By Brandon Robinson
There’s something special about Saint Simons Island—something that draws travelers back year after year. Maybe it’s the salt air from the Atlantic, the moss-draped oaks, or the soft beaches that hug Georgia’s coast. But for food lovers, St. Simons has a different kind of magic: the local flavors.
This guide rounds up top-ranked and must-try places to eat across St. Simons, from laid-back cafés to upscale coastal cuisine. Based on recent awards, reviews, and buzz, these are the places foodies won't want to miss during their time on the Golden Isles.
318 Mallery St
Located in the heart of the Pier Village, Palm Coast Coffee is more than just a caffeine stop—it’s a community hub. Known for their cold brew, breakfast bagels, and outdoor seating under the trees, this spot consistently ranks as a local favorite. Their breakfast burrito and avocado toast keep morning crowds coming back.
1624 Frederica Rd Unit 1
This small-batch artisan bakery draws raves for their made-from-scratch donuts, cinnamon rolls, and kolaches. It’s a grab-and-go kind of place, perfect for starting your day with a strong coffee and something sweet. Early birds catch the best selection—Dulce often sells out before noon.
50 Aviator Plz, Ste 106
For a beachy, relaxed vibe with ethically sourced beans, Wake Up Coffee Company is the place. Their iced lattes, nitro brews, and acai bowls are top picks. It’s also a great pit stop on the way to East Beach or Neptune Park.
303 Mallery St
Casual, family-friendly, and wildly popular, Iguanas is best known for its fresh shrimp—served grilled, fried, or blackened. It won "Best Seafood on St. Simons" in recent local polls, and the free soft-serve ice cream is a sweet bonus.
2. Crabdaddy’s Seafood Bar Grill
1217 Ocean Blvd
A long-standing favorite on Ocean Boulevard, Crabdaddy’s is often at the top of any St. Simons seafood list. Their signature crab soup, bacon-wrapped scallops, and seafood linguine have earned rave reviews. With cozy, dim lighting and attentive service, it’s ideal for a casual date night or dinner with friends.
3. Fiddlers
410 Arnold Rd
Located on Arnold Road, Fiddlers blends Lowcountry flavors with fresh coastal fare. The laid-back atmosphere, live music, and covered patio make it a standout. Try the blackened redfish or the oyster sampler—both come highly recommended by recent visitors and locals alike.
1.
Southern Tide
at Sea Island Resort
400 Beach Club Ln #100 (Sea Island)
Over on exclusive Sea Island, this open-air restaurant offers fresh coastal dishes just steps from the ocean. Known for its laid-back elegance and beachside views, Southern Tide is a favorite for seafood lovers looking to dine in style.
2.
ECHO
at The King and Prince Resort
101 Downing St
If you're looking for dinner in St. Simons with a front-row seat to the ocean, ECHO delivers. This oceanfront restaurant pairs seasonal dishes with unbeatable views. Think blackened snapper over risotto, served just steps from the sand.
3.
The Rooftop
at Ocean Lodge
935 Beachview Dr
This Mediterranean-inspired spot sits high above the island and offers a stunning view of the coastline. The small plate menu includes seafood tapas and signature cocktails. Time your visit with sunset—it’s one of the most romantic views in the Golden Isles.
1226 Ocean Blvd STE 1
This locally loved brewpub near Redfern Village offers craft beer brewed on-site, along with an elevated pub menu featuring dishes like tuna tacos and pork belly bao. With regular live music and a spacious patio, it’s a top spot for casual dining and laid-back nightlife on St. Simons.
200 Pier Aly
A beloved pub with beach-town character, Brogen’s South features weekly live music, trivia nights, and a loyal local crowd. Try their burgers or wings with a cold draft and enjoy the casual, friendly vibe.
70 Retreat Village
Located in the heart of the island, Ember serves wood-fired dishes in a cozy, upscale setting with a rustic-modern vibe. Their live music nights on the patio pair perfectly with craft cocktails and shareable plates like ember-roasted oysters or wagyu sliders.
407 Mallery St
Elegance meets local flavor at Georgia Sea Grill, a fine-dining standout just off Mallery Street. Their menu highlights Golden Isles seafood, including the highly rated seared scallops and wild Georgia shrimp. It’s often recommended for anniversaries and date nights.
2. Tramici
75 Cinema Ln
Located on Cinema Lane, Tramici blends coastal Georgia ingredients with rustic Italian dishes. The wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and wine list make it a refined but comfortable option for dinner in St. Simons.
3. Halyards
55 Cinema Ln
This casually elegant spot on Cinema Lane offers master-chef seafood dishes featuring fish caught off the Georgia coast, plus fresh local produce and an extensive wine and cocktail list. With a buzzing bar, courtyard, and chef‑driven menu, Halyards consistently earns top marks on OpenTable and Tripadvisor for its quality and atmosphere.
541 Ocean Blvd #4828
A favorite for families, Moo Cow offers handcrafted ice cream in playful, rotating flavors like banana pudding and Georgia peach. It's a fun stop after a hot afternoon exploring the Pier Village.
229 Mallery St
This dessert shop is best known for its pralines, fudge, and coastal-themed treats. St. Simons Sweets also sells beautiful gift boxes—ideal for taking a bit of the island home with you.
101 Longview Plaza Driveway
For a lighter option, Fuse is a self-serve frozen yogurt shop with plenty of toppings to choose from. It's a casual, quick stop that’s great for kids and adults alike.
For visitors looking to stay in comfort and style while sampling the island’s best, check out Opulence’s vacation rentals on Saint Simons Island—perfectly located for exploring all the top places to eat.
When it comes to accommodations, Opulence Vacation Rentals offers four standout properties on St. Simons Island. Explore them below!
All rentals are located just minutes from Pier Village, Neptune Park, and the beach!
Discover The Grey Pearl, an ideal retreat for unwinding and enjoying quality moments with your loved ones. Accommodating up to 13 guests, this exquisite home boasts a fantastic pool and backyard space for an unparalleled experience.
The Space
Indulge in the epitome of luxury at The Grey Pearl, an exquisite vacation haven nestled in proximity to the enchanting pier and village of St. Simons Island. A sanctuary for those yearning to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, this tranquil retreat promises an unparalleled vacation experience.
Check out this gorgeous and updated condo in The Beach Club! There is a pool and private beach access for guests.It has a beautiful ocean view and a private balcony. The first bedroom features a King size bed, balcony access, and a private bathroom with a large walk in shower. The second bedroom has a Queen size bed and access to the shared hall bath. Please send a message with any questions!
The Space
This is a private 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo with plenty of space for couples, friends, or family.
Sail Inn SaintSimons-ground unit,beach access,pool
Check out this stunning, updated ground-level condo in The Beach Club! Guests enjoy access to the pool and beach. Take in ocean views from the private patio.
The primary bedroom features a king bed, patio access, and a private bath with a soaking tub. The second bedroom has one queen bed and access to the hall bath. We have parking on-site at the beach club.
This is a private 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo with plenty of space for couples, friends, or family.
Cater Cove - private pool, 1 mile to beach, quiet!
We’re thrilled to share our newest stay on St. Simons — a stunning coastal retreat that has been fully remodeled this year!
This brand-new property gives guests a private backyard oasis complete with a pool, grill, and ample space to unwind. Just a short golf cart ride from the beach, shops, and local dining, it’s the perfect spot for your next getaway.
🛏️ 3 spacious bedrooms
(2 king beds + 1 queen)
LOVE WHAT YOU READ?
Brandon Robinson is an enthusiastic blogger based in Statesboro, GA, juggling multiple roles with flair.
By day, he serves as a Secretary to Directors at the Bulloch County Board of Education.
With a Bachelor’s of Arts in Economics and a minor in Philosophy from Emory University, Brandon is passionate about storytelling and connecting with people. When he’s not immersed in work or writing, he loves to explore new destinations and discover hidden gems in the vacation rental scene.
