Once a sleepy town off the main highway from Charleston, Johns Island has experienced a wealth of development over the last 10 years including a surge in residents new to this barrier island bordered by the Stono River and Bohicket Creek. Now one of the most quickly growing island communities in the Charleston area, Johns Island is attracting high development including some critically-acclaimed restaurants. If you're out visiting the historic Angel Oak tree or stopping through on your way back from Kiawah Island, you'll want to be sure to dine at these local favorites.
Breakfast
Stono Market and Tomato Shed Cafe - A true 'local's only' restaurant, Stone Market has a lot to offer under one roof! After dining on one of their many Southern-style dishes, you'll still want to browse through the gift shop which offers locally crafted items, fresh locally grown vegetables, and baked goods. The Cafe offers Lunch Monday-Saturday 11:00 - 2:30 and dinner Thursday-Saturday from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Lunch
Fat Hen - After a morning spent exploring the rural countryside of Johns Island, or a visit to the majestic Angel Oak tree, stop in at the Fat Hen for a delicious lunch either in the main dining room or on their spacious back patio. Enjoy traditional Southern dishes such as shrimp and grits, she crab soup, and chicken and biscuit.
Dinner
Wild Olive Restaurant - The "Little Italy" of Johns Island, Wild Olive is a critically acclaimed Italian restaurant creating some of the island's premier Italian food all sourced from local South Carolina farms. It's highly recommended you make a reservation before arriving as the restaurant is known to be booked all evening. Before dining on what's sure to be a carb-loaded feast, arrive early to have a happy hour beverage at their neighbor, Low Tide Brewing.
The Royal Tern - Newly opened along Maybank Highway in 2019, The Royal Tern specializes in fresh, local seafood in a modern setting. This newcomer is quickly gaining rave reviews from the locals and with a beautiful interior, this is certainly a restaurant you'll want to pay attention to!
Libations
Low Tide - Brewing craft beer on Johns Island since 2016, Low Tide was conceived while its founders were kayaking on the waters of Johns Island in 2012. Since their opening, they've amassed a collection of excellent craft beers including their popular Sweet Caroline Kölsch and Basil Better Have my Honey Ale. Visit their popular brewery from Monday-Thursday from 3-10pm, Friday-Saturday from 12pm-12am, or Sunday from 12-10pm.
One Love Kombucha - If you're a lover of all things healthy and local, you'll enjoy a trip to One Love Kombucha, Johns Island's premier kombucha distillery. Sourced ingredients from South Carolina farms, you can taste a variety of their kombucha including fan favorites such as butterfly lavender, muscadine grape, and hibiscus ginger. You can also enjoy various workshops hosted at their venue including kombucha brewing and kimchi fermentation.