Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Hilton Head Island

Food and service were excellent...... But noisy and we were in the corner

Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana is a true gem on Hilton Head Island. The atmosphere is lively yet refined, with an inviting, well-appointed dining space that feels like part of a family-run establishment. Given the consistent crowd, it’s clear this restaurant has built a loyal following—and for good reason. My wife requested a custom Pasta Primavera with added chicken, and it was excellent. I had the Veal Scaloppini, which was also very well executed. In past visits, I’ve tried the lasagna, and I’d say it’s among the best I’ve had anywhere. Everything we ordered reflected the kitchen’s commitment to fresh ingredients and careful preparation. We started with a prosciutto Caprese salad, featuring dark red, perfectly ripened tomatoes, a balsamic glaze, and arugula. The flavors balanced beautifully, and the fresh bread served alongside it was a great touch. One of the things that sets Michael Anthony’s apart is their in-house pasta, made fresh daily—it makes a noticeable difference in the quality of their dishes. Their wine list is impressive, with a strong selection of authentic European and Italian wines. While they offer a few Napa options, the list leans heavily toward Old World wines, which makes sense for an Italian restaurant. Service was attentive throughout the meal, despite how busy they were. And they are always busy. Even on a Monday night, the place was packed, and when I asked if that was normal, I was told it’s the standard here. Reservations are definitely a good idea. Across the way, they also run a specialty grocery store and café, which adds to their appeal. Everything about Michael Anthony’s shows a dedication to high-quality, authentic Italian food. If you’re in Hilton Head and enjoy Italian cuisine, this place is well worth a visit.

Wow, we had a first class meal at Bowdies Sunday night. There were 3 of us, each started with a perfectly mixed cocktail and a set ice of delicious bread with whipped butter. We opted for no appetizers as we wanted to save our appetites for the steak. We ordered one 36 ounce Tomahawk steak for the table, and three sides, au gratin potatoes, creamed spinach and Brussel sprouts. Wow every dish was perfectly prepared and delicious! Waited sliced the steak at the table, and we ate it all family style. It was more than enough food and it left just enough room for dessert, it was a ten for a wonderful Sunday night meal!

ELA’S On the Water was the perfect spot for our Valentine’s Day dinner. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was elegant yet relaxed, with stunning waterfront views that made the evening feel extra special. The service was impeccable—attentive without being intrusive—and every course was beautifully presented. We started with a delicious appetizer, followed by perfectly cooked entrées that showcased fresh, high-quality ingredients. The flavors were outstanding, and the wine selection complemented our meal perfectly. To top it off, dessert was an absolute treat. The ambiance, food, and service all combined to create an unforgettable night. Whether for a romantic evening or a special celebration, ELA’S is a must-visit. We’ll definitely be returning!

Ombra is my favorite Hilton Head restaurant for date night. I had the special ribeye steak with peppercorn sauce. It was cooked to perfection and delicious! Great food, great service, great ambiance. Probably not the best for kids, but I have brought them before….