Where to Eat on Kiawah Island: 8 Restaurants You'll Love

Best Restaurants on Kiawah Island: A Foodie's Guide

Kiawah Island, South Carolina, is famed for its pristine beaches, world-class golf, and Southern coastal charm—but it’s also a destination where dining takes center stage. Whether you’re in the mood for a five-star steakhouse, a glass of fine wine with friends, or a casual bite after a round of golf, Kiawah’s restaurants deliver flavors as unforgettable as its sunsets.

Here are 8 of the best restaurants on Kiawah Island that will satisfy every craving.

1. Jasmine Porch at The Sanctuary – Lowcountry Elegance

Located inside Kiawah’s premier luxury hotel, Jasmine Porch is where Southern hospitality meets upscale dining. Think hand-crafted dishes that celebrate Lowcountry traditions—fresh seafood, grits, and seasonal produce, all served in a stunning dining room overlooking the ocean.

Specialty: She-crab soup and shrimp & grits are menu staples you simply can’t miss.

Local Tip: Go for Sunday brunch—the seafood stations and carving boards are legendary.

Price Range: $$$$
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on Google)
📍 Location: The Sanctuary Hotel, Kiawah Island

2. The Ocean Room – Kiawah's Premier Steakhouse

If fine dining is your style, The Ocean Room at The Sanctuary is Kiawah’s crown jewel. It’s the island’s only Forbes Four-Star steakhouse, with impeccable service, elegant interiors, and prime cuts of beef cooked to perfection.

Specialty: Dry-aged ribeye paired with a bold red from their award-winning wine list.

Local Tip: Request a table near the windows for sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Price Range: $$$$
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5 on Google)
📍 Location: The Sanctuary Hotel, Kiawah Island

3. FortyEight – Wine Bar & Kitchen

Wine lovers rejoice: FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen offers 48 wines on tap at all times, plus over 100 craft beers and a menu of upscale small plates. It’s the ultimate spot to sip, taste, and unwind in a laid-back yet polished atmosphere.

Specialty: Share a charcuterie board alongside a flight of red wines.

Local Tip: Use their wine dispensers for a DIY tasting adventure. It’s a great pre-dinner hangout before heading elsewhere on the island.

Price Range: $$–$$$
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5 on Google)
📍 Location: Freshfields Village, Kiawah Island

4. The Ryder Cup Bar – Golf Meets Dining with a View

Perched in the Ocean Course Clubhouse, the Ryder Cup Bar offers casual but elevated dining with panoramic views of the Atlantic and Kiawah’s iconic 18th hole. It’s a favorite among golfers, but the setting and menu make it worth visiting even if you’ve never swung a club.

Specialty: Crab cakes and Southern fried chicken sandwiches are favorites.

Local Tip: Time your visit for sunset—the views from the terrace are unbeatable.

Price Range: $$–$$$
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on Google)
📍 Location: Ocean Course Clubhouse, Kiawah Island

5. Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House – Southern Comfort by the Fairway

If you’re craving smoky, finger-licking goodness, head to Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House at Osprey Point Golf Course. Here, pitmasters smoke meats low and slow, pairing them with house-made sauces and craft brews.

Specialty: Hickory-smoked brisket and Carolina pulled pork.

Local Tip: The bourbon selection is excellent—perfect with barbecue.

Price Range: $$
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5 on Google)
📍 Location: Osprey Point Clubhouse, Kiawah Island

6. Ocean Course Clubhouse – A Coastal Classic

Beyond the Ryder Cup Bar, the Ocean Course Clubhouse also offers an elegant dining experience perfect for celebrating a special occasion. Expect Southern-inspired dishes, premium wines, and a front-row seat to Kiawah’s most stunning views.

Specialty: Fresh catch of the day, often paired with seasonal sides.

Local Tip: It’s a top spot for a romantic dinner after a day on the island’s beaches.

Price Range: $$$
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5 on Google)
📍 Location: Ocean Course, Kiawah Island

7. Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill – Fresh Asian Flavors

Sometimes you need a sushi fix, and Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill in Freshfields Village delivers with style. Offering fresh sushi, hibachi dishes, and creative rolls, it’s a lively break from the island’s Southern-heavy menus.

Specialty: Volcano roll and hibachi steak.

Local Tip: Pair your sushi with a sake flight for the full experience.

Price Range: $$
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on Google)
📍 Location: Freshfields Village, Kiawah Island

8. Tomasso at Turtle Point Clubhouse – Italian with a Southern Twist

If you’re craving Italian comfort food with a touch of island elegance, Tomasso at Turtle Point Clubhouse is the spot. This warm, inviting restaurant specializes in classic Italian dishes—handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and rustic favorites—all crafted with fresh, local ingredients. The vibe is relaxed yet refined, making it a great choice for family dinners or a romantic night out.

Specialty: The wild mushroom ravioli and brick-oven pizza are standouts, while their tiramisu is the perfect sweet ending.

Local Tip: Pair your meal with a glass from their carefully curated Italian wine list. Sunset dinners on the clubhouse patio are unforgettable.

Price Range: $$–$$$
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 on Google)
📍 Location: Turtle Point Clubhouse, Kiawah Island

🌴 Final Bites

From five-star steakhouses to sushi bars and smoky barbecue joints, Kiawah Island’s dining scene offers something for every taste. Whether you’re celebrating a special night at The Ocean Room or grabbing ribs at Cherrywood after golf, dining here is an essential part of the island experience.