Hero banner image

14 Best Local Restaurants On Kiawah Island


Delicious dining and iconic views, what’s not to love? When traveling to Kiawah Island, we know that it’s hard to pick and choose where you’ll want to be dining each day of your trip. Our local foodies guide to South Carolina’s Kiawah Island highlights the best places to grab a bite to eat for every occasion – a quick break from the beach, poolside snacks, fun family feasts, alfresco romance, and special occasions that call for classic Lowcountry luxury. Read on to learn about these 14 local establishments not to miss while vacationing on Kiawah Island.

Restaurants in Night Heron Park


Night Heron Park in East Beach Village is Kiawah Island’s hub of local activity and a haven for families with kids looking to fill their vacation itinerary! The 21-acre nature park features fishing ponds, bike trails, sports facilities, playgrounds, a pool complex, a nature center with eco-tours and activities, an art studio, and casual eateries to take a break and refuel.

1. The Nest Market

Night Heron Park, Kiawah Island Parkway
Phone: (843) 768-2775
Open Daily | 7 AM to 9 PM 
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required


Café Dining Menu

Situated in the heart of Night Heron Park, the Nest Market and Café is a grocery store and favorite gathering space for locals and visitors alike. The café offers a selection of sweet and savory baked goods, artisanal coffees, smoothies, made-to-order gourmet sandwiches, and a wide variety of menu items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Perfect to pick up and go for a beach day or for a lazy lunch on the Lowcountry porch shaded by towering ancient oaks.

2. Night Heron Poolside Grill & Bar

Night Heron Park, Kiawah Island Parkway
Phone: (843) 768-2775
Open Daily | 11 AM to 6 PM 
Outdoor Seating – Weather Permitting
Reservations not required


Grill Menu | Children | Beverage

Open only in high season, the Poolside Grill & Bar at Night Heron Park is another top choice for families to enjoy a casual lunch or dinner. Relax around the pool and enjoy everything from specialty wraps, sandwiches, salads, and snack baskets to local seafood fresh from the Lowcountry waterways. And, it’s always happy hour at the beverage bar!




3. Mingo Point Oyster Roast & BBQ




The Mingo Point Oyster Roast & BBQ is not only Kiawah Island’s top foodie experience, it’s the island’s longest-standing tradition and a Lowcountry lifestyle experience that’ll leave lasting memories for the whole family! Situated on the banks of the Kiawah River (another insta-worthy sunset spot!), this local event will satisfy every southern craving from classic BBQ and roasted oysters to live music and dancing under the stars. The Mingo Point experience takes place every Monday evening all through summer and over most major holidays like Easter, Memorial Weekend, and Labor Day Weekend.

LOCATION:
Mingo Point, 876 Kiawah Island Parkway 

DATE:
Monday – Memorial Day to Labor Day

TWO SEATINGS:
5 PM to 7 PM and 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

ADMISSION:
Adults – $59.99 / person
Age 4-12 – $29.99 / person
Age 3 & Under – FREE

2024 MINGO POINT DATES:
May 25th
June 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th
July 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th
August 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th, 31st

Reserve your Mingo Point tickets HERE!

NEW for 2024:
Each Mingo Point date includes two seatings for guests to choose from when purchasing tickets: 5:00pm – 7:00pm and 7:30pm – 9:30pm.

  • No walk up ticket purchases will be allowed or honored
  • Limited capacity is available for each seating – once a seating is sold out, that date or time will no longer be available to book online.
  • Tickets must be purchased by 9am the day of the event
  • All attendees must have a ticket regardless of age
  • There are no physical tickets, you will be emailed a receipt as your confirmation
  • All purchases are final – no refunds will be issued in the event of inclement weather.



Local Restaurants in Freshfields Village  


Freshfields Village is a charming open-air village situated only a short drive or bike ride from Kiawah Island.  Here you’ll find a wide selection of local services along with home-grown shops, spas, coffee shops, cafés, and restaurants for every food lover. Order to go for a picnic and live music on the Village Green, attend a wine tasting or culinary event, or shop for local produce at the weekly farmers market for a Lowcountry-style family feast at home.  

4. Café Eugenia

209 Farm Lake View, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 974-3869
Tuesday – Sunday | 8 AM to 6 PM 
Gluten-Free Options
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required


Breakfast, Lunch & Charcuterie Boards

Café Eugenia is a charming Mediterranean style eatery with an enticing selection of all day breakfasts, lunch sandwiches and wraps, seasonal charcuterie boards in three sizes, delicious dessert boards, and wines by the glass or bottle to pair. Contact them for catering or take home meals for your stay on Kiawah Island.

5. Cantina 76

219 Farm Lake View, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 737-4607
Sunday, Monday, Thursday | 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Friday & Saturday | 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Happy Hour | Sep 3 – Mar 31 | Monday – Friday 4 PM to 7 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required


Cantina 76 Menu

Cantina 76 is an award-winning taqueria and bar renowned for its relaxed and lively atmosphere,  imaginative Mexican-inspired cuisine, and the best handcrafted margaritas and mimosas in town – by the glass or pitcher! Over 21s can find a spot at the bar for happy hour and the football game, the indoor dining area is perfect for families, or find a table on the pet-friendly patio overlooking Andell Lake. 

6. The Co-Op Frosé & Eatery

109 Gardners Circle, Johns Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 718-2403
Open Daily | 8 AM to 6 PM 
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required


Co-Op Frose Menu

For a casual breakfast, gourmet lunch sandwich, quick PB&J for the kids, or famous Charleston frosé, head to The Co-Op Frosé & Eatery.  The Co Op is more than an eatery, its a Lowcountry brand and lifestyle with locations on Sullivan’s Island, the Isle of Palms, and now in Freshfields Village! This vibey island eatery has indoor seating and a pet-friendly patio for your pup.

7. Hege’s Restaurant

275 Gardners Circle, Johns Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 768-0035
Tuesday – Saturday | 5 PM to 8:30 PM – Friday 9 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations essential


Dinner Menu | Wine List | Catering Menu

Hege’s Restaurant is an inviting chef-owned French Bistro that’s always a favorite for casual fine dining in Freshfields Village. Savor classic French cuisine with fresh farm to table Lowcountry fusions and a wide selection of top shelf spirits, handcrafted cocktails, and wines and beers from around the globe. Dine indoors or in the cozy outdoor courtyard – well behaved pets welcome.  

8. FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen

547 Freshfields Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 768-2245
Open Daily | 11 AM to 9:30 PM – Opens 12 PM on Sunday
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations recommended


Food & Drink Menu 

At Freshfields Village, FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen is a stand out for its exceptional selection of wines, along with 48 varieties of craft beers and an impressive range of cocktails. A unique Wine Station Smart Card system allows guests to effortlessly indulge in tastings of 48 rotating wines with small plates and charcuterie platters that perfectly complement the wine tasting experience. FortyEight Wine Bar offers wine tasting and dining packages and hosts fabulous wine events throughout the year.

9. Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill

205 Farm Lake View, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 996-4898
Open Daily | 11 AM to 10 PM 
Daily Happy Hour | 4 PM to 7 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations recommended


Fuji Freshfields Menu

Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or want to try something new, Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill has something for everyone. Choose from traditional sushi rolls, hibachi entrees, and sake, or sample creative Asian fusion dishes paired with an ice cold beer or chardonnay. Fuji Freshfields has a full-service bar area, indoor seating, and a pet-friendly patio for outdoor dining.



10. Java Java

375 Gardners Circle, Johns Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 243-0222
Open Daily | 7 AM to 3 PM
Reservations not required


Coffee, Smoothies, Breakfast & Lunch Menu

Java Java is your local Kiawah Island coffee shop with award winning King Bean coffees, seasonal fruit smoothies, delicious sweet and savory breakfasts, and light lunches made to order. Grab a morning coffee to sip on Freshfields grass patio furniture or browse the cool cars at the monthly Cars & Coffee, or start you day with breakfast and people watching on the patio. 

11. King Street Grille

679 Freshfields Village Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 768-5444
Open Daily | 11 AM to 10 PM
Daily Happy Hour | 4 PM to 7 PM 
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required


Food Menu | Drinks & Beers 

One of the best sports bars in Charleston is right here in Freshfields Village! King Street Grille is a casual spot for lunch or dinner with a lively, laid back atmosphere, big screen TVs to catch the game, daily happy hour (for three hours!) and great food! The extensive menu features elevated pub fare all made from scratch, classic kids meals, decadent desserts, and signature cocktails, spicy and sweet.

12. La Tela Pizzeria

133 Village Green Lane, Kiawah Island, SC
Phone: (843) 768-1951
Tuesday – Thursday | 5 PM to 10 PM 
Friday & Saturday | 11 AM to 3 PM
Reservations not required


Pizzeria Menu

For an all Italian affair, La Tela Pizzeria is unbeatable! This traditional family-run Italian eatery serves Neopolitan style wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, delicious Italian ice creams and desserts, espresso, and fantastic local and Italian vinos. La Tela is great for a lazy lunch after shopping, a relaxed family dinner, or a romantic date night on the cozy outdoor patio.

13. The Porch Bar

300 Farm Lake View Rd, Kiawah Island 
Phone: (843) 793-6050
Open Daily | 4 PM to Close
Live Jazz | Thursday 6 PM to 8 PM
Reservations not required


Seasonal Porch Bar Menu

Every Thursday evening you’ll find a bevy of locals and tourists listening to the soothing sounds of jazz at the Porch Bar overlooking the lake in Freshfields Village. Sip on a Kiawah Sparkler or Seabrook Manhattan while snacking on light fare like cheeses, sliders, and fresh gourmet flatbreads while enjoying tranquil Lowcountry views and live music. 

14. Vincent’s Drug Store & Soda Fountain

110 Planted Row Lane, Johns Island, SC
Phone: (843) 243-0007
Monday – Friday | 9 AM to 6:30 PM
Saturday | 9 AM to 2 PM


Vincent’s Soda Fountain Menu

Take a trip down memory lane with PB&Js, burgers, chili dogs, banana splits, soda floats, and vacation sundaes on swivel stools or tucked in an old fashioned booth at Vincent’s Soda Fountain. Whether you’re shopping the village or farmers market, attending a local event, or making a pit stop on a bike ride from Kiawah Island, a stop by Vincent’s Soda Fountain is a slice of nostalgia you don’t want to miss.  



STAY with Kiawah Exclusives


Put your personal spin on Lowcountry cooking from the comfort of a Kiawah Exclusives vacation home. Whether you’re dreaming of dining with golf course views or surrounded by the sights and sounds of the ocean, you’ll find the gourmet chef’s kitchen of your dreams with indoor and outdoor entertainment areas for Lowcountry boils, backyard BBQs, and classic South Carolina cuisine from the comfort of home!   

You Might Also Like

Charleston Food & Wine Classic 2024

Traveling to Kiawah Island and the Charleston area this fall? The 2024 Food & Wine Classic promises to be a unique and an unforgettable experience for food enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike. Charleston is an extremely photogenic and charming city famed for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and Southern hospitality. This area is going to …

Read More

Charleston Autumn Events Calendar 2024

Thinking about traveling to the Lowcountry area of South Carolina? Experience the local charm of Kiawah Island and surrounding areas this fall! Kiawah Island and its neighboring areas — Charleston and Seabrook Island — come alive with an array of events and activities perfect for a fall family trip or romantic autumn getaway. Whether you’re …

Read More

5 Local Tips For Kiawah Island

As Kiawah Island locals, we’ve got all the best local tips up our sleeve! We know all the best places for your next adventure, hidden gems you’ll otherwise pass on by, tips to make the most out of your trip, and all the best places to stay across the island. Don’t just take our word …

Read More

9 Rainy Day Activities On Kiawah Island

Don’t let a little rain dampen your Kiawah Island vacation spirits! Our charming South Carolina sea island has plenty of fun-filled activities and attractions to turn an unexpected rainy vacation day into an unforgettable experience for the whole family. From nature tours and activities to Lowcountry comfort food classics and cozy coastal retreats to hunker …

Read More

Kiawah Island Tips For First-Timers

Visiting Kiawah Island for the first time? We’ve put together this extensive guide of the best tips and tricks to make the most out of your vacation! Whether you’re looking for an action-packed family adventure or a laid back island-style retreat, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find out more about our renowned beaches …

Read More

Top 6 Differences Between Kiawah & Seabrook Islands

Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island are neighboring barrier islands off the eastern coast of South Carolina. Both islands feature secluded communities with miles of pristine beaches, maritime forests, sand dunes, and marshes! Although both have the same laid-back island vibe, convenient resort amenities, and luxury vacation rentals, Kiawah and Seabrook each offer their own differences. …

Read More

Best Places To Play Pickleball On Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island stands as a captivating destination renowned for its natural beauty, world-class amenities, and a wealth of outdoor activities. An enchanting blend of relaxation and recreation in the heart of the Lowcountry’s natural splendor!  Among the variety of recreational options on Kiawah Island, pickleball has emerged as a favorite amongst residents and visitors alike. …

Read More

Top 10 Places To Work Remotely On Kiawah

Experience the freedom and flexibility of remote work while immersed in the lap of luxury on Kiawah Island, an enchanting barrier island nestled along the South Carolina coastline. On Kiawah Island, you can happily bid farewell to the confines of a traditional office and embrace a world where your workspace boasts breathtaking views and knows …

Read More

Thanksgiving Activities On Kiawah Island 2024

Year-after-year, families have made Kiawah Island the host of their favorite holiday traditions. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather on the island with friends and loved ones as the area rings in the festive season with lavish buffets, epicurean experiences in the restaurants, and home-cooked meals to enjoy in your vacation rental, without any …

Read More

14 Best Local Restaurants On Kiawah Island

Delicious dining and iconic views, what’s not to love? When traveling to Kiawah Island, we know that it’s hard to pick and choose where you’ll want to be dining each day of your trip. Our local foodies guide to South Carolina’s Kiawah Island highlights the best places to grab a bite to eat for every …

Read More

Best Hotel & Resort Restaurants On Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a luxury destination with miles of beautiful Atlantic beaches, wild untouched nature preserves, world-famous golf courses, and some of the best food in South Carolina’s Lowcountry region. Only a stone’s throw from the vibrant culinary scene of Charleston, Kiawah Island boasts everything from hotel island-style dining in flip flops and tees and …

Read More

Monthly Vacation Guide – October 2024

Pack your bags and escape to Kiawah Island, where each month brings new opportunities to create once-in-a-lifetime memories! No matter the month, Kiawah Island offers diverse array of activities. Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a family adventure, or a peaceful getaway, this monthly vacation guide ensures that you’ll find the perfect experience while visiting …

Read More

How To Spot Loggerhead Sea Turtles on Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is known as a top destination for luxury living in harmony with nature. Our beautiful barrier island encompasses 10,000 acres of lush Lowcountry landscapes and over ten miles of pristine Atlantic coastline. This region boasts a lush diversity of well preserved habitats and intricate ecosystems, perfect for wildlife to flourish and thrive. Kiawah …

Read More

Childcare & Babysitting Options On Kiawah Island 

Welcome to the ultimate family-friendly paradise on South Carolina’s Kiawah Island, where a vacation isn’t just a break for busy parents but an exhilarating adventure for the little tots and teens too. There are no limits to the family fun that awaits on Kiawah Island! Our beautiful barrier island boasts 10 miles of stunning sandy …

Read More

6 Tips To Host Your Family Reunion On Kiawah Island 

Planning a family reunion is not always smooth sailing but there’s one thing we can be sure of – your reunion will be stunning in the South Carolina sea islands. With its spectacular Lowcountry setting, southern charm and hospitality, abundance of activities, and luxury island accommodations, Kiawah Island is the perfect destination for a fun-filled …

Read More

Art Galleries & Events On Kiawah Island 2024

Situated only 25 miles from Charleston, Kiawah Island is a luxurious island retreat renowned for its coastal charm, natural beauty, and inspiring Lowcountry lifestyle. Kiawah is home to 10 miles of the most beautiful beaches on the South Carolina coastline, tranquil waterways and trails adorned with Spanish moss swaying from ancient live oaks, world-class resort …

Read More

Top 4 Reasons To Visit Beachwalker Park

Situated only 25 miles from Charleston, Kiawah Island is internationally recognized for its award-winning resort amenities ranging from world-class championship golf courses and highly-acclaimed tennis centers to luxurious Lowcountry dining, and miles upon miles of unspoiled, uncrowded, and natural barrier island beaches.  Consistently ranked one of Dr. Beach’s Top 10 Beaches in America, Kiawah Beachwalker …

Read More

Kiawah Island Grocery Shopping & Services 

Thinking about traveling to Kiawah Island? Who wouldn’t love miles of sun-kissed beaches, the soothing sounds of crashing waves, the anticipation of lazy afternoons lounging under an umbrella (or napping by the pool), and spending long, uninterrupted stretches of quality time with your nearest and dearest?! As you wind closer to the beautiful shoreline of …

Read More

Why Support Local Businesses at Freshfields Village?

Local businesses are the backbone of our economy, and supporting local business in Kiawah is so important to keeping the charm alive in this small beach town! Kiawah offers visitors a perfect balance of natural Lowcountry beauty, southern charm, and world-class resort amenities. Explore the island on 30 miles of paved trails through acres of …

Read More

6 Best Fishing Locations On Kiawah Island

When it comes to natural beauty and coastal charm, few destinations can compete with Kiawah Island, a beautifully preserved and unspoiled barrier island nestled between the Kiawah River and Atlantic Ocean. Ranked one of the top fishing destinations on the East Coast, Kiawah Island delivers a great Lowcountry fishing experience for all fishing enthusiasts in …

Read More

Where To Watch The Sunset On Kiawah Island?

Spectacular Lowcountry sunrise and sunset views are part of Mother Nature’s perfect package when you vacation on the South Carolina coastline. Charleston is famous for its romantic sunsets but if you’re looking to escape the urban vibe and reconnect with nature, there’s nowhere quite like Kiawah Island.  Situated only a 45 minute drive from Charleston, …

Read More

Lowcountry Winery & Brewery Guide

Charleston has been voted the No. 1 City in the USA by Travel + Leisure for 11 consecutive years and is the first US destination to earn the coveted No. 1 City in the World ranking. There are 100+ reasons why travelers love Lowcountry living! Our favorites would be the jasmine-scented cobblestone streets lined with …

Read More

How To Bike Around Kiawah Island?

Nestled on South Carolina’s Atlantic coastline between the historic City of Charleston and the private oceanfront resort community of Seabrook Island is Kiawah Island. Kiawah is a vacation destination with vast and scenic Lowcountry landscapes best explored on two wheels to venture freely.  With over 30-miles of paved flat paths connecting the island from West …

Read More

Kiawah Island Labor Day Weekend Event Calendar

Labor Day is an annual celebration of American labor achievements and contributions… So it’s the perfect time to party with your friends and family, right? There’s no better way to celebrate with your favorite people than attending local events, relaxing on the beach, or taking a trip to one of America’s top destinations for luxury …

Read More

Best Fishing Charters on Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a destination known for its award-winning white sandy beaches, oceanfront golf courses, and untouched landscapes teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. The island’s pristinely preserved and unique ecosystem of beaches, maritime forests, protected sand dunes, and fragile marshlands are a habitat for a diverse array of beautiful birdlife, wildlife, majestic marine mammals, …

Read More

Top 10 Attractions for Kids on Kiawah Island

Our kids are inundated with tech gadgets, gaming devices, and a constant stream of stimulation, day in and day out. Why not skip the bustling boardwalks lined with amusement, arcades and kid-centric attractions and spend your family vacation immersed in nature on Kiawah Island? Kiawah Island is a secluded barrier island and luxury resort community …

Read More

Charleston Wine + Food Festival 2024

Imagine a five-day epicurean celebration that transforms the historic streets of Charleston and the charming coastal sea islands into a culinary wonderland! The annual Charleston Wine + Food Festival is a vibrant showcase of the Lowcountry’s diverse culinary flavors, vibrant wine scene, and warm southern hospitality all rolled into one epic event!  DATE: MARCH 6th …

Read More

7 Best Spots for a Cocktail on Kiawah Island

Looking for a place to enjoy a crisp cocktail? Dress up and slip into a seat for a classy beverage at the five-star Sanctuary Hotel or head straight from the beach in flip flops for live music and laid back island vibes on the waterfront – you can have it all while vacationing on Kiawah Island!

Read More

Best Lowcountry Oyster Roasts in 2024

The South Carolina coastline is not only famous for its miles of beautiful barrier islands and sandy beaches, warm winter weather, outdoor activities and southern charm. The winter months bring thousands of visitors to the Lowcountry coastal towns to savor classic southern seafood, waterfront marsh-to-table dining and the tasty tradition of Lowcountry Oyster Roasts. 

Read More

Best Fall Festivals & Events On Kiawah Island

Fall is America’s favorite season and the best time of year to visit the barrier islands of South Carolina on the idyllic Atlantic Coastline. The beauty of the changing fall leaves, no more summer crowds, coastal temperatures and miles of pristine and peaceful sandy beaches await on Kiawah Island, South Carolina.  

Read More

2024 Summer Event Calendar for Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a stunning barrier island nestled on the South Carolina coastline that offers visitors the opportunity to engage in endless adventures and activities, or simply do nothing at all! Summer is a season of fun on Kiawah Island and each day brings new adventures, unique recreational experiences, and exciting summer events focused on the Lowcountry lifestyle and old-fashioned fun for the whole family! 

Read More