is heavy on seafood, and that is just fine. Select from various preparations of Mahi Mahi, salmon (farm raised), tuna, sea scallops, shrimp, tilapia, and whatever is offered as the special. You should be happy with anything here. If you are a land lover, you will find filet, breast of duck, chicken, or perhaps a pork chop. The wine list is interesting and offers some excellent selections. This is a solid, if not spectacular, restaurant. Chef Chad has almost 40 years of experience, and his technical skills are unquestioned. But a little more 21st Century imagination would go a long way.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
THE SEA SHACK
EXECUTIVE PARK ROAD (OFF POPE AVE.)
785-2464
A place known and frequented primarily by the locals, this little restaurant actually does resemble a New England shack. But who cares, when all sorts of fresh fish are available and you can choose to have it grilled, blackened, or fried? There are no pretensions here. You order at the counter as you read the menu off a board, and then sit at an old table and wait for your food. The fried oyster sandwich, the fish based soups, and the grilled grouper were true winners, but the crowd makes it clear that everything is top notch. Large portions, and inexpensive, too. On an Island where the best seafood is usually in the finer restaurants, this is a good find.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
SKILLETS COLIGNY PLAZA
785-3131
If you have not been on the Island for a while, Skillets is no longer the quaint breakfast place that served hearty food. It is now a lovely restaurant (7 a.m – 10 p.m.) that has expanded its menu to include home style dinners such as fried beer batter fish, meat loaf, fried shrimp, and fried chicken. More classic dishes such as a grilled pork chop, rainbow trout, grilled salmon, and sautéed calves liver are available, too. Service is still inconsistent, and the wine list is, unfortunately, not good at all. We hope management will step up to the plate on both these issues.
Of course, the incomparable breakfasts still make anyone’s mouth water. Try the “Kitchen Sink” (a layer of pancakes ringed with home fries, sausage, bacon, and topped with poached eggs), the “Beach” (blended home fries, chopped bacon, diced ham, onions, and mushrooms in a blanket of sausage gravy topped with poached eggs), or more traditional dishes such as French toast, Belgian waffles, blintzes, and omelets. You must have breakfast here at least once a trip.
Food Rating: Breakfast A+ Dinner B- Overall Rating: B+
THE SMOKEHOUSE BAR & HOUSE OF BBQ
102 POPE AVENUE
842-4227
Here we have an establishment that provides outstanding BBQ dishes. I am not a fan of ribs, but I suggest you don't leave Hilton Head without trying these. They are the best I have ever put in my mouth. Also sample the pulled pork, sliced or pulled brisket, chicken, and/or lots of other appropriate entrees and sides. Enjoy the different spiced BBQ sauces, but don't miss a unique mustard/BBQ preparation. You might find the best hamburger on the Island, too. A great place for the kids, for a family meal, or for some fun at the bar. It's a casual place, and prices are gentle.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: B+
SPARTINA’S SOUTHERN KITCHEN
81 POPE AVE. HERITAGE PLAZA
686-5011
We are glad to see one of our favorite chefs, Richard Vaughan, back on the Island with his own restaurant – called Spartina’s no less, the name of his excellent establishment of some years ago. At this new venture Richard has put together an old style southern experience, where you select an entrée from a menu that includes meatloaf, fried chicken, pulled smoked pork, and catfish, and then hit the “fixin’s bar” for red rice, collard greens, skillet corn, mac and cheese, baked potato salad, etc.
We have been dining with Richard for a long time and have rarely tried anything he makes that is not wonderful. Real treats? Fried lobster tail, Vidalia onion cheese pie, and, for dessert, banana cream pudding. Spartina’s delivers exactly what it promises.
Food Rating: A+ Overall rating: B+
SPICE
THE VILLAGE AT WEXFORD
1000 WILLIAM HILTON PARKWAY
785-4850
If you know your cuisines of the world, you may agree that there is nothing as versatile (and in our opinion, as delicious) as Indian. So many people incorrectly equate Indian food solely with hot curry that many restaurants never get the chance to show off the fabulous dishes that have evolved over thousands of years.
So bravo to Spice and its owners for having the courage to open this Indian house, which in fact features mostly outstanding food. The chef is a veteran of India, England, and the U.S., and his skill becomes obvious with every bite. The lamb Rogan Josh (with tomatoes, ground red chili, and paprika), the baked sea bass, and the shrimp were definite winners, but try as many plates from the menu as you can. This is not the space for a full lesson on Indian dining, but the Tandoori oven creates some of the dining marvels of the world, and they should not be missed. Our only complaint was the appetizers, which were comprised of too many fried offerings. And they were only average. But the entrees were so good that we have almost forgotten about the negatives.
The wine list at Spice is extensive and outstanding – a sure award winner. The bar area is hot in decoration and clientele. And the servers do all they can to please you. You should make a trip here if you are on the Island.
Food Rating: A Overall Rating: A
STELLINI
15 POPE AVENUE
AT EXECUTIVE PARK
785-7006
While Stellini serves the traditional "little Italy" fare, most of the food is well prepared. The dining room is intimate and attractive, and the wine list is better than most on the Island. The mozzarella in corozza, the crabmeat ravioli, and the shrimp scampi are delicious appetizers. Different types of pastas are served with a variety of red or white sauce. The veal seemed to be better than the poultry, though both are prepared five ways and are quite good, and the seafood tasted excellent. Our favorite is the grouper Piccata. This is an under appreciated establishment.
Food Rating: B+ Overall Rating: B
STRIPES
114 OFFICE PARK ROAD
686-4747
At one time this American restaurant garnered raves from most people on the Island, but its owners Debbie and Steve Hancotte became complacent, and their food became ordinary. We have not been there in years, and I don’t know anyone who has – at least no one has said so to me. Perhaps we should try them again, but our last time there management placed extra charges (and high, too) on our bill for condiments and sides such as onions, tomatoes, and the like. We wrote to ask why, but our letters were ignored. So I may not return, after all.
No Rating
THE STUDIO
20 POPE AVE.@ EXECUTIVE PARK RD.
785-6000
The Studio has now been around for a while, and is doing the business it should based upon its exciting food and charming ambiance. Owned by long time (and still young) Island stalwarts Paul (Chef) and Lunonia (artist and front of the house) Colella, The Studio is a recommended evening for those looking for romance, soft entertainment, or just good dining.
Great thought has been given to making the diner’s evening special. The front room is candle-lit and lovely, while the back room is brighter. Yet, both areas contain numerous art pieces to enjoy, and often Lunonia or another artist is painting as you dine. A full bar is offered, including an extensive martini list and well put together wine list with a minimum mark-up. Service is friendly and prices are fair. So what’s left? Delicious food presented beautifully and sparked by a touch of innovation. Paul changes his ingredients periodically, but they always surround superb venison, duck, and beef. These days he uses some Asian fusion and influences – so popular with Americans. On our last visit he prepared a delicious ostrich (if you have not had it, do yourself a favor and study the nutritional benefits and then taste it). We are always surprised at the large portions, and the continued quality.
Lest you think art is all that gives “The Studio” its name, live music to dine by is on tap most evenings. This is the way to savor dinner.
Food Rating: A+ Overall Rating: A+
SUNSET GRILLE
43 JENKINS RD.
689-6744
Here and there we say we have found a hidden gem, but Sunset Grille, owned and run by Hugh and Linda Lockman, truly qualifies. They finally have started advertising in one publication, but Sunset has always been highly frequented by those in the know, even though this charming place with one of the Island's great views is located within a kind of upscale trailer park. Ignore that, and go. I venture to say that nowhere on the planet will you find a better Bloody Mary, as Hugh uses his own smoked poblano pepper sauce and a secret ingredient. Incredible. And the food is certainly not a let down.
You always begin with fresh biscuits (of varying flavors), and there are three of four specials - nice creations using beef, fish, and whatever else the owners decide on that day. It is hard to turn down the smoked seafood platter (enough for two -- lots of on premises smoked fish with onions, capers, eggs, and herb Dijon and smoked pepper sauces); the crispy fried quail with smoked tomato cream sauce; or the best salmon in town (served over grits). But these are often rivaled by dishes such as a 16 oz. roasted veal chop with homemade orange and poblano chutney; a perfect duck breast over black fig, shallot, and port reduction; or a huge burger stuffed with either white cheddar or blue cheese. Salads are excellent.
Sunset is open for lunch most days, as well as Sunday brunch (where the menu changes a bit to include more usual brunch items). Service is professional and friendly. The view at sunset is unparalleled. Hugh's wine list is up to date and very creative, and he likes to chat about it. Prices are as good, or better, than any restaurant in this class. All in all, this is one of the 4 - 5 on the Island you can't miss.
Food Rating: A+ Overall Rating: A+
TAPAS
11 NORTHRIDGE PLAZA
681-8590
As one might imagine, this not so Spanish restaurant serves small portions of a variety of foods each evening (the menu changes frequently), and almost every plate is priced at between $7.99 and $9.99. One builds his or her dinner by choosing the small portions to compliment each other and make a complete meal. The best choices from our recent visit: sour mash chicken (breast sautéed with ham, Bourbon, and onions); pork apple jack (pecan encrusted with apples and brandy); Porcini ravioli; pan seared scallops (over black linguini); pan seared tuna; and Greek shrimp. We have always held that a small restaurant on a small Island cannot do justice to the many dishes from so many backgrounds that are offered on the menu, and thus we have always been a little disappointed in the majority of dishes. The sauces are often too overpowering and the meats usually overcooked. But, then, some of the food is quite tasty, if not spectacular, and the atmosphere is fun. The wine list at Tapas is better than average by the bottle, though only fair by the glass.
Food Rating: B- Overall Rating: B
TASTE OF THAILAND
807 WILLIAM HILTON PARKWAY AT PLANTATION CENTER
341-6500
On an Island without much in the way of ethnic food (except Italian), Taste of Thailand was the first Thai house to carve out a surprisingly successful niche. Its extensive and beautifully described menu allows for the initiated and uninitiated alike to enjoy dining in this small gem hidden behind more well known establishments (in fact, it has been voted the Island’s Best Kept Secret, but probably isn’t any longer).
You may select your meat or fish here, and then decide if you want it prepared in one of four types of curry; in other classic Thai traditions, such as a base of basil, orange cashew, or ginger; or with noodles that are served spicy, with garlic, or with red curry. Standards such as Pad Thai, Satays, Spring rolls (cold and hot), Nom Sod, and steamed mussels are standouts. The restaurant also offers an extensive Vegetarian menu, always a nice option in Asian establishments. Service is spotty, and the décor is dated, but that does not affect the exceptional cuisine.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: B
TRUFFLES CAFÉ
71 LIGHHOUSE RD. (SEA PINES CENTER)
671-6136
Truffles is a very attractive establishment in the middle of Sea Pines plantation, and is a good place to look for an extensive menu offering a variety of dishes. It is open most every day for lunch and dinner, which is a great asset, and the service is friendly and efficient, if not something to write home about.
The name "Truffles" might suggest the establishment is fancier or more unique than it is. While it is certainly good, there is nothing unique about it. Specialties include a spicy New Orleans pasta, chicken pot pie, ribs, meatloaf, and salmon, to name a few. These dishes, as said above, are reasonable well prepared. The baked Brie and pastry appetizer, and the Monterey Salad are on my recommended list. The wine list does not quite reach average. So the verdict here is to not necessarily avoid Truffles for dinner, but maybe to put it on your list of restaurants to try for brunch or light lunch. And watch for a new Truffles opening soon on Pope Ave.
Food Rating: B Overall Rating: B
TWO ELEVEN PARK WINE BAR AND BISTRO
211 PARK PLAZA
686-5212
One of the best finds (and most popular places) in Hilton Head is Two Eleven Park, owned by Bill Cubbage, who opened this interesting and unique restaurant/bar/wine bar in 1996. The food at Two Eleven Park improves all the time, with some uniquely wonderful dishes such as shrimp with country ham, black-eyed peas, and Vidalia onions over creamy grits; rasta pasta, which is jerk chicken, shrimp, sausage, peppers, and creamy jerk sauce over fusilli pasta; as well as Thai shrimp and scallop pasta with black bean sauce. The specials each night are well created, and one can find something for almost any desire.
What makes this restaurant especially fabulous, however, is the wine bar, wine list, and total energy. In season Two Eleven offers approximately 75 wines by the glass, and, out of season, approximately 40. The wine list itself is beautifully put together with a terrific selection of chardonnays, cabernets, champagnes, red zinfandels, pinot noirs, and other varieties of white wines. It is always crowded with friendly people who know the Island.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
WATERFRONT CAFE LIGHTHOUSE AT HARBOR TOWN
671-3399
Wine list: Very good. Food: Touristy. Over-rated. ‘Nuff said.
Food Rating: C- Overall Rating: C-
WILD WING CAFÉ
72 POPE AVENUE AT CIRCLE CENTER
785-9464
This is listed solely for the wings. Yes, there is an extensive menu of sandwiches, ribs, burgers, and the like, but while they are fine, they are nothing special. On the other hand, the wings are not only terrific, there are OVER 30 types from which to choose. Some of our favorites include: wild west wing, Thai wing, chipotle wing, ginger wing, bubba’s bbq wing, and china syndrome wing. Of course, accompany these wings with a beer from a darn good list. This is fun all around.
Wing Rating: A+ Overall Rating: B
YUMMY HOUSE
2 SOUTH WOOD PARK, SUITE A
681-5888
Do you hate the name? Get over it because finally the Island has some top of the line Chinese food. But more than that, Yummy also offers excellent Japanese dishes plus a fine sushi bar. We loved our egg roll, spring roll, garlic shrimp, and scallop Teriyaki with mushrooms. The menu is not extensive, but perhaps that allows the chefs to concentrate on fewer dishes and do a wonderful job. While I usually do not like Chinese buffets because I prefer my Chinese food ultra fresh, at Yummy there is such a crowd for the buffet that it is always being replenished, and so the food is, in fact, fresh. Bravo. Now if they would only re-think the name.
Food Rating: A- Overall Rating: A-
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Along with his wife Sara, Monty's (Nightlawyer12@aol.com) weekly wine articles are published by Wine on Line International and by Sallys-Place, and are taken electronically by many in the wine industry. The Preisers are wine columnists for the Boca News, and are contributors to various magazines and newsletters throughout the country. They judge the annual Hilton Head Winefest and Monty is the founder of the Hilton Head chapter of the American Institute of Wine and Food. Sara and Monty are also founders of Creative Professional Programs, Inc., a company specializing on a world wide basis in the education of business professionals in conjunction with learning about, and enjoying, fine wine and dining. In March of this year the Preisers published The Preiser Key to Napa Valley, the only comprehensive guide to wineries and restaurants in the Napa Valley.
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Note: This information was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the businesses in question before making your plans.