Pawleys Island, a gem along South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, is not just known for its pristine beaches and laid-back charm - it’s also a haven for food lovers. From fresh seafood to traditional Lowcountry cuisine, this coastal retreat boasts a variety of must-try dining experiences. Whether you’re craving expertly prepared seafood, creative fusion dishes, or a classic Southern meal, this guide highlights the best restaurants in Pawleys Island. Get ready to indulge in the top local flavors and discover where to eat in Pawleys Island.
A Foodie’s Guide to Pawleys Island: Must-Try Restaurants & Seafood Spots
Frank’s - Timeless Culinary Experience
A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Frank’s offers an upscale dining experience with a menu that blends Southern flavors with intentional influences. Located in a former grocery store, the restaurant’s warm ambiance complements its menu, featuring standout dishes like the Pan-Seared Grouper and the Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits. For a more relaxed setting, visit Frank’s Outback, a charming outdoor patio with twinkling lights and a cozy fireplace, perfect for enjoying a handcrafted cocktail.
Bistro 217 - Fresh Seafood with a Creative Twist
-
Frank’s - Timeless Culinary Experience
A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Frank’s offers an upscale dining experience with a menu that blends Southern flavors with intentional influences. Located in a former grocery store, the restaurant’s warm ambiance complements its menu, featuring standout dishes like the Pan-Seared Grouper and the Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits. For a more relaxed setting, visit Frank’s Outback, a charming outdoor patio with twinkling lights and a cozy fireplace, perfect for enjoying a handcrafted cocktail.
-
Bistro 217 - Fresh Seafood with a Creative Twist
If you’re seeking seafood in Litchfield Beach with an innovative touch, Bistro 217 is a must-visit. This charming eatery boasts a diverse menu with dishes that highlight fresh and local ingredients. The herb-encrusted grouper and Korean chili seared salmon are standout options, while the extensive wine list ensures a perfect pairing for your meal. With an inviting courtyard and an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, Bistro 217 is ideal for a romantic dinner or a casual lunch with friends.
-
Perrone’s - A Fusion of Global and Coastal Flavors
For a dining experience that pushes culinary boundaries, head to Perrone’s Restaurant and Bar. Known for its creative fusion dishes, Perrone’s menu blends Mediterranean, Asian, and Lowcountry influences, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience. The fresh catch and wild boar & beef ragu alla bolognese are excellent choices, while their craft cocktails and extensive wine selection enhance the meal. This is the spot for adventurous food lovers who appreciate unique, high-quality ingredients.
-
Captain John’s - Classic Seafood with a View
If you’re searching for a casual, waterfront seafood experience, Captain John’s Seafood Grille is a fantastic choice. Offering fresh, locally sourced seafood, the restaurant has amazing options such as spicy fried oysters and homemade lump crab cake. Located just minutes from the beach, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sun. Their outdoor seating allows diners to enjoy stunning coastal views while savoring classic Lowcountry seafood dishes.
-
Hanser House - A Local’s Favorite for Southern Comfort Food
For a true taste of Southern hospitality, Hanser House delivers hearty portions of traditional Lowcountry fare in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Make sure to try their Hanser Family She-Crab Soup. This award winning recipe has been around for generations. This family-owned establishment is a must-visit. The warm service and homey decor add to its charm, making you feel like part of the family while you indulge in some of the freshest seafood in Pawleys Island.
-
Rustic Table - Southern Comfort with a Modern Touch
If you’re looking for a laid-back yet refined Southern dining experience, Rustic Table is the place to be. Known for its creative takes on comfort food, this restaurant serves up dishes like their fried pimento cheese & jalapeno hush puppies with honey butter, hot honey chicken sandwiches and shrimp & grits. This casual yet stylish setting makes it a great choice for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and their craft cocktails are the perfect complement to any meal.
-
Chive Blossom - A Hidden Gem for Fresh, Seasonal Fare
For a truly unique dining experience, Chive Blossom Cafe is a hidden treasure offering an eclectic menu with Southern, Mediterranean, and Asian influences. Their crab nachos, shrimp stuffed medjool dates and fried oyster salad are just a few of the standout dishes. The charming garden setting and extensive wine list make this a perfect spot for a relaxed yet upscale meal. It’s a go-to destination for those seeking something beyond traditional seafood fare.
Plan Your Culinary Adventure in Pawleys Island
Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of Southern cuisine, or a traveler seeking the best restaurants in Pawleys Island, this coastal town offers an array of dining experiences that cater to every palate. From upscale dining at Frank’s to comforting Southern flavors at Hanser House, there’s no shortage of must-try spots in this foodie paradise. So, next time you visit, be sure to explore these culinary gems and savor the rich flavors of Lowcountry. Book your stay today!If you’re seeking seafood in Litchfield Beach with an innovative touch, Bistro 217 is a must-visit. This charming eatery boasts a diverse menu with dishes that highlight fresh and local ingredients. The herb-encrusted grouper and Korean chili seared salmon are standout options, while the extensive wine list ensures a perfect pairing for your meal. With an inviting courtyard and an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, Bistro 217 is ideal for a romantic dinner or a casual lunch with friends.
-
Perrone’s - A Fusion of Global and Coastal Flavors
For a dining experience that pushes culinary boundaries, head to Perrone’s Restaurant and Bar. Known for its creative fusion dishes, Perrone’s menu blends Mediterranean, Asian, and Lowcountry influences, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience. The fresh catch and wild boar & beef ragu alla bolognese are excellent choices, while their craft cocktails and extensive wine selection enhance the meal. This is the spot for adventurous food lovers who appreciate unique, high-quality ingredients.
-
Captain John’s - Classic Seafood with a View
If you’re searching for a casual, waterfront seafood experience, Captain John’s Seafood Grille is a fantastic choice. Offering fresh, locally sourced seafood, the restaurant has amazing options such as spicy fried oysters and homemade lump crab cake. Located just minutes from the beach, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sun. Their outdoor seating allows diners to enjoy stunning coastal views while savoring classic Lowcountry seafood dishes.
-
Hanser House - A Local’s Favorite for Southern Comfort Food
For a true taste of Southern hospitality, Hanser House delivers hearty portions of traditional Lowcountry fare in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Make sure to try their Hanser Family She-Crab Soup. This award winning recipe has been around for generations. This family-owned establishment is a must-visit. The warm service and homey decor add to its charm, making you feel like part of the family while you indulge in some of the freshest seafood in Pawleys Island.
-
Rustic Table - Southern Comfort with a Modern Touch
If you’re looking for a laid-back yet refined Southern dining experience, Rustic Table is the place to be. Known for its creative takes on comfort food, this restaurant serves up dishes like their fried pimento cheese & jalapeno hush puppies with honey butter, hot honey chicken sandwiches and shrimp & grits. This casual yet stylish setting makes it a great choice for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and their craft cocktails are the perfect complement to any meal.
-
Chive Blossom - A Hidden Gem for Fresh, Seasonal Fare
For a truly unique dining experience, Chive Blossom Cafe is a hidden treasure offering an eclectic menu with Southern, Mediterranean, and Asian influences. Their crab nachos, shrimp stuffed medjool dates and fried oyster salad are just a few of the standout dishes. The charming garden setting and extensive wine list make this a perfect spot for a relaxed yet upscale meal. It’s a go-to destination for those seeking something beyond traditional seafood fare.
Plan Your Culinary Adventure in Pawleys Island
Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of Southern cuisine, or a traveler seeking the best restaurants in Pawleys Island, this coastal town offers an array of dining experiences that cater to every palate. From upscale dining at Frank’s to comforting Southern flavors at Hanser House, there’s no shortage of must-try spots in this foodie paradise. So, next time you visit, be sure to explore these culinary gems and savor the rich flavors of Lowcountry. Book your stay today!