Savor the Lowcountry: Your Guide to 2026 Chamber Restaurant Week
Lowcountry foodies and Bluffton locals, it is time to mark your calendars for the most anticipated culinary event of the year: the 18th Annual Chamber Restaurant Week. From January 31 to February 7, 2026, the local dining scene takes center stage, offering exceptional culinary experiences at high-value prices.
Whether you are a long-time resident or visitor to the South Carolina coast, this is the premier opportunity to experience new flavors and revisit local favorites. Picture yourself savoring butter-warm cornbread perfectly paired with briny oysters, truly capturing the essence of the Lowcountry dining experience. Here is everything you need to know to navigate this week-long gastronomic celebration.
What is Chamber Restaurant Week?
During this event, the finest local restaurants, ranging from cozy Bluffton bistros to upscale Hilton Head Island landmarks, craft specialized, multi-course menus. With over 80 participating restaurants, diners can enjoy prix-fixe menus (typically three courses for a set price) designed to showcase the best of the region.
This is the perfect week to:
- Discover high-end restaurants at an accessible price point.
- Plan a romantic evening or a group outing with friends.
- Support local chefs and the Lowcountry's vibrant hospitality industry.
The Official Kick-Off Party
Start the celebration early at the official Chamber Restaurant Week Kick-Off Party. This is a high-energy preview event featuring the best of the island’s flavors.
- When: Thursday, January 29, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Where: Rollers Wine & Spirits (9 Palmetto Bay Rd, Hilton Head Island)
- The Experience: Enjoy live music from the Zach Stevens Band and sample small bites from the renowned SERG and CRAB restaurant groups.
Tickets: You can guarantee your spot by clicking here!
Planning Your Culinary Adventure: Essential Links
Lock in your tables for Restaurant Week before they fill up. Use these resources to plan your itinerary:
- Official Menus: View the Official Restaurant Week Menus to plan your meals.
- Chamber Event Page: For additional updates, visit the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.
Insider Tips for Local Foodies
- Book Early: Reservations are essential. Use OpenTable or call your preferred restaurants directly as soon as possible.
- Check Lunch vs. Dinner: While many offers are dinner-focused, some places offer lunch specials. Verify the specific menu hours before you arrive.
- Explore Both Sides of the Bridge: While Bluffton offers incredible gems, don't forget to venture onto Hilton Head Island for a diverse range of waterfront and upscale options. As locals might say, 'beat the bridge traffic before sundown,' and you'll have prime access to these culinary delights before the dinner rush kicks in. This is the time to savor both sides like a true insider.
- Be Adventurous: With fixed pricing, this is the safest time to try a dish or cuisine completely outside your comfort zone.
Top Picks for 2026
Based on local buzz and perennial favorites, these spots are highly recommended for your list:
Bluffton Favorites
- The Cottage: Famous for its Old Town charm and classic Lowcountry fare.
- Burnt Church Distillery: Known for creative spirits and an upscale, lively atmosphere.
- Nectar Old Town Bluffton: A staple for fresh, farm-to-table inspired dishes.
Hilton Head Island Must-Tries
- Skull Creek Boathouse: Iconic waterfront views paired with legendary seafood.
- Nunzio Restaurant + Bar: Exceptional, authentic Italian dining.
- The Old Oyster Factory: A classic destination for seafood lovers looking for a view.
