dinner Archives

Outdoor dining is especially enjoyable on St. Simons Island, as spring breezes, long summer evenings, crisp fall days, and mild winter weather bring plenty of ways to enjoy a meal. Here, you’ll find everything from the freshest seafood and Lowcountry favorites to Southern cooking, barbecue, and more, with some of the best restaurants offering patios, decks, porches, and waterfront seating.

Jump to:

Fiddler’s
Porch
Southern Soul BBQ
Iguana’s
The Half Shell
Beachcomber BBQ
Halyard’s
Tramici

Fiddler’s

Address: 410 Arnold Road

For fresh seafood and generous portions, and dining with a view, Fiddler’s is a favorite among residents and visitors alike. Try the coconut rice bowl with grilled shrimp or scallops, then pair your meal with one of the restaurant’s well-rounded beer selections. Friendly service and a welcoming staff round out the experience, making this a great place to settle in and enjoy the marsh views.

Porch

Address: 549 Ocean Boulevard

There’s a comforting, come-as-you-are feel at Porch, like showing up at grandma’s house after church on Sunday, only with cornhole outside, pooches permitted, and Nashville chicken on the menu. Try the signature Motherclucker, a fried chicken breast topped with homemade pimento cheese and pickles on a bun, then choose your heat level from none to seriously spicy. If Guy Fieri’s on board, we are too. And if you love it, the owners also run Palmer’s Village Cafe, another great place for a down-home meal.

Southern Soul BBQ

Address: 2020 Demere Road

What started as a coffee shop open just one day a week has grown into a beloved barbecue destination at Southern Soul BBQ. Pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and St. Louis-style ribs take center stage, served alongside slaw and baked beans. But you’ll also find a few Southern specialties on the menu, including collards, mac n’ cheese, fried okra, hoppin’john, and Brunswick stew, a hearty tomato-based dish made with pork, brisket, and beans. The outdoor picnic tables and Channel Marker Bar set in a converted gas station make this a memorable stop on any BBQ itinerary. Southern Living, Garden and Gun, Yelp, Diner’s Drive-Ins and Dives and many others have all caught on to our island secret.

Iguana’s

Address: 303 Mallery Street

Gather at a picnic table on the covered patio at Iguana’s and settle into a meal centered around fresh seafood, with shrimp, oysters, crab cakes, scallops, fish, and clams all making an appearance on the menu. The shrimp and grits are a true Southern staple and a must-try, while the po’boys, burgers, and included soft serve ice cream for dessert deserve a special call-out. Steaks, pasta, and salads are also available, as are craft cocktails, draft and bottled beer, and wines by the glass.

The Half Shell

Address: 504 Beach View Drive

The Half Shell brings an elevated seafood menu to an unpretentious island setting, with outdoor seating and a menu worth lingering over. If you don’t know where to begin, we suggest starting with the Georgia Shrimp Ceviche or a dozen baked Cajun oysters, then dig into savory favorites like blue crab cakes or fresh seafood prepared blackened, grilled, or fried. Add an oyster shooter and top it off with a cider, lager, or ale, and call it a day! (Check out their Instagram feed if you need a little more inspiration!)

Beachcomber BBQ

Address: 319 Arnold Road

As featured on Food Network, Beachcomber BBQ serves up delicious down-home barbecue without the fuss. We’re talking low-and-slow-cooked pork shoulder, flavorful ribs, and tender brisket. Hours in the pit let the smoke and heat build rich flavor, and you taste it in every mouthwatering bite. The laid-back setting includes an outdoor bar serving frozen craft cocktails and select beers, plus with live music on Sundays; it’s a great place to kick back and take in the island breezes just steps from the beach.

Halyard’s

Address: 55 Cinema Lane

Halyard’s brings a thoughtful farm-to-table approach to St. Simons Island dining, with a scratch menu built around locally sourced seafood and fresh ingredients from nearby farmers and fishermen. The menu changes seasonally, but you’ll typically find savory seafood dishes, prime steaks, and mouthwatering chicken. Pair your favorite with a glass of Pinot Grigio or a Shiraz selected from an extensive wine list, then sip and savor on the dog-friendly patio.

Tramici

Address: 75 Cinema Lane

Tramici infuses the same polished approach to dining, but with Italian-inspired fare. Whether you’re sitting on the shaded patio or gathering for a special event, you won’t be disappointed. A sister restaurant to Halyard’s, its name literally means “among friends,” and that welcoming spirit comes through as soon as you walk through the door. The menu covers everything from salads, sandwiches, pasta, and pizza, served for both lunch and dinner. You can’t go wrong with their house specialties, but the white chicken lasagna and truffled shrimp pasta stand out as especially delicious choices.

More to Consider Beyond Outdoor Dining on St. Simons Island

After sampling your way through the Golden Isles outdoor dining scene, you’ll want a comfortable place to kick back and enjoy the rest of your getaway. Stay with Hodnett Cooper and choose a St. Simons vacation rental for a place to relax between meals!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best waterfront restaurants in the Golden Isles?

Fiddler’s offers the best marsh views on the island!

Which restaurants are best for fresh seafood?
Iguana’s and The Half Shell on St. Simons all put fresh, local seafood at the center of their menus.

Are there outdoor restaurants that can host large groups or events?
Yes! Tramici on St. Simons would also love to host your special event.

Where can I find barbecue with outdoor seating?

St. Simons Island is home to two barbecue favorites: Southern Soul BBQ, with outdoor picnic tables in a converted gas station, and Beachcomber BBQ, with an outdoor bar and a laid-back setting.

Which Golden Isles restaurants with outdoor seating are dog-friendly?

Several spots welcome four-legged companions, including Halyard’s, Southern Soul BBQ, Beachcomber BBQ, and Porch.

Can you dine outdoors on St. Simons year-round?

Yes! Mild winters mean outdoor dining is enjoyable in every season, from spring breezes and summer evenings to crisp fall and winter nights on the patio.

In need of a kid-friendly dinner in St. Simons? We’re here to help! When you’re on a family vacation to St. Simons Island, finding the right places to eat is key to ensuring everyone has a great time! This coastal destination is home to a variety of kid-friendly restaurants that cater to all ages. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between beach adventures or a relaxed dinner spot where the kids can unwind, there are plenty of options to explore. Check out the list below to see some of our local favorites with more information on recommended dishes!

1. Tramici

Tramici is an Italian restaurant located in the heart of St. Simons with a splendid wine list for mom and dad, plenty of choices for the kids! You will find kid-friendly Italian favorites like mozzarella sticks, spaghetti and fettuccine alfredo on the menu- and don’t forget the build your own pizza!

Address: 75 Cinema Ln, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522

Phone: (912) 634-2202

Menu: tramicirestaurant.com

2. Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria

Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria offers a family-friendly atmosphere with American Italian cuisine with recipes that have been passed down from many generations. Kids can enjoy pizza, spaghetti, ravioli or some good old fashion chicken tenders. All for under $11!

Address: 3415 Frederica Rd, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522

Phone: (912) 268-2328

Menu: http://salsneighborhoodpizzeria.com/

3. Southern Soul Barbeque

You can’t come to the deep south without enjoying some South Georgia bbq. Southern Soul offers family-style meals that will surely be kid-approved! Let the kids get a little messy with a slab of ribs or maybe share some chicken wings instead. If you have a craving for soul food, this is the place you will want to go!

Address: 2020 Demere Rd, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522

Phone: (912) 638-7685

Menu: southernsoulbbq.com

4. The Half Shell

The Half Shell is a local seafood restaurant (obviously its seafood given the name!) They offer a wide variety of salads, sandwiches, and entrees for mom and dad and they offer fried shrimp, chicken fingers, and hamburgers for the kids!

Address: 504 Beach view Dr, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522

Phone: (912) 268-4241

Menu: http://thehalfshellssi.com/

5. Iguanas Seafood

Iguana’s is easily an island favorite! Their seafood is some of the best on the island. Kids can enjoy shrimp, fish bites, clam strips, or American classics like chicken fingers, or grilled cheese. The best part about Iguanas though is their complimentary soft-serve ice cream!

Address: 303 Mallery St, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522

Phone: (912) 638-9650

Menu: https://www.iguanasseafood.com/st-simons-island-iguanas-food-menu

6. Barbara Jean’s

This family-run restaurant began in 1998 on St. Simons Island! Known for its comfort food, Barbara Jean’s is a great place to take the family for a hearty meal. The menu features kid-friendly options like chicken fingers and grilled cheese! Don’t forget to try their famous crab cakes and “Chocolate Stuff” dessert.

Address: 214 Mallery St, St Simons Island, GA 31522

Phone: (912) 634-6500

Menu: https://www.barbarajeans.com/menu/

7. Frosty’s Griddle and Shake

This quirky shake and burger shack has quickly become a culinary staple and homage to all things nostalgic about beach life. Frosty’s offers something for everyone in a complex family structure. From cheeseburgers to chilidogs, crispy onion rings – let an ice cream float take you back to a simpler time with a round of pinball; or go for the high score at Pac man.

Address: 501 Mallery Street, St Simons Island, GA 31522

Phone: (912) 434-9509

Menu: https://www.frostysgriddleandshake.com/

If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out our St. Simons Island vacation rentals to book your beach getaway with the entire family! For more information about the Island and things to do, check out St. Simons Island Area Guide.

Named America’s Most Romantic Town by Travel + Leisure, St. Simons Island is the perfect destination for a Valentine’s weekend getaway. Whether you are in a new relationship or looking for the perfect way to pop the question St. Simons is the gorgeous setting you’ve been searching for. Enjoy the small town charm and warm weather while you fall in love with your significant other all over again. You can start your day with breakfast at Palmers Village Café, then walk through all the lovely shops at The Pier Village. Enjoy your afternoon walking on the beach or visit one of the many historic sites like Fort Frederica or Christ Church. If you would like a day filled with pampering your loved one book a couple’s message at Island Day Spa. Followed by a romantic sunset on horseback. End your evening walking through the boutique style stores at Red Fern Village and The Shops at Sea Island. Followed by a romantic Valentine’s day dinner. Whether you are looking for a waterfront locations or a trendier bistro style restaurants St Simons has a plethora of options for you! If you book a trip with Hodnett Cooper for stay dates between now and February 19th, 2017 you can enjoy 20% off using code: 2017feb. Our staff is happy to assist in making this Valentine’s day special and memorable for you and your loved one.

Book a stay with dates now until February 19th, 2017 and save 20% using code: 2017feb! Call 888.638.4750 or book online

Fiddler’s

Porch

Southern Soul BBQ

Iguana’s

The Half Shell

Beachcomber BBQ

Halyard’s

Tramici

More to Consider Beyond Outdoor Dining on St. Simons Island

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Tramici

2. Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria

3. Southern Soul Barbeque

4. The Half Shell

5. Iguanas Seafood

6. Barbara Jean’s

7. Frosty’s Griddle and Shake

Guests

Owners

Company

Fiddler’s

Porch

Southern Soul BBQ

Iguana’s

The Half Shell

Beachcomber BBQ

Halyard’s

Tramici

More to Consider Beyond Outdoor Dining on St. Simons Island

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Topics

1. Tramici

2. Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria

3. Southern Soul Barbeque

4. The Half Shell

5. Iguanas Seafood

6. Barbara Jean’s

7. Frosty’s Griddle and Shake

Related Topics

Related Topics