The Waterfront Restaurant at Edisto Beach is a culinary gem nestled along the picturesque South Carolina coastline, offering diners an unforgettable experience that combines stunning views with an exceptional menu.
Known for its fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes, this eatery captures the essence of coastal charm and hospitality. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the menu at The Waterfront Restaurant provides a diverse range of options designed to satisfy every palate, from hearty entrees to light appetizers and decadent desserts.
Visitors often rave about the harmonious blend of traditional flavors and innovative twists found throughout the menu. The commitment to sourcing local ingredients ensures that each dish bursts with freshness, perfectly complementing the serene ocean backdrop.
Dining here isn’t just about the food—it’s an immersive experience where every bite connects you to the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Edisto Beach.
For those seeking a memorable meal with impeccable service, The Waterfront Restaurant’s menu offers a well-curated selection that balances classic Southern comfort with contemporary coastal cuisine. From crisp salads and shareable starters to expertly prepared fish and indulgent desserts, the menu invites guests to explore the best of what the region has to offer.
The following sections delve deeply into the various categories of dishes, highlighting signature items and what makes them stand out.
Appetizers: The Perfect Start
Appetizers at The Waterfront Restaurant set the tone for an exceptional dining experience. Each starter is crafted to awaken the palate with fresh, vibrant flavors and textures that hint at the culinary delights to come.
The menu offers a variety of choices that range from light and refreshing to rich and savory, catering to all preferences.
One of the standout appetizers is the Lowcountry Crab Dip, a creamy blend of fresh crab meat, cheeses, and a hint of spice, served with toasted crostini. This dish highlights the restaurant’s dedication to using premium seafood sourced from the nearby waters.
Another favorite is the Fried Green Tomatoes, a Southern classic done right. These crispy, tangy slices are paired with a house-made remoulade that adds a zesty kick.
The combination of textures and flavors perfectly complements the coastal theme.
- Lowcountry Crab Dip: Fresh crab, cheese, crostini
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy, tangy, remoulade sauce
- Shrimp Cocktail: Jumbo shrimp, tangy cocktail sauce
- Charcuterie Board: Selection of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments
“Our appetizers are designed to showcase the freshness of local ingredients while offering bold, memorable flavors that prepare guests for the courses ahead.”
Light and Fresh Options
For those seeking lighter fare, the menu features several refreshing choices. The Edisto Beach Ceviche is a bright and citrusy dish made with local fish marinated in lime juice, combined with fresh herbs and diced vegetables.
This appetizer is perfect for warm days when you want something cool and invigorating.
Additionally, the Garden Salad offers crisp mixed greens topped with seasonal vegetables and a choice of dressings made in-house. It pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine or a light cocktail.
Signature Entrees: A Celebration of Coastal Cuisine
The entree selection at The Waterfront Restaurant is where the culinary artistry truly shines. Featuring an array of seafood, steak, and poultry dishes, the menu exemplifies the best of Southern coastal cooking while embracing modern techniques and presentations.
Freshness and quality are paramount, with many dishes showcasing locally caught fish and shellfish. The chefs expertly balance flavors and textures, creating plates that are both comforting and refined.
Popular entrees include the Grilled Mahi-Mahi, served with a mango salsa and coconut rice, and the Shrimp and Grits, a Southern staple elevated with a rich, smoky gravy and creamy stone-ground grits.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Price Range |
| Grilled Mahi-Mahi | Mahi-mahi, mango salsa, coconut rice | Sweet, tangy, savory | $24 – $28 |
| Shrimp and Grits | Shrimp, stone-ground grits, smoky gravy | Rich, creamy, smoky | $22 – $26 |
| Blackened Ribeye | Ribeye steak, Cajun spices, garlic butter | Bold, spicy, buttery | $30 – $35 |
| Seared Duck Breast | Duck breast, cherry reduction, seasonal vegetables | Rich, fruity, savory | $28 – $32 |
Seafood Specialties
The restaurant’s seafood specialties highlight the bounty of the Atlantic Ocean. The Seared Scallops dish features delicate scallops cooked to perfection, complemented by a lemon beurre blanc sauce and seasonal greens.
This entree is a perfect example of how simple, quality ingredients can be transformed into an exquisite meal.
For shellfish lovers, the Lobster Tail entrée offers succulent lobster served with drawn butter and a side of roasted vegetables, providing a decadent option for special occasions.
Salads and Sides: Fresh Complements
Salads and sides at The Waterfront Restaurant are thoughtfully prepared to complement the main dishes. Whether you prefer something light or a more substantial accompaniment, the menu offers a variety of options balancing freshness and flavor.
Salads often feature seasonal produce and house-made dressings, emphasizing the use of local ingredients. The Classic Caesar Salad is a crowd-pleaser with crisp romaine, shaved parmesan, and crunchy croutons tossed in a creamy yet tangy dressing.
Side dishes range from traditional Southern staples like collard greens and fried okra to more contemporary offerings such as quinoa pilaf and garlic mashed potatoes.
- Classic Caesar Salad: Romaine, parmesan, croutons, Caesar dressing
- Fried Okra: Crispy, lightly battered, seasoned
- Collard Greens: Slow-cooked, smoky ham hock
- Quinoa Pilaf: Light, nutty, with herbs and vegetables
Seasonal Salads
The Waterfront Restaurant prides itself on rotating its salad offerings based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. During the summer months, expect vibrant options like watermelon and feta salad, enhanced with mint and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
In cooler months, roasted beet and goat cheese salad with candied pecans provides a warm, hearty option.
These salads not only provide variety but also showcase the kitchen’s creativity and commitment to quality.
Sandwiches and Burgers: Casual Coastal Favorites
For guests seeking a more casual yet flavorful meal, the sandwich and burger section of the menu delivers with a variety of satisfying choices. Each sandwich is crafted using fresh, locally baked bread and high-quality ingredients, embodying the laid-back yet refined spirit of Edisto Beach.
The Crab Cake Sandwich is a standout, featuring a generously portioned cake made from lump crab meat, lightly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection. It’s served with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy remoulade sauce that complements the sweet crab flavors.
Classic burgers are also a staple, with options ranging from a traditional cheeseburger to more adventurous variations like the Blackened Burger, which includes Cajun-spiced beef topped with pepper jack cheese and spicy aioli.
- Crab Cake Sandwich: Lump crab, remoulade, lettuce, tomato
- Classic Cheeseburger: Angus beef, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, pickles
- Blackened Burger: Cajun-spiced beef, pepper jack, aioli
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Marinated chicken breast, avocado, chipotle mayo
“Our sandwiches blend coastal flavors with comfort food favorites, perfect for a relaxed yet delicious meal by the water.”
Vegetarian and Light Choices
Vegetarian diners will find satisfying options in this section as well. The Portobello Mushroom Sandwich is grilled and marinated, served with roasted peppers, fresh spinach, and a basil aioli on ciabatta.
It offers a hearty, flavorful alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Additionally, the Veggie Wrap combines hummus, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing wrapped in a spinach tortilla, providing a light but filling option suitable for any time of day.
Desserts: Sweet Endings
The dessert menu at The Waterfront Restaurant provides the perfect conclusion to a memorable meal. Each dessert is crafted with care, combining classic Southern sweets with contemporary flavors and presentations.
The Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie is a favorite, featuring a rich filling with notes of dark chocolate and bourbon, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. This dessert beautifully reflects the region’s love for pecan pies while adding a sophisticated twist.
For those seeking something lighter, the Key Lime Tart offers a tangy, refreshing citrus flavor with a crisp graham cracker crust and a dollop of whipped cream.
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Taste Profile |
| Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie | Pecans, bourbon, chocolate, pie crust | Rich, nutty, boozy |
| Key Lime Tart | Key lime, graham cracker crust, whipped cream | Tart, creamy, refreshing |
| Peach Cobbler | Fresh peaches, cinnamon, biscuit topping | Sweet, fruity, comforting |
| Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée | Vanilla bean, cream, caramelized sugar | Creamy, sweet, crunchy top |
Seasonal Specials
Seasonal dessert options rotate throughout the year to highlight the freshest local produce and flavors. Summer brings delights such as blueberry lavender cheesecake, while fall might feature warm spiced apple crisps or pumpkin bread pudding.
These desserts not only satisfy sweet cravings but also connect diners to the changing seasons of South Carolina.
Beverages: Complementing Every Dish
The beverage menu at The Waterfront Restaurant is thoughtfully curated to enhance the dining experience. From expertly crafted cocktails and a robust wine list to local beers and non-alcoholic options, there is something for every taste.
Signature cocktails often incorporate fresh, local ingredients such as mint, citrus, and berries, reflecting the region’s flavors. The Edisto Breeze, a refreshing blend of vodka, elderflower, and grapefruit, is a popular choice among patrons.
Wine selections feature both domestic and international varietals, carefully chosen to pair well with the diverse menu. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, ready to recommend the perfect pairing for any dish.
- Edisto Breeze Cocktail: Vodka, elderflower, grapefruit
- Local Craft Beers: Rotating selection from South Carolina breweries
- White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio
- Red Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir
“Pairing the right beverage with your meal elevates the flavors and creates a truly memorable dining experience.”
Non-Alcoholic Selections
For guests who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, The Waterfront offers a variety of refreshing options. Freshly brewed iced teas, artisanal lemonades infused with herbs, and house-made sodas provide flavorful alternatives.
Seasonal fruit smoothies made with locally sourced produce add a healthy, delicious choice.
Kids’ Menu and Dietary Accommodations
The Waterfront Restaurant is mindful of families and guests with special dietary needs. The kids’ menu features simple, well-loved dishes that appeal to younger palates, prepared with the same attention to quality and flavor as the main menu.
Options include grilled chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and mini burgers, all served with fresh fruit or fries. The restaurant also offers gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan choices, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
- Grilled Chicken Tenders: Served with fruit or fries
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, kid-friendly
- Mini Burgers: Angus beef, cheddar cheese
- Gluten-Free Options: Available upon request
“Our commitment to accommodating all guests means that dietary preferences and restrictions are never an obstacle to enjoying a great meal.”
Special Dietary Requests
The culinary team is happy to customize dishes to meet specific dietary needs. Whether it’s a gluten intolerance, vegan lifestyle, or allergy concerns, the kitchen works closely with diners to ensure safe and delicious options are available.
This personalized approach enhances the overall dining experience and underscores the restaurant’s dedication to hospitality.
Families appreciate the welcoming atmosphere where children can enjoy familiar favorites in a relaxed setting, while adults indulge in the sophisticated flavors of the main menu.
Conclusion
The Waterfront Restaurant at Edisto Beach offers more than just a meal—it provides a complete sensory experience that celebrates the richness of coastal South Carolina. The menu is thoughtfully designed to highlight local ingredients, traditional flavors, and innovative culinary techniques, ensuring each dish is both satisfying and memorable.
Whether beginning with a flavorful appetizer, savoring a perfectly prepared entree, or indulging in a decadent dessert, guests find themselves immersed in the vibrant food culture of Edisto Beach.
Attention to detail, quality sourcing, and a commitment to hospitality distinguish The Waterfront Restaurant from other dining options in the area. The diverse menu caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo diners alike.
Paired with a carefully curated beverage selection, every visit promises a delightful journey of flavors and ambiance.
Ultimately, The Waterfront Restaurant’s menu embodies the spirit of Edisto Beach—welcoming, fresh, and full of character. It invites guests to slow down, savor each bite, and create lasting memories by the water’s edge.
For those seeking an exceptional dining experience that blends the best of Southern tradition with coastal innovation, this restaurant stands out as a must-visit culinary destination.
