Just 40 minutes south of Charleston, nestled among the grand oaks and salty shores of the Kiawah River and Bohicket Creek, Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island stand proud. These luxury resort towns boast incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and are filled with expansive properties dotted across natural lagoons and oceanfront lots.
Alongside all the nature, exclusivity and quiet across the island, the restaurant scene remains dominated by local small businesses and resort-sponsored dining. We’re here to offer you all the ins and outs on best dining options across the region, including everything from local cozy cafes to fine waterfront dining.
Coffee Shops and Cafes
Cafe Eugenia
Located on 209 Farm Lake View Road in Freshfields Village, this one-of-a-kind local spot is brimming with character and local goodies galore. Whether you’re craving a fresh-baked pastry, an eclectic wine and beer selection, or a full cafe menu featuring numerous sandwiches, salads, quiche and the like… Cafe Eugenia has got you covered!
Even better, this local hotspot is expanding! Opening The Sunroom later this 2025 season, Cafe Eugenia hopes to expand their catering menu options and build out local events like cooking classes out of their new space.
Java Java
Meet Kiawah Island’s first original coffee shop. Java Java is a cornerstone of Freshfields Village, making their impact with remarkable coffee and indescribable sandwiches for the last 10+ years. From breakfast to lunch and all the pastries in between, Java Java provides fresh meals every day that can serve and surprise every kind of guest. Creating a cozy and comfortable space where all feel welcome, this business is a necessary spot to start your day with an iced coffee and a breakfast sandwich!
Additional excitement is in store for this business, as they just recently opened their doors to Harvest, a seed-oil and gluten-free establishment serving up smoothies, smoothie bowls, and made to order salads. Our advice: give this one a try by stopping by for a treat before heading out to the beach!
Saveur Du Mondes
Saveur Du Mondes is a Sweetgrass Properties favorite… because we’re neighbors, of course! This Charleston chain is a standout hit among those craving international flavors served alongside that Southern hospitality we all know and love. This delicious cafe offers coffee options, desserts, fresh-baked pastries, and our favorite chocolate croissant this side of the island! Stop in and tell them Sweetgrass sent you.
In-Between Island Options
FortyEight - Wine Bar & Kitchen
Local businesses created by locals, that’s what we love most about FortyEight - Wine Bar & Kitchen in Freshfields Village. This island staple features 48 wines daily, which can be taste tested using interactive WineStations when you drop in. Not only is the wine-tasting divine, this restaurant experience also offers tapas such as cheese and charcuterie boards, seasonal salads and flatbreads to pair perfectly with your wine selection. What more could you ask for!
Cantina 76
This beloved local South Carolina chain restaurant has captured the hearts of thousands across the upstate and all the way down through the Lowcountry. Offering a simple yet diverse menu of fresh and affordable Mexican-inspired fare and beverages, Cantina 76 specializes in creative, award-winning a la carte tacos and signature margaritas in a casual, high-energy atmosphere.
Salty Dog Cafe
The legendary Salty Dog Cafe has a presence in the Bohicket Marina… and it’s a must-see if you’ve never been. Tucked amongst other local restaurants off the Bohicket Creek, this waterfront dining experience is the perfect place to stop by after a long day out on the sand. Enjoy seafood classics like Fried Shrimp Platters and Fish Tacos to top off the perfect day on the island!
Restaurants on Seabrook Island
Palmetto Room & Seaview Terrace
A Seabrook Island exclusive restaurant, this formal oceanfront eatery is the spot for upscale Southern cuisine. Spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean provide the perfect backdrop to the Palmetto Room’s raised bead-board ceilings and soft-toned interior. Their menu is ever-changing but is always inspired by local seafood, proteins, and fresh produce whenever possible.
Pelican’s Nest
At the helm of the Seabrook Island Beach Club, the Pelican’s Nest restaurant offers casual, outdoor oceanfront dining with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Deveaux Bank. Dolphin sightings and spectacular sunsets frequently grace this unique coastal dining atmosphere. Excitement is always a priority, and the restaurant's full-service “open-air” bar provides cold and refreshing beverages tailored to all preferences. Daily features showcase seasonal, local ingredients and seafood specialties.
Restaurants on Kiawah Island
Jasmine Porch at The Sanctuary
Named “Best Downhome Cookery” by Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report, The Jasmine Porch at The Sanctuary boasts genuine Lowcountry cuisine for breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner. Featuring seasonal menus inspired by seafood pulled directly from local waters and certified organic produce from nearby farms, the Jasmine Room aims to inspire and excite. Charleston brick walls, hewn oak floors and briny ocean air set the ambiance for your ultra-relaxed, eat-local meal!
The Atlantic Room
Inside the gates of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, The Atlantic Room is a spectacular seafood restaurant overlooking the legendary Ocean Course at Kiawah. Serving up modern, American cuisine with a changing menu determined by fresh regional catches, this restaurant doesn’t miss when it comes to serving up guests with nothing but the best!
Your Next Sweetgrass Stay
Drive down, grab a meal, and book a stay with Sweetgrass while you’re at it! Kiawah and Seabrook Islands offer the perfect environment for a calm, relaxing and sun-filled stay on the Charleston Coast. All you have to do is book that trip. Make a reservation with Sweetgrass Properties or give us a call at +1 855-421-1309 to learn more!
Even better, we have plenty of Guest Perks and Partnerships at the above restaurants when you stay with Sweetgrass Properties! Book now.