Old Town Bluffton & Beyond
From May River oysters to farm-to-table kitchens, Bluffton's dining scene punches well above its size — and Hilton Head Island adds dozens more options just 20 minutes away.
Old Town Bluffton has quietly become one of the Lowcountry's most interesting dining destinations. The May River supplies some of the East Coast's finest oysters, local farms feed a growing farm-to-table scene, and a string of independent kitchens lines Calhoun Street and the surrounding blocks.
Most of our rental guests find they can walk to dinner from Old Town properties — and those staying near the May River are minutes from the waterfront. Hilton Head Island, just across the bridge, adds more than 200 restaurants to the mix for evenings when you want more variety.
Old Town dining & beyond
The May River is one of the cleanest tidal rivers on the East Coast. Its oysters are briny, plump, and best eaten within a mile of where they were harvested.
The oldest working oyster factory in South Carolina. Shucked to order on Wharf Street.
Generous fried platters and Lowcountry classics in a no-frills setting locals love.
Waterfront dining on the May River with a menu built around the daily catch.
Bluffton's proximity to Lowcountry farms and the coast gives its best kitchens an exceptional pantry to work with.
Refined farm-to-table in Old Town — one of the most thoughtful kitchens in the area.
Daily-changing menu rooted in what's freshest from Lowcountry growers.
Pristine coastal seafood, creative small plates, and craft cocktails in an intimate setting.
Lowcountry cooking at its most honest — shrimp & grits, slow-smoked meats, and the kind of food that makes you want to stay another week.
Elevated Lowcountry comfort food in a historic Old Town cottage. One of the most atmospheric settings in Bluffton.
Award-winning BBQ and American with slow-smoked meats and creative cocktails.
Beloved Bluffton breakfast institution — generous egg plates, fluffy pancakes, and Southern classics.
Bluffton's craft beverage scene has grown quickly. From a converted church to a riverside mead hall, there's something worth sipping.
Craft spirits in a converted 1886 church. Tasting room, cocktails, and live music on weekends.
Honey wine and cider brewed on-site. A genuinely unique stop in Old Town.
Craft beer bar with a patio and rotating taps. A casual local gathering spot.
Start the morning right before a day on the May River, at the beach, or exploring Old Town.
Artisan pastries, sourdough, and strong coffee. A morning ritual for Old Town visitors.
Cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls, and healthy grab-and-go options in Bluffton.
Specialty layered doughnuts and coffee. Worth the stop before a beach day.
From hand-tossed Neapolitan pies to classic Italian supper clubs, Bluffton's international dining scene is more varied than most visitors expect.
Lively Italian-American supper club with red sauce classics, prime steaks, and strong cocktails.
Fresh-made pasta and Italian gourmet provisions. Great for stocking a rental kitchen.
Family-friendly Italian with hand-tossed pizzas and hearty pastas.
Fish & chips, imported ales, and Premier League on the big screen.
Fresh American cuisine — a reliable neighborhood staple with consistent quality.
20–25 minutes from most Bluffton rentals
Hilton Head Island is 20–25 minutes from most Bluffton rentals and adds more than 200 restaurants to your options. These are the picks most worth the short drive.
Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks
North EndA Hilton Head institution on the working docks. Fresh local seafood with spectacular waterfront views. Brunch on Sundays.
Skull Creek Boathouse
North EndAward-winning waterfront seafood and BBQ from the SERG Restaurant Group. Arrive early for a dock table and the best sunset views on the island.
Old Oyster Factory
Mid-IslandBuilt on the site of one of Hilton Head's original oyster canneries. Panoramic marsh views and fresh local seafood.
Shelter Cove Oyster Bar
Shelter CoveRaw bar, steamed pots, and cold beer on the marina. Oyster selection rotates daily from local beds.
ELA'S On the Water
North EndStunning waterfront dining on the Intracoastal Waterway. Fresh coastal seafood and creative cocktails.
Alexander's Restaurant & Wine Bar
Palmetto DunesUpscale seafood and an exceptional wine list. Seasonally-inspired cuisine with impeccable service.
Nunzio Restaurant + Bar
Mid-IslandItalian and Lowcountry flavors combined. Handcrafted Italian dishes meet coastal Carolina ingredients. Happy hour 4–6 pm.
Red Fish
Mid-IslandAcclaimed pairing of local seafood and prime steaks with an award-winning wine cellar.
The Jazz Corner
Mid-IslandHilton Head's premier live jazz supper club. World-class nightly performances with an upscale American menu.
Charlie's Coastal Bistro
Mid-IslandFrench-inspired bistro with fresh coastal seafood and classic French technique. Intimate and consistently excellent.
Lowcountry Kitchen
ColignyShrimp & grits that will ruin you for everywhere else. A true island institution since 1987. Open for breakfast and dinner.
Salty Dog Cafe
South EndHilton Head's most iconic beach bar at South Beach Marina Village. Famous for Jake the Alligator mascot and laid-back island vibe.
Taco Mamacita
Mid-IslandThe island's most popular Mexican restaurant. Creative tacos, strong margaritas, and a lively atmosphere. The Baja fish tacos are excellent.
Skillets
ColignyBeloved Hilton Head breakfast institution. Hearty cast-iron skillets, omelets, and Southern-style brunch. Lines form early.
Lucky Rooster
Mid-IslandLively New American kitchen and bar with creative comfort food, craft cocktails, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
Lincoln & South Brewing Company
Mid-IslandHilton Head's neighborhood craft brewery with a full kitchen, rotating tap list, and community-first vibe. Dog friendly.
Local Legend Brewing Company
South EndSouth End craft brewery with a full kitchen, beer garden, shuffleboard, and excellent food including standout vegan options.
Skull Creek Dockside
North EndSprawling waterfront complex with multiple bars, live music, fresh seafood, and some of the best sunset views on the island.
The Tiki Hut
Coligny BeachSunset cocktails, live music, and the best rum punch on the island. Come for happy hour, stay for the view.
Explore Bluffton Dining
Make dining part of your Bluffton getaway. Visit FoodBluffton.com for Bluffton dining inspiration and ideas for where to eat during your stay. Check directly with restaurants for current menus, hours, and reservations.
Hilton Head Island adds dozens more dining options just 20 minutes away, and Savannah's restaurant scene is worth the 35-minute drive for a special evening out.