Bluffton Area Guide
Bluffton's historic heart sits along the May River — a walkable grid of oak-shaded streets, art galleries, and some of the Lowcountry's most beloved restaurants. From fresh-shucked oysters at the water's edge to chef-driven dinners on Calhoun Street, Old Town rewards anyone willing to slow down.
Old Town Bluffton is the original settlement of Bluffton, SC — a National Register historic district centered on Calhoun Street and the May River bluff. The area covers roughly 60 acres and is compact enough to explore entirely on foot, making it one of the few truly walkable dining destinations in the Lowcountry.
The dining scene here is small but distinctive. You'll find the Bluffton Oyster Company — the last working oyster factory on the May River — alongside a growing collection of chef-owned restaurants that draw diners from Hilton Head Island and Savannah. The vibe is unhurried and local: no chain restaurants, no tourist traps.
Most restaurants are clustered within a few blocks of Calhoun Street and Wharf Street. Weekend mornings bring a steady crowd to The Cottage; evenings fill Nunzio's intimate dining room. Arrive early or make a reservation — Old Town's best tables are small and in demand.
A charming Old Town cafe serving fresh-baked pastries, creative egg dishes, and afternoon tea in a cozy cottage setting. A favorite for a slow morning or a light lunch on Calhoun Street.
A beloved Old Town institution serving the freshest local oysters, shrimp, and Lowcountry seafood straight from the May River. Outdoor tables, marsh views, and a no-frills atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.
Soulful Southern cooking rooted in Gullah-Geechee tradition. Roastfish & Cornbread serves slow-cooked fish, hand-ground grits, and heritage sides that honor the Lowcountry's culinary history.
Chef-driven Italian-Lowcountry cuisine in an intimate Old Town setting. Nunzio blends house-made pastas and fresh coastal ingredients with classic Italian technique — one of Bluffton's most celebrated dinner destinations.
Browse all 11 Bluffton listings including Buckwalter, Bluffton Road, and beyond.