Recently updated on September 3rd, 2024
Whether you’re headed to Tybee as your main vacation destination or you’re just thinking of making a day trip to Tybee’s miles of public beaches while you’re visiting Savannah, you’ll be happy to know there’s more great food than you can shake a stick at!
From great seafood platters to eclectic fusion and southern-inspired dishes, we’re bringing you the most popular restaurants on Tybee Island.
The Crab Shack
This great place began as a fish camp in the 1930’s and is now a Tybee Island institution.
The views over Lazaretto Creek can’t be beat and seafood lovers will swoon for their shrimp, snow crab, crawfish, and low country boil – you can even get it all in one dish by ordering the Captain Crab’s Sampler Platter!
And as if that isn’t enough- there’s an alligator lagoon?! Feed the baby alligators with the provided food right outside the restaurant.
They love to party here at The Crab Shack, so don’t be surprised if there is an oyster roast, a pirate party, or a live band during your stay.
Join the Facebook group Coastal Georgia Foodies! It’s where everyone with an interest in Coastal Georgia food can share their favorite places to eat, food events, resources for buying local and restaurant news.
The Deck Beach Bar and Kitchen
This spot is known for being the only oceanfront restaurant on the island. Walk right in off the beach for a cocktail during the day, or make reservation for dinner so you’re sure to get a seat at night.
They’re known for creative dishes like “not your mama’s fish sandwich” and Sapelo Island clam chowder, as well as tropical cocktails and live music overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Zunzibar
This ultra casual spot with brightly colored umbrellas and delicious South African cuisine is known for their fantastic beach vibes.
Come for the yummy food, but stay for the margaritas and the daily live music!
Breakfast Club
No list of the best restaurants in Tybee Island would be complete without mentioning the Breakfast Club. This institution has been serving homemade breakfast for four decades that range from classic to eclectic.
On the classic side you have favorites like eggs, bacon, homemade sausage, waffles, and grits. On the more inventive side you have breakfast burritos and loaded omelettes like the PMS omelette (self-described as “emotionally satisfying”).
Get here early! The line outside starts growing before they open at 7:00 am and only gets longer as the morning goes.
Sundae Cafe at Tybee
This former ice cream parlor specializes in Southern-inspired cuisine like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and chicken fried chicken.
If you’re not a seafood fan, Sundae Café also has fantastic burgers and their steaks are world-renowned! Well, at least Tybee-renowned, but we like to keep a good thing a secret around here.
They also boast an award winning wine list with over 100 selections.
Sea Wolf Tybee
This intimate spot is known for their oysters, gourmet hot dogs (they even have vegan hot dogs!), charcuterie, and inventive cocktails.
This funky spot offers indoor and outdoor seating and have live music from noon to three on the weekends.
Bubba Gumbo’s
This waterfront fish shack serves up a daily fresh catch and fried shrimp that is some of the best food on the island. They also have, of course, delicious gumbo, low country boil, crab cakes, and hush puppies served with homemade honey butter.
It’s a little hard to find, but the locals definitely know where it is and once you go, you’ll remember forever, too.
North Beach Bar & Grill
You’re going to love this laidback neighborhood eatery that has all the beach vibes you could ask for. Live music is featured here nearly every night.
They’re best known for their incredible local seafood served with a Caribbean flair.
A-J’s Dockside Restaurant
Another well-known seafood restaurant is AJs Dockside, located right on the pier at the end of Jones Ave.
Specializing in menu items like shrimp, oyster, blue crabs and fish, the restaurant sources everything locally when possible. You can even see some of their own fishing boats docked next to the restaurant!
There’s indoor and outdoor patio seating so you can enjoy a great view of the water and inlet. They also often have live music at night. AJ’s Dockside is known not only for the seafood, but also the lively atmosphere.
This is one of the few places on the island that takes reservations, so I highly recommend that you make yours in advance!
Sting Ray’s
Sting Ray’s Seafood is known for having some of the best seafood on the island. This is a local favorite for the laidback atmosphere, killer seafood, and nightly live music.
They’re one of the few places that have local oysters, so be sure to get a dozen on the half shell. I also highly recommend the shrimp po’ boys!
Salt Island Fish & Beer
Nothing says beach vacation like fish and beer! The name “salt island” actually refers to the translation of Tybee Island. Did you know that “tybee” is the Euchee name for salt?
This spot serves up modern versions of classic beach food like blue crab poutine, beer cheese hushpuppies, oysters on the half shell, and their craft beer selection is top notch!
Chamacos Tacos & Surf
Chamacos Tacos is known for their authentic Mexican street style tacos made with locally-sourced ingredients and top-shelf margaritas.
They have live music most nights of the week and their tequila bar has an excellent selection of spirits.
Huc-a-Poo’s Bites & Booze
True to its name, this island staple serves up island-inspired dishes and creative cocktails along with a menu of shareable small plates if you prefer to nosh.
Burgers, tacos and nachos are favorites, or try something more unique like their Surf & Turf Eggrolls if you’re feeling adventurous.
The bright interior is decked out in tons of neon tropical decor, almost transporting you to the Caribbean when you enter.
Known as both a restaurant and a bar, Huc-a-Poos often features live entertainment and a DJ spinning tunes later at night as well.
No matter what type of dining experience you’re seeking while staying here, the Tybee Island restaurants are sure to treat you to fresh seafood, southern flavors, upscale beachside cuisine and tropical vibes with views.
With options for indoor and outdoor seating to take in the island from all angles, you’ll surely find plenty of delicious dishes highlighting coastal cuisine and ingredients native to Georgia and the low country region.
Before You Go…
If you’re planning a trip to Tybee Island, you’ll want to check out these other blog posts about the area:
- Little Tybee Island, GA: A Coastal Georgia Adventure
- Tybee Island Campground Guide (2024)
- Where to Get the Best Breakfast on Tybee Island (2024)
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