Truffles Cafe

Description:

• It's no longer on the cutting edge of gastronomic newcomers to Hilton Head, but it's been around so long, and garnered so many fans that it's one of our personal favorites on the island. Within the Sea Pines Center, this cafe has a dark, mostly black decor, with a large copper-topped bar, black banquettes, and a menu that somehow manages to please virtually everybody. Start with a spinach and artichoke dip or coconut fried shrimp, followed by baby back ribs or grouper that's grilled and topped with a basil-Parmesan glaze. You could also try Havana chicken with jack cheese and fresh tomato salsa or meatloaf that's grilled with a honey-flavored barbecue sauce and Vidalia onions. Don't confuse this place with the newer and somehow glossier Truffles Grill on Pope Avenue, between Coligny Circle and Sea Island Circle: The Grill is newer and trendier, but many restaurant insiders swear by the original. If you opt for a meal here, you'll have to pay a $5 charge to enter the Sea Island Resort itself. Most islanders recognize and acknowledge this, and accept that fact simply as the cost of doing business and living on Hilton Head Island.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010