My husband and I have been going to Hilton Head Island on a frequent basis since we got married in 2006. As a popular tourist spot, the island has many different and varied restaurants. We have tried many of them over the years. Because I have a number of food allergies and sensitivities, I have learned where to get healthy food that can accommodate my needs. I encourage Bella readers to try any of these the next time they take a trip to Hilton Head.
Cooler’s Grocery Store
My first recommendation is actually not on Hilton Head. Cooler’s Store and Exxon station is on Highway 462 near Ridgeland. We stop here on our way to the island. This is an old-fashioned family-run country store. The owners, Oregon and Rusty Cooler, sell eggs from their own hens. The last time we stopped we bought eggs, farm-ripe tomatoes and Silver Queen corn. They have a good selection of farm produce, local South Carolina foods, plus the usual selection of convenience store food and beverages. The owners’ grandchildren are usually playing about and will help you find whatever you need.
Piggly Wiggly
Almost every time we go to the island, we stop in the Piggly Wiggly at Coligny Plaza. They have an excellent selection of locally caught fish and shellfish. We often get a pound or two of wild-caught shrimp to boil. Piggly Wiggly also has a large variety of South Carolina food products such as Carolina Gold Rice and local and regional beers. They carry all of the standard grocery items and beach necessities you might need. The cashiers are almost all local high school students and are very friendly. If you come in near closing time, you might find a bargain on some of their in-store cooked deli items!
Java Burrito
This restaurant is a unique combination of Mexican and coffeehouse. All of the ingredients in their menu items are sourced locally or regionally, and some are organic. If we are going to the island for the weekend, our first stop is often at Java Burrito for a takeout dinner. My favorite item is a steak or chicken salad bowl. Much like Chipotle or Moe’s, you go through the line to customize your order with your choice of toppings. Java Burrito also has an early evening Happy Hour with freshly made margaritas. It is located on the island in The Village at Wexford.
Carolina Coffee and Crumbs
This new breakfast spot is at Coligny Plaza right across from Coligny Circle and the main entrance to the beach. It offers a wide selection of specialty coffee drinks, both hot and cold, as well as a breakfast and lunch menu. My husband and I like to walk or ride our bikes there in the early morning. There is nothing better than to sit on their patio, drink coffee, and “people watch.” The only drawback for me is that there are very few food items that are gluten-free. However, if you don’t have a gluten restriction, the food looks great and there are a number of healthy choices.
The G-Free Spot
Just like its name, most foods at The G-Free Spot are gluten-free, and some of their offerings are dairy-free as well. This is a bakery that sells muffins, cupcakes, brownies, cakes, pies, and other gluten-free treats. Most of the food is not sugar-free, so this is not an indulgence I would recommend for every day. But if you are gluten-free, as I am, and almost never have a sweet treat, then I highly recommend indulging in something from the G-Free Spot when you are visiting Hilton Head. The G-Free Spot started in Coligny Plaza but recently moved to the Main Street Village. This new and larger location has two kitchens, so they now bake gluten-filled pastries and sweets in addition to their original gluten-free ones. They also have a good selection of breakfast and lunch items.
Skull Creek Boathouse
Skull Creek Boathouse is located on the north end of the island overlooking the water. They have a large menu with a wide selection of fresh fish and other seafood. Enjoy outdoor dining on the large deck with a bar, or indoor dining if you prefer air conditioning. Items that are gluten-free are clearly marked on the menu. There is a dock and boats right there, so if you have to wait for your table, which is common, it is a pleasant experience.
Why not try one or more of these highly recommended establishments the next time you visit Hilton Head Island?
