Dinner on July 9, 2014. Service was great. Beet salad too salty. Shellfish cakes were wonderful! Husband had prime pork tenderloin with polenta - he said it was great. This is a wonderful place to see the sunset. We sat inside because I was worried about bugs, but we did have a window seat - windows are floor to ceiling.
(4)
Greg O.
This is a tough review to write. First, the view is great, and atmosphere in the faux-historic building is very welcoming. The service throughout the meal was fantastic. But the food was a disappointment. It wasn't bad in any way, but also not good, and certainly not up to the prices they charge. The cold cucumber dill soup was the highlight of my meal- great flavor and just enough dill to add flavor without overpowering. I wish the rest of the meal had been anywhere close to that. My entree of duck was plain boring- the duck just didn't have any flavor. The cheese grits that came with it were actually fairly tasty, but the field pea & bean cassoulet was terrible. As for dessert, the cherry creme brulee was a disappointment as well. It was good for a creme brulee, but I expected actually cherry flavor, not a couple of random cherries thrown in the bottom of it. Overall a great view and atmosphere and great service, but the food left a lot to be desired.
(2)
Linda L.
Our best dining Hilton Head dining experience! We went for my husband's bday and it was a truly memorable experience. Service was excellent. The chocolate raspberry martini was Da Bomb and the hubby says the top-shelf scotch was top-notch. He raved about the she-crab soup and the flat iron steak with collards and swordfish were also perfection. The quail appetizer, salad w poached pears, chocolate truffle dessert and chocolate terrine were all very good. The view from this place is beautiful--try to come just before sunset so you can enjoy the beautiful view of the water at dusk, which becomes majestically lit up at night. And don't forget the historic Old Fort in which it is located...look around at the plaques/walkways if you arrive at daylight.
(5)
Brenda S.
The atmosphere seemed a bit dated and run down. The food was just "ok" ...definitely not worth the money. The portion sizes were very small. Had a tiny salad and some ok squash soup. The entree I chose, bouillabaisse...was just blah. Did not taste fresh. The chocolate terrine was a disappointment as well. The service was very slow. For the cost, I would definitely choose another restaurant.
(2)
Christine L.
This place is AWESOME! My parents and I always go here for special dinners, whether it's the holidays or someone's b-day. The building is a spectacular old house right on the marsh/river. The food is always perfect, as is the service! The Old Fort Pub always makes you feel special.
(5)
Tanner N.
Wife had filet and I had veal. Great view but not worth the price. Service was okay. Got there right at sunset which was cool. Food has average. Plating was great but taste and texture of meat was not there.
(2)
Priscilla B.
Had a wonderful dinner! Out of our five adults everyone loved everything! Can't go wrong with the menu and the view was beautiful!
(5)
Amanda J.
Food - 5 stars. Everything was delicious - seafood, chicken, bread, sides. Nice wine list. View - 5 stars. Right on the water in Hilton Head before sunset ... can't be beat. Service - 2 or 3 stars. From the beginning, the service was odd and not welcoming. The hostess seemed taken back by the fact we had two (well-behaved) kids with us (ages 8 and 5). We stated that we had two children when we made reservations, and they have a kids menu. However, this place is NOT kid friendly. Our waiter seemed wooden, was not willing to accomidate or even listen to any "special" requests (and ours were very simple - like "no salad dressing"). We felt rushed the whole time. They never asked if we wanted refills on our drinks. My husband was able to flag them down for a refill, but I was not able to catch the waiter to get mine. Ambiance - 3 or 4 stars. I agree with previous reviews that this place has an identify crisis. The food and (though unfriendly) service are fine dining. However, the interior of the building was worn and the name "pub" is misleading. Also - I like to dine in quieter places, and do not like loud restaurants. However, this place was too quiet. Voices carried and we did not feel comfortable having a lively conversation. I would go there again for the food and view, but without kids.
(4)
Katherine B.
Food great, service great, view great!!! We will be coming here the rest of our lives!!!! Sunday brunch is really fun. It's classy and so great!
(5)
Scott S.
Ordered sea food cakes and Scottish salmon. The food was tasty but small portions and pricey. The waitress service was good. It seemed a lot of older couples frequent there. The landscaping outside the restaurant is very nice. Beautiful trees.
(3)
Nicole W.
People aren't lying when they say this is one of the best views in Hilton Head. The food was great and the service was excellent. Everything you could want in an upscale restaurant! I suggest starting with a few cocktails at the bar before dinner and then make your way upstairs for the view! Enjoy!
(4)
Craig T.
Cant agree more this place was more than great. We came early enough to catch the Sunset upstairs on the Balcony which was great. The classic Marsh view with moss laden trees. Then our table downstairs had the same perfect view. Get there early and linger over sunset. The dinner itself was spectacular , small things like the two spears of asparagus cooked to a level of perfection not achieved in many other restaurants. The She carb soup was excellent. The staff were very friendly and we were the last to leave we had a great chat as the evening concluded. "Southern Charm personified" sums this place up. You will enjoy it.
(4)
Rhonda C.
The waiter was awesome. Full of information but not too intrusive. The She Crab Soup is the best ever. I had the Lousiana Crabcake with Crawfish. It was excellent., My hubby had the fish special. Our friends had the pasta and prawns. Nothing served was not above a 5 star. I would highly recommend this place for anyone who enjoys great food.
(5)
Harold T.
This is such a beautiful setting. Having a wonderful dinner looking over Skull Creek (inter-coastal waterway) as the sun sets in the summer. I live in Hilton Head Plantation and go there every few months. I have never had a bad meal there. The service is always cheerful and the food is elegant. For those that may be vegetarian, not to worry. Although there is nothing shown on the menu, the executive chef makes meals for any type of vegetarian. My wife has been a vegetarian for many years and is always amazed at what the chef can put together. They use local fresh vegetables and fruit when available and the presentation is always appetizing.
(5)
Kendra H.
We set out to have dinner here without looking up the menu first. We found out very quickly that the word "pub" is definitely misleading at this establishment! Even though we showed up in street wear our experience was a pleasant surprise, and we will be back! The atmosphere of this restaurant is fantastic. What I really enjoyed about the place is that it doesn't actually feel like you're in a restaurant. The wide plank wood floors that have a slight creek to them, the soft lighting, the unobstructed view of the water--indeed, this is a very special and intimate place. I wouldn't recommend the Pub for large groups or for families with younger children. We went with a larger group, and a couple people seemed to have difficulty finding something they wanted to eat because the menu is rather limited. (Personally, I think this is a great thing, but it's not for everyone.) However, this is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. I had the ahi tuna, and it was prepared very nicely. The portion was a bit larger than I could eat, but it was a very nice piece of fish. My husband had the pork, which was falling of the bone, as promised. I kept on stealing his polenta, which was amazing! I wish they offered it as a side you could order. Family members had the shrimp pasta, flat iron steak, and lamb. Everyone seemed very happy with their meals. We were also given the chocolate truffles after dinner. They weren't anything unique or anything that I hadn't had before, but they weren't frozen and they were most definitely edible! I'm excited to return again. This place is a splurge, but well worth the money for a special occasion!
(4)
Len L.
This was a fabulous experience last night. Everything about this place was great.. The ambience, Service, Food .. We are on the island for 2 weeks, and this was our 4th dinner at an upscale restaurant .. 2 of the other 3 , were horrible.. WE WILL DEFINATELY RETURN HERE...
(5)
e c.
Fabulous service. Fabulous view. Pork tenderloin and Cajun trout good. Dessert was spectacular. Pecan pie and chocolate terrine was simply fab!!! 2 drinks, 2 entrees' 2 desserts. 100+. A splurge but worth it on our last night in HH.
(5)
Bj L.
We had dinner at the Old Fort Pub on our last night on Hilton Head Island. The restaurant came highly recommended by several local friends. We were extremely happy with our meals. I don't usually moan when I eat but the Cajun Trout was fabulous. Don't let the Cajun description fool you. It is a little misleading. It was not overly spicy. The chef knows his trade. My wife's grouper was exceptional. She does not normally order grouper but she assumed it would be exceptional here and she was right. All of the other aspects of our meal were way above average. The ambiance, view, service and location are worth the trip. Don't forget to see the observation deck before or after your meal and stroll around the old fort ruins. All aspects of our visit to the Old Fort Pub were memorable.
(5)
Tom T.
Went to the OFP for the first time in almost ten years, and we were not disappointed. IMHO, still among the best dining experiences on Hilton Head Island. The food, service and ambiance are all outstanding! The only ever-so-slight criticism I have is that we felt somewhat rushed by our server. Other than that, a very good experience. We'll be back for sure!
(4)
Adam M.
Service A+. Atmosphere A+. Wine List A. Food, food? What happened to the food? We came here on Mother's Day and were severely disappointed with the food. The food did nothing for any of our palates. It seems as though Old Fort Pub is confused as to whether they are a pub, or a very high end fine dining establishment. All of the dishes were small and tasteless. They try to put twists into simple dishes and wind up just confusing the taste buds. Fire the head chef, and this place will really be something special.
(2)
Tom T.
The Missing Link is the Service. Four of us just had a wonderful dinner at OFP on a rainy Thursday night, with the rain stealing the sunset but providing a dramatic vista from the all-glass room nonetheless. This place is very high on atmosphere and accouterments, in line with its high but in-line prices, and neither the food nor the wine disappointed our very high expectations. The only missing link here was the service, and we note comments echoing our thoughts in older reviews. In a word, it's robotic. The hostess was shoving a napkin and menu into my wife's hands as she was trying to remove her coat, even before she sat down, as though she were in a hurry to return to her post. A waiter interrupted another diner's attempt to load a fork with a bit of her appetizer to lay out the utensils required for the second course, when he could have waited ten seconds or at least offered an apology. There was at least one other occasion when a diner was made to feel he was in the way of the server. The help is efficient and well-trained in how to do what's supposed to be done, but there is no warmth, no appreciation of the fact that diners often like to feel as though there's a little bit of a relationship between them and those serving them, even if only for a couple of hours. When asked to compare of two particular dishes and give some advice, our waiter simply shrugged as though he'd never been asked before - or allowed to try them so he could offer an opinion. Don't pass up the Old Fort Pub because of these comments, just adjust your expectations about the service accordingly; then you won't be disappointed.
(4)
Walter H.
Great food with tables with a view of marina and Skull Creek. I particularly liked their grouper and steak. After dinner, one can walk around historic Ft. Mitchell, a Civil War site. Service is great and the atmosphere is intimate and romantic. They also have early bird specials which provide appetizer, dessert and good value.
(5)
Paul F.
Our dinner was outstanding. This is a fine-dining restaurant with a classically-trained chef, not a steak and potatoes pub. We both ordered fish (one catfish, one trout) and both were cooked to perfection, with rich, flavorful sauces. The asparagus en croute appetizer was small, but had a sublime layering of flavors. The intense dark chocolate dessert would have been enough to justify the trip on its own. Match this with a view of the sunset across the water, and it makes the Old Fort Pub a restaurant we will definitely visit again.
(5)
David H.
A very enjoyable meal. Well prepared and presented. The server was knowledgeable and helpful. When we made the reservation we were given clear and accurate directions. I nearly forgot to mention the great view!
(5)
Tim H.
Many restaraunts have come and gone on Hilton head Island but The Old Fort Pub has stood teh test of time. A place you will want to dine at when visiting the island. Out of the high traffic areas. Quaint. truely old south in design. Excellent local fresh seafood. fine Dining. Great crab soup.
(4)
Roy C.
My girlfriend and I had dinner here. I had high hopes for the pub because it was recommended to us. This restaurant is trying to be something it is not. When you have "Pub" in your name you'd expect a comfortable atmosphere, sorry you came to the wrong place. Now to the food, when someone orders a steak, first they expect a steak, not an over-cooked chunk of leather covered with some dry mustard crumble. No mustard crumble was mentioned on the menu. My girlfriend was very disappointed, when she told the waiter, his sarcastic response was, what you want me to do about it? I had the scallops, they were over cooked and rubbery. I think this place is just catering to the tourists without a palate... I'd pass on the pub.
(2)
Matars Z.
The special thing about this place is the setting. This is absolutely a magnificent location, with beautiful views on the water, and a quiet ambiance that is just lovely. Thus half the dining experience (atmosphere) is already so good, you may forget the food you are eating is fine cuisine that isn't oh-so-fine. There isn't anything really wrong with the food, but there is absolutely nothing special either. Its just not very memorable and it's a bit overwrought - the chef may benefit from simplifying some things and focusing more on flavor variety. I find it amusing that the waiters go to such trouble to describe the ingredients and preparations, and then you get the dishes which are either under seasoned, or so overwhelmed with sauce that you can't taste the main ingredient. The best thing I had all night was the simple cucumber soup, which reminded of Mediterranean cucumber/yogurt dishes which are always so refreshing. The Wedge salad was no better than what I'd expect at a chain restaurant - nothing exciting about the bacon or blue cheese used here- I expect better ingredients in a restaurant such as this - and this blue cheese was just you garden variety grocery store bulk grade. Truly uninspired. Fellow diners had a variety of mains dishes, all of which I tasted. A criminally overcooked pork chop, dry and uninteresting, a grouper so drowned in bechamel that you might as well not had the fish there, a nice trout that was likely the best dish of the night, but hardly anything warranting a second visit, and my utter boring rack of lamb, which came with what I thought would be a fascinating bean cassoulet -but it had been sweetened so much (honey? brown sugar?) that it really killed any potential it had as an interesting accompanying flavor for the meat. I lost interest in my dish after the second cut, but of course I ate on. I could have better rack of lamb in high-end chains like Houston's - and that's sad. Pecan pie was solid, I've had better. Nothing was reall bad. Nothing was great. I think that because the food was not really bad, even if it was unexciting or in some cases "overexcited" - suffering from poor "creativity" judgements that lost all sense of subtlety - I'd still simply go back to re-experience the beautiful setting. I think the setting is definitely worth the trip to the restaurant, but I don't understand the rave reviews some have given the place for food on other sites. The waiters go on and on about the preparation and its rather sad, what you end up with for all that detail. Still, I'll take solid and OK food in a beautiful location any day over awful and poorly done cuisine. I can also understand why some of the reviewers have complained about the attitude of the wait staff. They definitely have one and its amusing to imagine if its because they think they work at an amazing fine dining establishment. This place would not make it in many a major city. And yes, this may be the best Hilton Head Island has to offer for many - but that is not saying much. I don't believe it anyway - there is better food on Hilton Head Island. Its just hidden in an unexpected spot called Wise Guys. Go there. It has the worst ambiance, but phenomenal cuisine.
(3)
Deborah F.
I have to agree with the reviewers who've given this place high marks for service and ambiance. Both are excellent. But as someone has already asked, "What happened to the food?" We went here at the suggestion of a friend whose parents are locals and who have impeccable taste. I figured we couldn't go wrong. She warned us the prices were high, but it would be worth it. Now I'm wracking my brain trying to figure out how exactly to tell her "no, no it wasn't." Our dinner for two, which included two cocktails, two orders of soup, two glasses of wine and two entrees--no dessert, no coffee was $130. As Seth Myers might ask: "REALLY???!!" Now if the food were impeccable, delicious in every way, and if the drinks were out of this world, OK, fine. I am not averse to spending money on very little food in terms of the quantity, hell, we've spent double that on one dinner for two in Paris during truffle season (but that meal was legendary, if I live that long, I'd have my 50th wedding anniversary in that place--if it's still around), but I *do* get a bit twitchy about spending the equivalent of TWO good meals at our favorite places in Charlotte on food that is only "meh." We had the She Crab soup and Asparagus soups. Portions were tiny for the price, and wildly overwrought in terms of how much cream they both contained relative to FLAVOR. The She-crab was by far the superior of the two, but I've had as-good at Eddie's, which isn't saying much. My husband ordered the pork tenderloin and I the duck cooked two ways. Now maybe I'm being picky, but when I order duck breast, I expect it to be tender, especially when cooked medium. This was as tough as nails and to make matters worse, I was left with a butter knife to cut it. Let me tell you, it's pretty unpleasant sitting in this lovely setting trying to saw your meal into pieces small enough to chew with a butter knife! I would have asked for a sharper one if I could have gotten the server's attention, but in the end, honestly, I was afraid if I called him over, I'd be inclined to tell him how tough the meat was and a whole discussion about *that* would ensue and I didn't want to kill what little buzz I had left over from the abysmally bad cocktail I had managed to down without holding my nose. Speaking of which....My Patron martini was so overly sweet as to be noxious, but I was thirsty and so glad to be out on a date with my husband alone after a week of vacation and fried-food with the kiddos, I just wanted to drink it not critique it right then. So back to my food....Did I mention that the strawberry sauce for the duck was confusing? It sounded good on the menu, but in the end, no, it was just weird. The so-called bulgur pilaf was more like out-of-the-box Near East stuff than homemade, it was so mushy and drowning in sauce, and the overall taste of the dish was nondescript. The wine was fine, nothing to write home about, a Pinot the chef had "paired" with the duck, so I ordered it to see why. I *guess* I see why, but again, it wasn't a stand-out wine or anything. When the waiter asked if we wanted dessert, I barely even bothered looking at the menu. I now read the overly complicated descriptions with skepticism rather than curiosity, wondering how he would manage to mess up chocolate terrine and what was meant by 'infused" so jaded was I by my recent entree experience. So we politely declined and were brought two of the most AWFUL chocolate truffles I've ever put to my lips. I am a chocoholic from waaaaaay back, so you KNOW, if I put something in my mouth and spit it back out before even biting all the way through, it's BAD! My husband had to try just to see what in God's name was wrong with them, he was incredulous. But in about two seconds he did the same (and this is NOT a picky guy). We couldn't tell if it had been frozen, or just incorrectly prepared, but either way, it was ice cold and ROCK hard, and taste completely unsweetened--as if someone melted unsweetened chocolate, formed it into something that looked vaguely like a junior-mint (not completely round like most truffles) and then FROZE. Was this some sort of punishment for refusing to order dessert? We weren't sure, all we know is, we left two almost half-bitten truffles on the doily-covered plate, paid and walked out. We won't be back.
(2)
D G.
Great sunset view! I did not realize this was an upscale restaurant. Luckily we were dressed appropriately. They had a price fixe menu & we mussels, salad, filet, quail, & white chocolate mousse (had little flavor) & chocolate cake with peanut butter ice cream ( a little too rich for us). Overall it was just wonderful. They started us out with the best bread & herbed butter, plus 2 salmon mousse tarts & ended with 2 chocolate truffles! How sweet of the chef! Anne Marie was our waitress & she is a doll! Love this place
(5)
John B.
It was another wonderful meal. Very good service and food was just exquisie. Definitely a place for anyone that enjoys very good food, ambiance and does not mind paying for it.
(5)
Robert O.
We have been dining at the Old Fort Pub each year for the past 10 years. We always save it for a special occassion - this one happened to be my wife's birthday. Overall I agree with most of the other reviewers in that the food is wonderful, the view unmatched, the wait staff helpful and informed. The reason for this three-star rating is the overall "feel" of the place.Perhaps I am getting old (I am 44) but whereas there was once a sense that OFB is a special place it now feels just like every other restaurant on HHI. Gone are the men in sportsjackets and the women in skirts. They have been replaced by jeans and tennis shoes. I suppose my rating is not so much a review of OFB itself but the patrons who are dining here. If I am going to drop $225 for a meal I do not want to consume it surrounded by the same sorts of people who are munching down hush puppies over at Salty Dog. Perhaps it is time to institue a dress code. Nothing extravagant. How about no denim, shorts or tee shirts for men after 6:30PM? Or perhaps there could be a casual dining area and a more formal area?
(3)
Miller B.
We have been coming to Hilton Head for 20+ years, and I have eaten at Old Fort Pub more times than I can count. The food and service never cease to impress, but it's the view that exceeds that of any restaurant I have ever been to. Make a reservation right around sunset, and with a dining room looking out over the water, you have a panoramic view of natural beauty. That coupled with the food I've had there makes this place a winner. And the interior of this restaurant is excellent as well; very cozy, dimly lit in the evening, and welcoming. On my most recent visit to The Pub I had the crab claw scampi, that night's special [crab-stuffed flounder], and a blueberry crisp [also a special] for dessert with coffee. Everything was perfect and I will continue to go back on my future visits to Hilton Head. It is fairly expensive and upscale, so September to maybe May or June I would recommend wearing a jacket in the dining room, during the summer business casual will slide, but many still wear a jacket. By the way, they have an outdoor seating area, but don't sit out there. I actually have observed that the view is better inside and you won't have to deal with the SC humidity!
(5)
Cathy M.
Absolutely gorgeous setting and very good service. Appetizers of She Crab soup and Calimari, a chicken dish and Seafood boulliabase, a glass of pinot gris, and desserts of pecan pie and key lime tart came to $113, and a trip upstairs to the Widows Walk to enjoy the view ended the evening on a high note.
(3)
Leslie W.
I look forward to coming to the Old Fort Pub every year during our family vacation. It's pricey (average $30 entrees) but I really enjoy the setting and the food as well . The restaurant is in an old house (fort maybe?) and has a beautiful view of the bay side of HHI. There are live oaks dripping with Spanish moss everywhere and a quiet southern charm. If you can, I highly recommend coming at sunset for the view. My experience has always been fresh seafood serve well but maybe a little creatively depending on what the chef has up his sleeve. Attentive staff. Dinner is followed by delicious desserts (bread pudding!) Make reservations! Get dressed up! And enjoy your night!
(5)
H P.
A pretty good restaurant, BUT!!! ,where can you pay $3.25 for a cup of coffee ,you guessed it Old Fort Pub. Now I have gone here for years so I would say I know this place quite well .In recent years I have gone here for the Sunday Brunch which is quite good .This year however I ordered the breakfast ,eggs,bacon ,home fries and a few slices of fruit ,also included 2 rolls and 2 scones .With the afore mentioned coffee came to over $30 for two people .For that kind of money I could have eaten breakfast 4 times at most decent restaurants .It is no secret that you could pay $7 for a sandwich at many restaurants ,but add a Coke they tack on $2.50 .Old fort Pub has pushed the envelope to the brink .They are off my list ,and any restaurant that charges over $2 for a soft drink I order water. I don't think there is a restaurant in America that charges $3.25 for coffee ,so in that way Old Fort Pub is unique .Also I would mention that I did not see a coffee price on their menu .
(3)
Barry K.
The family went there for my wife's birthday. It was a huge success! Food and service were terrific.
(4)
Matt S.
Mmm... my mouth is watering just thinking about this place. Over Labor Day, a group of friends and I stopped by Old Fort Pub for one of our final dinners and were treated to WONDERFUL Kansas City cut sirloins--a special that evening. The steaks were more food than any one person should eat, but I couldn't resist. While OFP does a great job with their meat, I would suggest striking up a conversation with any members of their incredibly knowledgeable wait staff to find out what the best thing on the menu is for that evening. In that past we've had wonderful advice steering us towards the bouillabaisse, towards the lamb shank and even a vegetarian risotto. While their salads (had the best beet salad of my LIFE here) and entrees are top notch, they also offer a host of top notch desserts. Chocolate lovers should be sure not to miss the dark chocolate terrine, but for me, their best dessert is the pecan pie a la mode. BUT be sure to swap out the traditional vanilla ice cream for their butter pecan. Perfection.
(5)
Rhonda C.
This place was awesome. The view of the sunset was incredible. The lush vegetation and great grounds were fantastic. Our waiter was really great and helpful. The she crab soup is the best I have ever eaten anywhere. The chef later emailed his recipe. If I am ever close again............I won't miss this place. I really enjoyed by wine, diner and food.
(5)
Chris F.
For the reviewer harping on the word "pub": Immediately upon arriving, you should realize this isn't a pub. It's clearly out of that league. Old Fort Pub is a magnificent gourmet restaurant with one of the finest settings on the intracoastal waterway. Inside is a country club atmosphere and the gentle service you'd expect with it. And, if you can take your eyes off the sunset, you'll see that the menu is full of fresh local flavors mixed with contemporary American ideas that's nearly impossible to do wrong on. For a charming, relaxing evening, you simply couldn't ask for a finer experience on the island.
(5)
Christine C.
Wonderful meal and atmosphere. The pecan pie is incredible!
(5)
John S.
Wow, what a view! Had a table at the window with a view of the river at sunset. Very romantic. The beet appetizer was a revelation and the grouper with smoked shrimp and scallops was absolutely delicious. Service was very professional. The combination of great food and the heavenly view can't be topped. Definitely worth an evening when visiting Hilton Head.
(5)
Derek C.
The Happy Hour menu is crazy good. The wild mushroom bruschetta is amazing. Had the crab stuffed flounder special for my dinner, it couldn't have been more perfect. Thanks to Dirk for the killer service.
(5)
Noah E.
The scenic location is incredible and the restaurant fits perfectly in it. You definitely feel like you are at some special place. We had a great waiter who talked about the entrees, specials, etc. All going well. Then the drinks came. Now, you can say a mojito was a bad order in this kind of restaurant, but it had to be the worst mojito I've had in 5 years. I had one on my Continental flight home just for comparison, and that one was better. The waiter came with a smoked salmon pastry mousse mise en bouche which was fine. I had the butter bibb salad which was incredibly bland and ehhh. Another couple had a fruit soup which was unremarkable. The she crab soup was fine. The only outstanding appetizer was the roasted calamari. A healthy portion and tasty. For the main course, I went with the quail over gumbo. This was by far the best of the entrees, which wasn't saying that much. Next best was the trout. After that, the achiote Mahi Mahi was bland. And their special that day was flounder with stuffed crab. Both people that ordered that probably ate less than 50% of it. You'll rack up a bill of $150 per couple easily. Had we done more drinks/desserts, it will easily go into $200s. For that price, I'd expect more out of the food. I think I should stick with belief that no great chef wants to work at some place where the focus is on the view and not the food.
(2)
Paul O.
Excellent food. Great spot for an anniversary dinner. Check out observation deck on third floor either before or after your meal. It's a little bit of a hike up the spiral staircase, but it is a great view. Service very attentive and skilled. She crab soup was very good. The crab cakes and Filet Mignon brought some good twists. Some people don't seem to like the twists, but I thought the twists were tasteful and fit the meal. I would definitely go back again.
(5)
Rebecca B.
Contrary to some of the reviewers, we had AMAZING food. We went with a party of 12 for our wedding dinner. Everyone was delighted with their food and the incredible view. I highly recommend for a nice ocassion.
(5)
Julie L.
This place was terrible. Old, musty and over priced. They served us brown lemons and lettuce. I said to the waitress that when you pay $9 for a salad it shouldn't have brown lettuce in it. She agreed said she would speak to the manager. Never heard a word from the manager and our waitress didn't come back until it was time for us to leave. The only good thing was the she crab soup.
(1)
Dana O.
Everything we ate here was AMAZING, and so was the wine (and I am a picky wine drinker). The views were amazing...we watched dolphins jumping out of the water while the sun set! The outside is historic and surrounded by giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Like others said, this is definitely NOT a pub. This was my favorite restaurant that I dined at, during my Hilton Head stay!
(5)
Mia B.
I am writing this review while sitting on the deck of The Old Fort Pub after enjoying an excellent meal. First of all, this is by no means a "pub". This is a casual fine dining restaurant. My recommendation would be to come between 4- 5:30 for their early dining menu. It's a 3 course meal for $22.00. Worth EVERY penny, and such a steal considering the price of the regular dinner menu items. It is a smaller menu, but has the chefs selections, and you can pick your selection from about 4 or 5 appetizers, entrees and desserts. The She crab soup was amazing. The bread was served with lavender butter which I loved. We enjoyed the crawfish cakes for our entrees, and home made peanut butter ice-cream for dessert. It seems like many of the entrees have interesting flavor combinations which is something I really enjoy. Whatever you do, come on a good weather evening and SIT ON THE DECK. The view and ambiance are breathtaking. The deck sits on Skull Creek which is stunning at sunset, and you are surrounded by huge oak trees covered in spanish moss. There is a historic garden to walk through after your meal. The inside of the restaurant is cute but slightly dated. The deck is where its at!! We've been to almost every restaurant on the island and somehow never heard of this little gem. So glad We found it, DEF. coming back ! Almost forgot to mention the service, it was top notch - our server was Phili and he was one of the nicest servers I've ever had. Check this place out !
(5)
Bryan B.
Checking in from last week. By far, best best best overall dining experience I have ever had. Beautiful views, positively unbelievable tastes, and good prices. If all that stays the same, we'll be back often!! (Or at least every year while there on vacation)
(5)
Tony T.
What a surprise. Fine dining at its best in a unique atmosphere. Get the Pecan Pie for dessert, it's as big as two pieces and authentically Southern. Great service.
(5)
Mike M.
Must visit if on HH! A little pricey but well worth it. Service is top notch and everything on the menu is outstanding. Make reservations in high season or forget it.
(5)
Anna T.
We started out at Skull Creek Boathouse, but the wait was about an hour and a half so we came here. It ended up being exactly what we wanted: quiet, romantic (date with my sister), and calm. We needed to unwind after a busy week. My aunt had told us this place has the best She Crab Soup on the island, so of course we had to order it. She didn't steer us wrong, it was delicious! I soaked up every last drop with bread. I'm sad they were out of the Blue Crab Claw Fingers so we will definitely have to return. We split the Sea Island Bouillabaisse and the Key Lime Tart. We were exhausted from wedding planning. Our sister's wedding was the night before and they were happy to split it for us. My sister loved it. She said it was perfect. I didn't like it, but I think I was just in the mood for something else. I prefer more crust on my Key Lime Tart, but the flavor was perfect. I had been craving key lime all week and I finally felt satisfied. We came here too late at night, but I remember this place having an amazing view. I would definitely recommend it if you are in the mood for a romantic sunset dinner. Our bill was lower than they are used to, but never the less the service was still impeccable.
(5)
Mary Beth L.
So this restaurant has a great location and great views...these are by far their strongest assets. You can actually enjoy yourself based on these alone but be warned you will pay dearly for them. The prices are ASTRONOMICAL in light of quality. The she crab soup was also very good along with my lemon basil martini. My seafood bouillabaisse was tasty but it seemed more like seafood in a white wine butter sauce rather than a mediteranean stew. I looked forward to the fried squash blossoms which were advertised as being stuffed with lobster. I must have missed the lobster for the overwhelming taste of salmon...really a heavy flavor for a squash blossom. My husband had the stuffed quail which he thought was heavy and tasteless.
(2)
Jordan S.
As an avid viewer of the show I am confident that this restaurant should make an appearance on "Restaurant Impossible" if they want to remain relevant. I felt like I entered a nursing home due to the average age of the waitstaff and the average age of the customers, and there were times I thought the waiter might have suffered a heart attack for how long it would take him to come to the table. Some of my issues with the place: how do you not serve sweet tea that deep in the South? Why did my menu look like its been collecting dirt and tears from 1991? How is your signature She-crab soup made of 50% pepper, have no chunks of crab meat, and served in a bowl that was not cleaned off before serving? Is it normal for a waiter to play a bowl of bread onto someone's dinner plate instead of the vast amount of table space available? Why are you modeling a squash blossom appetizer off of a mozzarella stick - I can only assume people order that trying to be somewhat healthy. To top it all off, as I walked out of the restaurant there was a creepy naked BARBIE DOLL laying on the hostess stand. Why is that there? Why? Needless to say I was laughing for a solid 15 minutes at the lunacy of that image and honestly the entire night. Save your chunk of money for chefs that truly care about their food and restauranteurs that are committed to offering a special (and issue-free) experience. Or maybe wait to dine here until after the guy from Restaurant Impossible gets his hands on the place.
(2)
Bonnie B.
Thank you Yelp for leading us to this amazing restaurant where the food was not only delicious but the setting & the view was spectacular!!! We sat outside on a lovely deck & watched the sun set thru the Spanish moss hanging on the large oak trees. Service was outstanding. The wine list was incredible and believe me I am picky when it comes to wines! My soft shell crab was the best I've ever had. My boyfriend loved his seafood bouillabaisse ! Bread was warm & crusty, the grilled calamari appetizer was very delicious... I could go on & on! We topped it all off w a slice of pecan pie... You guessed it.... Amazing!!! Cappuccino's also perfect! Yelp continues to consistently get us to exactly what we are looking for!! Bon Appetite!
(5)
Lyra B.
Elegant service in a down to earth atmosphere. That outside patio at sunset is really quite romantic. We had the she crab soup, beet salad, salmon and sea island bouillabaisse. Portion sizes were perfect, food was rich in flavor and not too overpowering. Our waiter was attentive yet not hovering over us. We will back to dine at this wonderful establishment and look forward to our next visit!
(5)
Neal A.
We have been to Old Fort Pub at least 4 times, on our last 4 annual trips to Hilton Head (skipped the trip last year). It is among the most relaxing dining venues on the island. Compared to say the Boatyard at that end of the island, it has remarkably no-hassle parking and takes reservations, even using Open Table. We also take advantage of the short stroll through the 'Old Fort' after dinner to digest. The 'Old Fort' refers to the remains of some Civil War fortifications next to the restaurant overlooking Skull Creek, and is a bonus for anyone with even a passing interest in the Civil War. Our visit this year was a little below the standards that Old Fort previously set for food. Particularly, my wife was disappointed with the steak special. I tasted it too and agreed it was stale and at least mildly overcooked. Furthermore, she was convinced that the mashed potatoes with it were made from boxed potato flakes. My wife each had a cocktail listed on the menu; although they had a some unique touches and were visually appealing, overall their flavors did not mesh as well we have had on Hilton Head. My daughter had a Caeser salad which was mediocre. She did think that her non-alcoholic Strawberry daiquiri was well made, though. My son had the fish special, he also though it was too dry and overcooked. I have to say I was very happy with my shrimp Bisque and Low Country shellfish cakes, including the side vegetables. So overall, you would more than likely have a good meal here if you stick with the tried and true menu items,,,BUT we're a little concerned that Old Fort is on a downward trajectory.
(4)
Mike M.
Combine terrific Skull Creek views with great food and you get Old Fort Pub. We went for brunch and they have a great combo deal with appetizer, drink and entree. My kids tried some new things and their breakfast was delicious. My shrimp and grits was a new preparation with a great cake in the center and I loved the texture which gave the dish more body then usual. Highly recommend this place
(5)
Mary Jane K.
This had to have been the worst dining experience I've ever had--anywhere. The waiter was rude to us multiple times and when my husband asked to speak to the manager he started arguing with him and yelling over his request to talk to someone. He even snapped at us for not immediately eating the chef's bite size goat cheese appetizers he brought out to the table. When the manager came over, she never apologized for his extreme rudeness and arrogance. She did send a much nicer female waiter over to the table but then we got to suffer through our meal with the male wait staff and the dismissed waiter glaring at us from the staging area. One of our group even got to hear the dismissed waiter complaining about us to the manager. In retrospect when it became clear that this male waiter was going to treat us like trash, we should have walked out and just paid for our drinks. It was an appalling experience. We have been here many times over the years and have eaten all over the island and have never been treated like we were treated last night. This restaurant won't be in business long if this is how they treat guests who have a lot of choices of great restaurants.
(1)
Jeff M.
We had a great experience! Excellent food, especially the homemade deserts! Superb staff and beautiful atmosphere. We will defiantly be coming back!
(5)
Kelly B.
We found Old Fort Pub here on Yelp when looking for a place to celebrate our 20th anniversary while on vacation. What a great find! We had a perfect table overlooking the water at sunset. The service was amazing and the food was excellent. My husband had the grouper special & I had the pork tenderloin. He also had the She Crab soup & loved it. Great place for a special occasion dinner.
(5)
Mundi M.
Great historical landmark. Educational with a walk through of an old Union Fort, a Fantastic view of Scull Creek and Captain's Walk for pre- dinner drinks.
(5)
David J.
average food at above average prices, portions small, two fillet steaks and salmon all over cooked, service slow. The kitchen clearly cannot handle the volume causing delays and poor quality results
(2)
Mike S.
Forget anything you hear about the fru fru restaurant named after a plant that grapes grow on. This is still the leader. An exemplary meal that is not to be missed! I've been coming to Hilton Head for almost 20 years and the Old Fort Pub never disappoints! Lowcountry specialties, great wine list, in a beautiful setting that exemplifies what Hilton Head is all about.
(5)
Lauren R.
This is a really good upscale restaurant on the island. You get the whole fine dining experience--good seafood, wonderful views, nice ambiance, and really good service. Food: This was a bit of a mixed lot, unfortunately. First off, I made the biggest mistake of the night by not ordering the she crab soup. It is spicier than normal she crab soup and wonderful. Just heavenly. I could have had that for my meal. However, I only got a few spoonfuls stolen from my boyfriend because I ordered trout. The smoked trout appetizer was really disappointing. It came on sunflower crostini that were really hard and bland, and the middle of the plate was full of greenery garnish (but like 3/4 of a cup full!). I was really confused by the presentation. Somehow the flavors didn't work and I only ate half of it. I had the crawfish cakes for my entree and they were great--really wonderful. They also heated up well the next day. Service: Service was attentive, but the food was really slow coming out. We waited about 45 minutes for our main courses, which was long. All in all a two-course meal took about 2.5 hours, but it was crowded July in the summer season. Atmosphere: This place is great. It is really old for Hilton Head (which means it dates to the 70s). The building looks like its older than that and has a quaint, old timey feel. There are wonderful views over the sound, and you can climb up onto the roof to get great views over the sound and the outdoor part of the restaurant. Also has a good view of the fireworks set off from Hudson's.
(4)
Anne-Marie G.
It is not often I write a review this bad. But it WAS this bad. Made a reservation over a week ago for brunch, for my Mom's 80th birthday... With great misgivings, after reading some of the reviews here (but they USED to love it here) ... Misgivings Well founded, as it turns out. Walked in, on time to the moment... As is my older parents wont. I walked ahead of them to remind hostess and manager... Yes yes with a smile... Nice table by the water.... Check. Beautiful view... Check. Weird... And I mean weird... Service from the get-go... Check. There was some discussion about ordering... Mind you, my parents are in their 80's, my son 10... They were hungry. It was quite obvious that the waiter had a system... Drinks, THEN you may order apps, THEN mains... Oh and would you like 'the package?' (Even after I'd chosen 2 apps and premium wine which did not fit the bill... Waiter says: 'I hear it's somebody's birthday!!' 'Oh NOOOOO' we say... Me, with a decided wink... Sense of humor lacking? CHECK. Food... Meh. I ordered deviled ham which came with a 'soft boiled egg'... I don't like eggs runny, so asked for it medium. 'Oh... It comes cold... Not runny...' HUH? A cold soft boiled egg? Turned out to be a cold poached egg... YUK. Everyone else's meal was... Ummm... Ok. We had to ask for everything... Reset of forks for mains, salt, pepper... Etc, etc, ETCETERA!! No-one EVER asked if I would like another (rather expensive) glass of wine... Best of all was... After repeatedly stating this is my mom's 80th, the waiter.... Who I'd describe as nice enough but a bit smarmy... My mom described as 'doing us a favor'... Asks if we'd like dessert... Noooo... So before the check is dropped I pay at entrance... BIRTHDAY? Wait, was it really someone's BIRTHDAY?! Ohhhh... Their 80th, a BIG ONE? WHO KNEW?! (Apparently no-one there) Thank God I know how to bake, so she got a red velvet cake and a sung Happy Bday tonight. Never again.... Do yourself a MAJOR FAVOR if you have something to celebrate on HHI... Call Kelly at The Jazz Corner and do it up right. My final answer re: OFP?!; UGH.
(1)
Katie H.
Fantastic setting & service; overwrought, mediocre food. The good: The wait service is absolutely impeccable and the views are stunning. It's a lovely place to watch the sunset over Skull Creek (check out the porch on the upper level). If you do the early dining menu you can sample multiple courses, and by virtue of being there early, you're likely to snag a seat by the windows. The bad: The food. I've been here numerous times over the years and I'm convinced that quality has gone down. The food is truly mediocre and overwrought, but the poor quality is hidden by the fancy menu descriptions and atmosphere. Of the past two times I've been here, one time I got sick from the food and the other time I didn't finish my entree (I almost never get sick from food and I always, always, always finish my meal). Menu advice: Solid choices: She Crab Soup, Key Lime Pie, the truffles that come with your meal. The Beef Tenderloin itself is excellent, however like most of their entrees, it is served alongside very forgettable side dishes. Blah: Their salads (they clearly just open a bag of mixed greens and then throw them on a plate), the chilled grapefruit soup Bad: The Bavarian Creme
(2)
Louann B.
This place is a keeper. We had a party of 8 on the deck where we could see the Intracoastal Waterway. The restaurant is surrounded by old oak trees with moss draping beautifully. Our server was excellent. We were outside, but a storm was rolling in. She told us that a storm was expected right after our appetizer and set up a table inside. Our entrees were served inside. She was pro-active and didn't miss a beat. This is the best service I've had on the Island. I had the She Crab soup for an appetizer and it was excellent. For my dinner I had the Wild Atlantic Shrimp & Campanelle Pasta. Now this dish had so much garlic I could taste it the next day. I loved it! The pasta is swimming in tomatoes and tomato sauce. The shrimp is tasty! I highly recommend the Key Lime Pie Martini. It was excellent.
(5)
Mike S.
The food is AWESOM they need to add some salt but over all it's a great place to dine
(4)
Doni F.
Beautiful location. Staff great. Flavors blend nice, chef must know what he is doing, they got the flavoring and seasoning down. Food can vary in toughness etc., maybe it depends on how busy of a day they're having as to what or how things come out of the kitchen. I'm still debating on this restaurant because they have me confused. Shrug. I'll not give up because people keep telling me it's great. I must be ordering wrong. Calamari tough. Steak tough. Seafood overcooked. Drinks fab etc., I think perhaps, I am choosing the wrong times to book.
(3)
Tracey N.
We hadn't been to the Old fort pub for several years and decided to go for brunch. It was as excellent as we remembered. JoAnn, the manager suggested wine for us, and our food was wonderful. I almost forgot what REAL hollandaise tastes like! I Had the quiche, with tasso ham and shrimp, and my husband had the Benedict, with the hollandaise I loved. The portions were large. The view was gorgeous, and our server was the epitome of professional. If you want an elevated dining experience, go there. We intend to frequent it again!
(5)
Anthony B.
Came here for dinner. I had the pork loin and my partner had the seafood bouillabaisse both dishes were fantastic. Atmosphere very pleasant and service was great. Would recommend this place to visitors on the island.
(4)
Bonnie B.
Thank you Yelp for leading us to this amazing restaurant where the food was not only delicious but the setting & the view was spectacular!!! We sat outside on a lovely deck & watched the sun set thru the Spanish moss hanging on the large oak trees. Service was outstanding. The wine list was incredible and believe me I am picky when it comes to wines! My soft shell crab was the best I've ever had. My boyfriend loved his seafood bouillabaisse ! Bread was warm & crusty, the grilled calamari appetizer was very delicious... I could go on & on! We topped it all off w a slice of pecan pie... You guessed it.... Amazing!!! Cappuccino's also perfect! Yelp continues to consistently get us to exactly what we are looking for!! Bon Appetite!
(5)
Lyra B.
Elegant service in a down to earth atmosphere. That outside patio at sunset is really quite romantic. We had the she crab soup, beet salad, salmon and sea island bouillabaisse. Portion sizes were perfect, food was rich in flavor and not too overpowering. Our waiter was attentive yet not hovering over us. We will back to dine at this wonderful establishment and look forward to our next visit!
(5)
Neal A.
We have been to Old Fort Pub at least 4 times, on our last 4 annual trips to Hilton Head (skipped the trip last year). It is among the most relaxing dining venues on the island. Compared to say the Boatyard at that end of the island, it has remarkably no-hassle parking and takes reservations, even using Open Table. We also take advantage of the short stroll through the 'Old Fort' after dinner to digest. The 'Old Fort' refers to the remains of some Civil War fortifications next to the restaurant overlooking Skull Creek, and is a bonus for anyone with even a passing interest in the Civil War. Our visit this year was a little below the standards that Old Fort previously set for food. Particularly, my wife was disappointed with the steak special. I tasted it too and agreed it was stale and at least mildly overcooked. Furthermore, she was convinced that the mashed potatoes with it were made from boxed potato flakes. My wife each had a cocktail listed on the menu; although they had a some unique touches and were visually appealing, overall their flavors did not mesh as well we have had on Hilton Head. My daughter had a Caeser salad which was mediocre. She did think that her non-alcoholic Strawberry daiquiri was well made, though. My son had the fish special, he also though it was too dry and overcooked. I have to say I was very happy with my shrimp Bisque and Low Country shellfish cakes, including the side vegetables. So overall, you would more than likely have a good meal here if you stick with the tried and true menu items,,,BUT we're a little concerned that Old Fort is on a downward trajectory.
(4)
Tom T.
Went to the OFP for the first time in almost ten years, and we were not disappointed. IMHO, still among the best dining experiences on Hilton Head Island. The food, service and ambiance are all outstanding! The only ever-so-slight criticism I have is that we felt somewhat rushed by our server. Other than that, a very good experience. We'll be back for sure!
(4)
Anna T.
We started out at Skull Creek Boathouse, but the wait was about an hour and a half so we came here. It ended up being exactly what we wanted: quiet, romantic (date with my sister), and calm. We needed to unwind after a busy week. My aunt had told us this place has the best She Crab Soup on the island, so of course we had to order it. She didn't steer us wrong, it was delicious! I soaked up every last drop with bread. I'm sad they were out of the Blue Crab Claw Fingers so we will definitely have to return. We split the Sea Island Bouillabaisse and the Key Lime Tart. We were exhausted from wedding planning. Our sister's wedding was the night before and they were happy to split it for us. My sister loved it. She said it was perfect. I didn't like it, but I think I was just in the mood for something else. I prefer more crust on my Key Lime Tart, but the flavor was perfect. I had been craving key lime all week and I finally felt satisfied. We came here too late at night, but I remember this place having an amazing view. I would definitely recommend it if you are in the mood for a romantic sunset dinner. Our bill was lower than they are used to, but never the less the service was still impeccable.
(5)
Mary Beth L.
So this restaurant has a great location and great views...these are by far their strongest assets. You can actually enjoy yourself based on these alone but be warned you will pay dearly for them. The prices are ASTRONOMICAL in light of quality. The she crab soup was also very good along with my lemon basil martini. My seafood bouillabaisse was tasty but it seemed more like seafood in a white wine butter sauce rather than a mediteranean stew. I looked forward to the fried squash blossoms which were advertised as being stuffed with lobster. I must have missed the lobster for the overwhelming taste of salmon...really a heavy flavor for a squash blossom. My husband had the stuffed quail which he thought was heavy and tasteless.
(2)
Jordan S.
As an avid viewer of the show I am confident that this restaurant should make an appearance on "Restaurant Impossible" if they want to remain relevant. I felt like I entered a nursing home due to the average age of the waitstaff and the average age of the customers, and there were times I thought the waiter might have suffered a heart attack for how long it would take him to come to the table. Some of my issues with the place: how do you not serve sweet tea that deep in the South? Why did my menu look like its been collecting dirt and tears from 1991? How is your signature She-crab soup made of 50% pepper, have no chunks of crab meat, and served in a bowl that was not cleaned off before serving? Is it normal for a waiter to play a bowl of bread onto someone's dinner plate instead of the vast amount of table space available? Why are you modeling a squash blossom appetizer off of a mozzarella stick - I can only assume people order that trying to be somewhat healthy. To top it all off, as I walked out of the restaurant there was a creepy naked BARBIE DOLL laying on the hostess stand. Why is that there? Why? Needless to say I was laughing for a solid 15 minutes at the lunacy of that image and honestly the entire night. Save your chunk of money for chefs that truly care about their food and restauranteurs that are committed to offering a special (and issue-free) experience. Or maybe wait to dine here until after the guy from Restaurant Impossible gets his hands on the place.
(2)
Doni F.
Beautiful location. Staff great. Flavors blend nice, chef must know what he is doing, they got the flavoring and seasoning down. Food can vary in toughness etc., maybe it depends on how busy of a day they're having as to what or how things come out of the kitchen. I'm still debating on this restaurant because they have me confused. Shrug. I'll not give up because people keep telling me it's great. I must be ordering wrong. Calamari tough. Steak tough. Seafood overcooked. Drinks fab etc., I think perhaps, I am choosing the wrong times to book.
(3)
Adam M.
Service A+. Atmosphere A+. Wine List A. Food, food? What happened to the food? We came here on Mother's Day and were severely disappointed with the food. The food did nothing for any of our palates. It seems as though Old Fort Pub is confused as to whether they are a pub, or a very high end fine dining establishment. All of the dishes were small and tasteless. They try to put twists into simple dishes and wind up just confusing the taste buds. Fire the head chef, and this place will really be something special.
(2)
Noah E.
The scenic location is incredible and the restaurant fits perfectly in it. You definitely feel like you are at some special place. We had a great waiter who talked about the entrees, specials, etc. All going well. Then the drinks came. Now, you can say a mojito was a bad order in this kind of restaurant, but it had to be the worst mojito I've had in 5 years. I had one on my Continental flight home just for comparison, and that one was better. The waiter came with a smoked salmon pastry mousse mise en bouche which was fine. I had the butter bibb salad which was incredibly bland and ehhh. Another couple had a fruit soup which was unremarkable. The she crab soup was fine. The only outstanding appetizer was the roasted calamari. A healthy portion and tasty. For the main course, I went with the quail over gumbo. This was by far the best of the entrees, which wasn't saying that much. Next best was the trout. After that, the achiote Mahi Mahi was bland. And their special that day was flounder with stuffed crab. Both people that ordered that probably ate less than 50% of it. You'll rack up a bill of $150 per couple easily. Had we done more drinks/desserts, it will easily go into $200s. For that price, I'd expect more out of the food. I think I should stick with belief that no great chef wants to work at some place where the focus is on the view and not the food.
(2)
Paul O.
Excellent food. Great spot for an anniversary dinner. Check out observation deck on third floor either before or after your meal. It's a little bit of a hike up the spiral staircase, but it is a great view. Service very attentive and skilled. She crab soup was very good. The crab cakes and Filet Mignon brought some good twists. Some people don't seem to like the twists, but I thought the twists were tasteful and fit the meal. I would definitely go back again.
(5)
Matt S.
Mmm... my mouth is watering just thinking about this place. Over Labor Day, a group of friends and I stopped by Old Fort Pub for one of our final dinners and were treated to WONDERFUL Kansas City cut sirloins--a special that evening. The steaks were more food than any one person should eat, but I couldn't resist. While OFP does a great job with their meat, I would suggest striking up a conversation with any members of their incredibly knowledgeable wait staff to find out what the best thing on the menu is for that evening. In that past we've had wonderful advice steering us towards the bouillabaisse, towards the lamb shank and even a vegetarian risotto. While their salads (had the best beet salad of my LIFE here) and entrees are top notch, they also offer a host of top notch desserts. Chocolate lovers should be sure not to miss the dark chocolate terrine, but for me, their best dessert is the pecan pie a la mode. BUT be sure to swap out the traditional vanilla ice cream for their butter pecan. Perfection.
(5)
Rhonda C.
This place was awesome. The view of the sunset was incredible. The lush vegetation and great grounds were fantastic. Our waiter was really great and helpful. The she crab soup is the best I have ever eaten anywhere. The chef later emailed his recipe. If I am ever close again............I won't miss this place. I really enjoyed by wine, diner and food.
(5)
Chris F.
For the reviewer harping on the word "pub": Immediately upon arriving, you should realize this isn't a pub. It's clearly out of that league. Old Fort Pub is a magnificent gourmet restaurant with one of the finest settings on the intracoastal waterway. Inside is a country club atmosphere and the gentle service you'd expect with it. And, if you can take your eyes off the sunset, you'll see that the menu is full of fresh local flavors mixed with contemporary American ideas that's nearly impossible to do wrong on. For a charming, relaxing evening, you simply couldn't ask for a finer experience on the island.
(5)
Christine C.
Wonderful meal and atmosphere. The pecan pie is incredible!
(5)
John S.
Wow, what a view! Had a table at the window with a view of the river at sunset. Very romantic. The beet appetizer was a revelation and the grouper with smoked shrimp and scallops was absolutely delicious. Service was very professional. The combination of great food and the heavenly view can't be topped. Definitely worth an evening when visiting Hilton Head.
(5)
Derek C.
The Happy Hour menu is crazy good. The wild mushroom bruschetta is amazing. Had the crab stuffed flounder special for my dinner, it couldn't have been more perfect. Thanks to Dirk for the killer service.
(5)
Deborah F.
I have to agree with the reviewers who've given this place high marks for service and ambiance. Both are excellent. But as someone has already asked, "What happened to the food?" We went here at the suggestion of a friend whose parents are locals and who have impeccable taste. I figured we couldn't go wrong. She warned us the prices were high, but it would be worth it. Now I'm wracking my brain trying to figure out how exactly to tell her "no, no it wasn't." Our dinner for two, which included two cocktails, two orders of soup, two glasses of wine and two entrees--no dessert, no coffee was $130. As Seth Myers might ask: "REALLY???!!" Now if the food were impeccable, delicious in every way, and if the drinks were out of this world, OK, fine. I am not averse to spending money on very little food in terms of the quantity, hell, we've spent double that on one dinner for two in Paris during truffle season (but that meal was legendary, if I live that long, I'd have my 50th wedding anniversary in that place--if it's still around), but I *do* get a bit twitchy about spending the equivalent of TWO good meals at our favorite places in Charlotte on food that is only "meh." We had the She Crab soup and Asparagus soups. Portions were tiny for the price, and wildly overwrought in terms of how much cream they both contained relative to FLAVOR. The She-crab was by far the superior of the two, but I've had as-good at Eddie's, which isn't saying much. My husband ordered the pork tenderloin and I the duck cooked two ways. Now maybe I'm being picky, but when I order duck breast, I expect it to be tender, especially when cooked medium. This was as tough as nails and to make matters worse, I was left with a butter knife to cut it. Let me tell you, it's pretty unpleasant sitting in this lovely setting trying to saw your meal into pieces small enough to chew with a butter knife! I would have asked for a sharper one if I could have gotten the server's attention, but in the end, honestly, I was afraid if I called him over, I'd be inclined to tell him how tough the meat was and a whole discussion about *that* would ensue and I didn't want to kill what little buzz I had left over from the abysmally bad cocktail I had managed to down without holding my nose. Speaking of which....My Patron martini was so overly sweet as to be noxious, but I was thirsty and so glad to be out on a date with my husband alone after a week of vacation and fried-food with the kiddos, I just wanted to drink it not critique it right then. So back to my food....Did I mention that the strawberry sauce for the duck was confusing? It sounded good on the menu, but in the end, no, it was just weird. The so-called bulgur pilaf was more like out-of-the-box Near East stuff than homemade, it was so mushy and drowning in sauce, and the overall taste of the dish was nondescript. The wine was fine, nothing to write home about, a Pinot the chef had "paired" with the duck, so I ordered it to see why. I *guess* I see why, but again, it wasn't a stand-out wine or anything. When the waiter asked if we wanted dessert, I barely even bothered looking at the menu. I now read the overly complicated descriptions with skepticism rather than curiosity, wondering how he would manage to mess up chocolate terrine and what was meant by 'infused" so jaded was I by my recent entree experience. So we politely declined and were brought two of the most AWFUL chocolate truffles I've ever put to my lips. I am a chocoholic from waaaaaay back, so you KNOW, if I put something in my mouth and spit it back out before even biting all the way through, it's BAD! My husband had to try just to see what in God's name was wrong with them, he was incredulous. But in about two seconds he did the same (and this is NOT a picky guy). We couldn't tell if it had been frozen, or just incorrectly prepared, but either way, it was ice cold and ROCK hard, and taste completely unsweetened--as if someone melted unsweetened chocolate, formed it into something that looked vaguely like a junior-mint (not completely round like most truffles) and then FROZE. Was this some sort of punishment for refusing to order dessert? We weren't sure, all we know is, we left two almost half-bitten truffles on the doily-covered plate, paid and walked out. We won't be back.
(2)
Barry K.
The family went there for my wife's birthday. It was a huge success! Food and service were terrific.
(4)
Walter H.
Great food with tables with a view of marina and Skull Creek. I particularly liked their grouper and steak. After dinner, one can walk around historic Ft. Mitchell, a Civil War site. Service is great and the atmosphere is intimate and romantic. They also have early bird specials which provide appetizer, dessert and good value.
(5)
Mia B.
I am writing this review while sitting on the deck of The Old Fort Pub after enjoying an excellent meal. First of all, this is by no means a "pub". This is a casual fine dining restaurant. My recommendation would be to come between 4- 5:30 for their early dining menu. It's a 3 course meal for $22.00. Worth EVERY penny, and such a steal considering the price of the regular dinner menu items. It is a smaller menu, but has the chefs selections, and you can pick your selection from about 4 or 5 appetizers, entrees and desserts. The She crab soup was amazing. The bread was served with lavender butter which I loved. We enjoyed the crawfish cakes for our entrees, and home made peanut butter ice-cream for dessert. It seems like many of the entrees have interesting flavor combinations which is something I really enjoy. Whatever you do, come on a good weather evening and SIT ON THE DECK. The view and ambiance are breathtaking. The deck sits on Skull Creek which is stunning at sunset, and you are surrounded by huge oak trees covered in spanish moss. There is a historic garden to walk through after your meal. The inside of the restaurant is cute but slightly dated. The deck is where its at!! We've been to almost every restaurant on the island and somehow never heard of this little gem. So glad We found it, DEF. coming back ! Almost forgot to mention the service, it was top notch - our server was Phili and he was one of the nicest servers I've ever had. Check this place out !
(5)
Julie L.
This place was terrible. Old, musty and over priced. They served us brown lemons and lettuce. I said to the waitress that when you pay $9 for a salad it shouldn't have brown lettuce in it. She agreed said she would speak to the manager. Never heard a word from the manager and our waitress didn't come back until it was time for us to leave. The only good thing was the she crab soup.
(1)
Dana O.
Everything we ate here was AMAZING, and so was the wine (and I am a picky wine drinker). The views were amazing...we watched dolphins jumping out of the water while the sun set! The outside is historic and surrounded by giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Like others said, this is definitely NOT a pub. This was my favorite restaurant that I dined at, during my Hilton Head stay!
(5)
Tim H.
Many restaraunts have come and gone on Hilton head Island but The Old Fort Pub has stood teh test of time. A place you will want to dine at when visiting the island. Out of the high traffic areas. Quaint. truely old south in design. Excellent local fresh seafood. fine Dining. Great crab soup.
(4)
David H.
A very enjoyable meal. Well prepared and presented. The server was knowledgeable and helpful. When we made the reservation we were given clear and accurate directions. I nearly forgot to mention the great view!
(5)
Miller B.
We have been coming to Hilton Head for 20+ years, and I have eaten at Old Fort Pub more times than I can count. The food and service never cease to impress, but it's the view that exceeds that of any restaurant I have ever been to. Make a reservation right around sunset, and with a dining room looking out over the water, you have a panoramic view of natural beauty. That coupled with the food I've had there makes this place a winner. And the interior of this restaurant is excellent as well; very cozy, dimly lit in the evening, and welcoming. On my most recent visit to The Pub I had the crab claw scampi, that night's special [crab-stuffed flounder], and a blueberry crisp [also a special] for dessert with coffee. Everything was perfect and I will continue to go back on my future visits to Hilton Head. It is fairly expensive and upscale, so September to maybe May or June I would recommend wearing a jacket in the dining room, during the summer business casual will slide, but many still wear a jacket. By the way, they have an outdoor seating area, but don't sit out there. I actually have observed that the view is better inside and you won't have to deal with the SC humidity!
(5)
Cathy M.
Absolutely gorgeous setting and very good service. Appetizers of She Crab soup and Calimari, a chicken dish and Seafood boulliabase, a glass of pinot gris, and desserts of pecan pie and key lime tart came to $113, and a trip upstairs to the Widows Walk to enjoy the view ended the evening on a high note.
(3)
Tracey N.
We hadn't been to the Old fort pub for several years and decided to go for brunch. It was as excellent as we remembered. JoAnn, the manager suggested wine for us, and our food was wonderful. I almost forgot what REAL hollandaise tastes like! I Had the quiche, with tasso ham and shrimp, and my husband had the Benedict, with the hollandaise I loved. The portions were large. The view was gorgeous, and our server was the epitome of professional. If you want an elevated dining experience, go there. We intend to frequent it again!
(5)
Leslie W.
I look forward to coming to the Old Fort Pub every year during our family vacation. It's pricey (average $30 entrees) but I really enjoy the setting and the food as well . The restaurant is in an old house (fort maybe?) and has a beautiful view of the bay side of HHI. There are live oaks dripping with Spanish moss everywhere and a quiet southern charm. If you can, I highly recommend coming at sunset for the view. My experience has always been fresh seafood serve well but maybe a little creatively depending on what the chef has up his sleeve. Attentive staff. Dinner is followed by delicious desserts (bread pudding!) Make reservations! Get dressed up! And enjoy your night!
(5)
Mundi M.
Great historical landmark. Educational with a walk through of an old Union Fort, a Fantastic view of Scull Creek and Captain's Walk for pre- dinner drinks.
(5)
David J.
average food at above average prices, portions small, two fillet steaks and salmon all over cooked, service slow. The kitchen clearly cannot handle the volume causing delays and poor quality results
(2)
Mike S.
Forget anything you hear about the fru fru restaurant named after a plant that grapes grow on. This is still the leader. An exemplary meal that is not to be missed! I've been coming to Hilton Head for almost 20 years and the Old Fort Pub never disappoints! Lowcountry specialties, great wine list, in a beautiful setting that exemplifies what Hilton Head is all about.
(5)
Mary Jane K.
This had to have been the worst dining experience I've ever had--anywhere. The waiter was rude to us multiple times and when my husband asked to speak to the manager he started arguing with him and yelling over his request to talk to someone. He even snapped at us for not immediately eating the chef's bite size goat cheese appetizers he brought out to the table. When the manager came over, she never apologized for his extreme rudeness and arrogance. She did send a much nicer female waiter over to the table but then we got to suffer through our meal with the male wait staff and the dismissed waiter glaring at us from the staging area. One of our group even got to hear the dismissed waiter complaining about us to the manager. In retrospect when it became clear that this male waiter was going to treat us like trash, we should have walked out and just paid for our drinks. It was an appalling experience. We have been here many times over the years and have eaten all over the island and have never been treated like we were treated last night. This restaurant won't be in business long if this is how they treat guests who have a lot of choices of great restaurants.
(1)
Jeff M.
We had a great experience! Excellent food, especially the homemade deserts! Superb staff and beautiful atmosphere. We will defiantly be coming back!
(5)
Kelly B.
We found Old Fort Pub here on Yelp when looking for a place to celebrate our 20th anniversary while on vacation. What a great find! We had a perfect table overlooking the water at sunset. The service was amazing and the food was excellent. My husband had the grouper special & I had the pork tenderloin. He also had the She Crab soup & loved it. Great place for a special occasion dinner.
(5)
Lauren R.
This is a really good upscale restaurant on the island. You get the whole fine dining experience--good seafood, wonderful views, nice ambiance, and really good service. Food: This was a bit of a mixed lot, unfortunately. First off, I made the biggest mistake of the night by not ordering the she crab soup. It is spicier than normal she crab soup and wonderful. Just heavenly. I could have had that for my meal. However, I only got a few spoonfuls stolen from my boyfriend because I ordered trout. The smoked trout appetizer was really disappointing. It came on sunflower crostini that were really hard and bland, and the middle of the plate was full of greenery garnish (but like 3/4 of a cup full!). I was really confused by the presentation. Somehow the flavors didn't work and I only ate half of it. I had the crawfish cakes for my entree and they were great--really wonderful. They also heated up well the next day. Service: Service was attentive, but the food was really slow coming out. We waited about 45 minutes for our main courses, which was long. All in all a two-course meal took about 2.5 hours, but it was crowded July in the summer season. Atmosphere: This place is great. It is really old for Hilton Head (which means it dates to the 70s). The building looks like its older than that and has a quaint, old timey feel. There are wonderful views over the sound, and you can climb up onto the roof to get great views over the sound and the outdoor part of the restaurant. Also has a good view of the fireworks set off from Hudson's.
(4)
Anne-Marie G.
It is not often I write a review this bad. But it WAS this bad. Made a reservation over a week ago for brunch, for my Mom's 80th birthday... With great misgivings, after reading some of the reviews here (but they USED to love it here) ... Misgivings Well founded, as it turns out. Walked in, on time to the moment... As is my older parents wont. I walked ahead of them to remind hostess and manager... Yes yes with a smile... Nice table by the water.... Check. Beautiful view... Check. Weird... And I mean weird... Service from the get-go... Check. There was some discussion about ordering... Mind you, my parents are in their 80's, my son 10... They were hungry. It was quite obvious that the waiter had a system... Drinks, THEN you may order apps, THEN mains... Oh and would you like 'the package?' (Even after I'd chosen 2 apps and premium wine which did not fit the bill... Waiter says: 'I hear it's somebody's birthday!!' 'Oh NOOOOO' we say... Me, with a decided wink... Sense of humor lacking? CHECK. Food... Meh. I ordered deviled ham which came with a 'soft boiled egg'... I don't like eggs runny, so asked for it medium. 'Oh... It comes cold... Not runny...' HUH? A cold soft boiled egg? Turned out to be a cold poached egg... YUK. Everyone else's meal was... Ummm... Ok. We had to ask for everything... Reset of forks for mains, salt, pepper... Etc, etc, ETCETERA!! No-one EVER asked if I would like another (rather expensive) glass of wine... Best of all was... After repeatedly stating this is my mom's 80th, the waiter.... Who I'd describe as nice enough but a bit smarmy... My mom described as 'doing us a favor'... Asks if we'd like dessert... Noooo... So before the check is dropped I pay at entrance... BIRTHDAY? Wait, was it really someone's BIRTHDAY?! Ohhhh... Their 80th, a BIG ONE? WHO KNEW?! (Apparently no-one there) Thank God I know how to bake, so she got a red velvet cake and a sung Happy Bday tonight. Never again.... Do yourself a MAJOR FAVOR if you have something to celebrate on HHI... Call Kelly at The Jazz Corner and do it up right. My final answer re: OFP?!; UGH.
(1)
Katie H.
Fantastic setting & service; overwrought, mediocre food. The good: The wait service is absolutely impeccable and the views are stunning. It's a lovely place to watch the sunset over Skull Creek (check out the porch on the upper level). If you do the early dining menu you can sample multiple courses, and by virtue of being there early, you're likely to snag a seat by the windows. The bad: The food. I've been here numerous times over the years and I'm convinced that quality has gone down. The food is truly mediocre and overwrought, but the poor quality is hidden by the fancy menu descriptions and atmosphere. Of the past two times I've been here, one time I got sick from the food and the other time I didn't finish my entree (I almost never get sick from food and I always, always, always finish my meal). Menu advice: Solid choices: She Crab Soup, Key Lime Pie, the truffles that come with your meal. The Beef Tenderloin itself is excellent, however like most of their entrees, it is served alongside very forgettable side dishes. Blah: Their salads (they clearly just open a bag of mixed greens and then throw them on a plate), the chilled grapefruit soup Bad: The Bavarian Creme
(2)
Louann B.
This place is a keeper. We had a party of 8 on the deck where we could see the Intracoastal Waterway. The restaurant is surrounded by old oak trees with moss draping beautifully. Our server was excellent. We were outside, but a storm was rolling in. She told us that a storm was expected right after our appetizer and set up a table inside. Our entrees were served inside. She was pro-active and didn't miss a beat. This is the best service I've had on the Island. I had the She Crab soup for an appetizer and it was excellent. For my dinner I had the Wild Atlantic Shrimp & Campanelle Pasta. Now this dish had so much garlic I could taste it the next day. I loved it! The pasta is swimming in tomatoes and tomato sauce. The shrimp is tasty! I highly recommend the Key Lime Pie Martini. It was excellent.
(5)
Mike S.
The food is AWESOM they need to add some salt but over all it's a great place to dine
(4)
Keller A.
Dinner on July 9, 2014. Service was great. Beet salad too salty. Shellfish cakes were wonderful! Husband had prime pork tenderloin with polenta - he said it was great. This is a wonderful place to see the sunset. We sat inside because I was worried about bugs, but we did have a window seat - windows are floor to ceiling.
(4)
Christine L.
This place is AWESOME! My parents and I always go here for special dinners, whether it's the holidays or someone's b-day. The building is a spectacular old house right on the marsh/river. The food is always perfect, as is the service! The Old Fort Pub always makes you feel special.
(5)
Tanner N.
Wife had filet and I had veal. Great view but not worth the price. Service was okay. Got there right at sunset which was cool. Food has average. Plating was great but taste and texture of meat was not there.
(2)
Priscilla B.
Had a wonderful dinner! Out of our five adults everyone loved everything! Can't go wrong with the menu and the view was beautiful!
(5)
Greg O.
This is a tough review to write. First, the view is great, and atmosphere in the faux-historic building is very welcoming. The service throughout the meal was fantastic. But the food was a disappointment. It wasn't bad in any way, but also not good, and certainly not up to the prices they charge. The cold cucumber dill soup was the highlight of my meal- great flavor and just enough dill to add flavor without overpowering. I wish the rest of the meal had been anywhere close to that. My entree of duck was plain boring- the duck just didn't have any flavor. The cheese grits that came with it were actually fairly tasty, but the field pea & bean cassoulet was terrible. As for dessert, the cherry creme brulee was a disappointment as well. It was good for a creme brulee, but I expected actually cherry flavor, not a couple of random cherries thrown in the bottom of it. Overall a great view and atmosphere and great service, but the food left a lot to be desired.
(2)
Linda L.
Our best dining Hilton Head dining experience! We went for my husband's bday and it was a truly memorable experience. Service was excellent. The chocolate raspberry martini was Da Bomb and the hubby says the top-shelf scotch was top-notch. He raved about the she-crab soup and the flat iron steak with collards and swordfish were also perfection. The quail appetizer, salad w poached pears, chocolate truffle dessert and chocolate terrine were all very good. The view from this place is beautiful--try to come just before sunset so you can enjoy the beautiful view of the water at dusk, which becomes majestically lit up at night. And don't forget the historic Old Fort in which it is located...look around at the plaques/walkways if you arrive at daylight.
(5)
Brenda S.
The atmosphere seemed a bit dated and run down. The food was just "ok" ...definitely not worth the money. The portion sizes were very small. Had a tiny salad and some ok squash soup. The entree I chose, bouillabaisse...was just blah. Did not taste fresh. The chocolate terrine was a disappointment as well. The service was very slow. For the cost, I would definitely choose another restaurant.
(2)
Rhonda C.
The waiter was awesome. Full of information but not too intrusive. The She Crab Soup is the best ever. I had the Lousiana Crabcake with Crawfish. It was excellent., My hubby had the fish special. Our friends had the pasta and prawns. Nothing served was not above a 5 star. I would highly recommend this place for anyone who enjoys great food.
(5)
Harold T.
This is such a beautiful setting. Having a wonderful dinner looking over Skull Creek (inter-coastal waterway) as the sun sets in the summer. I live in Hilton Head Plantation and go there every few months. I have never had a bad meal there. The service is always cheerful and the food is elegant. For those that may be vegetarian, not to worry. Although there is nothing shown on the menu, the executive chef makes meals for any type of vegetarian. My wife has been a vegetarian for many years and is always amazed at what the chef can put together. They use local fresh vegetables and fruit when available and the presentation is always appetizing.
(5)
Amanda J.
Food - 5 stars. Everything was delicious - seafood, chicken, bread, sides. Nice wine list. View - 5 stars. Right on the water in Hilton Head before sunset ... can't be beat. Service - 2 or 3 stars. From the beginning, the service was odd and not welcoming. The hostess seemed taken back by the fact we had two (well-behaved) kids with us (ages 8 and 5). We stated that we had two children when we made reservations, and they have a kids menu. However, this place is NOT kid friendly. Our waiter seemed wooden, was not willing to accomidate or even listen to any "special" requests (and ours were very simple - like "no salad dressing"). We felt rushed the whole time. They never asked if we wanted refills on our drinks. My husband was able to flag them down for a refill, but I was not able to catch the waiter to get mine. Ambiance - 3 or 4 stars. I agree with previous reviews that this place has an identify crisis. The food and (though unfriendly) service are fine dining. However, the interior of the building was worn and the name "pub" is misleading. Also - I like to dine in quieter places, and do not like loud restaurants. However, this place was too quiet. Voices carried and we did not feel comfortable having a lively conversation. I would go there again for the food and view, but without kids.
(4)
Katherine B.
Food great, service great, view great!!! We will be coming here the rest of our lives!!!! Sunday brunch is really fun. It's classy and so great!
(5)
Scott S.
Ordered sea food cakes and Scottish salmon. The food was tasty but small portions and pricey. The waitress service was good. It seemed a lot of older couples frequent there. The landscaping outside the restaurant is very nice. Beautiful trees.
(3)
Nicole W.
People aren't lying when they say this is one of the best views in Hilton Head. The food was great and the service was excellent. Everything you could want in an upscale restaurant! I suggest starting with a few cocktails at the bar before dinner and then make your way upstairs for the view! Enjoy!
(4)
Len L.
This was a fabulous experience last night. Everything about this place was great.. The ambience, Service, Food .. We are on the island for 2 weeks, and this was our 4th dinner at an upscale restaurant .. 2 of the other 3 , were horrible.. WE WILL DEFINATELY RETURN HERE...
(5)
e c.
Fabulous service. Fabulous view. Pork tenderloin and Cajun trout good. Dessert was spectacular. Pecan pie and chocolate terrine was simply fab!!! 2 drinks, 2 entrees' 2 desserts. 100+. A splurge but worth it on our last night in HH.
(5)
Bj L.
We had dinner at the Old Fort Pub on our last night on Hilton Head Island. The restaurant came highly recommended by several local friends. We were extremely happy with our meals. I don't usually moan when I eat but the Cajun Trout was fabulous. Don't let the Cajun description fool you. It is a little misleading. It was not overly spicy. The chef knows his trade. My wife's grouper was exceptional. She does not normally order grouper but she assumed it would be exceptional here and she was right. All of the other aspects of our meal were way above average. The ambiance, view, service and location are worth the trip. Don't forget to see the observation deck before or after your meal and stroll around the old fort ruins. All aspects of our visit to the Old Fort Pub were memorable.
(5)
Tom T.
The Missing Link is the Service. Four of us just had a wonderful dinner at OFP on a rainy Thursday night, with the rain stealing the sunset but providing a dramatic vista from the all-glass room nonetheless. This place is very high on atmosphere and accouterments, in line with its high but in-line prices, and neither the food nor the wine disappointed our very high expectations. The only missing link here was the service, and we note comments echoing our thoughts in older reviews. In a word, it's robotic. The hostess was shoving a napkin and menu into my wife's hands as she was trying to remove her coat, even before she sat down, as though she were in a hurry to return to her post. A waiter interrupted another diner's attempt to load a fork with a bit of her appetizer to lay out the utensils required for the second course, when he could have waited ten seconds or at least offered an apology. There was at least one other occasion when a diner was made to feel he was in the way of the server. The help is efficient and well-trained in how to do what's supposed to be done, but there is no warmth, no appreciation of the fact that diners often like to feel as though there's a little bit of a relationship between them and those serving them, even if only for a couple of hours. When asked to compare of two particular dishes and give some advice, our waiter simply shrugged as though he'd never been asked before - or allowed to try them so he could offer an opinion. Don't pass up the Old Fort Pub because of these comments, just adjust your expectations about the service accordingly; then you won't be disappointed.
(4)
Craig T.
Cant agree more this place was more than great. We came early enough to catch the Sunset upstairs on the Balcony which was great. The classic Marsh view with moss laden trees. Then our table downstairs had the same perfect view. Get there early and linger over sunset. The dinner itself was spectacular , small things like the two spears of asparagus cooked to a level of perfection not achieved in many other restaurants. The She carb soup was excellent. The staff were very friendly and we were the last to leave we had a great chat as the evening concluded. "Southern Charm personified" sums this place up. You will enjoy it.
(4)
Mike M.
Combine terrific Skull Creek views with great food and you get Old Fort Pub. We went for brunch and they have a great combo deal with appetizer, drink and entree. My kids tried some new things and their breakfast was delicious. My shrimp and grits was a new preparation with a great cake in the center and I loved the texture which gave the dish more body then usual. Highly recommend this place
(5)
Bryan B.
Checking in from last week. By far, best best best overall dining experience I have ever had. Beautiful views, positively unbelievable tastes, and good prices. If all that stays the same, we'll be back often!! (Or at least every year while there on vacation)
(5)
Tony T.
What a surprise. Fine dining at its best in a unique atmosphere. Get the Pecan Pie for dessert, it's as big as two pieces and authentically Southern. Great service.
(5)
Mike M.
Must visit if on HH! A little pricey but well worth it. Service is top notch and everything on the menu is outstanding. Make reservations in high season or forget it.
(5)
Kendra H.
We set out to have dinner here without looking up the menu first. We found out very quickly that the word "pub" is definitely misleading at this establishment! Even though we showed up in street wear our experience was a pleasant surprise, and we will be back! The atmosphere of this restaurant is fantastic. What I really enjoyed about the place is that it doesn't actually feel like you're in a restaurant. The wide plank wood floors that have a slight creek to them, the soft lighting, the unobstructed view of the water--indeed, this is a very special and intimate place. I wouldn't recommend the Pub for large groups or for families with younger children. We went with a larger group, and a couple people seemed to have difficulty finding something they wanted to eat because the menu is rather limited. (Personally, I think this is a great thing, but it's not for everyone.) However, this is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. I had the ahi tuna, and it was prepared very nicely. The portion was a bit larger than I could eat, but it was a very nice piece of fish. My husband had the pork, which was falling of the bone, as promised. I kept on stealing his polenta, which was amazing! I wish they offered it as a side you could order. Family members had the shrimp pasta, flat iron steak, and lamb. Everyone seemed very happy with their meals. We were also given the chocolate truffles after dinner. They weren't anything unique or anything that I hadn't had before, but they weren't frozen and they were most definitely edible! I'm excited to return again. This place is a splurge, but well worth the money for a special occasion!
(4)
D G.
Great sunset view! I did not realize this was an upscale restaurant. Luckily we were dressed appropriately. They had a price fixe menu & we mussels, salad, filet, quail, & white chocolate mousse (had little flavor) & chocolate cake with peanut butter ice cream ( a little too rich for us). Overall it was just wonderful. They started us out with the best bread & herbed butter, plus 2 salmon mousse tarts & ended with 2 chocolate truffles! How sweet of the chef! Anne Marie was our waitress & she is a doll! Love this place
(5)
John B.
It was another wonderful meal. Very good service and food was just exquisie. Definitely a place for anyone that enjoys very good food, ambiance and does not mind paying for it.
(5)
Robert O.
We have been dining at the Old Fort Pub each year for the past 10 years. We always save it for a special occassion - this one happened to be my wife's birthday. Overall I agree with most of the other reviewers in that the food is wonderful, the view unmatched, the wait staff helpful and informed. The reason for this three-star rating is the overall "feel" of the place.Perhaps I am getting old (I am 44) but whereas there was once a sense that OFB is a special place it now feels just like every other restaurant on HHI. Gone are the men in sportsjackets and the women in skirts. They have been replaced by jeans and tennis shoes. I suppose my rating is not so much a review of OFB itself but the patrons who are dining here. If I am going to drop $225 for a meal I do not want to consume it surrounded by the same sorts of people who are munching down hush puppies over at Salty Dog. Perhaps it is time to institue a dress code. Nothing extravagant. How about no denim, shorts or tee shirts for men after 6:30PM? Or perhaps there could be a casual dining area and a more formal area?
(3)
H P.
A pretty good restaurant, BUT!!! ,where can you pay $3.25 for a cup of coffee ,you guessed it Old Fort Pub. Now I have gone here for years so I would say I know this place quite well .In recent years I have gone here for the Sunday Brunch which is quite good .This year however I ordered the breakfast ,eggs,bacon ,home fries and a few slices of fruit ,also included 2 rolls and 2 scones .With the afore mentioned coffee came to over $30 for two people .For that kind of money I could have eaten breakfast 4 times at most decent restaurants .It is no secret that you could pay $7 for a sandwich at many restaurants ,but add a Coke they tack on $2.50 .Old fort Pub has pushed the envelope to the brink .They are off my list ,and any restaurant that charges over $2 for a soft drink I order water. I don't think there is a restaurant in America that charges $3.25 for coffee ,so in that way Old Fort Pub is unique .Also I would mention that I did not see a coffee price on their menu .
(3)
Paul F.
Our dinner was outstanding. This is a fine-dining restaurant with a classically-trained chef, not a steak and potatoes pub. We both ordered fish (one catfish, one trout) and both were cooked to perfection, with rich, flavorful sauces. The asparagus en croute appetizer was small, but had a sublime layering of flavors. The intense dark chocolate dessert would have been enough to justify the trip on its own. Match this with a view of the sunset across the water, and it makes the Old Fort Pub a restaurant we will definitely visit again.
(5)
Roy C.
My girlfriend and I had dinner here. I had high hopes for the pub because it was recommended to us. This restaurant is trying to be something it is not. When you have "Pub" in your name you'd expect a comfortable atmosphere, sorry you came to the wrong place. Now to the food, when someone orders a steak, first they expect a steak, not an over-cooked chunk of leather covered with some dry mustard crumble. No mustard crumble was mentioned on the menu. My girlfriend was very disappointed, when she told the waiter, his sarcastic response was, what you want me to do about it? I had the scallops, they were over cooked and rubbery. I think this place is just catering to the tourists without a palate... I'd pass on the pub.
(2)
Anthony B.
Came here for dinner. I had the pork loin and my partner had the seafood bouillabaisse both dishes were fantastic. Atmosphere very pleasant and service was great. Would recommend this place to visitors on the island.
(4)
Rebecca B.
Contrary to some of the reviewers, we had AMAZING food. We went with a party of 12 for our wedding dinner. Everyone was delighted with their food and the incredible view. I highly recommend for a nice ocassion.
(5)
Matars Z.
The special thing about this place is the setting. This is absolutely a magnificent location, with beautiful views on the water, and a quiet ambiance that is just lovely. Thus half the dining experience (atmosphere) is already so good, you may forget the food you are eating is fine cuisine that isn't oh-so-fine. There isn't anything really wrong with the food, but there is absolutely nothing special either. Its just not very memorable and it's a bit overwrought - the chef may benefit from simplifying some things and focusing more on flavor variety. I find it amusing that the waiters go to such trouble to describe the ingredients and preparations, and then you get the dishes which are either under seasoned, or so overwhelmed with sauce that you can't taste the main ingredient. The best thing I had all night was the simple cucumber soup, which reminded of Mediterranean cucumber/yogurt dishes which are always so refreshing. The Wedge salad was no better than what I'd expect at a chain restaurant - nothing exciting about the bacon or blue cheese used here- I expect better ingredients in a restaurant such as this - and this blue cheese was just you garden variety grocery store bulk grade. Truly uninspired. Fellow diners had a variety of mains dishes, all of which I tasted. A criminally overcooked pork chop, dry and uninteresting, a grouper so drowned in bechamel that you might as well not had the fish there, a nice trout that was likely the best dish of the night, but hardly anything warranting a second visit, and my utter boring rack of lamb, which came with what I thought would be a fascinating bean cassoulet -but it had been sweetened so much (honey? brown sugar?) that it really killed any potential it had as an interesting accompanying flavor for the meat. I lost interest in my dish after the second cut, but of course I ate on. I could have better rack of lamb in high-end chains like Houston's - and that's sad. Pecan pie was solid, I've had better. Nothing was reall bad. Nothing was great. I think that because the food was not really bad, even if it was unexciting or in some cases "overexcited" - suffering from poor "creativity" judgements that lost all sense of subtlety - I'd still simply go back to re-experience the beautiful setting. I think the setting is definitely worth the trip to the restaurant, but I don't understand the rave reviews some have given the place for food on other sites. The waiters go on and on about the preparation and its rather sad, what you end up with for all that detail. Still, I'll take solid and OK food in a beautiful location any day over awful and poorly done cuisine. I can also understand why some of the reviewers have complained about the attitude of the wait staff. They definitely have one and its amusing to imagine if its because they think they work at an amazing fine dining establishment. This place would not make it in many a major city. And yes, this may be the best Hilton Head Island has to offer for many - but that is not saying much. I don't believe it anyway - there is better food on Hilton Head Island. Its just hidden in an unexpected spot called Wise Guys. Go there. It has the worst ambiance, but phenomenal cuisine.
(3)
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Address :65 Skull Creek Dr
Hilton Head Island, SC, 29926
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Romantic Noise Level : Quiet Music : Background Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : No Best Nights : Fri, Sat Coat Check : Yes Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Keller A.
Dinner on July 9, 2014. Service was great. Beet salad too salty. Shellfish cakes were wonderful! Husband had prime pork tenderloin with polenta - he said it was great. This is a wonderful place to see the sunset. We sat inside because I was worried about bugs, but we did have a window seat - windows are floor to ceiling.
(4)Greg O.
This is a tough review to write. First, the view is great, and atmosphere in the faux-historic building is very welcoming. The service throughout the meal was fantastic. But the food was a disappointment. It wasn't bad in any way, but also not good, and certainly not up to the prices they charge. The cold cucumber dill soup was the highlight of my meal- great flavor and just enough dill to add flavor without overpowering. I wish the rest of the meal had been anywhere close to that. My entree of duck was plain boring- the duck just didn't have any flavor. The cheese grits that came with it were actually fairly tasty, but the field pea & bean cassoulet was terrible. As for dessert, the cherry creme brulee was a disappointment as well. It was good for a creme brulee, but I expected actually cherry flavor, not a couple of random cherries thrown in the bottom of it. Overall a great view and atmosphere and great service, but the food left a lot to be desired.
(2)Linda L.
Our best dining Hilton Head dining experience! We went for my husband's bday and it was a truly memorable experience. Service was excellent. The chocolate raspberry martini was Da Bomb and the hubby says the top-shelf scotch was top-notch. He raved about the she-crab soup and the flat iron steak with collards and swordfish were also perfection. The quail appetizer, salad w poached pears, chocolate truffle dessert and chocolate terrine were all very good. The view from this place is beautiful--try to come just before sunset so you can enjoy the beautiful view of the water at dusk, which becomes majestically lit up at night. And don't forget the historic Old Fort in which it is located...look around at the plaques/walkways if you arrive at daylight.
(5)Brenda S.
The atmosphere seemed a bit dated and run down. The food was just "ok" ...definitely not worth the money. The portion sizes were very small. Had a tiny salad and some ok squash soup. The entree I chose, bouillabaisse...was just blah. Did not taste fresh. The chocolate terrine was a disappointment as well. The service was very slow. For the cost, I would definitely choose another restaurant.
(2)Christine L.
This place is AWESOME! My parents and I always go here for special dinners, whether it's the holidays or someone's b-day. The building is a spectacular old house right on the marsh/river. The food is always perfect, as is the service! The Old Fort Pub always makes you feel special.
(5)Tanner N.
Wife had filet and I had veal. Great view but not worth the price. Service was okay. Got there right at sunset which was cool. Food has average. Plating was great but taste and texture of meat was not there.
(2)Priscilla B.
Had a wonderful dinner! Out of our five adults everyone loved everything! Can't go wrong with the menu and the view was beautiful!
(5)Amanda J.
Food - 5 stars. Everything was delicious - seafood, chicken, bread, sides. Nice wine list. View - 5 stars. Right on the water in Hilton Head before sunset ... can't be beat. Service - 2 or 3 stars. From the beginning, the service was odd and not welcoming. The hostess seemed taken back by the fact we had two (well-behaved) kids with us (ages 8 and 5). We stated that we had two children when we made reservations, and they have a kids menu. However, this place is NOT kid friendly. Our waiter seemed wooden, was not willing to accomidate or even listen to any "special" requests (and ours were very simple - like "no salad dressing"). We felt rushed the whole time. They never asked if we wanted refills on our drinks. My husband was able to flag them down for a refill, but I was not able to catch the waiter to get mine. Ambiance - 3 or 4 stars. I agree with previous reviews that this place has an identify crisis. The food and (though unfriendly) service are fine dining. However, the interior of the building was worn and the name "pub" is misleading. Also - I like to dine in quieter places, and do not like loud restaurants. However, this place was too quiet. Voices carried and we did not feel comfortable having a lively conversation. I would go there again for the food and view, but without kids.
(4)Katherine B.
Food great, service great, view great!!! We will be coming here the rest of our lives!!!! Sunday brunch is really fun. It's classy and so great!
(5)Scott S.
Ordered sea food cakes and Scottish salmon. The food was tasty but small portions and pricey. The waitress service was good. It seemed a lot of older couples frequent there. The landscaping outside the restaurant is very nice. Beautiful trees.
(3)Nicole W.
People aren't lying when they say this is one of the best views in Hilton Head. The food was great and the service was excellent. Everything you could want in an upscale restaurant! I suggest starting with a few cocktails at the bar before dinner and then make your way upstairs for the view! Enjoy!
(4)Craig T.
Cant agree more this place was more than great. We came early enough to catch the Sunset upstairs on the Balcony which was great. The classic Marsh view with moss laden trees. Then our table downstairs had the same perfect view. Get there early and linger over sunset. The dinner itself was spectacular , small things like the two spears of asparagus cooked to a level of perfection not achieved in many other restaurants. The She carb soup was excellent. The staff were very friendly and we were the last to leave we had a great chat as the evening concluded. "Southern Charm personified" sums this place up. You will enjoy it.
(4)Rhonda C.
The waiter was awesome. Full of information but not too intrusive. The She Crab Soup is the best ever. I had the Lousiana Crabcake with Crawfish. It was excellent., My hubby had the fish special. Our friends had the pasta and prawns. Nothing served was not above a 5 star. I would highly recommend this place for anyone who enjoys great food.
(5)Harold T.
This is such a beautiful setting. Having a wonderful dinner looking over Skull Creek (inter-coastal waterway) as the sun sets in the summer. I live in Hilton Head Plantation and go there every few months. I have never had a bad meal there. The service is always cheerful and the food is elegant. For those that may be vegetarian, not to worry. Although there is nothing shown on the menu, the executive chef makes meals for any type of vegetarian. My wife has been a vegetarian for many years and is always amazed at what the chef can put together. They use local fresh vegetables and fruit when available and the presentation is always appetizing.
(5)Kendra H.
We set out to have dinner here without looking up the menu first. We found out very quickly that the word "pub" is definitely misleading at this establishment! Even though we showed up in street wear our experience was a pleasant surprise, and we will be back! The atmosphere of this restaurant is fantastic. What I really enjoyed about the place is that it doesn't actually feel like you're in a restaurant. The wide plank wood floors that have a slight creek to them, the soft lighting, the unobstructed view of the water--indeed, this is a very special and intimate place. I wouldn't recommend the Pub for large groups or for families with younger children. We went with a larger group, and a couple people seemed to have difficulty finding something they wanted to eat because the menu is rather limited. (Personally, I think this is a great thing, but it's not for everyone.) However, this is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. I had the ahi tuna, and it was prepared very nicely. The portion was a bit larger than I could eat, but it was a very nice piece of fish. My husband had the pork, which was falling of the bone, as promised. I kept on stealing his polenta, which was amazing! I wish they offered it as a side you could order. Family members had the shrimp pasta, flat iron steak, and lamb. Everyone seemed very happy with their meals. We were also given the chocolate truffles after dinner. They weren't anything unique or anything that I hadn't had before, but they weren't frozen and they were most definitely edible! I'm excited to return again. This place is a splurge, but well worth the money for a special occasion!
(4)Len L.
This was a fabulous experience last night. Everything about this place was great.. The ambience, Service, Food .. We are on the island for 2 weeks, and this was our 4th dinner at an upscale restaurant .. 2 of the other 3 , were horrible.. WE WILL DEFINATELY RETURN HERE...
(5)e c.
Fabulous service. Fabulous view. Pork tenderloin and Cajun trout good. Dessert was spectacular. Pecan pie and chocolate terrine was simply fab!!! 2 drinks, 2 entrees' 2 desserts. 100+. A splurge but worth it on our last night in HH.
(5)Bj L.
We had dinner at the Old Fort Pub on our last night on Hilton Head Island. The restaurant came highly recommended by several local friends. We were extremely happy with our meals. I don't usually moan when I eat but the Cajun Trout was fabulous. Don't let the Cajun description fool you. It is a little misleading. It was not overly spicy. The chef knows his trade. My wife's grouper was exceptional. She does not normally order grouper but she assumed it would be exceptional here and she was right. All of the other aspects of our meal were way above average. The ambiance, view, service and location are worth the trip. Don't forget to see the observation deck before or after your meal and stroll around the old fort ruins. All aspects of our visit to the Old Fort Pub were memorable.
(5)Tom T.
Went to the OFP for the first time in almost ten years, and we were not disappointed. IMHO, still among the best dining experiences on Hilton Head Island. The food, service and ambiance are all outstanding! The only ever-so-slight criticism I have is that we felt somewhat rushed by our server. Other than that, a very good experience. We'll be back for sure!
(4)Adam M.
Service A+. Atmosphere A+. Wine List A. Food, food? What happened to the food? We came here on Mother's Day and were severely disappointed with the food. The food did nothing for any of our palates. It seems as though Old Fort Pub is confused as to whether they are a pub, or a very high end fine dining establishment. All of the dishes were small and tasteless. They try to put twists into simple dishes and wind up just confusing the taste buds. Fire the head chef, and this place will really be something special.
(2)Tom T.
The Missing Link is the Service. Four of us just had a wonderful dinner at OFP on a rainy Thursday night, with the rain stealing the sunset but providing a dramatic vista from the all-glass room nonetheless. This place is very high on atmosphere and accouterments, in line with its high but in-line prices, and neither the food nor the wine disappointed our very high expectations. The only missing link here was the service, and we note comments echoing our thoughts in older reviews. In a word, it's robotic. The hostess was shoving a napkin and menu into my wife's hands as she was trying to remove her coat, even before she sat down, as though she were in a hurry to return to her post. A waiter interrupted another diner's attempt to load a fork with a bit of her appetizer to lay out the utensils required for the second course, when he could have waited ten seconds or at least offered an apology. There was at least one other occasion when a diner was made to feel he was in the way of the server. The help is efficient and well-trained in how to do what's supposed to be done, but there is no warmth, no appreciation of the fact that diners often like to feel as though there's a little bit of a relationship between them and those serving them, even if only for a couple of hours. When asked to compare of two particular dishes and give some advice, our waiter simply shrugged as though he'd never been asked before - or allowed to try them so he could offer an opinion. Don't pass up the Old Fort Pub because of these comments, just adjust your expectations about the service accordingly; then you won't be disappointed.
(4)Walter H.
Great food with tables with a view of marina and Skull Creek. I particularly liked their grouper and steak. After dinner, one can walk around historic Ft. Mitchell, a Civil War site. Service is great and the atmosphere is intimate and romantic. They also have early bird specials which provide appetizer, dessert and good value.
(5)Paul F.
Our dinner was outstanding. This is a fine-dining restaurant with a classically-trained chef, not a steak and potatoes pub. We both ordered fish (one catfish, one trout) and both were cooked to perfection, with rich, flavorful sauces. The asparagus en croute appetizer was small, but had a sublime layering of flavors. The intense dark chocolate dessert would have been enough to justify the trip on its own. Match this with a view of the sunset across the water, and it makes the Old Fort Pub a restaurant we will definitely visit again.
(5)David H.
A very enjoyable meal. Well prepared and presented. The server was knowledgeable and helpful. When we made the reservation we were given clear and accurate directions. I nearly forgot to mention the great view!
(5)Tim H.
Many restaraunts have come and gone on Hilton head Island but The Old Fort Pub has stood teh test of time. A place you will want to dine at when visiting the island. Out of the high traffic areas. Quaint. truely old south in design. Excellent local fresh seafood. fine Dining. Great crab soup.
(4)Roy C.
My girlfriend and I had dinner here. I had high hopes for the pub because it was recommended to us. This restaurant is trying to be something it is not. When you have "Pub" in your name you'd expect a comfortable atmosphere, sorry you came to the wrong place. Now to the food, when someone orders a steak, first they expect a steak, not an over-cooked chunk of leather covered with some dry mustard crumble. No mustard crumble was mentioned on the menu. My girlfriend was very disappointed, when she told the waiter, his sarcastic response was, what you want me to do about it? I had the scallops, they were over cooked and rubbery. I think this place is just catering to the tourists without a palate... I'd pass on the pub.
(2)Matars Z.
The special thing about this place is the setting. This is absolutely a magnificent location, with beautiful views on the water, and a quiet ambiance that is just lovely. Thus half the dining experience (atmosphere) is already so good, you may forget the food you are eating is fine cuisine that isn't oh-so-fine. There isn't anything really wrong with the food, but there is absolutely nothing special either. Its just not very memorable and it's a bit overwrought - the chef may benefit from simplifying some things and focusing more on flavor variety. I find it amusing that the waiters go to such trouble to describe the ingredients and preparations, and then you get the dishes which are either under seasoned, or so overwhelmed with sauce that you can't taste the main ingredient. The best thing I had all night was the simple cucumber soup, which reminded of Mediterranean cucumber/yogurt dishes which are always so refreshing. The Wedge salad was no better than what I'd expect at a chain restaurant - nothing exciting about the bacon or blue cheese used here- I expect better ingredients in a restaurant such as this - and this blue cheese was just you garden variety grocery store bulk grade. Truly uninspired. Fellow diners had a variety of mains dishes, all of which I tasted. A criminally overcooked pork chop, dry and uninteresting, a grouper so drowned in bechamel that you might as well not had the fish there, a nice trout that was likely the best dish of the night, but hardly anything warranting a second visit, and my utter boring rack of lamb, which came with what I thought would be a fascinating bean cassoulet -but it had been sweetened so much (honey? brown sugar?) that it really killed any potential it had as an interesting accompanying flavor for the meat. I lost interest in my dish after the second cut, but of course I ate on. I could have better rack of lamb in high-end chains like Houston's - and that's sad. Pecan pie was solid, I've had better. Nothing was reall bad. Nothing was great. I think that because the food was not really bad, even if it was unexciting or in some cases "overexcited" - suffering from poor "creativity" judgements that lost all sense of subtlety - I'd still simply go back to re-experience the beautiful setting. I think the setting is definitely worth the trip to the restaurant, but I don't understand the rave reviews some have given the place for food on other sites. The waiters go on and on about the preparation and its rather sad, what you end up with for all that detail. Still, I'll take solid and OK food in a beautiful location any day over awful and poorly done cuisine. I can also understand why some of the reviewers have complained about the attitude of the wait staff. They definitely have one and its amusing to imagine if its because they think they work at an amazing fine dining establishment. This place would not make it in many a major city. And yes, this may be the best Hilton Head Island has to offer for many - but that is not saying much. I don't believe it anyway - there is better food on Hilton Head Island. Its just hidden in an unexpected spot called Wise Guys. Go there. It has the worst ambiance, but phenomenal cuisine.
(3)Deborah F.
I have to agree with the reviewers who've given this place high marks for service and ambiance. Both are excellent. But as someone has already asked, "What happened to the food?" We went here at the suggestion of a friend whose parents are locals and who have impeccable taste. I figured we couldn't go wrong. She warned us the prices were high, but it would be worth it. Now I'm wracking my brain trying to figure out how exactly to tell her "no, no it wasn't." Our dinner for two, which included two cocktails, two orders of soup, two glasses of wine and two entrees--no dessert, no coffee was $130. As Seth Myers might ask: "REALLY???!!" Now if the food were impeccable, delicious in every way, and if the drinks were out of this world, OK, fine. I am not averse to spending money on very little food in terms of the quantity, hell, we've spent double that on one dinner for two in Paris during truffle season (but that meal was legendary, if I live that long, I'd have my 50th wedding anniversary in that place--if it's still around), but I *do* get a bit twitchy about spending the equivalent of TWO good meals at our favorite places in Charlotte on food that is only "meh." We had the She Crab soup and Asparagus soups. Portions were tiny for the price, and wildly overwrought in terms of how much cream they both contained relative to FLAVOR. The She-crab was by far the superior of the two, but I've had as-good at Eddie's, which isn't saying much. My husband ordered the pork tenderloin and I the duck cooked two ways. Now maybe I'm being picky, but when I order duck breast, I expect it to be tender, especially when cooked medium. This was as tough as nails and to make matters worse, I was left with a butter knife to cut it. Let me tell you, it's pretty unpleasant sitting in this lovely setting trying to saw your meal into pieces small enough to chew with a butter knife! I would have asked for a sharper one if I could have gotten the server's attention, but in the end, honestly, I was afraid if I called him over, I'd be inclined to tell him how tough the meat was and a whole discussion about *that* would ensue and I didn't want to kill what little buzz I had left over from the abysmally bad cocktail I had managed to down without holding my nose. Speaking of which....My Patron martini was so overly sweet as to be noxious, but I was thirsty and so glad to be out on a date with my husband alone after a week of vacation and fried-food with the kiddos, I just wanted to drink it not critique it right then. So back to my food....Did I mention that the strawberry sauce for the duck was confusing? It sounded good on the menu, but in the end, no, it was just weird. The so-called bulgur pilaf was more like out-of-the-box Near East stuff than homemade, it was so mushy and drowning in sauce, and the overall taste of the dish was nondescript. The wine was fine, nothing to write home about, a Pinot the chef had "paired" with the duck, so I ordered it to see why. I *guess* I see why, but again, it wasn't a stand-out wine or anything. When the waiter asked if we wanted dessert, I barely even bothered looking at the menu. I now read the overly complicated descriptions with skepticism rather than curiosity, wondering how he would manage to mess up chocolate terrine and what was meant by 'infused" so jaded was I by my recent entree experience. So we politely declined and were brought two of the most AWFUL chocolate truffles I've ever put to my lips. I am a chocoholic from waaaaaay back, so you KNOW, if I put something in my mouth and spit it back out before even biting all the way through, it's BAD! My husband had to try just to see what in God's name was wrong with them, he was incredulous. But in about two seconds he did the same (and this is NOT a picky guy). We couldn't tell if it had been frozen, or just incorrectly prepared, but either way, it was ice cold and ROCK hard, and taste completely unsweetened--as if someone melted unsweetened chocolate, formed it into something that looked vaguely like a junior-mint (not completely round like most truffles) and then FROZE. Was this some sort of punishment for refusing to order dessert? We weren't sure, all we know is, we left two almost half-bitten truffles on the doily-covered plate, paid and walked out. We won't be back.
(2)D G.
Great sunset view! I did not realize this was an upscale restaurant. Luckily we were dressed appropriately. They had a price fixe menu & we mussels, salad, filet, quail, & white chocolate mousse (had little flavor) & chocolate cake with peanut butter ice cream ( a little too rich for us). Overall it was just wonderful. They started us out with the best bread & herbed butter, plus 2 salmon mousse tarts & ended with 2 chocolate truffles! How sweet of the chef! Anne Marie was our waitress & she is a doll! Love this place
(5)John B.
It was another wonderful meal. Very good service and food was just exquisie. Definitely a place for anyone that enjoys very good food, ambiance and does not mind paying for it.
(5)Robert O.
We have been dining at the Old Fort Pub each year for the past 10 years. We always save it for a special occassion - this one happened to be my wife's birthday. Overall I agree with most of the other reviewers in that the food is wonderful, the view unmatched, the wait staff helpful and informed. The reason for this three-star rating is the overall "feel" of the place.Perhaps I am getting old (I am 44) but whereas there was once a sense that OFB is a special place it now feels just like every other restaurant on HHI. Gone are the men in sportsjackets and the women in skirts. They have been replaced by jeans and tennis shoes. I suppose my rating is not so much a review of OFB itself but the patrons who are dining here. If I am going to drop $225 for a meal I do not want to consume it surrounded by the same sorts of people who are munching down hush puppies over at Salty Dog. Perhaps it is time to institue a dress code. Nothing extravagant. How about no denim, shorts or tee shirts for men after 6:30PM? Or perhaps there could be a casual dining area and a more formal area?
(3)Miller B.
We have been coming to Hilton Head for 20+ years, and I have eaten at Old Fort Pub more times than I can count. The food and service never cease to impress, but it's the view that exceeds that of any restaurant I have ever been to. Make a reservation right around sunset, and with a dining room looking out over the water, you have a panoramic view of natural beauty. That coupled with the food I've had there makes this place a winner. And the interior of this restaurant is excellent as well; very cozy, dimly lit in the evening, and welcoming. On my most recent visit to The Pub I had the crab claw scampi, that night's special [crab-stuffed flounder], and a blueberry crisp [also a special] for dessert with coffee. Everything was perfect and I will continue to go back on my future visits to Hilton Head. It is fairly expensive and upscale, so September to maybe May or June I would recommend wearing a jacket in the dining room, during the summer business casual will slide, but many still wear a jacket. By the way, they have an outdoor seating area, but don't sit out there. I actually have observed that the view is better inside and you won't have to deal with the SC humidity!
(5)Cathy M.
Absolutely gorgeous setting and very good service. Appetizers of She Crab soup and Calimari, a chicken dish and Seafood boulliabase, a glass of pinot gris, and desserts of pecan pie and key lime tart came to $113, and a trip upstairs to the Widows Walk to enjoy the view ended the evening on a high note.
(3)Leslie W.
I look forward to coming to the Old Fort Pub every year during our family vacation. It's pricey (average $30 entrees) but I really enjoy the setting and the food as well . The restaurant is in an old house (fort maybe?) and has a beautiful view of the bay side of HHI. There are live oaks dripping with Spanish moss everywhere and a quiet southern charm. If you can, I highly recommend coming at sunset for the view. My experience has always been fresh seafood serve well but maybe a little creatively depending on what the chef has up his sleeve. Attentive staff. Dinner is followed by delicious desserts (bread pudding!) Make reservations! Get dressed up! And enjoy your night!
(5)H P.
A pretty good restaurant, BUT!!! ,where can you pay $3.25 for a cup of coffee ,you guessed it Old Fort Pub. Now I have gone here for years so I would say I know this place quite well .In recent years I have gone here for the Sunday Brunch which is quite good .This year however I ordered the breakfast ,eggs,bacon ,home fries and a few slices of fruit ,also included 2 rolls and 2 scones .With the afore mentioned coffee came to over $30 for two people .For that kind of money I could have eaten breakfast 4 times at most decent restaurants .It is no secret that you could pay $7 for a sandwich at many restaurants ,but add a Coke they tack on $2.50 .Old fort Pub has pushed the envelope to the brink .They are off my list ,and any restaurant that charges over $2 for a soft drink I order water. I don't think there is a restaurant in America that charges $3.25 for coffee ,so in that way Old Fort Pub is unique .Also I would mention that I did not see a coffee price on their menu .
(3)Barry K.
The family went there for my wife's birthday. It was a huge success! Food and service were terrific.
(4)Matt S.
Mmm... my mouth is watering just thinking about this place. Over Labor Day, a group of friends and I stopped by Old Fort Pub for one of our final dinners and were treated to WONDERFUL Kansas City cut sirloins--a special that evening. The steaks were more food than any one person should eat, but I couldn't resist. While OFP does a great job with their meat, I would suggest striking up a conversation with any members of their incredibly knowledgeable wait staff to find out what the best thing on the menu is for that evening. In that past we've had wonderful advice steering us towards the bouillabaisse, towards the lamb shank and even a vegetarian risotto. While their salads (had the best beet salad of my LIFE here) and entrees are top notch, they also offer a host of top notch desserts. Chocolate lovers should be sure not to miss the dark chocolate terrine, but for me, their best dessert is the pecan pie a la mode. BUT be sure to swap out the traditional vanilla ice cream for their butter pecan. Perfection.
(5)Rhonda C.
This place was awesome. The view of the sunset was incredible. The lush vegetation and great grounds were fantastic. Our waiter was really great and helpful. The she crab soup is the best I have ever eaten anywhere. The chef later emailed his recipe. If I am ever close again............I won't miss this place. I really enjoyed by wine, diner and food.
(5)Chris F.
For the reviewer harping on the word "pub": Immediately upon arriving, you should realize this isn't a pub. It's clearly out of that league. Old Fort Pub is a magnificent gourmet restaurant with one of the finest settings on the intracoastal waterway. Inside is a country club atmosphere and the gentle service you'd expect with it. And, if you can take your eyes off the sunset, you'll see that the menu is full of fresh local flavors mixed with contemporary American ideas that's nearly impossible to do wrong on. For a charming, relaxing evening, you simply couldn't ask for a finer experience on the island.
(5)Christine C.
Wonderful meal and atmosphere. The pecan pie is incredible!
(5)John S.
Wow, what a view! Had a table at the window with a view of the river at sunset. Very romantic. The beet appetizer was a revelation and the grouper with smoked shrimp and scallops was absolutely delicious. Service was very professional. The combination of great food and the heavenly view can't be topped. Definitely worth an evening when visiting Hilton Head.
(5)Derek C.
The Happy Hour menu is crazy good. The wild mushroom bruschetta is amazing. Had the crab stuffed flounder special for my dinner, it couldn't have been more perfect. Thanks to Dirk for the killer service.
(5)Noah E.
The scenic location is incredible and the restaurant fits perfectly in it. You definitely feel like you are at some special place. We had a great waiter who talked about the entrees, specials, etc. All going well. Then the drinks came. Now, you can say a mojito was a bad order in this kind of restaurant, but it had to be the worst mojito I've had in 5 years. I had one on my Continental flight home just for comparison, and that one was better. The waiter came with a smoked salmon pastry mousse mise en bouche which was fine. I had the butter bibb salad which was incredibly bland and ehhh. Another couple had a fruit soup which was unremarkable. The she crab soup was fine. The only outstanding appetizer was the roasted calamari. A healthy portion and tasty. For the main course, I went with the quail over gumbo. This was by far the best of the entrees, which wasn't saying that much. Next best was the trout. After that, the achiote Mahi Mahi was bland. And their special that day was flounder with stuffed crab. Both people that ordered that probably ate less than 50% of it. You'll rack up a bill of $150 per couple easily. Had we done more drinks/desserts, it will easily go into $200s. For that price, I'd expect more out of the food. I think I should stick with belief that no great chef wants to work at some place where the focus is on the view and not the food.
(2)Paul O.
Excellent food. Great spot for an anniversary dinner. Check out observation deck on third floor either before or after your meal. It's a little bit of a hike up the spiral staircase, but it is a great view. Service very attentive and skilled. She crab soup was very good. The crab cakes and Filet Mignon brought some good twists. Some people don't seem to like the twists, but I thought the twists were tasteful and fit the meal. I would definitely go back again.
(5)Rebecca B.
Contrary to some of the reviewers, we had AMAZING food. We went with a party of 12 for our wedding dinner. Everyone was delighted with their food and the incredible view. I highly recommend for a nice ocassion.
(5)Julie L.
This place was terrible. Old, musty and over priced. They served us brown lemons and lettuce. I said to the waitress that when you pay $9 for a salad it shouldn't have brown lettuce in it. She agreed said she would speak to the manager. Never heard a word from the manager and our waitress didn't come back until it was time for us to leave. The only good thing was the she crab soup.
(1)Dana O.
Everything we ate here was AMAZING, and so was the wine (and I am a picky wine drinker). The views were amazing...we watched dolphins jumping out of the water while the sun set! The outside is historic and surrounded by giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Like others said, this is definitely NOT a pub. This was my favorite restaurant that I dined at, during my Hilton Head stay!
(5)Mia B.
I am writing this review while sitting on the deck of The Old Fort Pub after enjoying an excellent meal. First of all, this is by no means a "pub". This is a casual fine dining restaurant. My recommendation would be to come between 4- 5:30 for their early dining menu. It's a 3 course meal for $22.00. Worth EVERY penny, and such a steal considering the price of the regular dinner menu items. It is a smaller menu, but has the chefs selections, and you can pick your selection from about 4 or 5 appetizers, entrees and desserts. The She crab soup was amazing. The bread was served with lavender butter which I loved. We enjoyed the crawfish cakes for our entrees, and home made peanut butter ice-cream for dessert. It seems like many of the entrees have interesting flavor combinations which is something I really enjoy. Whatever you do, come on a good weather evening and SIT ON THE DECK. The view and ambiance are breathtaking. The deck sits on Skull Creek which is stunning at sunset, and you are surrounded by huge oak trees covered in spanish moss. There is a historic garden to walk through after your meal. The inside of the restaurant is cute but slightly dated. The deck is where its at!! We've been to almost every restaurant on the island and somehow never heard of this little gem. So glad We found it, DEF. coming back ! Almost forgot to mention the service, it was top notch - our server was Phili and he was one of the nicest servers I've ever had. Check this place out !
(5)Bryan B.
Checking in from last week. By far, best best best overall dining experience I have ever had. Beautiful views, positively unbelievable tastes, and good prices. If all that stays the same, we'll be back often!! (Or at least every year while there on vacation)
(5)Tony T.
What a surprise. Fine dining at its best in a unique atmosphere. Get the Pecan Pie for dessert, it's as big as two pieces and authentically Southern. Great service.
(5)Mike M.
Must visit if on HH! A little pricey but well worth it. Service is top notch and everything on the menu is outstanding. Make reservations in high season or forget it.
(5)Anna T.
We started out at Skull Creek Boathouse, but the wait was about an hour and a half so we came here. It ended up being exactly what we wanted: quiet, romantic (date with my sister), and calm. We needed to unwind after a busy week. My aunt had told us this place has the best She Crab Soup on the island, so of course we had to order it. She didn't steer us wrong, it was delicious! I soaked up every last drop with bread. I'm sad they were out of the Blue Crab Claw Fingers so we will definitely have to return. We split the Sea Island Bouillabaisse and the Key Lime Tart. We were exhausted from wedding planning. Our sister's wedding was the night before and they were happy to split it for us. My sister loved it. She said it was perfect. I didn't like it, but I think I was just in the mood for something else. I prefer more crust on my Key Lime Tart, but the flavor was perfect. I had been craving key lime all week and I finally felt satisfied. We came here too late at night, but I remember this place having an amazing view. I would definitely recommend it if you are in the mood for a romantic sunset dinner. Our bill was lower than they are used to, but never the less the service was still impeccable.
(5)Mary Beth L.
So this restaurant has a great location and great views...these are by far their strongest assets. You can actually enjoy yourself based on these alone but be warned you will pay dearly for them. The prices are ASTRONOMICAL in light of quality. The she crab soup was also very good along with my lemon basil martini. My seafood bouillabaisse was tasty but it seemed more like seafood in a white wine butter sauce rather than a mediteranean stew. I looked forward to the fried squash blossoms which were advertised as being stuffed with lobster. I must have missed the lobster for the overwhelming taste of salmon...really a heavy flavor for a squash blossom. My husband had the stuffed quail which he thought was heavy and tasteless.
(2)Jordan S.
As an avid viewer of the show I am confident that this restaurant should make an appearance on "Restaurant Impossible" if they want to remain relevant. I felt like I entered a nursing home due to the average age of the waitstaff and the average age of the customers, and there were times I thought the waiter might have suffered a heart attack for how long it would take him to come to the table. Some of my issues with the place: how do you not serve sweet tea that deep in the South? Why did my menu look like its been collecting dirt and tears from 1991? How is your signature She-crab soup made of 50% pepper, have no chunks of crab meat, and served in a bowl that was not cleaned off before serving? Is it normal for a waiter to play a bowl of bread onto someone's dinner plate instead of the vast amount of table space available? Why are you modeling a squash blossom appetizer off of a mozzarella stick - I can only assume people order that trying to be somewhat healthy. To top it all off, as I walked out of the restaurant there was a creepy naked BARBIE DOLL laying on the hostess stand. Why is that there? Why? Needless to say I was laughing for a solid 15 minutes at the lunacy of that image and honestly the entire night. Save your chunk of money for chefs that truly care about their food and restauranteurs that are committed to offering a special (and issue-free) experience. Or maybe wait to dine here until after the guy from Restaurant Impossible gets his hands on the place.
(2)Bonnie B.
Thank you Yelp for leading us to this amazing restaurant where the food was not only delicious but the setting & the view was spectacular!!! We sat outside on a lovely deck & watched the sun set thru the Spanish moss hanging on the large oak trees. Service was outstanding. The wine list was incredible and believe me I am picky when it comes to wines! My soft shell crab was the best I've ever had. My boyfriend loved his seafood bouillabaisse ! Bread was warm & crusty, the grilled calamari appetizer was very delicious... I could go on & on! We topped it all off w a slice of pecan pie... You guessed it.... Amazing!!! Cappuccino's also perfect! Yelp continues to consistently get us to exactly what we are looking for!! Bon Appetite!
(5)Lyra B.
Elegant service in a down to earth atmosphere. That outside patio at sunset is really quite romantic. We had the she crab soup, beet salad, salmon and sea island bouillabaisse. Portion sizes were perfect, food was rich in flavor and not too overpowering. Our waiter was attentive yet not hovering over us. We will back to dine at this wonderful establishment and look forward to our next visit!
(5)Neal A.
We have been to Old Fort Pub at least 4 times, on our last 4 annual trips to Hilton Head (skipped the trip last year). It is among the most relaxing dining venues on the island. Compared to say the Boatyard at that end of the island, it has remarkably no-hassle parking and takes reservations, even using Open Table. We also take advantage of the short stroll through the 'Old Fort' after dinner to digest. The 'Old Fort' refers to the remains of some Civil War fortifications next to the restaurant overlooking Skull Creek, and is a bonus for anyone with even a passing interest in the Civil War. Our visit this year was a little below the standards that Old Fort previously set for food. Particularly, my wife was disappointed with the steak special. I tasted it too and agreed it was stale and at least mildly overcooked. Furthermore, she was convinced that the mashed potatoes with it were made from boxed potato flakes. My wife each had a cocktail listed on the menu; although they had a some unique touches and were visually appealing, overall their flavors did not mesh as well we have had on Hilton Head. My daughter had a Caeser salad which was mediocre. She did think that her non-alcoholic Strawberry daiquiri was well made, though. My son had the fish special, he also though it was too dry and overcooked. I have to say I was very happy with my shrimp Bisque and Low Country shellfish cakes, including the side vegetables. So overall, you would more than likely have a good meal here if you stick with the tried and true menu items,,,BUT we're a little concerned that Old Fort is on a downward trajectory.
(4)Mike M.
Combine terrific Skull Creek views with great food and you get Old Fort Pub. We went for brunch and they have a great combo deal with appetizer, drink and entree. My kids tried some new things and their breakfast was delicious. My shrimp and grits was a new preparation with a great cake in the center and I loved the texture which gave the dish more body then usual. Highly recommend this place
(5)Mary Jane K.
This had to have been the worst dining experience I've ever had--anywhere. The waiter was rude to us multiple times and when my husband asked to speak to the manager he started arguing with him and yelling over his request to talk to someone. He even snapped at us for not immediately eating the chef's bite size goat cheese appetizers he brought out to the table. When the manager came over, she never apologized for his extreme rudeness and arrogance. She did send a much nicer female waiter over to the table but then we got to suffer through our meal with the male wait staff and the dismissed waiter glaring at us from the staging area. One of our group even got to hear the dismissed waiter complaining about us to the manager. In retrospect when it became clear that this male waiter was going to treat us like trash, we should have walked out and just paid for our drinks. It was an appalling experience. We have been here many times over the years and have eaten all over the island and have never been treated like we were treated last night. This restaurant won't be in business long if this is how they treat guests who have a lot of choices of great restaurants.
(1)Jeff M.
We had a great experience! Excellent food, especially the homemade deserts! Superb staff and beautiful atmosphere. We will defiantly be coming back!
(5)Kelly B.
We found Old Fort Pub here on Yelp when looking for a place to celebrate our 20th anniversary while on vacation. What a great find! We had a perfect table overlooking the water at sunset. The service was amazing and the food was excellent. My husband had the grouper special & I had the pork tenderloin. He also had the She Crab soup & loved it. Great place for a special occasion dinner.
(5)Mundi M.
Great historical landmark. Educational with a walk through of an old Union Fort, a Fantastic view of Scull Creek and Captain's Walk for pre- dinner drinks.
(5)David J.
average food at above average prices, portions small, two fillet steaks and salmon all over cooked, service slow. The kitchen clearly cannot handle the volume causing delays and poor quality results
(2)Mike S.
Forget anything you hear about the fru fru restaurant named after a plant that grapes grow on. This is still the leader. An exemplary meal that is not to be missed! I've been coming to Hilton Head for almost 20 years and the Old Fort Pub never disappoints! Lowcountry specialties, great wine list, in a beautiful setting that exemplifies what Hilton Head is all about.
(5)Lauren R.
This is a really good upscale restaurant on the island. You get the whole fine dining experience--good seafood, wonderful views, nice ambiance, and really good service. Food: This was a bit of a mixed lot, unfortunately. First off, I made the biggest mistake of the night by not ordering the she crab soup. It is spicier than normal she crab soup and wonderful. Just heavenly. I could have had that for my meal. However, I only got a few spoonfuls stolen from my boyfriend because I ordered trout. The smoked trout appetizer was really disappointing. It came on sunflower crostini that were really hard and bland, and the middle of the plate was full of greenery garnish (but like 3/4 of a cup full!). I was really confused by the presentation. Somehow the flavors didn't work and I only ate half of it. I had the crawfish cakes for my entree and they were great--really wonderful. They also heated up well the next day. Service: Service was attentive, but the food was really slow coming out. We waited about 45 minutes for our main courses, which was long. All in all a two-course meal took about 2.5 hours, but it was crowded July in the summer season. Atmosphere: This place is great. It is really old for Hilton Head (which means it dates to the 70s). The building looks like its older than that and has a quaint, old timey feel. There are wonderful views over the sound, and you can climb up onto the roof to get great views over the sound and the outdoor part of the restaurant. Also has a good view of the fireworks set off from Hudson's.
(4)Anne-Marie G.
It is not often I write a review this bad. But it WAS this bad. Made a reservation over a week ago for brunch, for my Mom's 80th birthday... With great misgivings, after reading some of the reviews here (but they USED to love it here) ... Misgivings Well founded, as it turns out. Walked in, on time to the moment... As is my older parents wont. I walked ahead of them to remind hostess and manager... Yes yes with a smile... Nice table by the water.... Check. Beautiful view... Check. Weird... And I mean weird... Service from the get-go... Check. There was some discussion about ordering... Mind you, my parents are in their 80's, my son 10... They were hungry. It was quite obvious that the waiter had a system... Drinks, THEN you may order apps, THEN mains... Oh and would you like 'the package?' (Even after I'd chosen 2 apps and premium wine which did not fit the bill... Waiter says: 'I hear it's somebody's birthday!!' 'Oh NOOOOO' we say... Me, with a decided wink... Sense of humor lacking? CHECK. Food... Meh. I ordered deviled ham which came with a 'soft boiled egg'... I don't like eggs runny, so asked for it medium. 'Oh... It comes cold... Not runny...' HUH? A cold soft boiled egg? Turned out to be a cold poached egg... YUK. Everyone else's meal was... Ummm... Ok. We had to ask for everything... Reset of forks for mains, salt, pepper... Etc, etc, ETCETERA!! No-one EVER asked if I would like another (rather expensive) glass of wine... Best of all was... After repeatedly stating this is my mom's 80th, the waiter.... Who I'd describe as nice enough but a bit smarmy... My mom described as 'doing us a favor'... Asks if we'd like dessert... Noooo... So before the check is dropped I pay at entrance... BIRTHDAY? Wait, was it really someone's BIRTHDAY?! Ohhhh... Their 80th, a BIG ONE? WHO KNEW?! (Apparently no-one there) Thank God I know how to bake, so she got a red velvet cake and a sung Happy Bday tonight. Never again.... Do yourself a MAJOR FAVOR if you have something to celebrate on HHI... Call Kelly at The Jazz Corner and do it up right. My final answer re: OFP?!; UGH.
(1)Katie H.
Fantastic setting & service; overwrought, mediocre food. The good: The wait service is absolutely impeccable and the views are stunning. It's a lovely place to watch the sunset over Skull Creek (check out the porch on the upper level). If you do the early dining menu you can sample multiple courses, and by virtue of being there early, you're likely to snag a seat by the windows. The bad: The food. I've been here numerous times over the years and I'm convinced that quality has gone down. The food is truly mediocre and overwrought, but the poor quality is hidden by the fancy menu descriptions and atmosphere. Of the past two times I've been here, one time I got sick from the food and the other time I didn't finish my entree (I almost never get sick from food and I always, always, always finish my meal). Menu advice: Solid choices: She Crab Soup, Key Lime Pie, the truffles that come with your meal. The Beef Tenderloin itself is excellent, however like most of their entrees, it is served alongside very forgettable side dishes. Blah: Their salads (they clearly just open a bag of mixed greens and then throw them on a plate), the chilled grapefruit soup Bad: The Bavarian Creme
(2)Louann B.
This place is a keeper. We had a party of 8 on the deck where we could see the Intracoastal Waterway. The restaurant is surrounded by old oak trees with moss draping beautifully. Our server was excellent. We were outside, but a storm was rolling in. She told us that a storm was expected right after our appetizer and set up a table inside. Our entrees were served inside. She was pro-active and didn't miss a beat. This is the best service I've had on the Island. I had the She Crab soup for an appetizer and it was excellent. For my dinner I had the Wild Atlantic Shrimp & Campanelle Pasta. Now this dish had so much garlic I could taste it the next day. I loved it! The pasta is swimming in tomatoes and tomato sauce. The shrimp is tasty! I highly recommend the Key Lime Pie Martini. It was excellent.
(5)Mike S.
The food is AWESOM they need to add some salt but over all it's a great place to dine
(4)Doni F.
Beautiful location. Staff great. Flavors blend nice, chef must know what he is doing, they got the flavoring and seasoning down. Food can vary in toughness etc., maybe it depends on how busy of a day they're having as to what or how things come out of the kitchen. I'm still debating on this restaurant because they have me confused. Shrug. I'll not give up because people keep telling me it's great. I must be ordering wrong. Calamari tough. Steak tough. Seafood overcooked. Drinks fab etc., I think perhaps, I am choosing the wrong times to book.
(3)Tracey N.
We hadn't been to the Old fort pub for several years and decided to go for brunch. It was as excellent as we remembered. JoAnn, the manager suggested wine for us, and our food was wonderful. I almost forgot what REAL hollandaise tastes like! I Had the quiche, with tasso ham and shrimp, and my husband had the Benedict, with the hollandaise I loved. The portions were large. The view was gorgeous, and our server was the epitome of professional. If you want an elevated dining experience, go there. We intend to frequent it again!
(5)Anthony B.
Came here for dinner. I had the pork loin and my partner had the seafood bouillabaisse both dishes were fantastic. Atmosphere very pleasant and service was great. Would recommend this place to visitors on the island.
(4)Bonnie B.
Thank you Yelp for leading us to this amazing restaurant where the food was not only delicious but the setting & the view was spectacular!!! We sat outside on a lovely deck & watched the sun set thru the Spanish moss hanging on the large oak trees. Service was outstanding. The wine list was incredible and believe me I am picky when it comes to wines! My soft shell crab was the best I've ever had. My boyfriend loved his seafood bouillabaisse ! Bread was warm & crusty, the grilled calamari appetizer was very delicious... I could go on & on! We topped it all off w a slice of pecan pie... You guessed it.... Amazing!!! Cappuccino's also perfect! Yelp continues to consistently get us to exactly what we are looking for!! Bon Appetite!
(5)Lyra B.
Elegant service in a down to earth atmosphere. That outside patio at sunset is really quite romantic. We had the she crab soup, beet salad, salmon and sea island bouillabaisse. Portion sizes were perfect, food was rich in flavor and not too overpowering. Our waiter was attentive yet not hovering over us. We will back to dine at this wonderful establishment and look forward to our next visit!
(5)Neal A.
We have been to Old Fort Pub at least 4 times, on our last 4 annual trips to Hilton Head (skipped the trip last year). It is among the most relaxing dining venues on the island. Compared to say the Boatyard at that end of the island, it has remarkably no-hassle parking and takes reservations, even using Open Table. We also take advantage of the short stroll through the 'Old Fort' after dinner to digest. The 'Old Fort' refers to the remains of some Civil War fortifications next to the restaurant overlooking Skull Creek, and is a bonus for anyone with even a passing interest in the Civil War. Our visit this year was a little below the standards that Old Fort previously set for food. Particularly, my wife was disappointed with the steak special. I tasted it too and agreed it was stale and at least mildly overcooked. Furthermore, she was convinced that the mashed potatoes with it were made from boxed potato flakes. My wife each had a cocktail listed on the menu; although they had a some unique touches and were visually appealing, overall their flavors did not mesh as well we have had on Hilton Head. My daughter had a Caeser salad which was mediocre. She did think that her non-alcoholic Strawberry daiquiri was well made, though. My son had the fish special, he also though it was too dry and overcooked. I have to say I was very happy with my shrimp Bisque and Low Country shellfish cakes, including the side vegetables. So overall, you would more than likely have a good meal here if you stick with the tried and true menu items,,,BUT we're a little concerned that Old Fort is on a downward trajectory.
(4)Tom T.
Went to the OFP for the first time in almost ten years, and we were not disappointed. IMHO, still among the best dining experiences on Hilton Head Island. The food, service and ambiance are all outstanding! The only ever-so-slight criticism I have is that we felt somewhat rushed by our server. Other than that, a very good experience. We'll be back for sure!
(4)Anna T.
We started out at Skull Creek Boathouse, but the wait was about an hour and a half so we came here. It ended up being exactly what we wanted: quiet, romantic (date with my sister), and calm. We needed to unwind after a busy week. My aunt had told us this place has the best She Crab Soup on the island, so of course we had to order it. She didn't steer us wrong, it was delicious! I soaked up every last drop with bread. I'm sad they were out of the Blue Crab Claw Fingers so we will definitely have to return. We split the Sea Island Bouillabaisse and the Key Lime Tart. We were exhausted from wedding planning. Our sister's wedding was the night before and they were happy to split it for us. My sister loved it. She said it was perfect. I didn't like it, but I think I was just in the mood for something else. I prefer more crust on my Key Lime Tart, but the flavor was perfect. I had been craving key lime all week and I finally felt satisfied. We came here too late at night, but I remember this place having an amazing view. I would definitely recommend it if you are in the mood for a romantic sunset dinner. Our bill was lower than they are used to, but never the less the service was still impeccable.
(5)Mary Beth L.
So this restaurant has a great location and great views...these are by far their strongest assets. You can actually enjoy yourself based on these alone but be warned you will pay dearly for them. The prices are ASTRONOMICAL in light of quality. The she crab soup was also very good along with my lemon basil martini. My seafood bouillabaisse was tasty but it seemed more like seafood in a white wine butter sauce rather than a mediteranean stew. I looked forward to the fried squash blossoms which were advertised as being stuffed with lobster. I must have missed the lobster for the overwhelming taste of salmon...really a heavy flavor for a squash blossom. My husband had the stuffed quail which he thought was heavy and tasteless.
(2)Jordan S.
As an avid viewer of the show I am confident that this restaurant should make an appearance on "Restaurant Impossible" if they want to remain relevant. I felt like I entered a nursing home due to the average age of the waitstaff and the average age of the customers, and there were times I thought the waiter might have suffered a heart attack for how long it would take him to come to the table. Some of my issues with the place: how do you not serve sweet tea that deep in the South? Why did my menu look like its been collecting dirt and tears from 1991? How is your signature She-crab soup made of 50% pepper, have no chunks of crab meat, and served in a bowl that was not cleaned off before serving? Is it normal for a waiter to play a bowl of bread onto someone's dinner plate instead of the vast amount of table space available? Why are you modeling a squash blossom appetizer off of a mozzarella stick - I can only assume people order that trying to be somewhat healthy. To top it all off, as I walked out of the restaurant there was a creepy naked BARBIE DOLL laying on the hostess stand. Why is that there? Why? Needless to say I was laughing for a solid 15 minutes at the lunacy of that image and honestly the entire night. Save your chunk of money for chefs that truly care about their food and restauranteurs that are committed to offering a special (and issue-free) experience. Or maybe wait to dine here until after the guy from Restaurant Impossible gets his hands on the place.
(2)Doni F.
Beautiful location. Staff great. Flavors blend nice, chef must know what he is doing, they got the flavoring and seasoning down. Food can vary in toughness etc., maybe it depends on how busy of a day they're having as to what or how things come out of the kitchen. I'm still debating on this restaurant because they have me confused. Shrug. I'll not give up because people keep telling me it's great. I must be ordering wrong. Calamari tough. Steak tough. Seafood overcooked. Drinks fab etc., I think perhaps, I am choosing the wrong times to book.
(3)Adam M.
Service A+. Atmosphere A+. Wine List A. Food, food? What happened to the food? We came here on Mother's Day and were severely disappointed with the food. The food did nothing for any of our palates. It seems as though Old Fort Pub is confused as to whether they are a pub, or a very high end fine dining establishment. All of the dishes were small and tasteless. They try to put twists into simple dishes and wind up just confusing the taste buds. Fire the head chef, and this place will really be something special.
(2)Noah E.
The scenic location is incredible and the restaurant fits perfectly in it. You definitely feel like you are at some special place. We had a great waiter who talked about the entrees, specials, etc. All going well. Then the drinks came. Now, you can say a mojito was a bad order in this kind of restaurant, but it had to be the worst mojito I've had in 5 years. I had one on my Continental flight home just for comparison, and that one was better. The waiter came with a smoked salmon pastry mousse mise en bouche which was fine. I had the butter bibb salad which was incredibly bland and ehhh. Another couple had a fruit soup which was unremarkable. The she crab soup was fine. The only outstanding appetizer was the roasted calamari. A healthy portion and tasty. For the main course, I went with the quail over gumbo. This was by far the best of the entrees, which wasn't saying that much. Next best was the trout. After that, the achiote Mahi Mahi was bland. And their special that day was flounder with stuffed crab. Both people that ordered that probably ate less than 50% of it. You'll rack up a bill of $150 per couple easily. Had we done more drinks/desserts, it will easily go into $200s. For that price, I'd expect more out of the food. I think I should stick with belief that no great chef wants to work at some place where the focus is on the view and not the food.
(2)Paul O.
Excellent food. Great spot for an anniversary dinner. Check out observation deck on third floor either before or after your meal. It's a little bit of a hike up the spiral staircase, but it is a great view. Service very attentive and skilled. She crab soup was very good. The crab cakes and Filet Mignon brought some good twists. Some people don't seem to like the twists, but I thought the twists were tasteful and fit the meal. I would definitely go back again.
(5)Matt S.
Mmm... my mouth is watering just thinking about this place. Over Labor Day, a group of friends and I stopped by Old Fort Pub for one of our final dinners and were treated to WONDERFUL Kansas City cut sirloins--a special that evening. The steaks were more food than any one person should eat, but I couldn't resist. While OFP does a great job with their meat, I would suggest striking up a conversation with any members of their incredibly knowledgeable wait staff to find out what the best thing on the menu is for that evening. In that past we've had wonderful advice steering us towards the bouillabaisse, towards the lamb shank and even a vegetarian risotto. While their salads (had the best beet salad of my LIFE here) and entrees are top notch, they also offer a host of top notch desserts. Chocolate lovers should be sure not to miss the dark chocolate terrine, but for me, their best dessert is the pecan pie a la mode. BUT be sure to swap out the traditional vanilla ice cream for their butter pecan. Perfection.
(5)Rhonda C.
This place was awesome. The view of the sunset was incredible. The lush vegetation and great grounds were fantastic. Our waiter was really great and helpful. The she crab soup is the best I have ever eaten anywhere. The chef later emailed his recipe. If I am ever close again............I won't miss this place. I really enjoyed by wine, diner and food.
(5)Chris F.
For the reviewer harping on the word "pub": Immediately upon arriving, you should realize this isn't a pub. It's clearly out of that league. Old Fort Pub is a magnificent gourmet restaurant with one of the finest settings on the intracoastal waterway. Inside is a country club atmosphere and the gentle service you'd expect with it. And, if you can take your eyes off the sunset, you'll see that the menu is full of fresh local flavors mixed with contemporary American ideas that's nearly impossible to do wrong on. For a charming, relaxing evening, you simply couldn't ask for a finer experience on the island.
(5)Christine C.
Wonderful meal and atmosphere. The pecan pie is incredible!
(5)John S.
Wow, what a view! Had a table at the window with a view of the river at sunset. Very romantic. The beet appetizer was a revelation and the grouper with smoked shrimp and scallops was absolutely delicious. Service was very professional. The combination of great food and the heavenly view can't be topped. Definitely worth an evening when visiting Hilton Head.
(5)Derek C.
The Happy Hour menu is crazy good. The wild mushroom bruschetta is amazing. Had the crab stuffed flounder special for my dinner, it couldn't have been more perfect. Thanks to Dirk for the killer service.
(5)Deborah F.
I have to agree with the reviewers who've given this place high marks for service and ambiance. Both are excellent. But as someone has already asked, "What happened to the food?" We went here at the suggestion of a friend whose parents are locals and who have impeccable taste. I figured we couldn't go wrong. She warned us the prices were high, but it would be worth it. Now I'm wracking my brain trying to figure out how exactly to tell her "no, no it wasn't." Our dinner for two, which included two cocktails, two orders of soup, two glasses of wine and two entrees--no dessert, no coffee was $130. As Seth Myers might ask: "REALLY???!!" Now if the food were impeccable, delicious in every way, and if the drinks were out of this world, OK, fine. I am not averse to spending money on very little food in terms of the quantity, hell, we've spent double that on one dinner for two in Paris during truffle season (but that meal was legendary, if I live that long, I'd have my 50th wedding anniversary in that place--if it's still around), but I *do* get a bit twitchy about spending the equivalent of TWO good meals at our favorite places in Charlotte on food that is only "meh." We had the She Crab soup and Asparagus soups. Portions were tiny for the price, and wildly overwrought in terms of how much cream they both contained relative to FLAVOR. The She-crab was by far the superior of the two, but I've had as-good at Eddie's, which isn't saying much. My husband ordered the pork tenderloin and I the duck cooked two ways. Now maybe I'm being picky, but when I order duck breast, I expect it to be tender, especially when cooked medium. This was as tough as nails and to make matters worse, I was left with a butter knife to cut it. Let me tell you, it's pretty unpleasant sitting in this lovely setting trying to saw your meal into pieces small enough to chew with a butter knife! I would have asked for a sharper one if I could have gotten the server's attention, but in the end, honestly, I was afraid if I called him over, I'd be inclined to tell him how tough the meat was and a whole discussion about *that* would ensue and I didn't want to kill what little buzz I had left over from the abysmally bad cocktail I had managed to down without holding my nose. Speaking of which....My Patron martini was so overly sweet as to be noxious, but I was thirsty and so glad to be out on a date with my husband alone after a week of vacation and fried-food with the kiddos, I just wanted to drink it not critique it right then. So back to my food....Did I mention that the strawberry sauce for the duck was confusing? It sounded good on the menu, but in the end, no, it was just weird. The so-called bulgur pilaf was more like out-of-the-box Near East stuff than homemade, it was so mushy and drowning in sauce, and the overall taste of the dish was nondescript. The wine was fine, nothing to write home about, a Pinot the chef had "paired" with the duck, so I ordered it to see why. I *guess* I see why, but again, it wasn't a stand-out wine or anything. When the waiter asked if we wanted dessert, I barely even bothered looking at the menu. I now read the overly complicated descriptions with skepticism rather than curiosity, wondering how he would manage to mess up chocolate terrine and what was meant by 'infused" so jaded was I by my recent entree experience. So we politely declined and were brought two of the most AWFUL chocolate truffles I've ever put to my lips. I am a chocoholic from waaaaaay back, so you KNOW, if I put something in my mouth and spit it back out before even biting all the way through, it's BAD! My husband had to try just to see what in God's name was wrong with them, he was incredulous. But in about two seconds he did the same (and this is NOT a picky guy). We couldn't tell if it had been frozen, or just incorrectly prepared, but either way, it was ice cold and ROCK hard, and taste completely unsweetened--as if someone melted unsweetened chocolate, formed it into something that looked vaguely like a junior-mint (not completely round like most truffles) and then FROZE. Was this some sort of punishment for refusing to order dessert? We weren't sure, all we know is, we left two almost half-bitten truffles on the doily-covered plate, paid and walked out. We won't be back.
(2)Barry K.
The family went there for my wife's birthday. It was a huge success! Food and service were terrific.
(4)Walter H.
Great food with tables with a view of marina and Skull Creek. I particularly liked their grouper and steak. After dinner, one can walk around historic Ft. Mitchell, a Civil War site. Service is great and the atmosphere is intimate and romantic. They also have early bird specials which provide appetizer, dessert and good value.
(5)Mia B.
I am writing this review while sitting on the deck of The Old Fort Pub after enjoying an excellent meal. First of all, this is by no means a "pub". This is a casual fine dining restaurant. My recommendation would be to come between 4- 5:30 for their early dining menu. It's a 3 course meal for $22.00. Worth EVERY penny, and such a steal considering the price of the regular dinner menu items. It is a smaller menu, but has the chefs selections, and you can pick your selection from about 4 or 5 appetizers, entrees and desserts. The She crab soup was amazing. The bread was served with lavender butter which I loved. We enjoyed the crawfish cakes for our entrees, and home made peanut butter ice-cream for dessert. It seems like many of the entrees have interesting flavor combinations which is something I really enjoy. Whatever you do, come on a good weather evening and SIT ON THE DECK. The view and ambiance are breathtaking. The deck sits on Skull Creek which is stunning at sunset, and you are surrounded by huge oak trees covered in spanish moss. There is a historic garden to walk through after your meal. The inside of the restaurant is cute but slightly dated. The deck is where its at!! We've been to almost every restaurant on the island and somehow never heard of this little gem. So glad We found it, DEF. coming back ! Almost forgot to mention the service, it was top notch - our server was Phili and he was one of the nicest servers I've ever had. Check this place out !
(5)Julie L.
This place was terrible. Old, musty and over priced. They served us brown lemons and lettuce. I said to the waitress that when you pay $9 for a salad it shouldn't have brown lettuce in it. She agreed said she would speak to the manager. Never heard a word from the manager and our waitress didn't come back until it was time for us to leave. The only good thing was the she crab soup.
(1)Dana O.
Everything we ate here was AMAZING, and so was the wine (and I am a picky wine drinker). The views were amazing...we watched dolphins jumping out of the water while the sun set! The outside is historic and surrounded by giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Like others said, this is definitely NOT a pub. This was my favorite restaurant that I dined at, during my Hilton Head stay!
(5)Tim H.
Many restaraunts have come and gone on Hilton head Island but The Old Fort Pub has stood teh test of time. A place you will want to dine at when visiting the island. Out of the high traffic areas. Quaint. truely old south in design. Excellent local fresh seafood. fine Dining. Great crab soup.
(4)David H.
A very enjoyable meal. Well prepared and presented. The server was knowledgeable and helpful. When we made the reservation we were given clear and accurate directions. I nearly forgot to mention the great view!
(5)Miller B.
We have been coming to Hilton Head for 20+ years, and I have eaten at Old Fort Pub more times than I can count. The food and service never cease to impress, but it's the view that exceeds that of any restaurant I have ever been to. Make a reservation right around sunset, and with a dining room looking out over the water, you have a panoramic view of natural beauty. That coupled with the food I've had there makes this place a winner. And the interior of this restaurant is excellent as well; very cozy, dimly lit in the evening, and welcoming. On my most recent visit to The Pub I had the crab claw scampi, that night's special [crab-stuffed flounder], and a blueberry crisp [also a special] for dessert with coffee. Everything was perfect and I will continue to go back on my future visits to Hilton Head. It is fairly expensive and upscale, so September to maybe May or June I would recommend wearing a jacket in the dining room, during the summer business casual will slide, but many still wear a jacket. By the way, they have an outdoor seating area, but don't sit out there. I actually have observed that the view is better inside and you won't have to deal with the SC humidity!
(5)Cathy M.
Absolutely gorgeous setting and very good service. Appetizers of She Crab soup and Calimari, a chicken dish and Seafood boulliabase, a glass of pinot gris, and desserts of pecan pie and key lime tart came to $113, and a trip upstairs to the Widows Walk to enjoy the view ended the evening on a high note.
(3)Tracey N.
We hadn't been to the Old fort pub for several years and decided to go for brunch. It was as excellent as we remembered. JoAnn, the manager suggested wine for us, and our food was wonderful. I almost forgot what REAL hollandaise tastes like! I Had the quiche, with tasso ham and shrimp, and my husband had the Benedict, with the hollandaise I loved. The portions were large. The view was gorgeous, and our server was the epitome of professional. If you want an elevated dining experience, go there. We intend to frequent it again!
(5)Leslie W.
I look forward to coming to the Old Fort Pub every year during our family vacation. It's pricey (average $30 entrees) but I really enjoy the setting and the food as well . The restaurant is in an old house (fort maybe?) and has a beautiful view of the bay side of HHI. There are live oaks dripping with Spanish moss everywhere and a quiet southern charm. If you can, I highly recommend coming at sunset for the view. My experience has always been fresh seafood serve well but maybe a little creatively depending on what the chef has up his sleeve. Attentive staff. Dinner is followed by delicious desserts (bread pudding!) Make reservations! Get dressed up! And enjoy your night!
(5)Mundi M.
Great historical landmark. Educational with a walk through of an old Union Fort, a Fantastic view of Scull Creek and Captain's Walk for pre- dinner drinks.
(5)David J.
average food at above average prices, portions small, two fillet steaks and salmon all over cooked, service slow. The kitchen clearly cannot handle the volume causing delays and poor quality results
(2)Mike S.
Forget anything you hear about the fru fru restaurant named after a plant that grapes grow on. This is still the leader. An exemplary meal that is not to be missed! I've been coming to Hilton Head for almost 20 years and the Old Fort Pub never disappoints! Lowcountry specialties, great wine list, in a beautiful setting that exemplifies what Hilton Head is all about.
(5)Mary Jane K.
This had to have been the worst dining experience I've ever had--anywhere. The waiter was rude to us multiple times and when my husband asked to speak to the manager he started arguing with him and yelling over his request to talk to someone. He even snapped at us for not immediately eating the chef's bite size goat cheese appetizers he brought out to the table. When the manager came over, she never apologized for his extreme rudeness and arrogance. She did send a much nicer female waiter over to the table but then we got to suffer through our meal with the male wait staff and the dismissed waiter glaring at us from the staging area. One of our group even got to hear the dismissed waiter complaining about us to the manager. In retrospect when it became clear that this male waiter was going to treat us like trash, we should have walked out and just paid for our drinks. It was an appalling experience. We have been here many times over the years and have eaten all over the island and have never been treated like we were treated last night. This restaurant won't be in business long if this is how they treat guests who have a lot of choices of great restaurants.
(1)Jeff M.
We had a great experience! Excellent food, especially the homemade deserts! Superb staff and beautiful atmosphere. We will defiantly be coming back!
(5)Kelly B.
We found Old Fort Pub here on Yelp when looking for a place to celebrate our 20th anniversary while on vacation. What a great find! We had a perfect table overlooking the water at sunset. The service was amazing and the food was excellent. My husband had the grouper special & I had the pork tenderloin. He also had the She Crab soup & loved it. Great place for a special occasion dinner.
(5)Lauren R.
This is a really good upscale restaurant on the island. You get the whole fine dining experience--good seafood, wonderful views, nice ambiance, and really good service. Food: This was a bit of a mixed lot, unfortunately. First off, I made the biggest mistake of the night by not ordering the she crab soup. It is spicier than normal she crab soup and wonderful. Just heavenly. I could have had that for my meal. However, I only got a few spoonfuls stolen from my boyfriend because I ordered trout. The smoked trout appetizer was really disappointing. It came on sunflower crostini that were really hard and bland, and the middle of the plate was full of greenery garnish (but like 3/4 of a cup full!). I was really confused by the presentation. Somehow the flavors didn't work and I only ate half of it. I had the crawfish cakes for my entree and they were great--really wonderful. They also heated up well the next day. Service: Service was attentive, but the food was really slow coming out. We waited about 45 minutes for our main courses, which was long. All in all a two-course meal took about 2.5 hours, but it was crowded July in the summer season. Atmosphere: This place is great. It is really old for Hilton Head (which means it dates to the 70s). The building looks like its older than that and has a quaint, old timey feel. There are wonderful views over the sound, and you can climb up onto the roof to get great views over the sound and the outdoor part of the restaurant. Also has a good view of the fireworks set off from Hudson's.
(4)Anne-Marie G.
It is not often I write a review this bad. But it WAS this bad. Made a reservation over a week ago for brunch, for my Mom's 80th birthday... With great misgivings, after reading some of the reviews here (but they USED to love it here) ... Misgivings Well founded, as it turns out. Walked in, on time to the moment... As is my older parents wont. I walked ahead of them to remind hostess and manager... Yes yes with a smile... Nice table by the water.... Check. Beautiful view... Check. Weird... And I mean weird... Service from the get-go... Check. There was some discussion about ordering... Mind you, my parents are in their 80's, my son 10... They were hungry. It was quite obvious that the waiter had a system... Drinks, THEN you may order apps, THEN mains... Oh and would you like 'the package?' (Even after I'd chosen 2 apps and premium wine which did not fit the bill... Waiter says: 'I hear it's somebody's birthday!!' 'Oh NOOOOO' we say... Me, with a decided wink... Sense of humor lacking? CHECK. Food... Meh. I ordered deviled ham which came with a 'soft boiled egg'... I don't like eggs runny, so asked for it medium. 'Oh... It comes cold... Not runny...' HUH? A cold soft boiled egg? Turned out to be a cold poached egg... YUK. Everyone else's meal was... Ummm... Ok. We had to ask for everything... Reset of forks for mains, salt, pepper... Etc, etc, ETCETERA!! No-one EVER asked if I would like another (rather expensive) glass of wine... Best of all was... After repeatedly stating this is my mom's 80th, the waiter.... Who I'd describe as nice enough but a bit smarmy... My mom described as 'doing us a favor'... Asks if we'd like dessert... Noooo... So before the check is dropped I pay at entrance... BIRTHDAY? Wait, was it really someone's BIRTHDAY?! Ohhhh... Their 80th, a BIG ONE? WHO KNEW?! (Apparently no-one there) Thank God I know how to bake, so she got a red velvet cake and a sung Happy Bday tonight. Never again.... Do yourself a MAJOR FAVOR if you have something to celebrate on HHI... Call Kelly at The Jazz Corner and do it up right. My final answer re: OFP?!; UGH.
(1)Katie H.
Fantastic setting & service; overwrought, mediocre food. The good: The wait service is absolutely impeccable and the views are stunning. It's a lovely place to watch the sunset over Skull Creek (check out the porch on the upper level). If you do the early dining menu you can sample multiple courses, and by virtue of being there early, you're likely to snag a seat by the windows. The bad: The food. I've been here numerous times over the years and I'm convinced that quality has gone down. The food is truly mediocre and overwrought, but the poor quality is hidden by the fancy menu descriptions and atmosphere. Of the past two times I've been here, one time I got sick from the food and the other time I didn't finish my entree (I almost never get sick from food and I always, always, always finish my meal). Menu advice: Solid choices: She Crab Soup, Key Lime Pie, the truffles that come with your meal. The Beef Tenderloin itself is excellent, however like most of their entrees, it is served alongside very forgettable side dishes. Blah: Their salads (they clearly just open a bag of mixed greens and then throw them on a plate), the chilled grapefruit soup Bad: The Bavarian Creme
(2)Louann B.
This place is a keeper. We had a party of 8 on the deck where we could see the Intracoastal Waterway. The restaurant is surrounded by old oak trees with moss draping beautifully. Our server was excellent. We were outside, but a storm was rolling in. She told us that a storm was expected right after our appetizer and set up a table inside. Our entrees were served inside. She was pro-active and didn't miss a beat. This is the best service I've had on the Island. I had the She Crab soup for an appetizer and it was excellent. For my dinner I had the Wild Atlantic Shrimp & Campanelle Pasta. Now this dish had so much garlic I could taste it the next day. I loved it! The pasta is swimming in tomatoes and tomato sauce. The shrimp is tasty! I highly recommend the Key Lime Pie Martini. It was excellent.
(5)Mike S.
The food is AWESOM they need to add some salt but over all it's a great place to dine
(4)Keller A.
Dinner on July 9, 2014. Service was great. Beet salad too salty. Shellfish cakes were wonderful! Husband had prime pork tenderloin with polenta - he said it was great. This is a wonderful place to see the sunset. We sat inside because I was worried about bugs, but we did have a window seat - windows are floor to ceiling.
(4)Christine L.
This place is AWESOME! My parents and I always go here for special dinners, whether it's the holidays or someone's b-day. The building is a spectacular old house right on the marsh/river. The food is always perfect, as is the service! The Old Fort Pub always makes you feel special.
(5)Tanner N.
Wife had filet and I had veal. Great view but not worth the price. Service was okay. Got there right at sunset which was cool. Food has average. Plating was great but taste and texture of meat was not there.
(2)Priscilla B.
Had a wonderful dinner! Out of our five adults everyone loved everything! Can't go wrong with the menu and the view was beautiful!
(5)Greg O.
This is a tough review to write. First, the view is great, and atmosphere in the faux-historic building is very welcoming. The service throughout the meal was fantastic. But the food was a disappointment. It wasn't bad in any way, but also not good, and certainly not up to the prices they charge. The cold cucumber dill soup was the highlight of my meal- great flavor and just enough dill to add flavor without overpowering. I wish the rest of the meal had been anywhere close to that. My entree of duck was plain boring- the duck just didn't have any flavor. The cheese grits that came with it were actually fairly tasty, but the field pea & bean cassoulet was terrible. As for dessert, the cherry creme brulee was a disappointment as well. It was good for a creme brulee, but I expected actually cherry flavor, not a couple of random cherries thrown in the bottom of it. Overall a great view and atmosphere and great service, but the food left a lot to be desired.
(2)Linda L.
Our best dining Hilton Head dining experience! We went for my husband's bday and it was a truly memorable experience. Service was excellent. The chocolate raspberry martini was Da Bomb and the hubby says the top-shelf scotch was top-notch. He raved about the she-crab soup and the flat iron steak with collards and swordfish were also perfection. The quail appetizer, salad w poached pears, chocolate truffle dessert and chocolate terrine were all very good. The view from this place is beautiful--try to come just before sunset so you can enjoy the beautiful view of the water at dusk, which becomes majestically lit up at night. And don't forget the historic Old Fort in which it is located...look around at the plaques/walkways if you arrive at daylight.
(5)Brenda S.
The atmosphere seemed a bit dated and run down. The food was just "ok" ...definitely not worth the money. The portion sizes were very small. Had a tiny salad and some ok squash soup. The entree I chose, bouillabaisse...was just blah. Did not taste fresh. The chocolate terrine was a disappointment as well. The service was very slow. For the cost, I would definitely choose another restaurant.
(2)Rhonda C.
The waiter was awesome. Full of information but not too intrusive. The She Crab Soup is the best ever. I had the Lousiana Crabcake with Crawfish. It was excellent., My hubby had the fish special. Our friends had the pasta and prawns. Nothing served was not above a 5 star. I would highly recommend this place for anyone who enjoys great food.
(5)Harold T.
This is such a beautiful setting. Having a wonderful dinner looking over Skull Creek (inter-coastal waterway) as the sun sets in the summer. I live in Hilton Head Plantation and go there every few months. I have never had a bad meal there. The service is always cheerful and the food is elegant. For those that may be vegetarian, not to worry. Although there is nothing shown on the menu, the executive chef makes meals for any type of vegetarian. My wife has been a vegetarian for many years and is always amazed at what the chef can put together. They use local fresh vegetables and fruit when available and the presentation is always appetizing.
(5)Amanda J.
Food - 5 stars. Everything was delicious - seafood, chicken, bread, sides. Nice wine list. View - 5 stars. Right on the water in Hilton Head before sunset ... can't be beat. Service - 2 or 3 stars. From the beginning, the service was odd and not welcoming. The hostess seemed taken back by the fact we had two (well-behaved) kids with us (ages 8 and 5). We stated that we had two children when we made reservations, and they have a kids menu. However, this place is NOT kid friendly. Our waiter seemed wooden, was not willing to accomidate or even listen to any "special" requests (and ours were very simple - like "no salad dressing"). We felt rushed the whole time. They never asked if we wanted refills on our drinks. My husband was able to flag them down for a refill, but I was not able to catch the waiter to get mine. Ambiance - 3 or 4 stars. I agree with previous reviews that this place has an identify crisis. The food and (though unfriendly) service are fine dining. However, the interior of the building was worn and the name "pub" is misleading. Also - I like to dine in quieter places, and do not like loud restaurants. However, this place was too quiet. Voices carried and we did not feel comfortable having a lively conversation. I would go there again for the food and view, but without kids.
(4)Katherine B.
Food great, service great, view great!!! We will be coming here the rest of our lives!!!! Sunday brunch is really fun. It's classy and so great!
(5)Scott S.
Ordered sea food cakes and Scottish salmon. The food was tasty but small portions and pricey. The waitress service was good. It seemed a lot of older couples frequent there. The landscaping outside the restaurant is very nice. Beautiful trees.
(3)Nicole W.
People aren't lying when they say this is one of the best views in Hilton Head. The food was great and the service was excellent. Everything you could want in an upscale restaurant! I suggest starting with a few cocktails at the bar before dinner and then make your way upstairs for the view! Enjoy!
(4)Len L.
This was a fabulous experience last night. Everything about this place was great.. The ambience, Service, Food .. We are on the island for 2 weeks, and this was our 4th dinner at an upscale restaurant .. 2 of the other 3 , were horrible.. WE WILL DEFINATELY RETURN HERE...
(5)e c.
Fabulous service. Fabulous view. Pork tenderloin and Cajun trout good. Dessert was spectacular. Pecan pie and chocolate terrine was simply fab!!! 2 drinks, 2 entrees' 2 desserts. 100+. A splurge but worth it on our last night in HH.
(5)Bj L.
We had dinner at the Old Fort Pub on our last night on Hilton Head Island. The restaurant came highly recommended by several local friends. We were extremely happy with our meals. I don't usually moan when I eat but the Cajun Trout was fabulous. Don't let the Cajun description fool you. It is a little misleading. It was not overly spicy. The chef knows his trade. My wife's grouper was exceptional. She does not normally order grouper but she assumed it would be exceptional here and she was right. All of the other aspects of our meal were way above average. The ambiance, view, service and location are worth the trip. Don't forget to see the observation deck before or after your meal and stroll around the old fort ruins. All aspects of our visit to the Old Fort Pub were memorable.
(5)Tom T.
The Missing Link is the Service. Four of us just had a wonderful dinner at OFP on a rainy Thursday night, with the rain stealing the sunset but providing a dramatic vista from the all-glass room nonetheless. This place is very high on atmosphere and accouterments, in line with its high but in-line prices, and neither the food nor the wine disappointed our very high expectations. The only missing link here was the service, and we note comments echoing our thoughts in older reviews. In a word, it's robotic. The hostess was shoving a napkin and menu into my wife's hands as she was trying to remove her coat, even before she sat down, as though she were in a hurry to return to her post. A waiter interrupted another diner's attempt to load a fork with a bit of her appetizer to lay out the utensils required for the second course, when he could have waited ten seconds or at least offered an apology. There was at least one other occasion when a diner was made to feel he was in the way of the server. The help is efficient and well-trained in how to do what's supposed to be done, but there is no warmth, no appreciation of the fact that diners often like to feel as though there's a little bit of a relationship between them and those serving them, even if only for a couple of hours. When asked to compare of two particular dishes and give some advice, our waiter simply shrugged as though he'd never been asked before - or allowed to try them so he could offer an opinion. Don't pass up the Old Fort Pub because of these comments, just adjust your expectations about the service accordingly; then you won't be disappointed.
(4)Craig T.
Cant agree more this place was more than great. We came early enough to catch the Sunset upstairs on the Balcony which was great. The classic Marsh view with moss laden trees. Then our table downstairs had the same perfect view. Get there early and linger over sunset. The dinner itself was spectacular , small things like the two spears of asparagus cooked to a level of perfection not achieved in many other restaurants. The She carb soup was excellent. The staff were very friendly and we were the last to leave we had a great chat as the evening concluded. "Southern Charm personified" sums this place up. You will enjoy it.
(4)Mike M.
Combine terrific Skull Creek views with great food and you get Old Fort Pub. We went for brunch and they have a great combo deal with appetizer, drink and entree. My kids tried some new things and their breakfast was delicious. My shrimp and grits was a new preparation with a great cake in the center and I loved the texture which gave the dish more body then usual. Highly recommend this place
(5)Bryan B.
Checking in from last week. By far, best best best overall dining experience I have ever had. Beautiful views, positively unbelievable tastes, and good prices. If all that stays the same, we'll be back often!! (Or at least every year while there on vacation)
(5)Tony T.
What a surprise. Fine dining at its best in a unique atmosphere. Get the Pecan Pie for dessert, it's as big as two pieces and authentically Southern. Great service.
(5)Mike M.
Must visit if on HH! A little pricey but well worth it. Service is top notch and everything on the menu is outstanding. Make reservations in high season or forget it.
(5)Kendra H.
We set out to have dinner here without looking up the menu first. We found out very quickly that the word "pub" is definitely misleading at this establishment! Even though we showed up in street wear our experience was a pleasant surprise, and we will be back! The atmosphere of this restaurant is fantastic. What I really enjoyed about the place is that it doesn't actually feel like you're in a restaurant. The wide plank wood floors that have a slight creek to them, the soft lighting, the unobstructed view of the water--indeed, this is a very special and intimate place. I wouldn't recommend the Pub for large groups or for families with younger children. We went with a larger group, and a couple people seemed to have difficulty finding something they wanted to eat because the menu is rather limited. (Personally, I think this is a great thing, but it's not for everyone.) However, this is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. I had the ahi tuna, and it was prepared very nicely. The portion was a bit larger than I could eat, but it was a very nice piece of fish. My husband had the pork, which was falling of the bone, as promised. I kept on stealing his polenta, which was amazing! I wish they offered it as a side you could order. Family members had the shrimp pasta, flat iron steak, and lamb. Everyone seemed very happy with their meals. We were also given the chocolate truffles after dinner. They weren't anything unique or anything that I hadn't had before, but they weren't frozen and they were most definitely edible! I'm excited to return again. This place is a splurge, but well worth the money for a special occasion!
(4)D G.
Great sunset view! I did not realize this was an upscale restaurant. Luckily we were dressed appropriately. They had a price fixe menu & we mussels, salad, filet, quail, & white chocolate mousse (had little flavor) & chocolate cake with peanut butter ice cream ( a little too rich for us). Overall it was just wonderful. They started us out with the best bread & herbed butter, plus 2 salmon mousse tarts & ended with 2 chocolate truffles! How sweet of the chef! Anne Marie was our waitress & she is a doll! Love this place
(5)John B.
It was another wonderful meal. Very good service and food was just exquisie. Definitely a place for anyone that enjoys very good food, ambiance and does not mind paying for it.
(5)Robert O.
We have been dining at the Old Fort Pub each year for the past 10 years. We always save it for a special occassion - this one happened to be my wife's birthday. Overall I agree with most of the other reviewers in that the food is wonderful, the view unmatched, the wait staff helpful and informed. The reason for this three-star rating is the overall "feel" of the place.Perhaps I am getting old (I am 44) but whereas there was once a sense that OFB is a special place it now feels just like every other restaurant on HHI. Gone are the men in sportsjackets and the women in skirts. They have been replaced by jeans and tennis shoes. I suppose my rating is not so much a review of OFB itself but the patrons who are dining here. If I am going to drop $225 for a meal I do not want to consume it surrounded by the same sorts of people who are munching down hush puppies over at Salty Dog. Perhaps it is time to institue a dress code. Nothing extravagant. How about no denim, shorts or tee shirts for men after 6:30PM? Or perhaps there could be a casual dining area and a more formal area?
(3)H P.
A pretty good restaurant, BUT!!! ,where can you pay $3.25 for a cup of coffee ,you guessed it Old Fort Pub. Now I have gone here for years so I would say I know this place quite well .In recent years I have gone here for the Sunday Brunch which is quite good .This year however I ordered the breakfast ,eggs,bacon ,home fries and a few slices of fruit ,also included 2 rolls and 2 scones .With the afore mentioned coffee came to over $30 for two people .For that kind of money I could have eaten breakfast 4 times at most decent restaurants .It is no secret that you could pay $7 for a sandwich at many restaurants ,but add a Coke they tack on $2.50 .Old fort Pub has pushed the envelope to the brink .They are off my list ,and any restaurant that charges over $2 for a soft drink I order water. I don't think there is a restaurant in America that charges $3.25 for coffee ,so in that way Old Fort Pub is unique .Also I would mention that I did not see a coffee price on their menu .
(3)Paul F.
Our dinner was outstanding. This is a fine-dining restaurant with a classically-trained chef, not a steak and potatoes pub. We both ordered fish (one catfish, one trout) and both were cooked to perfection, with rich, flavorful sauces. The asparagus en croute appetizer was small, but had a sublime layering of flavors. The intense dark chocolate dessert would have been enough to justify the trip on its own. Match this with a view of the sunset across the water, and it makes the Old Fort Pub a restaurant we will definitely visit again.
(5)Roy C.
My girlfriend and I had dinner here. I had high hopes for the pub because it was recommended to us. This restaurant is trying to be something it is not. When you have "Pub" in your name you'd expect a comfortable atmosphere, sorry you came to the wrong place. Now to the food, when someone orders a steak, first they expect a steak, not an over-cooked chunk of leather covered with some dry mustard crumble. No mustard crumble was mentioned on the menu. My girlfriend was very disappointed, when she told the waiter, his sarcastic response was, what you want me to do about it? I had the scallops, they were over cooked and rubbery. I think this place is just catering to the tourists without a palate... I'd pass on the pub.
(2)Anthony B.
Came here for dinner. I had the pork loin and my partner had the seafood bouillabaisse both dishes were fantastic. Atmosphere very pleasant and service was great. Would recommend this place to visitors on the island.
(4)Rebecca B.
Contrary to some of the reviewers, we had AMAZING food. We went with a party of 12 for our wedding dinner. Everyone was delighted with their food and the incredible view. I highly recommend for a nice ocassion.
(5)Matars Z.
The special thing about this place is the setting. This is absolutely a magnificent location, with beautiful views on the water, and a quiet ambiance that is just lovely. Thus half the dining experience (atmosphere) is already so good, you may forget the food you are eating is fine cuisine that isn't oh-so-fine. There isn't anything really wrong with the food, but there is absolutely nothing special either. Its just not very memorable and it's a bit overwrought - the chef may benefit from simplifying some things and focusing more on flavor variety. I find it amusing that the waiters go to such trouble to describe the ingredients and preparations, and then you get the dishes which are either under seasoned, or so overwhelmed with sauce that you can't taste the main ingredient. The best thing I had all night was the simple cucumber soup, which reminded of Mediterranean cucumber/yogurt dishes which are always so refreshing. The Wedge salad was no better than what I'd expect at a chain restaurant - nothing exciting about the bacon or blue cheese used here- I expect better ingredients in a restaurant such as this - and this blue cheese was just you garden variety grocery store bulk grade. Truly uninspired. Fellow diners had a variety of mains dishes, all of which I tasted. A criminally overcooked pork chop, dry and uninteresting, a grouper so drowned in bechamel that you might as well not had the fish there, a nice trout that was likely the best dish of the night, but hardly anything warranting a second visit, and my utter boring rack of lamb, which came with what I thought would be a fascinating bean cassoulet -but it had been sweetened so much (honey? brown sugar?) that it really killed any potential it had as an interesting accompanying flavor for the meat. I lost interest in my dish after the second cut, but of course I ate on. I could have better rack of lamb in high-end chains like Houston's - and that's sad. Pecan pie was solid, I've had better. Nothing was reall bad. Nothing was great. I think that because the food was not really bad, even if it was unexciting or in some cases "overexcited" - suffering from poor "creativity" judgements that lost all sense of subtlety - I'd still simply go back to re-experience the beautiful setting. I think the setting is definitely worth the trip to the restaurant, but I don't understand the rave reviews some have given the place for food on other sites. The waiters go on and on about the preparation and its rather sad, what you end up with for all that detail. Still, I'll take solid and OK food in a beautiful location any day over awful and poorly done cuisine. I can also understand why some of the reviewers have complained about the attitude of the wait staff. They definitely have one and its amusing to imagine if its because they think they work at an amazing fine dining establishment. This place would not make it in many a major city. And yes, this may be the best Hilton Head Island has to offer for many - but that is not saying much. I don't believe it anyway - there is better food on Hilton Head Island. Its just hidden in an unexpected spot called Wise Guys. Go there. It has the worst ambiance, but phenomenal cuisine.
(3)