Hilton Head, South Carolina’s location is just one of the numerous factors contributing to its popularity. In addition, the best beaches in the world are only a short drive away, and there are some excellent golf courses close by.
It is near the Atlantic Ocean, where you can run along miles of sandy beaches and watch dolphins frolic in the water.
This list of the top Hilton Head BBQ restaurants can come in handy if you ever need a mouthwatering BBQ feast supported by a cooling coastal breeze.
The 7 Best Hilton Head BBQ Restaurants
Bullies BBQ
3 Regency Pkwy., Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States // +18436867427
It’s possible that Hilton Head Island has a reputation for chic, luxurious grandeur. But, most of the time, it earns its reputation honestly.
Locals know that some of the best food comes from establishments where flavor takes precedence over pretense. Bullies is exactly that restaurant, down to the plastic-plate service and gas station setting.
It is a classic counter-service restaurant delivering delicious, enticing BBQ. The restaurant uses mesquite woods to smoke the freshest and leanest pork, giving it a distinct and smoky flavor.
They take great care and love in making their barbecue, and the ribs are some of the best in the area. Smoking different meats for six to fourteen hours results in the most delicate meat that can be eaten in dinner rolls.
The sides were excellent, the pulled pork had the ideal smoke, and the brisket melted in my mouth. Among all the other collards, the kicking ones stick out. The ribs, though, oh, the ribs, come next.
The ribs at Bullies should always be your first choice of food. On HHI, let alone in the south, you won’t get ribs this good anyplace else. They are that excellent.
It was outstanding, and among the top Hilton Head BBQ spots we know of. So if you’re on Hilton Head and want fantastic BBQ with sides, this is the spot for you.
The Smokehouse
34 Palmetto Bay Rd., Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States // +18438424227
The Smokehouse has been serving its renowned, award-winning barbecue on Hilton Head Island since 1999. You can tell good barbecue when you taste it.
This area is classic cool in terms of Hilton Head. Since it first opened at the former Coligny Beach location, The Smokehouse has been the go-to spot for Hilton Head BBQ.
The Smokehouse, the great mediator in the regional barbecue conflicts, welcomes all varieties, from the rich, juicy Texas brisket to the delicious South Carolina hickory. Their extensive selection of barbecue staples makes The Smokehouse a consistent favorite in the island’s yearly Kiwanis Club Rib Burn-Off. Their menu effortlessly bridges the culinary gap.
When you enter the 200-seat restaurant, you are greeted with a smile and the mouthwatering aroma of premium meats that have been slowly smoked over hickory for hours.
The Smokehouse offers a wide selection of lunch and dinner specialties, a fantastic Sunday brunch, the best happy hour on the island, and indoor and outdoor bars with more than 15 TVs where you can enjoy your favorite sporting event while sipping a cold beer. It also has indoor and outdoor seating.
For starters, we chose the barbecue shrimp and ribs, which were excellent. Next, we ordered the Buffalo chicken, burned ends, and Angus burger sliders for the main, along with red rice and potato salad on the side.
Additionally, we ordered a chicken salad sandwich and a Memphis cheesesteak with house salads. Must-Visit!
One Hot Mama’s American Grill
1 Greenwood Dr. Ste. 7A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States // +18436826262
One Hot Mama’s is a great find! It has an awesome vibe, a fantastic staff, and delicious cuisine! It’s safe to say that One Hot Mama’s is a spot where you can unwind and savor some tasty bbq in Hilton Head.
Everyone seems to have an opinion on BBQ these days, but if you visit One Hot Mama’s, you can be sure that everything is of the highest caliber.
You’ll want to return for more after taking just one bite of their baby back ribs. In addition to the ribs, they also provide steaks, wraps, hamburgers, and three combo meat plates.
Don’t forget to come hungry! There is something mouthwatering about everything. I ordered their Jumbo wings in Strawberry Jalapeno and Maui Wowi flavors.
The strawberry jalapeno has a sweet and delicious beginning and a mild spice at the end.
My favorite was the Maui Wowi, which was juicy and flavorful from the marinade and the sauce. Additionally, the charred end of the brisket chili is worth the trip. This dish is a hit in my book because of the soft and delicious charred end bits. You will not go wrong if you choose to eat here!
Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza
7 Trent Jones Ln., Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States // +18552258214
Big Jim’s is located at Palmetto Dunes and overlooks a golf course. The view is very remarkable. We sat outside while there was inside and outdoor seating available. For a relaxed supper, Big Jim’s is fantastic.
This clubhouse bar and grill are located in the Robert Trent Jones Gold Club. It is fantastic. You can watch sports on numerous TVs while overlooking the golf course. The meal was excellent.
Being right outside the gates makes it accessible by foot and available to everyone. Everything you’d anticipate from a BBQ restaurant is on the menu at Big Jim’s, plus a few seafood choices.
The avocado burger I had was excellent. My friend consumed a very tasty BBQ sandwich. The sides were excellent.
We noticed salads that were excellent and big and dishes of ribs that looked outstanding. Additionally, Big Jim’s offers curbside takeaway. If you stay at Palmetto Dunes, this is an excellent place to enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch in Hilton Head!
Porter & Pig
1000 William Hilton Parkway Suite J7C, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States // +18437159586
A hidden gem on an island paradise. We were astounded by the atmosphere and creative interior design upon arriving.
The hostess and owner both greeted us right away. I can only remark that this restaurant is a gem that must be discovered. The cuisine was outstanding, and the specialty cocktails were outstanding.
It took us a while to look through the menu because the decor captured our attention. We started with a charcuterie station with the most mouthwatering selections I’ve ever seen. Everything was mouthwateringly excellent.
The next item I ordered was the Wagyu Wonder Beef Burger with homemade Bourbon Bacon Jam. I have never had a burger as good as this one! Although the burger was enormous, I didn’t care for the “chips” that came with it. Nevertheless, I had plenty to eat.
Another person in our group who got the Pig Cuban said it was the finest he had ever eaten, as well. Cocktails were served in excellent quality. A pianist/singer provided lovely entertainment.
The experience was enjoyable. I highly recommend you give it a visit!
The Lucky Rooster Kitchen and Bar
841 William Hilton Pkwy. Unit A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States // +18437153215
The supper at Hilton Head was the greatest so far. Delectable cuisine from the Carolinas. This home is fantastic in every way.
The employees enjoy their work very much and it comes through with the incredible meals they’re producing.
We thoroughly appreciated our dinner, the staff’s expertise (AJ is outstanding), the wide selection of wine and beer, and the restaurant’s sleek, contemporary appearance.
We liked that the restaurant wasn’t too big and the tables weren’t crammed. Unfortunately, I didn’t try any of the substantial number of outside seats because it was raining; perhaps next time.
I had the best shrimp and grits I have ever had, and my friend had the best salmon wellington ever eaten.
The creative key lime “pie” served in a mason jar with a berry topping was a little too sweet for us, but we think this is how it is often presented in the region, given that other establishments were comparable.
While other local choices may have a higher-end feel to the dining area or a better view, I doubt they can match this restaurant’s cuisine. I highly reccomend this Hilton Head BBQ restaurant!
Cook Out
101 Central Ave., Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, United States // +18665470011
Cook Out, which is well-known for its drive-thru barbecue, offers excellent barbecue, sloppy burgers, and thick shakes to wash down all that meat.
Cook Out is a terrific place to grab quick Hilton Head BBQ, regardless of whether you want a BBQ plate with fries, hush puppies, slaw, hotdogs, a quesadilla, or wraps. Even the menu for shakes, floats, and cheesecakes is entirely different!
Final Thoughts About The Best Hilton Head BBQ Restaurants
Hilton Head is undoubtedly one of the best spots to stay if you intend to take a holiday in South Carolina.
Given that they satisfy various preferences and needs, having high-quality restaurants nearby is really convenient. However, you’re in luck if you’re seeking a South Carolina barbecue on a beach.
Due to Hilton Head’s abundance of wonderful beaches and close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, many wonderful island BBQ restaurants serve delicious meals to tourists searching for island fun!
Visiting other destinations in South Carolina? Check out our other delicious guides:
- Seven Lowcountry Summerville SC Restaurants
- 8 Must-Try Downtown Charleston Restaurants
- 6 Best Things To Do In Florence SC
- 9 Must-Try Florence SC Restaurants
- 7 Outstanding Mexican Restaurants in Hilton Head
Igor Jovanovski is an aspiring digital nomad, travel blogger and graphic designer who really loves food. He also has a creative side, and he works as a freelance graphic designer in his spare time. He has traveled across Europe quite a few times since he was young and recently started his mission to visit every country in the world! Igor’s favorite thing about traveling is the way he gets to know new people, food, places and cultures.
This exciting experience helps him create his own stories and make memories that will last forever