Any visit to coastal South Carolina is sure to serve up heaping helpings of southern hospitality, Lowcountry charm, and, most importantly, delicious food you can’t get anywhere else. And some of the tastiest places lie on the charming barrier island of Kiawah. Located just 25 miles southwest of Charleston, Kiawah Island is home to pristine beaches, luxury golf courses, stunning weather, and excellent dining options. Whether you’re looking for a casual afternoon bite or an impressive award-winning dinner, you’ll find it all within the 13.4 square miles of this tiny community. Read on as we dig into the best restaurants on Kiawah Island!
The Atlantic Room
- Cuisine Type: Seafood
- Atmosphere: Resort Casual Attire
- Hours: Daily, 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Reservations Required: Yes
The Atlantic Room is a culinary institution on Kiawah Island. As the signature seafood restaurant of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, it offers an elevated dining experience that focuses on modern American cuisine. With a commitment to sourcing fresh, regional catches through collaboration with local fishermen, every dish serves up a true taste of the season prepared in an uncomplicated yet exquisite manner by Executive Chef John Ondo. A Charleston native, Ondo has honed his craft through rigorous studies and hands-on experience at some of Charleston’s most renowned restaurants. His expertise shines through in every dish, making your dining experience at the Atlantic Room truly unforgettable.
The Ocean Room
- Cuisine Type: Steakhouse
- Atmosphere: A collared shirt, tailored pants, or well-kept denim are required for gentlemen and boys over eight. Cocktail attire is recommended for ladies.
- Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Reservations Required: Yes
If you’re looking for an exceptional steak dinner with an elevated service, The Ocean Room at The Sanctuary is Kiawah Island’s pinnacle of dining. This Forbes Five-Star restaurant serves up an unparalleled experience that celebrates locally sourced beef, poultry, and produce. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring you’re always treated to the freshest ingredients available. From their 21-day wet-aged 16-ounce ribeye to their expertly crafted cocktails and luxurious environment, Chef de Cuisine Steven Brooks has created a restaurant that goes above and beyond any steakhouse you’ve visited before.
Jasmine Porch
- Cuisine Type: Lowcountry Classics
- Atmosphere: Resort Casual Attire
- Hours: Daily, Breakfast – Lunch 6:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Dinner 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Reservation Required: Breakfast and Lunch: No | Dinner: Yes
Jasmine Porch is a celebration of Lowcountry cuisine at its finest. Awarded “Best Downhome Cookery” by Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report, this Kiawah Island restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to try the authentic flavors of the region. The seasonal menus are a tribute to the local waters and area farms, featuring seafood and certified organic produce that are as fresh as they come. The Charleston brick walls and hewn oak floors create a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the delicious scent of dishes like their classic Shrimp and Grits greets you as soon as you enter. Led by Chef de Cuisine Kyle Bowling, the Jasmine Porch offers an unpretentious atmosphere to indulge in the island's flavors.
Tomasso at Turtle Point
- Cuisine Type: Italian
- Atmosphere: Resort Casual Attire
- Hours: Daily, Lunch and Dinner: 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Reservation Required: Lunch: No | Dinner: Yes
Tomasso at Turtle Point is where old-world Italian meets the fresh, local flavors of the Lowcountry. As Kiawah Island’s go-to Italian restaurant, the menu offers a diverse and delicious selection that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more. Whether you choose the chef’s hand-made pasta, complete with fresh bread and homemade sauces, or another masterpiece from the menu, you’ll be delighted by the culinary prowess of the team at Tomasso.
Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House
- Cuisine Type: Southern BBQ
- Atmosphere: Resort Casual
- Hours: Daily, Lunch and Dinner: 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Reservations Required: Lunch: No | Dinner: Recommended
Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House is Kiawah Island’s beacon of BBQ perfection. A proud stop on the South Carolina BBQ Trail, the restaurant is a testament to the state’s rich history of slow-and-low cooking. Here, top-quality meats are smoked over local hardwoods, seasoned with signature rubs, and slathered in tangy, house-made sauces. But the excellent offerings don’t stop at BBQ; they also have a selection of 60 local, imported, draft, and craft beers that complement the authentic BBQ dishes, as well as the hearty appetizers, soups, salads, and desserts that round out the menu. When you visit, be sure to try their signature barbecue sandwich made with award-winning, all-natural smoked pulled pork from Heritage Farms, NC. Topped with Carolina coleslaw and served on a pretzel roll, it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures and will leave you craving more.
The Ryder Cup Bar
- Cuisine Type: Modern Pub Fare
- Atmosphere: Resort Casual Attire
- Hours: Daily, Lunch and Dinner: 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Reservations: No
The Ryder Cup Bar is the quintessential gathering spot on Kiawah Island, whether you’re looking to unwind after a round of golf, enjoy a casual lunch with family, or toast the sunset over the ocean. The modern pub offers a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating available. Steeped in local lore, The Ryder Cup’s famed Bagger Burger is named after “The Legend of Bagger Vance,” a movie that was filmed at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort. A grilled-to-perfection Angus Beef patty is accompanied by smoked cheddar, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and onion on a fresh potato roll and served with your choice of classic side for the perfect all-American meal. Again, helmed by Executive Chef John Ondo, his 20 years of experience shine through in every dish. For classic meals with a spectacular view, The Ryder Cup Bar will not disappoint.
Book your Kiawah Island Culinary Adventure with Akers Ellis
From the upscale elegance of The Atlantic Room to the laid-back vibes of The Ryder Cup Bar, Kiawah Island’s restaurants offer a culinary journey that's as diverse as it is delicious. Each restaurant presents its own unique flavors, influenced by the rich history and natural resources of this coastal paradise. When you're planning a trip to Kiawah Island, don't just settle for any vacation rental—book your vacation directly with Akers Ellis and ensure a stay as unforgettable as the meals you'll enjoy. Browse our Kiawah Island rental properties and book today!