We love introducing clients to the lifestyle that makes Pawleys Island so special, and outdoor dining is one of those simple pleasures that always leaves an impression. When you’re searching for the best outdoor dining on Pawleys Island, you’ll find that our local restaurants offer an elevated mix of coastal atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and relaxed luxury. We’re sharing our top recommendations so you can enjoy the same laid-back sophistication our clients appreciate when exploring homes and neighborhoods in the area.
Key Takeaways
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Enjoy refined outdoor dining on Pawleys Island with covered patios and garden courtyards.
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Reserve outdoor tables early, especially for sunset dining.
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Each destination offers its own distinct atmosphere and culinary style.
Chive Blossom Café
Chive Blossom Café remains one of the most recognizable places for outdoor dining on Pawleys Island, thanks to its shaded courtyard and upscale, eclectic menu. Set just off the North Causeway, it blends local character with globally influenced dishes that feel right at home in a luxury coastal market. We often recommend it to clients who want something relaxed but still elevated.
Why This Restaurant Stands Out
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Eclectic menu options that combine Southern, Mediterranean, and Asian influences.
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Courtyard dining beneath mature live oaks, creating a breezy, intimate setting.
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Lunch and dinner flexibility for casual meetups or more refined evening dining.
Best Times to Go
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Late afternoon for softer light and quieter seating.
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Weekday lunches when you want a more relaxed, unhurried atmosphere.
Bistro 217
Bistro 217 is a local favorite for its refined dishes and upscale coastal feel. Located along Ocean Highway, it offers a spacious courtyard that feels polished without being formal. When clients want outdoor dining on Pawleys Island with high-end appeal, this is one of our first recommendations.
What Makes It Ideal for Luxury Dining
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Creative seafood and steaks with consistently high-quality preparation.
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A modern courtyard that gives clients a taste of Pawleys Island’s elevated lifestyle.
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Reliable service that makes it easy to host business lunches or celebratory dinners.
How to Make the Most of It
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Reserve a patio table for early evening dining.
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Use lunch visits to combine property previews with a relaxing break nearby.
Frank’s Outback
Frank’s Outback is a long-established local gem with a garden-style outdoor area that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. The covered seating and soft lighting make it one of the most atmospheric choices for outdoor dining on Pawleys Island. Its upscale American menu pairs well with the warm, coastal feel that clients enjoy when exploring homes around the Hammock Coast.
Highlights Clients Appreciate
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Garden-inspired outdoor setting with fireplaces and heaters in cooler months.
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Refined dishes including fresh seafood and signature house specialties.
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Perfect for evening reservations when you want ambience and comfort combined.
Best Reasons to Choose It
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Special occasions with clients or team celebrations.
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Evening dining to experience the restaurant’s signature outdoor atmosphere.
Gios Italian Kitchen
Gios Italian Kitchen offers a more relaxed but still elevated form of outdoor dining on Pawleys Island. The covered patio provides a neighborhood feel while still offering the quality and attention to detail you’d expect in a luxury market. Clients often enjoy the familiar comfort of Italian classics served with a local-coast twist.
What Sets Gios Apart
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Comfortable patio seating suited for casual but still upscale dining.
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Classic Italian dishes prepared with consistency and care.
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A warm, welcoming environment that works well for weekday evenings.
When to Visit
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Weeknight dinners when the patio is quieter and more intimate.
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Early evenings to enjoy pleasant temperatures and smoother service flow.
FAQs
What makes outdoor dining on Pawleys Island unique?
The combination of coastal breezes, mature trees, and refined culinary options creates an atmosphere that feels naturally elegant. It’s a great way for clients to experience the lifestyle that comes with owning property in the area.
Are these restaurants good for business or client meetings?
Yes — each one we listed maintains a professional yet relaxed setting that works well for client conversations, whether you’re celebrating a closing or discussing upcoming property tours.
Do the restaurants offer covered outdoor seating?
Most of them do, including Bistro 217, Chive Blossom Café, and Frank’s Outback. Covered seating helps ensure a comfortable experience regardless of weather shifts.
Contact The Taylor Keenan Team Today
If you’re exploring homes near these dining destinations or want help experiencing the Pawleys Island lifestyle, we’re here to guide you. Reach out to us at The Taylor Keenan Team, and we’ll help you find the properties that fit the luxury, coastal experience you’re seeking.
We believe the right community should feel effortless, and sharing local favorites — like the best outdoor dining on Pawleys Island — is part of how we help you get there. Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll pair you with neighborhoods and homes that match your ideal lifestyle.
*Header by The Taylor Keenan Team
We believe the right community should feel effortless, and sharing local favorites — like the best outdoor dining on Pawleys Island — is part of how we help you get there. Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll pair you with neighborhoods and homes that match your ideal lifestyle.
*Header by The Taylor Keenan Team
