7 Unforgettable Reasons To Visit Benny's Coastal Kitchen: Hilton Head's Newest Waterfront Sensation

Benny's Coastal Kitchen has burst onto the Hilton Head Island dining scene, quickly becoming the must-visit waterfront destination for fresh Lowcountry seafood. As of December 15, 2025, this establishment is the newest jewel in the crown of the Coastal Restaurants and Bars (CRAB) family, a group with a deep history in the area, and represents a continuation of a legendary local legacy. Completed in early 2024 and opening its doors on February 5th, the restaurant is built on what many consider hallowed ground, offering a modern, elevated dining experience with a profound respect for the island’s rich history. This brand-new venue, located at 175 Squire Pope Road on Shrimpers Row, delivers not just a meal but an experience, combining breathtaking views of Skull Creek with a menu crafted by a top-tier culinary team. The restaurant's immediate popularity stems from its fresh take on coastal cuisine, its stunning atmosphere, and the powerful story behind the name, ensuring it's a vibrant and essential part of any Hilton Head visit today.

The Legacy of "Benny" and the Culinary Team

Benny's Coastal Kitchen is more than just a name; it is a tribute to a true Hilton Head Island pioneer and a testament to the island's enduring hospitality tradition. The restaurant honors the legacy of Benny Hudson, a local legend whose influence is woven into the fabric of the island's seafood culture.

Benny Hudson: The Island Legend

• Pioneer of Local Seafood: Benny Hudson was instrumental in establishing Hilton Head's seafood trade.
• Shrimp Boat Fleet: He ran a substantial fleet of shrimp boats, supplying much of the local wholesale shrimp.
• First Tourist Seafood Restaurant: In 1968, Benny Hudson opened the island's first tourist-oriented seafood restaurant in what was an oyster house on Skull Creek, setting the stage for decades of waterfront dining.
• Family Legacy: His family's retail business, Benny Hudson Seafood Market, was born from locals stopping by to buy a pound or two of fresh catch directly from his facilities.
• Enduring Influence: The new restaurant, a brainchild of Brendan Reilley of the CRAB Group, is directly inspired by Benny Hudson’s vision and history, ensuring his spirit lives on.

The Modern Culinary Visionaries

• Owner/Visionary: Brendan Reilley, part of the second generation of the Coastal Restaurants and Bars (CRAB) family, guided the creation of Benny's Coastal Kitchen. The CRAB family has been a staple of the Hilton Head culinary community since 1973.
• Executive Chef: Shaun Carter leads the kitchen, bringing his expertise to craft the restaurant's unique and fresh menu.
• CRAB Group Affiliation: Benny's is the newest addition to the CRAB family, which also includes popular spots like The Crazy Crabs, Reilley's Grill and Bar, and Fishcamp on Broad Creek.

The Elevated Coastal Cuisine: Must-Try Menu Entities

Executive Chef Shaun Carter's menu at Benny's Coastal Kitchen is a dynamic celebration of fresh, local seafood, blending traditional Lowcountry flavors with innovative global influences. The menu is intentionally diverse, offering both classic favorites and surprising, modern dishes.

Signature Seafood Entrees and Fork Fare

The main course selection highlights the quality of the fresh catch, often featuring preparations that allow the natural flavors of the seafood to shine. These dishes are essential for anyone seeking an authentic Hilton Head dining experience.

• Mojo Grilled Fish: A flavorful, citrus-marinated fish dish that captures the bright essence of coastal cooking.
• Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca): A rich, aromatic stew that demonstrates the menu's global flair, offering a comforting and complex flavor profile.
• Crab Cake Napoleon: An elegant, stacked presentation of premium crab cakes, showcasing a refined approach to a Southern classic.
• Whole Fried Catch: A spectacular, must-order dish that provides the freshest experience of the day's haul.
• Shrimp Farro Risotto: A modern, hearty dish that pairs local shrimp with the nutty texture of farro, a healthy grain alternative.

Unique Appetizers and Small Plates

The tapas and appetizer menus are perfect for sharing and exploring the depth of the kitchen's creativity. The raw bar is a major draw, emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to freshness.

• Raw Half-Shell Oysters: Served with a delicate Rosé champagne mignonette, these are a top choice for starting the meal.
• Baked Half-shell Oysters: A decadent version, often stuffed with spinach and crab.
• Jackfruit Latke: This unexpected, plant-based item was a surprise hit upon opening, demonstrating the menu's willingness to cater to diverse palates.

The Ambiance and Experience: Breathtaking Skull Creek Views

The dining experience at Benny's Coastal Kitchen is defined by its spectacular setting. The restaurant was strategically designed to maximize the natural beauty of its waterfront location, making the atmosphere as much of a draw as the food.

Waterfront Dining on Shrimpers Row

The restaurant is located on Shrimpers Row, a historic area that ties directly into the legacy of Benny Hudson and the island’s shrimping industry. This location provides an authentic connection to the local maritime culture.

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• Breathtaking Skull Creek Views: Diners are treated to panoramic, unobstructed views of Skull Creek, a prime spot for watching boats and the famous Lowcountry sunsets.
• Rooftop Bar: A major highlight is the rooftop bar, which offers an "awesome" vantage point for enjoying cocktails and the stunning vistas of the water.
• Modern Coastal Design: The building, completed in early 2024, features a fresh, contemporary coastal aesthetic that is both elegant and welcoming.

Why It’s a Must-Visit for Tourists and Locals

Benny's Coastal Kitchen successfully bridges the gap between a historic, legacy-driven establishment and a modern, high-end dining venue. It offers something for everyone, from casual brunch-goers to those seeking a sophisticated dinner experience.

• Brunch Options: The menu extends to brunch, featuring items like the Crab Stuffed Benedict and a hearty Breakfast Burrito.
• LSI Keywords/Entities: Hilton Head Island dining, Lowcountry seafood, waterfront restaurant, Skull Creek, Reilley family, CRAB Group, fresh oysters, Panko Flash-Fried Chicken, Grilled Swordfish, Pan-Seared Scallops, Shrimp & Vegetable Capellini, Blackened Shrimp Bowl.
• Fresh and Unique: The combination of the historic location, the new construction, and the unique menu items like the Jackfruit Latke and Brazilian Fish Stew ensures the experience is fresh and unlike any other on the island.

Benny's Coastal Kitchen has quickly established itself not just as a new restaurant, but as a vital continuation of Hilton Head's culinary story. The legacy of Benny Hudson, the vision of Brendan Reilley, and the skill of Executive Chef Shaun Carter have converged to create a truly unforgettable dining experience on the water. Make sure to reserve a spot to witness the stunning Skull Creek sunset from their rooftop bar.