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26 Top Restaurants in Beaufort SC to Visit (For First Timer!)

Are you wondering if there are top-notch Restaurants in Beaufort? Are the Restaurants worth your time? Then you know little about this town.

Beaufort is more than just a hidden Lowcountry gem located on Port Royal Island.

This city is tucked into winding, historic streets framed by natural foliage and centuries-old, moss-draped live oak trees.

Although there are many things to do in Beaufort for tourists, however, one of the biggest draws here is the delectable meals and historical landmarks.

This lovely town offers top-notch dining establishments, some of the best fresh seafood, and dairy products.

There are many places that provide delectable food, ranging from simple Southern fare to elegant waterfront dining and all in between.

So whether you are vegan, you prefer some BBQ, or perhaps you just want to taste some of the best drinks and wines in the nation, you will not be disappointed.

Here are the top restaurants in Beaufort you shouldn’t miss.

Restaurants in Beaufort SC

1. City Java & News

Restaurants in Beaufort

The City Java & News

City Java & News is one of those “cool” restaurants in Beaufort for lunch, a business meeting, or to grab a really good cup of coffee.

Located inside the city loft Hotel, you will find some of the best espresso drinks here, pastries, wine, beer, printed papers, and even wireless Internet.

Several outside bistro tables overlook the street and parking lot.

You can order a freshly baked scone, a fine cup of coffee from the barista, or a hand-tapped beer and some chips.

Additionally, you might even hear the most recent rumors from the locals that frequent this establishment and keep the barista busy every morning.

You can also bring your pet along and take a seat at one of their outdoor pet-friendly tables to sip your cappuccino and eat your delicious breakfast sandwich!

The restaurant is available from 7:00 am to 6:30 pm on Sunday and 6:00 am to 6:30 pm on Saturday.

Address: 301 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

2. Sea Eagle Market

Restaurants in Beaufort

Sea Eagle Market

There are many Restaurants in Beaufort to find to get seafood, but Sea Eagle has almost everything you want in a seafood restaurant.

Sea Eagle Market is the place to go if you want mouthwatering locally caught seafood prepared in the South!

Although their offerings will fluctuate in line with the seasons, you will still get some amazing offerings here.

You can find a wide selection of fresh local fish, shrimp, crabs, oysters, clams, and much more at Sea Eagle Market.

When you walk through the door, everyone is so welcoming and polite that it seems like coming home.

Customers rave about the flavor, cost, and service they receive from the Sea Eagle’s consistently fresh meals.

In addition to offering deliciously fried and fresh seafood dishes, Sea Eagle also offers a variety of traditional southern sides.

The menu includes hushpuppies, coleslaw, green beans, potatoes, mac & cheese, and corn on the cob.

The platters of boiled shrimp are fantastic! The wild shrimp sold here is amazing. They are cooked perfectly by Sea Eagle while being gently seasoned and not overcooked.

The restaurant is open from 9 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Address: 2149 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

3. Blacksheep, Beaufort

Restaurants in Beaufort

Blacksheep, Beaufort

Located in the Historic District of Beaufort, Blacksheep is where you can unwind, be yourself, and enjoy the meal as it is presented.

Each dish on the menu is distinctive, seasonal, and tasty.

Every taste reveals how passionate Chef Matt is about what he does. It’s wonderful how he assembles ingredients in his dishes.

It nearly feels like you have been invited into his home for one of the best meals of your life because of the charming and welcoming ambiance.

The restaurant is a neat 900-square-foot area with a small dining room and a wood-burning oven.

The menu is as tiny as the dining room and features traditional cookery. It frequently changes and occasionally may be more daring than others.

They also provide the ideal wine suggestions for your entree and dessert.

Address: 1216 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

4. Saltus River Grill

Saltus River Grill

The Saltus River Grill

Saltus River Grill is one of the restaurants in Beaufort that sells great-tasting seafood.

The Saltus River Grill is a distinctive and fascinating dining establishment in South Carolina’s charming downtown Beaufort.

The restaurant features a lovely patio area outside that looks out over a park and a river.

This sizzling modern seafood grill offers a grand view of the Intracoastal Waterway from its Sonoma-style patio.

It combines the ambiance of a chic Manhattan restaurant with the unique historic charm of the South Carolina Lowcountry.

First, arrive early and, if feasible, request a seat outside.

You will enjoy dining al fresco at Saltus River Grill, thanks to the lights hanging above and the palm trees all around.

Don’t forget to get the oysters from the raw bar or chargrilled; you will love it.

Address: 802 Bay St STE C, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

5. Old Bull Tavern

Old Bull Tavern

Old Bull Tavern

Situated in the heart of Beaufort, Old Bull Tavern is a must-visit for supper and cocktails.

It offers a ton, including superb wine, domestic and imported beer, a constantly-changing menu of delectable food, sharing plates, and exquisite appetizers.

The atmosphere at this hip gastropub is just right—it falls halfway between a casual supper and a very memorable occasion.

In fact, eating here is like winning the lotto every time. The foods are fantastic.

Everything on the menu is excellent. Excellent beer, wine, and cocktail selections complete the menu perfectly.

Don’t let the restaurant’s exterior deceive you.

The cuisine is expertly prepared. Whether you try the gnocchi with shrimp, the OBT burger, the wasabi-deviled eggs, the pork belly steam buns, the pizza, and the steak, you can’t go wrong.

You can also try the Lamb Shank, an entree made with red meat.

The alcohol selection at this restaurant is also extensive. Reservation is available, so make reservations and come have a great time.

Address: 205 West St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

6. Maria’s Mexican Kitchen

Maria's mexican kitchen beaufort sc

Maria’s Mexican Kitchen

Are you looking for romantic and cozy restaurants in Beaufort for a date? Then you should include Maria’s Mexican Kitchen on your list.

Maria’s is a fantastic Mexican restaurant in Beaufort. The owner, Pedro, operates several locations throughout the county.

All of the Marias in the owner’s personal life served as inspiration for Maria’s Mexican Kitchen.

He constantly prepared and served delectable traditional meals because he wanted to respect and appreciate all the Marias in his family.

In addition to the popular tex-mex dishes, Maria’s Mexican Kitchen serves various authentic Mexican dishes.

There is good music playing, and the booth seating is comfortable and casual but elegant.

It is also very roomy inside, with ideal lighting for a romantic evening or quiet meal.

Address: 330 Robert Smalls Pkwy Suite 22, Beaufort, SC 29906, United States

7. 3 Sisters Pizzeria

3 Sisters Pizzeria

3 Sisters Pizzeria

This pizzeria is located outside of Beaufort’s downtown district in a recently developed neighborhood.

This special area combines high-end retail with condos and single-family homes.

The owners, cory and Chef Luca, have developed a fantastic location for lunch or dinner.

Pizza options range from traditional to unique, and prices are relatively affordable.

The perfect size for dinner is a personal pizza, while a large pizza comfortably serves three people.

Although they are mostly a pizzeria with exquisite pizza, they also provide salads and sandwiches and are constantly thinking of new menu items.

In addition to the pizza and sandwiches, a wide variety of bottled and canned beers from across the nation and abroad are available. Their draft beer selection is also regularly rotated.

There are pizza crusts made from cauliflower and vegan options too!

You place your order at the counter and select a table for yourself in the restaurant, including indoor and outdoor dining.

Address: 5 Market, Beaufort, SC 29906, United States

8. Ladys Island Dockside

Ladys Island Dockside

Ladys Island Dockside

There are several Restaurants in Beaufort with stunning views, and Ladys Island Dockside is one of them.

Lady’s Island Dockside offers stunning sunsets and fantastic views of the Woods Bridge and the Downtown region.

The menu also offers a wide variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, pasta, and more.

In 1990, Port Royal’s first 11th Street Dockside Restaurant opened near Battery Creek.

The Port Royal facility was forced to close in 2015 after suffering significant water damage while firefighters battled a fire in the nearby Port Royal Seafood Market.

Now the restaurant is known for its food selections, steaks off the grill, soups, salads, and more.

Come take in the stunning scenery, magnificent vessels, and, of course, some of the world’s best freshly prepared seafood.

A sizable enclosed patio with numerous tables is also available.

Get there early on Saturdays. They are busy and fill up quickly.

So it doesn’t matter whether you love seafood or not; you will still get something you like.

Address: 71 Sea Island Pkwy, Beaufort, SC 29907, United States

9. Albergotti Grill

Albergotti Grill

Albergotti Grill

Located in the Holiday Inn & Suites Albergotti Grill is a casual restaurant in Beaufort with breathtaking views of the wetlands and Beaufort River.

Although a lot of people say that most hotel eateries are at best mediocre, however, this one stands out.

This establishment dispels the idea that there can’t be a good restaurant inside a motel.

Not only is their nightly special one of the most affordable in town, but it is also fantastic!

Their award-winning Shrimp & Grits is really tasty. Also wonderful is the Caribbean Jerk Chicken Pasta.

Whether you dine inside or on the patio, you will enjoy a tranquil view of the marsh.

When visiting Beaufort, this location should be one of the restaurants in Beaufort you don’t miss.

Address: 2225 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

10. Panini’s On The Waterfront

Panini's On The Waterfront

The Panini’s On The Waterfront

Panini’s is a beautiful fusion of traditional Italian charm and cutting-edge food, and it is housed in the ancient Beaufort bank building.

The old bank’s two-story structure has magnificent architecture! The meals are lovely, and there is a wide menu.

The inside offers a beautiful atmosphere with a lovely German antique carved bar.

The restaurant serves crispy stone-baked pizza, mouthwatering paninis, hoagies, substantial salads, creative pasta dishes, and local, fresh seafood.

Their renowned handcrafted Italian delicacies are to die for.

The restaurant looks out over Beaufort’s Waterfront Park and has a full bar both inside and out.

There is plenty of space on the outdoor terrace to relax while having lunch on a sunny day.

After eating, take a trip down the riverwalk in the back to burn some calories and take in the scenery.

Address: 926 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

11. Bricks on Boundary

Bricks on boundary

The Bricks on Boundary

Bricks on Boundary is an excellent little eat-in spot with indoor and outdoor dining. It is located in downtown Beaufort.

This spot is one of the best restaurants in Beaufort for creating lifelong memories with your traveling companions.

Everything from seafood to burgers, salads, fried pickles, fried mushrooms, and smashed fries is delicious.

In addition to enormous flat-screen televisions, sharing appetizers, and sumptuous desserts, it provides an astounding array of excellent alcoholic concoctions.

Address: 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

12. Breakwater Restaurant and Bar

Breakwater Restaurant and Bar

Breakwater Restaurant and Bar

The Breakwater Restaurant and Bar is a sophisticated, classic restaurant that serves Southern American food.

The menu is always fresh and innovative since the menu is always updated when new ingredients become available.

Although it is not a cheap restaurant, you get what you pay for.

In addition, if you care about the caliber of your drinks, there are unique cocktails and beverages to suit your taste.

You will also get excellent appetizers and consistently kind and welcoming service.

Reservations are recommended, so do that before planning a trip to the restaurant.

When visiting for breakfast, try the Crab Cake Benedict.

It includes spinach, a poached egg, and hollandaise sauce and is served with home fries that have been seasoned in-house.

Order the Pot de Crème au Chocolat to indulge in a delectable dessert after a hearty lunch.

Address: 203 Carteret St #102, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

13. Black Dog Grill

Black Dog Grill

Black Dog Grill

With a terrific wine list, and a limited range of beers, sodas, and water, The Black Dog Grill is one of the best restaurants in Beaufort, serving hand-cut steaks, seafood, and chicken.

With an excellent menu and soothing background music, you are sure to find this location enjoyable.

This eatery is excellent for both locals and tourists.

Steak, seafood, pasta, and lamb are all balanced in the chef’s delicious menu, which has a French and Southern feel.

Despite its small size, the open floor plan is peaceful thanks to the carpeting and the generally calm crowd.

The shrimp cocktail contains terrific jumbo shrimp with a sauce with a little bite, and the bread is outstanding.

Make sure to try the Vanilla Crème Brûlée; it is an outstanding delicacy that comes highly recommended.

Address: 1635 Paris Ave, Port Royal, SC 29935, United States

14. Red Rooster Cafe

Red rooster cafe beaufort sc

Red Rooster Cafe

Located in front of the Hilton Garden Inn, Red rooster cafe is just the right spot if you’re searching for a fantastic restaurant for lunch or dinner.

The restaurant offers a comfortable, vibrant, tastefully decorated dining environment with music that is loud enough to be heard but gentle enough NOT to overpower your discussion.

The Red Rooster Cafe has a dizzying array of breakfast and lunch options, making it challenging for new customers to choose from.

Fortunately, their knowledgeable wait staff is on hand to help you choose from among their mouthwatering selections.

A wide assortment of sandwiches, paninis, burgers, and breakfast items are available on the menu.

You should also look at their daily offers too.

Address: 2045 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

15. Blackstone’s Cafe

Blackstone's Cafe

The Blackstone’s Cafe

Blackstone’s Cafe is a two-story, bare-table café with nautical and U.S. Marine memorabilia.

The restaurant is tucked away just around the corner from Bay Street and the historic Beaufort waterfront.

Since 1991, Blackstone’s Café has been a popular meeting place and eatery for locals in the heart of downtown Beaufort, South Carolina.

The portions are generous and tasty. Banners from numerous colleges, prep schools, and military forces across the U.S. are displayed in the unique décor.

In fact, when you enter the building for the first time, you’ll stare around in awe.

Mostly deli sandwiches and a few salads are offered for lunch.

Additionally delicious is the corned beef hash.

If you arrive each morning at 8 am, a wonderful and unique treat is in store for you.

The Pledge of Allegiance and a standing ovation are customary at Blackstone’s, according to owner Lou Gaudio, who also rings a brass ship’s bell.

You might not find better and more colorful local restaurants in Beaufort like Blackstone’s Cafe.

Although Blackstone’s is a bit difficult to locate, if you put in the effort to find it, you won’t regret stopping.

Address: 205 Scott St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

16. Gilligan’s Seafood Restaurant

Gilligan's seafood restaurant- beaufort

Gilligan’s Seafood Restaurant- Beaufort

Here’s one of the most delightful family restaurants in Beaufort.

In June 1991, the first Gilligan’s restaurant opened, and since then, they have expanded to six sites in the Lowcountry.

Because this restaurant is located on a marsh, you should request a window seat. The patio offers a lovely view of the marsh.

Its interior features aquarium tanks with a beachy motif, and its outside dining area boasts a stunning marsh view.

Although they have a sizable menu with excellent selections for individuals who don’t like seafood, all of their seafood options taste extremely fresh and delicate. Their cocktails, particularly the pina coladas, are the primary draw.

Try the puppy’s weight; they are fluffy and light. The crab cakes are also produced by hand in-house, with minimal filler, and are cooked to perfection.

Address: 2601 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29906, United States

17. Plums

Plums, Beaufort

The Plums, Beaufort

Plums is an eclectic, laid-back restaurant serving lunch and dinner with views of the Beaufort River and Waterfront Park in the city.

Since 1986, Plums has provided a constantly-evolving cuisine that combines fresh and local ingredients to make great meals.

The menu features fresh seafood, pasta, and steaks at night.

The gumbo is delicious. Both the shrimp Po’Boy and the oyster Po’Boy are also excellent. So you can try them.

They have a fantastic waterfront view from their outside seating area.

Enjoy the view from the waterfront park while sitting outside and taking in the people-watching.

There is also a fine selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.

Address: 904 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

18. 4 Island Pizza

4 Island Pizza

4 Island Pizza

This lovely, roomy restaurant is ideally situated on the main drag in the Port Royal Town neighborhood.

To sample perfectly prepared pork, cheese salads, and pepperoni, many people go to 4 Island Pizza.

You have a choice of sitting inside or outside at a picnic table. Orders are placed at the counter.

The eatery has a casual yet elegant atmosphere, both for grownups and youngsters.

They provide a wide variety of pizzas, salads, and sandwiches, and their cheese bread, which is the size of a pizza, comes with a variety of topping options.

Beers are also available if you want something to go with your food.

Address: 1003 Paris Ave, Port Royal, SC 29935, United States

19. Griffin Market

Griffin Market

Griffin Market

Visit Griffin Market if you want authentic Italian food with a daily-changing menu featuring just the freshest ingredients.

Griffin Market in South Carolina’s low country offers casual elegance and a taste of the Piedmont area of Italy.

The restaurant, which is located on Carteret Street in Beaufort’s historic city, showcases the wine and culinary skills of Laura and Riccardo Bonino.

In 2011, the couple relocated the eatery from its original spot in Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

Laura is a seasoned executive chef whose skills have been showcased at many fine-dining establishments across the nation.

Being a skilled sommelier, Riccardo is known for having a special talent for matching wines and foods.

Ricardo, the proprietor, will serve you and narrate tales about the cuisine and daily life in Italy.

Griffin Market serves expertly prepared seasonal dishes for lunch three days a week and dinner six days a week.

This eatery is quite intriguing. Unfortunately, there is no signage indicating its presence on Carteret Street, so you wouldn’t know it was there.

Additionally, the brick-faced building may not be considered attractive, but know that you are about to have some delicious Italian cuisine.

Make sure to make a reservation in advance, especially if you are coming in a group.

Although the portions are on the smaller side compared to those at other restaurants in Beaufort, however, volume is not the focus of Griffin Market. The meals are beautifully presented plates with tasty, fresh ingredients.

Address: 403 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

20. Fat Patties, Beaufort

Fat Patties, Beaufort

Fat Patties, Beaufort

Are you looking for a burger joint in Beaufort? The fat Patties is a no-brainer as it is one of the best restaurants in Beaufort that serves burgers.

The best part? Numerous combinations offered at Fat Patties are accessible to both meat eaters and vegetarians.

Burgers are the main attraction, but you can also have them with beef, chicken, turkey, shrimp, or beans.

You can choose from one of the about a dozen topping/condiment combinations offered with cute names or create your own.

In fact, there are so many choices that you could feel confused.

Inside and out, this place is nice and cool looking, and it’s in a terrific location with lots of T.V.s and sports bars.

What more could you want from a burger joint? It has an open bar that appears to have beers on tap, build your own Burgers, and grass-fed beef.

There are doors that roll up in the warmer months, and the atmosphere is relaxed and industrial.

Address: 831 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort, SC 29906, United States

21. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

Bruster's real ice cream beaufort

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Beaufort

If you are looking for a special treat or just a way to treat yourself to ice cream or other delicious treats, this is the right place.

They offer ice cream cakes in addition to a large selection of other treats.

Their homemade ice creams, whether served in a sundae, cone, cup, or thick milkshake, are unbeatable.

Great options include pineapple sundae, hot fudge sundae, and banana split.

Even non-dairy options and pet sundaes are available!

Additionally, free doggie ice cream and a free ice cream cone for kids under 3 feet tall are available.

Address: 304 Robert Smalls Pkwy, Beaufort, SC 29906, United States

22. Lowcountry Produce Market & Cafe

Restaurants in Beaufort

The Lowcountry Produce Beaufort

Lowcountry Produce provides fantastic breakfast and lunch menus in addition to its mouthwatering handmade good.

Years ago, Lowcountry Produce began compiling local and family recipes to can and preserve local favorites.

The architecture is elegant, with towering arched windows and lofty ceilings.

Huge walls that are lined with windows welcome you and let in a ton of light.

It’s in a 1930s-era post office that has been converted. The walls are also covered in creative artwork.

There are many items to look at (and take home, too!) if it’s a little busy when you arrive and you have to wait a little while.

Their products include a variety of spices, spreads, fresh fruits and vegetables, freshly baked bread, and even freshly cut meats.

You place your order at the front and then pick up their food to eat at one of the open tables in the structure or outside the back.

Sometimes on Saturday nights, Lowcountry Produce opens its doors for special dinners where you may select your own steak cut from their deli department while sipping wine.

When they do, it’s a fantastic idea for a romantic date or a night out with friends.

Address: 302 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

23. Herban Market and Cafe

Restaurants in Beaufort

The Herban Market and Cafe

Herban Market and Cafe is a great comfortable spot to grab some vegan pastries and coffee, as well as a quick lunch.

It first opened its doors in 2019 and is one of the few restaurants in Beaufort where you can get a lot of vegan meals.

You will find freshly prepared coffee, espresso, smoothies, and a variety of items for the body, mind, and spirit.

Although the drinks and smoothies are excellent, the meal is exceptional.

Even pastries are created with health in mind.

Address: 1601 North St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

24. Foolish Frog

Restaurants in Beaufort

Foolish frog

Located on St Helena Island, foolish Frog is a fantastic place to be if you’re looking for seafood-friendly restaurants. So if you are in Beaufort, it is worth the drive.

They serve seafood, ribs, and steaks, focusing on seasonal, fresh, and local produce.

This eatery’s fried swordfish, crab cakes, and prawns are excellent.

Some of the best dishes include delicious key lime pie, chocolate cakes, and peanut butter pie.

You can also choose from great craft beer, draft beer, or mimosas.

Additionally, The Frog provides daily specials for starters, main courses, and desserts.

Address: 846 Sea Island Pkwy, St Helena Island, SC 29920, United States

25. Q on Bay

Restaurants in Beaufort

Q on Bay

Here’s one of the top restaurants in Beaufort serving BBQ.

In fact, you’ll see right away from looking at Q on Bay‘s menu that they specialize in all things BBQ.

The restaurant is housed in a stunning old structure in the heart of Beaufort. The structure is distinctive and provides a lovely atmosphere for any event.

Even though BBQ is at the heart of what they do here, they also serve house-ground burgers, hand-cut steaks, fresh local seafood, specialty sandwiches, and daily specials.

Specialties include brisket, ribs, smoked chicken, wings, smoked ribeye, and even BBQ shrimp.

Pulled pork shoulder smoked with hickory is another specialty.

Expect a wait if you visit over the weekends or on holidays, but it will be well worth it.

Make sure not to skip dessert. The strawberry coconut walnut cake they make is incredible!

Address: 822 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

26. Magnolia Bakery Café

Restaurants in Beaufort

The Magnolia bakery cafe

Magnolia is the fusion of a bakery and a restaurant. They offer breakfast, brunch, and lunch.

It is a tranquil garden-like environment with expansive panoramas of the Beaufort River.

This busy neighborhood restaurant offers superb small-batch cooking, fresh local products, and timely, friendly service.

The morning menu includes a variety of foods, including French toast, omelets, stradas, and eggs.

Homemade soups served with bread, savory cheese strata, garden fresh salads, and hearty salads like a crab cake or their famous shrimp salad are all available for lunch.

All of these sandwiches are served on their signature bread and come with side dishes like pasta salad, potato chips, or fresh fruit.

Additionally, they provide a variety of chicken breast and black bean burgers, as well as hot sandwiches, including crab cakes, Reubens, and Cubanos.

If coffee beverages aren’t your thing, they also provide a great range of wine and beer in addition to juices, teas, and elegant brunch drinks like mimosas and sangrias.

Broomfield Creek can be seen well from the outdoor terrace, which is lovely in great weather.

Unique souvenirs are also available. This is one of the restaurants in Beaufort you do not want to miss.

Address: 703 Congress St, Beaufort, SC 29902, United States

 

Final Remarks

Undoubtedly, Beaufort is one of the cities in South Carolina to treat yourself to the best cuisines from different restaurants without breaking the bank.

So, if you are already in the city or planning a trip here, look through the lists to make your choice of the restaurants you will be stopping by. They are all top-notched.