Kiawah Dining Favorites You Must Try

Your first Kiawah dining experience is sure to be unforgettable when you take into account the quality of chefs and restaurateurs that are on the Island. 

Whether you’re interested in trying something new or want to savor your favorite Southern classics, this Island has a range of dining options to choose from. Ask any local resident and they will tell you that the food here, much like it’s natural beauty and amenities, just can’t be beat. 

Taste your way across the Island and explore what Kiawah has to offer with our list of must-haves menu items. 

Casual Kiawah Dining Must-Haves

1. Chicken Chesapeake Sandwich – King Street Grille

When you’re in the mood for somewhere casual to gather with friends, head over to the King Street Grille in Freshfields Village. Try the chicken chesapeake sandwich that also comes with a crab cake served on a warm pretzel roll. For dessert, order the key lime pie for a treat that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.

2. Wood-Fired Pizza – La Tela Pizzeria

For family style dining, La Tela is the perfect place to enjoy a slice of wood-fired pizza. Both their pizza dough and mozzarella are made in-house, making for an incredible meal that everyone will enjoy. You also can’t go wrong with their handcrafted pasta that’s made with local Lowcountry ingredients. 

3. Topper Roll – Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill

In the mood for sashimi? Fuji is the top Kiawah dining spot for fresh sushi. For an appetizer, get the bomb shrimp that is lightly fried and tossed with seaweed seasoning. Then, try the topper roll with spicy scallops and fresh salmon, or the firecracker roll with lobster salad and tempura crab. 

4. Peruvian Shrimp Tacos – Cantina 76

The Mexican-inspired menu at Cantina 76 always features fresh and local ingredients that are to die for. For tacos, don’t miss out on the Peruvian shrimp, served with a sweet sesame chili sauce. As for drinks, a strawberry basil margarita provides a sweet twist in contrast to the traditional sour margarita. 

5. Roasted Duck Breast – Voysey’s Restaurant and Pub

An entree of succulent duck breast, crispy gnocchi, and wild asparagus waits for you at Voysey’s Pub, part of the Cassique community. Kiawah Island Club Members enjoy this Kiawah dining spot when in the mood for something delectable, but with the casual comfort of a neighborhood pub. 

Formal Kiawah Dining Must-Haves

6. Cornmeal Fried South Carolina White Shrimp – B-Liner

Club Members also have the opportunity of dining at the B-Liner, developed by James Beard Award Winner Chef Mike Lata and Executive Chef Geoffroy Deconinck. The menu here features coastal Southern classics like the cornmeal fried SC white shrimp that tasted too good to be true. The Milk + Honey cocktail featuring rum, Aperol, and honey is a local favorite you will want to try as well. 

7. Shrimp and Grits – Jasmine Porch

The best Southern-inspired cuisine can be found at the one and only Jasmine Porch. Order the signature shrimp and grits for a taste of the best when it comes to Kiawah dining. Buttery shrimp, tasso ham, and a delectable tomato gravy come together to create a dish that represents the Lowcountry and all of its amazing flavors. Jasmine Porch is also known for its handcrafted cocktails. Order the Chucktown Mule for a bourbon-based take on a Moscow Mule. 

8. Truffle Encrusted Seasonal Catch – The Ocean Room

The Ocean Room is a high-end steakhouse known for its impeccable service and outstanding food. Start the evening with the Swallow-tailed Kite cocktail that is made with floral-infused ice. Be sure to check with your waiter what the catch of the day is and ask for the truffle encrusted seasonal catch for a truly unforgettable meal. 

9. Seared Grouper – The Atlantic Room

Make reservations ahead of time at The Atlantic Room and dine on their fantastic seafood menu. Order the seared grouper accompanied with chorizo and cured tomatoes as your main course and sip on your choice of Irish or American whiskey as you look out at the panoramic views of the Atlantic sea. 

10. She Crab Soup – Hege’s Restaurant

You haven’t experienced true Kiawah dining if you’ve never tried the she crab soup from Hege’s French Restaurant. This Lowcountry staple dates back to the 1700s when Scottish settlers created dishes from the local blue crabs that inhabited the area. Today, you can catch blue crabs in several of Kiawah’s waterways. Pair your soup with a glass of chardonnay or merlot from Hege’s curated wine list.  

Experience Kiawah Island as a Club Member

Top-notch dining is not the only thing Kiawah is known for! Plan a visit to the Island and experience the coastal community and all of its amenities. We invite you to see the Island for yourself and explore what life here could be like for you. Contact us via the button below to inquire about visiting.