Hilton Head Island, SC, September 20, 2025
News Summary
A recent poll among local readers has identified the top breakfast spots in Hilton Head Island, featuring cozy cafes and bustling diners. With 354 participants casting their votes, the poll showcases the community’s preference for local favorites, highlighting restaurants with Google ratings of 4 stars or higher. Leading the pack is Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe, followed by Plantation Cafe & Deli and Watusi Cafe. Readers have also shared additional recommendations, underlining the diversity of breakfast offerings available in the area.
Hilton Head Island, SC – A recent poll conducted among local readers has revealed the top breakfast spots in Hilton Head, known for its diverse breakfast offerings ranging from cozy cafes to bustling diners. The poll invited participants to vote for their favorite breakfast locations, highlighting restaurants with Google ratings of 4 stars or higher, specifically excluding larger chains such as Starbucks.
Out of 354 participants in the poll, the top three breakfast spots were determined, showcasing the community’s preference for local favorites.
Top Breakfast Spots
Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe
Leading the pack is Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe, which has earned an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Google. This establishment has been dedicated to breakfast and lunch service for over 20 years, becoming a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Known for a range of menu items such as omelets, Eggs Benedict, and French toast, they also offer daily specials that keep patrons returning. Located at 86 Helmsman Way in the Palmetto Bay Marina, the cafe operates Wednesday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Plantation Cafe & Deli
In second place is Plantation Cafe & Deli, established in 1974 and known for its three convenient locations that serve breakfast and lunch. This establishment is distinguished by its unique Sunday brunch menu featuring popular items like the Whistle Stop BLT and gluten-free pancakes.
Watusi Cafe
Rounding out the top three is Watusi Cafe, celebrated for its relaxing atmosphere and proximity to Coligny Beach. This cafe not only provides a tranquil dining experience but also offers a special priced early diner menu and the convenience of serving breakfast all day.
Additional Breakfast Recommendations
While the top three spots gathered the most votes, readers also suggested several other local favorites that did not make the final list. Among them:
- Gruby’s New York Deli – Specializes in bagels shipped from Just Bagels in the Bronx and serves breakfast only Monday through Friday from 8-11 a.m.
- Southern Coney – Known for having some of the best pancakes and offering daily pancake specials.
- Lowcountry Produce Market and Cafe – Features a menu with freshly fried yeast donuts, flounder with grits, and brioche French toast.
Poll Context
This poll was designed to entertain readers rather than serve as a scientific survey. The community response reflects the diversity of breakfast options available on Hilton Head Island, a location recognized for its vibrant culinary scenes. As a result of this poll, there’s an opportunity for readers to share their thoughts and ideas for future polls via email, further enriching the community discussions surrounding local dining.
Conclusion
With breakfast being considered one of the most significant meals of the day, the favorite spots chosen by readers underlines Hilton Head’s eclectic breakfast culture. From Café to deli, the preferences illustrated in this poll invite locals and visitors alike to explore and enjoy what the island has to offer in the morning hours.
FAQ
What are the top breakfast spots in Hilton Head Island?
The top three breakfast spots are Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe, Plantation Cafe & Deli, and Watusi Cafe.
How many participants voted in the breakfast poll?
A total of 354 participants voted in the poll.
What is the rating of Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe?
Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars on Google.
Breakfast Spots Overview
| Breakfast Spot | Location | Google Rating | Specialties | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe | 86 Helmsman Way | 4.7 | Omelets, Eggs Benedict, French Toast | Wed-Sun, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m. |
| Plantation Cafe & Deli | Three locations | Not specified | Sunday Brunch Menu, Whistle Stop BLT | Not specified |
| Watusi Cafe | Near Coligny Beach | Not specified | All Day Breakfast, Early Diner Menu | Not specified |
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Additional Resources
- Eat It and Like It: Six Solid Hilton Head Island Breakfasts
- Island Packet: Local News Article
- WJCL: Beaufort County School Free Meals for Kids
- Stacker: Highest Rated Restaurants on Hilton Head Island
- Island Packet: Local News Update
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Google Search: Hilton Head breakfast restaurants
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head
- Google News: Hilton Head Island
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
