Tybee Island is a small coastal town with big flavor.
Known for its laid-back charm, it’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood, waterfront dining, and Southern comfort food.
Tybee has something for everyone, from Lowcountry seafood shacks to hidden local gems, every meal feels like part of the island’s culture.
These restaurants stand out for their fresh ingredients, stunning views, and warm hospitality.
If you’re visiting, don’t miss the chance to taste the best food Tybee Island has to offer!
1. Sundae Cafe at Tybee
Once an ice cream parlor, Sundae Cafe is now one of the island’s best-kept secrets for elevated Southern dining.
This family-owned gem serves expertly prepared seafood, steaks, pasta, and gourmet sandwiches in a cozy, romantic setting.
Menu favorites include shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, jambalaya pasta, and hand-cut steaks.
Sundae Cafe is known for using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring fresh, seasonal flavors in every dish.
Their award-winning wine list and handcrafted cocktails make it a great spot for date night or celebrating a special occasion.
2. Bubba Gumbo’s
Nestled on the docks of the Tybee Island Marina, Bubba Gumbo’s is a must-visit for fresh, local seafood with a view.
This charming family-owned restaurant is known for its fried shrimp, crab cakes, and classic Lowcountry Boil.
One of their standout dishes is the LoCoBoRo (Low Country Boil Roll)—a creative twist on the Southern classic.
Other favorites include fried flounder, seafood gumbo, and smoked salmon eggs Benedict.
The casual dockside setting offers stunning marsh views, making it a perfect place to relax with a plate of fresh seafood while spotting local wildlife.
With its historic roots (the building dates back to 1940) and commitment to fresh, locally caught shrimp, Bubba Gumbo’s is a true taste of Tybee.
3. Gerald’s Pig & Shrimp
A quirky roadside eatery turned local favorite, Gerald’s Pig & Shrimp blends barbecue and seafood in a laid-back, no-frills setting.
This casual spot is best known for its award-winning fried shrimp, slow-cooked brisket, and pork.
The menu is packed with comfort-food classics like ribs, hush puppies, and Tybee’s famous “Tybee Sauce” wings.
If you’re in the mood for something simple, try their hot dogs or tomato sandwiches.
The friendly atmosphere and generous portions make it a great stop for a quick bite before hitting the beach.
Rumors suggest that Gerald’s has been sold, so the future of this beloved eatery is uncertain.
For now, it remains a solid choice for delicious Southern eats on Tybee Island.
4. Huc-A-Poo’s Bites & Booze
If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back spot with great food and live entertainment, Huc-A-Poo’s Bites & Booze is the place to be.
Located near North Beach, this quirky roadhouse is famous for its massive pizza slices, cold drinks, and island-themed atmosphere.
Beyond pizza, the menu includes burgers, tacos, nachos, and adventurous dishes like Surf & Turf Eggrolls.
The neon tropical decor adds to the lively vibe, making it feel like a Caribbean escape.
Known as both a restaurant and a nightlife hotspot, Huc-A-Poo’s frequently hosts live music and DJ nights.
Come for the food, stay for the energy—this is one of the best places on Tybee to grab a bite and soak in the island’s fun, carefree spirit.
5. The Crab Shack
For a true Tybee Island seafood experience, head to The Crab Shack. Originally a simple fish camp, this iconic eatery has become a destination for seafood lovers.
The restaurant is famous for its Low Country Boil, a messy, delicious feast of shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, and potatoes.
Other specialties include deviled crab, crawfish, mussels, and peel-and-eat shrimp.
The open-air dining area offers scenic creekside views, perfect for a relaxing meal.
One of the biggest draws? The interactive Gator Lagoon, where guests can see live baby alligators up close.
The Crab Shack also hosts lively events, including oyster roasts and pirate parties, adding to its fun, casual charm.
If you’re looking for great seafood in a one-of-a-kind setting, this is a must-visit.
6. Salt Island Fish & Beer
Nothing says a beach vacation like fresh seafood and a cold beer.
Salt Island Fish & Beer delivers exactly that, with a menu that puts a modern twist on classic beach food.
This rustic-chic eatery is known for its fresh oysters, seafood dishes, and burgers, all served alongside a rotating selection of craft beers.
Standout menu items include blue crab poutine, beer cheese hush puppies, and Elote (Mexican street corn)—each packed with bold flavors.
The name “Salt Island” is a nod to Tybee’s history, as “Tybee” is the Euchee word for salt.
7. The Breakfast Club
If you’re searching for the best breakfast on Tybee Island, expect to wait in line at The Breakfast Club—and trust us, it’s worth it.
This family-owned diner has been serving up classic American breakfasts for decades.
It’s famous for pecan waffles, chicken-fried steak, grits, and loaded omelets.
The Blackhawk Breakfast Burrito is another fan favorite, packed with eggs, cheese, and flavorful fillings.
The owner is a Culinary Institute of America graduate with a storied career, even catering JFK Jr.’s wedding.
That expertise shows in the house-ground sausages and burgers, which are made fresh daily.
Located just a block from Savannah Beach, this place fills up fast.
It’s open from 7 AM until the staff “drops from exhaustion”, so come early, grab a green leather barstool, and dig into a plate of hash browns while admiring the coastal-themed stained glass.
8. CoCo’s Sunset Grille
For stunning waterfront views and fresh seafood, CoCo’s Sunset Grille is a must-visit.
Located at Lazaretto Creek Marina, this casual eatery specializes in shrimp, crab stew, and fried flounder.
They own their own shrimp boats, so you know the seafood is as fresh as it gets.
The ahi tuna wrap is another standout dish, offering a lighter but flavorful option.
As the name suggests, this is one of the best spots on Tybee Island to watch the sunset.
Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails for the perfect end to a beach day.
They also have a kid-friendly menu, making it a great stop for families.
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
9. AJ’s Dockside Restaurant
With its scenic Back River views and lively atmosphere, AJ’s Dockside Restaurant is a long-time favorite for outdoor dining.
This waterfront eatery is known for its fried seafood, bacon-wrapped shrimp, and snow crab legs.
They also serve fresh local oysters, blue crab, and fish, all sourced from nearby waters.
For a casual meal with unbeatable views, grab a seat on the patio and enjoy one of their famous rum punches while watching the boats go by.
AJ’s offers live entertainment, making it a fun spot to visit in the evening.
They take reservations, and since this is a popular place, calling ahead is recommended.
Takeout is also available if you’d rather enjoy your meal by the water elsewhere.
10. Sunrise Restaurant
If you’re up early and craving a hearty breakfast, Sunrise Restaurant is one of the best places to start your day.
This classic Southern diner has been serving omelets, waffles, and steak and eggs since 1987.
It’s a no-frills spot with a focus on simple, well-executed dishes.
Hash browns are a must-order, and their burgers and sandwiches also make this a solid lunch option.
Located on the South end of Tybee, Sunrise is a quick walk to Tybee Pier, making it a convenient stop before a day of fishing or strolling along the ocean.
Doors open at 6 AM daily, so early birds can get their fill before the island wakes up.
11. Spanky’s Beachside
For kid-friendly dining with ocean views, Spanky’s Beachside is a top pick.
This casual eatery serves American comfort food, seafood baskets, pasta, and even some Mexican-inspired dishes.
The Spanky’s Original Chicken Fingers are a must-try.
This signature basket comes with crispy, golden-brown tenders, your choice of spuds or fries, and a dill pickle spear.
It’s a simple but satisfying meal, perfect for families or anyone looking for a quick and delicious bite.
With its laid-back atmosphere and friendly service, Spanky’s is a great place to enjoy classic American food while taking in the stunning beach views.
12. North Beach Bar & Grill
Blending Caribbean and American flavors, North Beach Bar & Grill brings a unique twist to classic beachside fare.
This eco-friendly, locally-focused restaurant is known for its jerk chicken, crab cakes, fish tacos, and plantains.
Set between the Tybee Island Lighthouse and the beach, this casual spot is perfect for a quick but flavorful meal.
The Jamaican escovitch and crab cake are menu favorites, offering a balance of fresh seafood and island spices.
Live music, frozen tropical drinks, and a friendly, unpretentious vibe make this a go-to spot for visitors and locals alike.
13. The Deck Beach Bar and Kitchen
For oceanfront dining, The Deck Beach Bar and Kitchen is hard to beat.
It’s the only restaurant on Tybee Island located directly on the beach, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal with an unbeatable view.
The menu offers globally inspired beach fare, with highlights like Red Fish Tacos, Shrimp Rolls, and the Salmon Poke Bowl.
The Sapelo Island Clam Chowder is another standout, packed with fresh, local ingredients.
Pair your meal with a playful cocktail while watching the waves roll in.
Located in the Beachside Colony Resort, The Deck is open for lunch and dinner most days but is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Reservations can be made on OpenTable, which is a good idea for securing a spot during peak dining hours.
14. Cafe Miss Korea
For something completely different from the usual beach fare, Cafe Miss Korea is a hidden gem serving authentic Korean dishes, baked goods, and coffee.
This locally owned Korean fusion cafe is best known for its Bibimbap (a flavorful rice dish topped with vegetables, protein, and a fried egg) and homemade kimchi.
They also offer made-from-scratch desserts, including Key Lime Pie and rich chocolate cake.
Part cafe, part bakery, this spot is great for a quick bite or a full meal.
The quirky atmosphere adds to its charm, but hours can be unpredictable—it’s best to check their Facebook page or stop by if you’re in the area.
They also sell homemade sauces and Korean pickles, making it a great place to grab something unique to take home.
15. Chamacos Tacos & Surf
A surf shop meets taqueria, Chamacos Tacos & Surf serves up some of the best street tacos on Tybee Island.
This laid-back eatery specializes in authentic Mexican street-style tacos, including rotating specialties like Cochinita Pibil tacos (slow-roasted pork with citrus and spices).
Other must-try items include their breakfast tacos, street corn, and house-made guacamole with chips.
Beyond food, this spot has a full tequila bar with top-shelf margaritas and often hosts live music.
The relaxed, casual setting makes it an ideal stop for a quick meal or an evening hangout.
Open daily from noon to 9 PM, it’s a great place to refuel after a day at the beach.
16. The Cafe on 80 Deli & Bakery
For fresh pastries, hearty sandwiches, and homemade biscuits, stop by The Cafe on 80 Deli & Bakery.
This family-owned cafe has been serving doughnuts, ice cream, and baked goods since 2018.
It’s a friendly, no-frills spot that’s perfect for a quick bite.
Locals love their signature “Aunt Linda’s” biscuits, which pair perfectly with breakfast sandwiches or a side of jam.
If you have a sweet tooth, grab a signature doughnut or a scoop of their ultra-creamy ice cream from the walk-up to-go window.
Like many spots on Tybee Island, this isn’t fine dining—it’s simple, homey food made with care.
If you need a fast, tasty meal before heading to the beach, this is a great choice.
17. Lighthouse Pizza North
Sometimes, nothing hits the spot like a hot, fresh pizza, and Lighthouse Pizza North has been serving up some of the best slices in town since 2007.
They make their dough fresh daily, offering thin crust or hand-tossed pizzas with a huge selection of toppings.
Their “Authentic Tybee Dough” is a local favorite, and their veggie pizza with a side of cheese ravioli is a great combo.
Not in the mood for pizza? Try their buffalo wings, which are a big hit with both locals and visitors.
With its convenient location near most hotels, it’s an easy go-to for takeout or delivery, especially after a long day of exploring the island.
18. Sting Ray’s Seafood
For casual seafood with live music and an outdoor deck, head to Sting Ray’s Seafood.
Located on the South End, this bustling seafood shack serves up classics like coconut shrimp, po’boys, oysters, and gumbo.
The Tybee Island Gumbo—packed with shrimp, sausage, and chicken—is a must-try.
If you prefer something handheld, their shrimp po’boy is always a solid choice.
The restaurant also features live music nightly, adding to the lively, beachy atmosphere.
Bonus: Sting Ray’s is pet-friendly, so if you’re traveling with your dog, you can still grab a meal on the outdoor patio.
19. Fannie’s on the Beach
For beachfront dining with a side of fun, Fannie’s on the Beach is one of Tybee’s most iconic spots.
You can’t miss its giant pink building and the classic “Time to Eat” sign welcoming visitors inside.
This place is known for its lively brunches, great shrimp burgers, and outlandish cocktails.
If you stop by in the morning, the breakfast shrimp & grits are a must.
In the afternoon, grab a Frozen Pineapple Cocolada, which comes served in a real pineapple, topped with popcorn shrimp and cherries—a true Tybee Island classic.
If you want a cocktail with a twist, Fannie’s Bloody Mary is legendary.
It’s topped with a mini hamburger, making it as fun as it is delicious.
The beachfront location makes this a great place to hang out, meet new people, and soak up the lively island energy.
20. Tybee Sugar Shack, Inc. (a.k.a. The Sugar Shack)
No meal is complete without dessert, and The Sugar Shack has been Tybee’s go-to ice cream shop since 1971.
What started as a simple summer ice cream stand has evolved into a year-round dessert destination, serving classic sundaes, banana splits, and unique ice cream flavors.
The banana pudding ice cream is a must-try, offering the perfect mix of creamy vanilla, banana, and cookie crumbles.
While they’ve expanded their menu over the years, ice cream remains the star of the show.
21. Bernie’s Oyster House
For a laid-back tavern atmosphere and fresh seafood, Bernie’s Oyster House is a great choice.
Located at the South End of Tybee, this neighborhood spot specializes in fresh and fried oysters, steamed shrimp, and Lowcountry classics.
The menu features everything you’d expect from a coastal seafood joint, including homemade gumbo, hush puppies, shrimp tacos, and Lowcountry Boil.
Their oysters—served fried or on the half shell—are a standout, making this one of the best places on the island for an oyster fix.
With its cozy, casual vibe, Bernie’s is a great spot to grab a beer and enjoy some fresh seafood without any fuss.
22. Tybean Coffee & Art Bar
If you’re the kind of person who loves discovering quirky, artsy coffee shops, Tybean Coffee & Art Bar is a must-visit.
Tucked inside The Shoppes at Tybee Oaks, this tiny turquoise coffee hut feels like a hidden treehouse, surrounded by local shops and shady oak trees.
It’s a great spot to grab a coffee, chat with locals, or pet the resident shop cat.
Their specialty coffees, teas, and smoothies are made with Batdorf & Bronson premium coffee beans, and their baked goods are just as special.
The signature chocolate chip and cranberry scones are local favorites, with the daily flavors handwritten on a paper lunch bag at the counter.
They even offer quirky options like hot dog and cheddar scones or seasonal apple fritters.
Tybean is bike-friendly, and everything can be made to-go for an easy beachside breakfast.
Hours are limited (7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, closed Tuesdays), so plan ahead if you want to stop by this North End hidden gem.
23. Agave Bar & Grill
For Mexican food and margaritas on Tybee Island, Agave Bar & Grill is the go-to spot.
This casual Mexican eatery serves lunch and dinner daily, offering all the classics—tacos, fajitas, huevos rancheros, nachos, and vegetarian-friendly options.
Whether you’re craving chips and guacamole or a plate of cheesy enchiladas, Agave keeps it simple and satisfying.
Pair your meal with a house margarita, and you’ve got the perfect post-beach meal.
The relaxed vibe and flavorful, familiar menu make it a solid choice for a casual, no-fuss dining experience on the island.
24. Sea Wolf Tybee
If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual island fare, Sea Wolf Tybee delivers.
This local hangout near the Visitor Center is best known for its gourmet hot dogs, fresh oysters, and seasonal menu.
They offer vegan options, creative small plates, and some of the most inventive cocktails on the island.
One of their signature drinks, the “Recombobulator,” is perfect if you’ve overindulged on vacation and need a refreshing pick-me-up.
The drink menu changes often, keeping things fresh for locals and visitors alike.
On weekends, Sea Wolf opens at 11 AM and often features live music, making it a fun spot to kick off a relaxed afternoon.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, creative, and slightly offbeat dining experience, this is the place to be.
25. Wind Rose Bar & Grill
For a no-frills, local dive bar with great food, Wind Rose Bar & Grill is a must-visit.
Located on Tybee’s South End, this laid-back neighborhood bar serves up cold beer, burgers, wings, and Philly cheesesteaks alongside daily comfort-food specials.
Depending on the day, you might find shrimp tacos, homemade soups, country-fried steak, or barbecue pork on the menu.
It’s not fancy, but that’s part of its charm.
The vibe is friendly, casual, and all about the food.
If you’re looking for a solid meal without the touristy frills, Wind Rose delivers.
26. Zunzibar
Bright colors, South African flavors, and daily live music make Zunzibar one of the most unique places to eat on Tybee Island.
This ultra-casual beachfront spot is all about laid-back island vibes and bold flavors.
The menu features South African-inspired dishes, though the real stars here are the fantastic margaritas and daily entertainment.
27. Potlikker Pantry & Kitchen
For hearty breakfasts, stacked sandwiches, and indulgent ice cream treats, Potlikker Pantry & Kitchen is a go-to spot.
Previously known as The Cafe on 80 Deli & Bakery, this cozy, chalkboard-menu cafe is known for its buttery breakfast croissants, loaded meatball subs, and fresh-made salads.
But the real standout? Their over-the-top milkshakes and desserts.
One of the wildest creations is The Graceland, a honey-roasted peanut butter and banana pudding milkshake piled high with glazed doughnuts, whipped cream, and crispy bacon.
It’s a meal in itself.
If you’re in a hurry, grab a doughnut, a scoop of their ultra-creamy ice cream, or “Aunt Linda’s” homemade biscuits from the walk-up to-go window.
