Hilton Head is full of completely amazing cafes, bakeries, and restaurants that range from all types of cuisine and price points. But if you’re looking for a completely unique dining experience to enjoy during your next trip to the island, we’ve curated a list of options that will elevate your trip and create amazing memories for your group.
Hibachi Cruise
Website | (843) 686-4386
Broad Creek Marina
While you’ve probably had a hibachi dinner before, you’ve definitely never had it on a boat before! Presented by Island Head Watersports, visitors are welcome to sit back, relax, and marvel at the beauty of Hilton Head’s waterways on a two-hour dinner cruise. The custom catamaran boat includes a grill in the middle so you can watch the expert chefs prepare your meal, as well as a bar on board that allows you to try a selection of local beer and wine.
Great for all ages, your family and friends can split your time between watching the chefs work their magic and keeping an eye out for dolphins swimming by. The menu will consist of steak, chicken, or shrimp, with mixed vegetables, fried rice, and salad. You’re able to book your seats on Island Head’s website.
Sunset Dinner Cruise
Website | (843) 363-9026
Harbour Town Yacht Basin
Now that we’re on the subject, let’s talk about another way to enjoy a meal while out on the water. Vagabond Cruises will be your go-to for an array of lunch and dinner cruises. A good habit for all visitors to get into, always check if your activity or experience is in season during your stay. You’ll definitely want to look into specialty cruises if you’ll be in town during the summer or during a holiday. Leaving out of the Harbour Town Yacht Basin, the Spirit of Harbour Town will cruise along the island’s coastline and allow you to see diverse wildlife and gorgeous views.
The Hilton Head Island Sunset Dinner Cruise allows guests to enjoy a plated dinner at their private table. Great for all ages, you’ll be able to choose to sit inside or outside. Another great option is the Lowcountry Lunch Cruise, where you’ll still have your own table, but your lunch will be served buffet style. All menus are updated and prepared by the award-winning chefs of the Sea Pines Resort. There also is a full bar featuring an extensive wine list and many local drinks for an additional cost.
The Studio
Website | (843) 785-6000
20 Executive Park Rd, STE 200, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Tucked away just off Pope Avenue on the south end of the island, you’ll find a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends cuisine and art. Dine in a cozy gallery setting adorned with works by local artists, while enjoying live music or watching an artist at work. For those who prefer dining al fresco, there’s an inviting outdoor patio.
The Studio is committed to promoting local artists and donates a percentage of proceeds to charities like the Deep Well Project and various animal sanctuaries.
As you savor your meal surrounded by artwork, you’ll find that the dishes themselves are masterpieces. The menu features a wide selection of delicious, healthy options that highlight the finest ingredients and local seafood, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options available. You can always count on the food presentation to be beautiful, the quality to be superb, and your overall dinner experience to be one of the most exceptional and memorable during your stay.
Comedy Magic Cabaret
Website | (843) 681-7757
843 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928
How does dinner and a show sound? Enjoy shareable plates and tasty sandwiches, delectable desserts, beverages, and other house specialty cocktails during this “funny not filthy” comedy and magic show with your friends and family during your next trip to the island.
Resident headliner, Kerry Pollock, along with occasional guest performers as seen in Las Vegas, Hollywood, and on national television, will have you belly laughing and will quickly turn a trip to the Comedy Magic Cabaret into a Hilton Head tradition for your group.
The Jazz Corner
Website | (843) 842-8620
1000 William Hilton Pkwy, C-1, Hilton Head Island, 29928
This world-renowned jazz supper club is unlike any dining experience on the island. Since 1999, this award-winning jazz club has been welcoming patrons to enjoy some of the finest jazz musicians and entertainment from near and far that’s expertly paired with elevated Southern-inspired cuisine. One visit to this Lowcountry landmark will leave you eager to return, ensuring you’ll always have a reservation at The Jazz Corner during your future trips to Hilton Head Island.
With its excellent reputation, it’s no surprise that upcoming performances often sell out quickly. Try to make your dinner reservations as soon as you can; you can find available dates on The Jazz Corner’s website, where you can book one of two seating times if available. As for the food, prepared to be wowed. With starters like Tempura Lobster Tail, Filet Mignon Skewers, and Apple Cranberry Baked Brie, you’re in for an exceptional dining experience. Just save room for dessert!
Additional Experiences:
Oyster Roasts
One of the quintessential Lowcountry experiences that you can have, be on the lookout for oyster roasts during oyster season (September through April—think of months with the letter, “R,” in them). A chance to gather together and celebrate such an instrumental part of the region’s seafood diet, you might also happen on events that raise money for local causes.
Pro Tip: From 1-4pm on Sundays, the restaurant, FISH Casual Coastal Seafood, hosts an oyster roast featuring live music and local oyster buckets for $25. See the music schedule, here.
Food Festivals
The local cuisine is always a cause for celebration, and visitors are invited to attend the wide array of food festivals and events that Hilton Head Island and its surrounding area hosts throughout the year. If you love seafood, you’re in luck, but the island offers plenty of other festivals that include delicious cuisine like BBQ, Italian food, and more.
Find food festivals and events by clicking the link below:
Calendar of Events
