Looking for hidden dining favorites in the Lowcountry? Head over to Johns Island, SC. You will find an eclectic mix of restaurants and eateries ranging from neighborhood food outlets and breweries to refined regional cuisine.
Whether you crave a basket of Tattooed Moose's renowned duck fat fries or a romantic farm-to-table dinner hosted by executive chef Jacques Larson, these Johns Island restaurants have everything you're looking for. And more. There is no reason to head into the city if you are staying on Kiawah Island or Seabrook Island. Read on.
Enjoy a Meal at These Johns Island Restaurants
The largest island in South Carolina is just minutes from Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, and a short drive to historic downtown Charleston.
1. Minero Charleston
In the location formerly housing Fat Hen on Johns Island
The Neighborhood Dining Group (famous for Husk & Delaney Oyster House) opened their Mexican-inspired restaurant Minero.
After a 2 year hiatus, Minero is back! House-made tortillas, traditional dishes, and scrumptious new favorites are featured. Chef Shamil Velazquez incorporates time-honored cooking methods with a modern twist. This ain't your typical Mexican place! Opens at 4 pm daily.
The new owners embrace outdoor dining. Visit the enlarged front porch with a retractable awning. Outdoor dining year-round with a margarita, how fun!
Additional renovations include major kitchen upgrades, an open charcoal cooking area, and the indoor/outdoor bar.
Not your typical Mexican restaurant, the Neighborhood Dining Group is excited to join the Johns Island family!
Menu items feature favorites from their former downtown location and freshly inspired dishes.
Minero serves house-made tortillas, tacos, and their signature cheese-covered burrito. Head over for a fun dinner. Open Wednesday through Sunday for dinner service.
2. Wild Olive
This exceptional eatery is one of Charleston’s best-kept secrets. Known for its warm and lively atmosphere, Wild Olive restaurant offers artisanal Italian cuisine and an extensive wine list. Features include daily specials and seafood.
Guests can choose from classics like chicken parmesan and veal scallopini, or enjoy the restaurant’s delicious house-made pasta dishes and daily specials.
The bruschetta and risotto fritter appetizers are a local favorite, and don’t forget to save room for dessert!
Advance reservations are a MUST.
3. The Royal Tern
A newer addition to Maybank Highway, this family restaurant and neighborhood eatery has taken off! Menu offerings include freshly prepared seafood and steaks, as well as house-made tartares, carpaccios and seafood towers.
Don’t forget to check out the raw bar!
Pair your meal with a glass of wine, beer, or a handcrafted cocktail and call ahead to make your reservations for dinner, Monday through Saturday. The Royal Tern looks forward to welcoming you!
4. Blackbird Market
Once a farmers market, Blackbird expanded in 2014. It now offers a rotating menu of hot meals and sandwiches. Blackbird Market sells produce from both the Blackbird Farm on Wadmalaw Island, SC, and in Hendersonville, NC. You can also buy local products like grits, pasta, and fresh seafood. The market even offers beer and wine. Stop in for a quick lunch or early dinner Monday through Sunday.
5. Tattooed Moose
This upbeat neighborhood bar is a Charleston favorite and was even featured on Guy Fieri’s Diner’s, Drive-Ins, and Dives. The Tattooed Moose is well known for its lively atmosphere, great beer selection, and reimagined bar food. When it’s time to order, be sure to try Mike's Famous Duck Confit Club. Named on several "best sandwich" lists, this combination of duck confit and apple-smoked bacon will have you coming back to the Lowcountry again and again!
