Where to Eat in Downtown Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort, South Carolina is a small town with big flavor. From the local pubs to fine dining, there’s something for everyone. During a recent visit to Beaufort, I discovered some of the many tempting fares to be found in the historic downtown district. My quest whenever I travel is to seek out these small family-owned restaurants. It gives me a chance to “get a taste’ of the area and enjoy the foods specific to their region. With its colorful heritage and proximity to the ocean, Beaufort provides those classic Southern seaport dishes and Southern comfort food, but they’ve also pushed the envelope with modern twists. Here are some Must-Try Restaurants for your next visit to Beaufort.

Where To Eat in Beaufort, South Carolina

It doesn’t matter what you’re in the mood for; seafood, desserts, barbeque, or comfort food, you’ll find it in historic downtown Beaufort.

1.Saltus River Grill-On my first night in town, I had dinner at Saltus River Grill. Located on the beautiful waterfront, Saltus is the place to be to celebrate a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Choose to sit on their gorgeous patio overlooking the Intercoastal Waterway if the weather is warm enough and you’ll have a delightful view. Their menu is “low-country inspired” and features the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Choose from a variety of seafood dishes, like their creamy shrimp and grits, or opt for something land-based, like the made to order pork chop. Either way, you can’t go wrong. Be sure to try their breadsticks served with olive oil and salt for dipping. My weakness is bread and I found myself repeatedly reaching for the breadsticks.

One visit to Saltus River Grill is enough to see why they are a multiple Diner’s Choice Award Winner for everything from Best Food, A Notable Wine List, and a Neighborhood Gem. While reservations are not required, it’s a good idea if you prefer not to wait. They are 802 Bay Street.

2. Low Country Produce Market and Cafe – This former post office turned Cafe and market is the perfect casual destination for anyone who loves brunch. Not only is it a local favorite for breakfast and lunch, but they’ve also received national recognition for Country Living and made the “O list” as one of Oprah’s favorite things.

I visited during lunch hours and had a hard time choosing from the array of salads and sandwiches that were offered. Upon asking for local favorites, I learned the chicken salad sandwich is highly recommended, as is the “Ooey Gooey,” a grown-up grilled cheese. I chose to get the Lobeco Chicken Salad just for the promise of beet chow-chow. After we left, I regretted not checking the market section to see if I could take some home. Lowcountry Produce also offers a variety of to-go foods, such as tomato pie, cookies, and bread. The market also offers gems such as kitchen towels with southern sayings.

This small chain consists of three restaurants located in Beaufort, Hilton Head, and Seabrook. When visiting Beaufort, you can find Low Country Produce at 302 Carteret Street. They’re open daily from 8:00 AM until 3:00 PM.

3. Old Bull Tavern– The Old Bull Tavern, known as Beaufort’s Friendly Neighborhood Gastropub, is a local secret. Hidden off of West 7th street, I walked past the restaurant three times before noticing the small sign announcing the restaurant. Once I settled in for dinner, I could see why the locals keep this restaurant to themselves! The restaurant space is cozy and intimate, with two serving areas and a bar area. The decor is the first thing that caught my eye, especially the old English phone booth serving as the walkway between the two dining areas.

The menu is an ever changing variety of European and American comfort foods based on local market availability. Divided into five sections, diners can choose between “Middle Plates,” “Entrees,” and “Pizza” for main courses. I chose the Pasta Spoleto with Pancetta, Italian Sausage, and Lemon Cream. It’s a generous portion of pasta with a delicate cream sauce that is perfect to take the chill off of a cold, rainy evening. Adults will want to try one of the specialty drinks like the creamy Beaufort Painkiller. But don’t take my word for it, Old Bull Tavern has received accolades from Southern Living, Conde Nast Traveler, and Vogue.

4. Plum’s-– A long time favorite in the Beaufort area, Plum’s is another restaurant with a delightful view of the Intercoastal Waterway. Whether you dine outdoors on inside, you’ll find “Creative lowcountry cuisine” made with seasonal ingredients purchased for local farms or seafood purveyors. I arrived at lunch one day to find a crowded restaurant, but was still seated quickly. I chose the Oyster Po-Boy, something I only do if I’m in an area with fresh seafood. I wasn’t disappointed! This massive sandwich features lightly breaded fried oysters, served on a French baguette with lettuce and tomatoes. It’s topped with an amazing homemade remoulade sauce and served with chips and a pickle. I opted for the side upgrade and tried the potato salad. It was worth the 75 cent upgrade charge.

Plum’s is located at 904 Bay Street. Once you try them you’ll see why they live up to their motto of ‘simply delicious food.’

5. Southern Sweets Ice Cream and Sandwich Shop– Tucked away in a quiet side alley of downtown Beaufort, this shop is a must for when the sweet cravings hit. Although they feature soups, salads, and sandwiches, you need one of their classic sundaes, shakes, sodas, malts, floats, or banana splits. I tried a rich peanut butter concoction, known as the “Peanut Butter Attack” consisting of a brownie topped with vanilla ice cream. It was smothered with whipped cream, peanut butter sauce, fudge sauce, butterscotch chips, and mini Reese’s pieces. This sundae was easily big enough to share! Southern Sweets also features hard to find flavors of ice cream, like Rum Raisin, and shakes like classic Egg Cremes. Customers looking for modern offerings will delight in flavors such as Salted Caramel Candy and Sea Turtle.

The restaurant itself is small and cozy with a classic soda shop design. It’s easy to see why this shop is a favorite on TripAdvisor and top choice in the state of South Carolina by popsugar.com. They are located at 917F Bay Street and are open seven days a week.

Have you visited Beaufort, South Carolina? What is your favorite local dining spot?

Simply Southern Mom

Where to Eat in Downtown Beaufort, South Carolina

Where To Eat in Beaufort, South Carolina

You Might Like These Posts

19 Comments