While it’s well-known that Charleston is one of the top destinations in the South for mouth watering cuisine it’s a common misconception for visitors to assume they need to travel to downtown Charleston for a top notch culinary experience. For vacationers who’ve chosen to vacation on the slower-paced, small town island of Folly Beach, this couldn’t be further from the truth. While the dining scene on Folly may cater to a “flip flop and shorts” kind of clientele, that doesn’t mean that they are serving up only corndogs and baskets of burgers & fries – delicious food can be found pretty much everywhere on Folly. From shrimp & grits at breakfast, to Spam sliders (yes! that’s even on a Folly Beach menu) and Kimchi Beef tacos, you’ll find the local dining spots on Folly Beach serving up some taste-bud-pleasing, delectable fare. You’ll definitely enjoy the casual, laid-back atmosphere of the area plus the diversity of food offerings awaiting you at each amazing restaurant. We’re sharing our guide for where to eat on Folly Beach 

And, before you plan your next trip to Charleston, don’t forget to request access to our Charleston Insider’s Guide. We’ve pulled together a guide to “where the locals go” for the best in dining, spas, parks, golf – you name it! Local recommendations can be invaluable when planning your itinerary and trying to make the most of your time in the Lowcountry. 

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Your Guide for Where to Eat on Folly Beach

Chico Fei

From Vietnamese inspired Bun Cha, to a classic Cuban sandwich and an array of tacos, this local spot is a favorite among the surfer crowd – they even provide an up-to-the-minute surf report on their website.  A go to for those in search of the perfect beach break.

Lost Dog Café 

Indulge in traditional Southern cuisine with a twist! Lost Dog Café is one of the most delicious stops if you’re searching for breakfast to power up for a long day on the beach, or if you need a go-to eatery for a family brunch. With a diverse menu full of both classic favorites and innovative creations, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Folly Benedict is a real crowd-pleaser, and you’ll be blown away by the Graham Cracker Peanut Butter French Toast.  

Jack of Cups Saloon 

Get an authentic taste of Folly’s food scene at Jack of Cups Saloon. As a long-standing local favorite, there’s a reason visitors and locals alike flock to this unique café in the heart of Folly. Here you can enjoy Asian Fusion, Indian cuisine, and Italian plates all in one seaside joint. Each plate offers a unique taste, so much so that it may even turn into a highlight of your trip.   

The Crab Shack 

Calling all seafood lovers! Experience some of Charleston’s freshest seafood at The Crab Shack on Folly Beach. After all, what’s a beach trip without a dozen oysters and a Lowcountry boil? That’s not all! You can often find live music at this Folly favorite while enjoying creative frozen cocktails and great times with family.  

Exterior view of The Crab Shack located on Center Street in Folly Beach SC

Taco Boy

With more than one location in Charleston, Taco Boy is considered a local legend for margaritas and tacos.  The team at Taco Boy elevates the street taco of West Coast, beachside food trucks and adds a lowcountry twist.  And with an all new location on Folly Beach Taco Boy now features an updated taco menu, frozen drink bar, festive décor, and a roof top mezcal and tequila bar with ocean views.

exterior view of Taco Boy Restaurant on Folly Beach SC

The Bounty Bar

A neighborhood bar and restaurant brought to you by the folks from The Royal American, the Bounty Bar provides a great backdrop to enjoy simple bar fare and a beach-centric cocktail plus catch Lowcountry rock ‘n’ roll all while the surfers catch the last rides of the day.  Try the crispy fried fish sandwich, loaded nachos or a frozen creative beach cocktail menu. It will easily become your favorite spot to relax and wind down the day.

Exterior view ofThe Bounty Bar bar & restaurant in Folly Beach SC

Bowens Island

While this long time, locally loved restaurant isn’t “technically” on Folly Beach, we think it’s close enough. Located at the tip of a 13-acre island, 5 minutes from Folly Beach, Bowens Island is famous for its locally harvested oysters, fried shrimp, hushpuppies, cold beer, and its undisturbed view of the river, marshes, islands, and wildlife. When the locals say “there is no place else like it in Charleston” well, they’re not kidding. It doesn’t even have air conditioning, but the food is so good, you won’t even notice.

Loggerhead’s Beach Grill 

Loggerhead’s Beach Grill offers a classic beachy atmosphere with plenty of outdoor seating, so you don’t have to say goodbye to the sunshine, even on a lunch break! The atmosphere is only made complete by the old bright blue Volkswagen bus parked outside and the frequent live music found here. Don’t forget to try the conch fritters for a true taste of Charleston’s seafood offerings. 

Find Your Charleston Getaway with Luxury Simplified Retreats 

When you’re looking for a vacation that delivers all the rest and relaxation mixed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences Luxury Simplified Retreats is here to help craft your unique Charleston vacation. Whether you’re staying on Folly Beach, Downtown, Isle of Palms or even a luxury destination like Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, SC, you can rest knowing that you’ll be in good hands. From a friendly, professional concierge service team to assist you every step of the way, to exquisite rental homes in Charleston’s most desirable areas, you’ll find everything you need when staying with Luxury Simplified Retreats. Contact us to begin planning your uniquely tailored getaway and book your stay in one of our luxury Charleston rentals homes.