5 Must-Try Downtown Restaurants in Bluffton

How often have you returned from a trip to discover you missed the best places to eat? The best places to have a drink? The best places to sit, relax, and enjoy a great meal and a beautiful view? It happens to all of us. Below is a list of the Top 5 Rocking Restaurants in Old Town Bluffton that you don’t want to miss!

“The Boys are Back in Town”

Burnt Church Distillery is an amazing place to get together, drink authentic local spirits, engage with history, and help shape a brighter future. Sounds like a tall order, but BCD delivers!

Brothers Billy and Sean Watterson opened this unique distillery out of a love for the Lowcountry with all its beauty and hospitality.

Naming the distillery after the well-known Burnt Church Road in Old Town Bluffton, Billy and Sean make the most of this connection to the town and its history… and its mysteries. They even took on a research project and had a book written about local history and the truth behind how Burnt Church Road got its name.

“Fish heads, fish heads Roly-poly fish heads Fish heads, fish heads Eat them up, yum…”

The lyrics above are from 1980, and one of the best seafood restaurants in Bluffton started in 1982. After you visit Captain Woody’s, you’ll be saying more than yum!

Captain Woody’s is a fun and casual seafood restaurant with plenty of options for land lovers as well. The entire menu is available for lunch and dinner with an indoor and outdoor bar and patio seating.

Seafood Restaurant Old Town Bluffton

“One More Saturday Night”

A comfortable room where fine spirits are enjoyed, laughs are had, and stories are told. A public house for travelers and locals alike. Cold beer, classic cocktails, and familiar faces are just the start of it. We’re talking about Calhoun Street Tavern!

We strive to offer Old Town Bluffton, SC a timeless neighborhood watering hole just a couple blocks from the bluff. Paired with a chef-driven menu of southern plates, thoughtful service and comforting Low Country classic food.

After a swell day on the river or a rough one at work, bring a friend or come alone. Whatever you do… pull up a stool and stay awhile.

You are at home!

Menu Calhoun Street Tavern

“Down By The River”

Charlie Sternburgh, the executive chef /owner of Bluffton’s May River Grill, moved to Hilton Head Island in 1983. A Michigan native, Charlie started in the restaurant business under the watchful eye of Ed Murray, whom Charlie graciously credits as his mentor and teacher. Charlie learned every aspect of the restaurant industry, from serving to managing.

Before opening May River Grill, Charlie’s most notable kitchen appointment was as head chef at Hilton Head Island’s Jazz Corner. At the Jazz Corner, Charlie refined his cooking skills and explored his culinary creativity. Over his seven-year tenure, Charlie enjoyed a meteoric rise through the kitchen’s ranks and carved out a reputation as one of Hilton Head Island’s finest chefs.

Charlie dreamed of one day opening his own restaurant. He aspired to serve truly great food featuring fresh ingredients culled from the local rivers and farms. With the backing of the community and the gracious patronage of his regulars, Charlie was able to realize his dream in 2007 with the grand opening of May River Grill.

Address: 1263 May River Rd # D, Bluffton, SC 29910
Phone: (843) 757-5755

I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)

After 10 years of providing great food and music, Old Town Dispensary has closed (January 2024). Moving into its space will be Agave Sidebar!

 

One of the best indoor-outdoor restaurants in historic Bluffton is Old Town Dispensary. With live music, outside seating, and activities to keep the little ones busy, it’s no wonder this is a local favorite. Centrally located down Calhoun Street, this makes a great stop while visiting the Farmer’s Market on Thursdays. Cold drinks are best served by the fire pit! Rock Stars have been spotted here!

Address: 15 Captains Cv, Bluffton, SC 29910
Phone: (843) 837-1893

Old Town Restaurants

Looking for outdoor seating? Please review our list of restaurants with outdoor dining! You and your family have many Old Town Restaurants in Bluffton to explore!