ELA'S On the Water

4.7

6891 Reviews

$30 and under

Seafood

Make a reservation

2 people

Feb 17, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 43 times today

Good for special occasions
Great for scenic views
Great for outdoor dining

Featured in Bon Appetit and the winner of numerous Open Table awards, ELA'S On the Water is a shining star on the Hilton Head scene. Fresh catch seafood and prime cut steaks of the highest quality, artfully prepared by our culinary team of experts, compliment the extensive boutique wine selection. Located at Shelter Cove Harbour overlooking the marina and Broad Creek, ELA'S is known for the best water views on the island. A casual intimate interior, wrap around dining patio exterior, and nightly entertainment provided by local recording artists sets the perfect dining experience or location to host special events, private parties, or rehearsal dinners.

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Seafood, Steak, Wine Bar
Hours of operation
Brunch Sun 11:00 am–2:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
Phone number
(843) 785-3030
Website
http://www.elasgrille.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Smart Casual
Catering
Second Level private dining for Wedding & Private events for up to 80pp Penthouse VIP Dining Room available for parties up to 20pp
Private party facilities
Best Water View Dining on Hilton HeadSecond Level private dining for Wedding & Private events for up to 80ppPenthouse VIP Dining Room available for parties up to 20pp

Location
One Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Neighborhood
Hilton Head Island
Parking details
Enter Shelter Cove Harbour and follow Shelter Cove Lane to the private parking for guests. OMNI RESORT / MARRIOTT RESORT / WESTIN RESORT offer free shuttles to ELA'S For directions call our concierge at 843-785-3030
Public transit
OMNI RESORT / MARRIOTT RESORT / WESTIN RESORT offer free shuttles to ELA'S Palmetto Dunes - DunesBuggy - free shuttle to ELA's
Entertainment
Original Artist Productions, Classic Rock, Island Music John Wasem every Thursday & Friday from 7 - 11pmReid Richmond every Saturday from 7 - 11pmBill Peterson every Sunday 11 - 2pmDean St. Hillaire every Sunday 7 - 10pm
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

100 South Carolina Restaurants to Love This Valentine's Day

Tuna Two Ways$16.00
Blackened w/ Wasame Salad & Tuna Pineapple w/ Ginger Tartare & Wontons
Mama's Fried Green Tomatoes$10.00
Light & Crispy w/ a Touch Of Creole Sauce. A Family Tradition
Lobster Nachos$13.00
Crispy Tortilla, Fresh Pico De Gallo, Crème Fraiche, Queso Fresco, Creamy Avocado
Charcuterie$24.00
A Rustic Display of Gourmet Cheeses & Assorted Meats, Nuts, Fresh Fruit, & Housemade Crostini For Two
Ela's Crab Stack$16.00
Jumbo Lump Crab, Avocado, Mango, Onion, Cucumber, Peppers
Oysters Rockefeller$14.00
Spinach, Bacon, Parmesan, & Herb Bread Crumbs
Ela's Calamari$13.00
Lightly Battered and Served w/ Wasabi & Spicy Remoulade
Roasted Carolina Beet Napoleon$10.00
Red & Gold beets w/ Lightly Fried Herb & Panko Encrusted Goat Cheese
Beef Carpaccio$13.00
Shaved Tenderloin & Pecorino w/ Baby Arugula, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, & Balsamic Reduction
Hand Selected Oysters
Fresh Oysters w/ ELA'S Cocktail Sauce & Horseradish. Available in doz / half doz
- Market Price
Tomato Basil Mussels$14.00
Fresh Tomatoes, Basil, Prince Edward Island Mussels
Honey Lime Shrimp$14.00
Lightly Fried & Tossed w/ Honey Lime Sriracha Aioli

Ela's Classics

Ahi Tuna Tartare$16.00
Marinated Ahi Tuna, Fresh Cucumber, Avocado Salad, Pickled Ginger
Classic Shrimp Cocktail$16.00
Southern Poached Shrimp, w/ ELA'S Cocktail Sauce

Ela's Crab Cakes

Ela's Crab Cakes
ELA's Crab Cakes Feature a Blend of Chef's Coastal Culinary Influence and the Nightingale Family's Southern Roots. A Plentiful Portion of Jumbo Lump Crab Meat is Hand Folded with ELA'S Southern Style Family Ingredients, Then Moderately Seasoned & Pan Seared Crisp. Offered as Both an Appetizer to Enhance Your Meal or as an Entree
- App$14.00
- Entree$32.00

Soups & Salads

Maine Lobster Bisque$11.00
Hand Crafted & Slow Cooked Daily
Seafood Gumbo$12.00
Traditional Creole Spices & Fresh Seafood
Kumato Caprese Salad$11.00
Fresh Mozzarella, Locally Sourced Kumato Tomatoes, Fresh Basil, White Balsamic Glaze, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Pear Arugula Salad$11.00
Fresh Arugula w/ Pears, Wensleydale Cranberry Cheese, & Almonds Finished w/ a Pomegranate Acai Dressing
Ela's Caesar$10.00
Romaine Stalk w/ Traditional Caesar Dressing & Grana Padano
Steakhouse Wedge Salad$10.00
Roma Crunch, Creamy Blue Cheese, Bacon, Tomatoes, & Red Onions

Sides

Ela's Truffle Fries$10.00
Hand Cut Steak Fries$8.00
Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes$8.00
Seasonal Local Vegetables$8.00
Fresh Asparagus$8.00
Sauteed Wild Mushrooms$8.00
Wild Mushroom Risotto$12.00
Crab Risotto$14.00
Citrus Lobster Risotto$14.00

By Land

Grilled Pork Chop$36.00
Bone-In Pork Chop Over White Truffle Risotto, w/ Asparagus, & Cabernet Demi Glace
Veal Osso Bucco Ravioli$30.00
Saffron Infused Pasta w/ Sauteed Spinach in a White Wine Demi-Glace, Grilled Pears, & Shaved Parmesan Cheese
Vegetarian Pasta Primavera$28.00
Bucatini w/ Basil Pesto and Fresh Vegetables
Malbec Braised Short Rib$32.00
Slow Roasted Daily w/ Aged Stone Ground Grits & Redeye Gravy w/ Grilled Asparagus
Surf & Turf$52.00
Grilled Organic Brasstown Ribeye and Maine Lobster Tail Served w/ Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes & Broccolini
Linz Filet Mignon$44.00
Over Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes w/ Blistered Tomatoes & Spinach
Brasstown New York Strip$40.00
Grassfed Organic NY Strip Served w/ Seasonal Vegetables and Crispy Onion Straws
Linz Black Angus Bone In Ribeye$50.00
Served w/ Wild Mushrooms, Steak Fries, Finished w/ Herb Butter

Preparation Options

Grilled
Blackened
Coffee Rubbed
Peppercorn Encrusted
Pittsburgh

Steak Enhancements

Add 4 Jumbo Shrimp$12.00
Add Crab Cake$14.00
Add 6oz Lobster Tail$18.00
Add Bearnaise$4.00
Add Black Truffle Cabernet Demi Glace$6.00

By Sea

Pan Seared Diver Scallops$36.00
Over Crab Risotto w/ Truffle Butter & Crispy Pancetta
Crispy Diamond Scored Flounder$32.00
Lightly Fried Locally-Sourced Fresh Whole Flounder Over Sienna Rice Medley and Local Baby Vegetables w/ a Sweet Thai Chili Glaze
Seafood Scampi Bucatini$34.00
Mussels, Shrimp, Scallops, in a White Wine Scampi Sauce Over Bucatini Pasta
Pan Seared Grouper$35.00
Lobster Butter, Sienna Rice Medley, & Local Baby Vegetables
Blackened Yellowfin Tuna$34.00
Blackened & Served Rare w/ an Asian-Inspired Slaw w/ a Peanut* Ginger Dressing and Seaweed Salad & Finished w/ a Soy Ginger Sauce and Wasabi Aioli
Steamed Lobster$40.00
Split Whole Lobster Tail and De-Shelled Claws Over Citrus Lobster Risotto
Low Country Shrimp & Grits$30.00
Local Stone Ground Grits & Smoked Gouda w/ Jumbo Shrimp Sauteed in Tasso Ham Gravy
Ela's Crab Cakes$32.00
Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes w/ Shallot Butter, Served w/ Sienna Rice Medley and Grilled Local Baby Vegetables
Salmon Rockefeller$34.00
Pan Seared Atlantic Salmon Stuffed w/ Spinach, Bacon, & Parmesan/ Topped w/ Jumbo Lump Crab & Served w/ Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus

What 6,891 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.8Service
4.7Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

South Carolina
Great for scenic views
South Carolina
Seafood
Hilton Head
Great for outdoor dining
Hilton Head
Romantic
Hilton Head
Great for scenic views
Hilton Head
Seafood
Hilton Head
Most Booked

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

ELA'S On the Water offers a delightful dining experience with "outstanding service," "beautiful views," and "amazing food." Known for its fresh seafood and elegant ambiance, guests enjoy exceptional menu selections like the "filet mignon" and "scallops." The restaurant consistently impresses with its "wonderful dining experience" and scenic waterfront location.

6,891 Reviews

D
DArryl
Unspecified
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
My wife and I attended Sunday brunch, and we had a great experience overall. The staff was very complimentary and welcoming. The food was excellently prepared; however, my wife's meal had a minor issue, but the general manager compensated for it. While the wait time for the food was somewhat long, our waitress, Flo, was attentive and friendly, which made the experience more enjoyable. Will definitely attend again.
Is this helpful?
D
DeeAnna
VIP
Charleston
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Food, service, and ambiance were perfect. Special birthday celebration.
Is this helpful?
M
Marise
Atlanta
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
It was my wifes first dinner date of 2025 .I must say that its a hidden jem. We cant wait to return with better weather & during the daytime...so that we can see the view.
Is this helpful?
D
Dempsey
Charleston
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
ELA’S On the Water was the perfect spot for our Valentine’s Day dinner. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was elegant yet relaxed, with stunning waterfront views that made the evening feel extra special. The service was impeccable—attentive without being intrusive—and every course was beautifully presented. We started with a delicious appetizer, followed by perfectly cooked entrées that showcased fresh, high-quality ingredients. The flavors were outstanding, and the wine selection complemented our meal perfectly. To top it off, dessert was an absolute treat. The ambiance, food, and service all combined to create an unforgettable night. Whether for a romantic evening or a special celebration, ELA’S is a must-visit. We’ll definitely be returning!
Is this helpful?
M
Michele
Pittsburgh
10 reviews
5.0
10 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had a beautiful view of the water for our valentines dinner. The food and service were outstanding. One of our favorite places to dine when we visit Hilton Head
Is this helpful?
C
Chuck
San Francisco
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
A wonderful Valentine's dinner with my wife and brother and sister in law. We had the short ribs. Surf and turf. Lobster Ravioli. All excellently prepared. The fried green tomato apps were very meaty and delicious. It's about our 5th time eating here in the past 2 years. Never disappointed.!
Is this helpful?
A
Angela
Coastal Georgia
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great food and service. Beautiful view. We went for Valentines Day. Lots of locals there so I knew it was gonna be great!
Is this helpful?
L
Lesa
VIP
Cincinnati
17 reviews
5.0
17 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We all had a great time at Ela’s. All of us had a wonderful meal! Also great service
Is this helpful?
J
John
VIP
Cleveland
28 reviews
5.0
28 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great place. Special occasion place for us. Our server, Vanessa, was excellent.
Is this helpful?
m
mark
Greater Boston
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great food great service. Our server Kumar was wonderful. Thanks for a great experience all around
Is this helpful?

FAQs

ELA'S On the Water offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (843) 785-3030.

ELA'S On the Water is rated 4.7 stars by 6891 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

Feb 17, 2025

7:00 PM

Booked 43 times today

Order delivery or takeout

One Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Additional information

Neighborhood
Hilton Head Island
Hours of operation
Brunch Sun 11:00 am–2:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Seafood, Steak, Wine Bar
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Smart Casual
Parking details
Enter Shelter Cove Harbour and follow Shelter Cove Lane to the private parking for guests. OMNI RESORT / MARRIOTT RESORT / WESTIN RESORT offer free shuttles to ELA'S For directions call our concierge at 843-785-3030
Public transit
OMNI RESORT / MARRIOTT RESORT / WESTIN RESORT offer free shuttles to ELA'S Palmetto Dunes - DunesBuggy - free shuttle to ELA's
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Entertainment
Original Artist Productions, Classic Rock, Island Music John Wasem every Thursday & Friday from 7 - 11pmReid Richmond every Saturday from 7 - 11pmBill Peterson every Sunday 11 - 2pmDean St. Hillaire every Sunday 7 - 10pm
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.elasgrille.com/
Phone number
(843) 785-3030
Catering
Second Level private dining for Wedding & Private events for up to 80pp Penthouse VIP Dining Room available for parties up to 20pp
Private party facilities
Best Water View Dining on Hilton HeadSecond Level private dining for Wedding & Private events for up to 80ppPenthouse VIP Dining Room available for parties up to 20pp

Featured in

100 South Carolina Restaurants to Love This Valentine's Day

ELA'S On the Water

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

100 South Carolina Restaurants to Love This Valentine's Day

Appetizers

Tuna Two Ways$16.00

Mama's Fried Green Tomatoes$10.00

Lobster Nachos$13.00

Charcuterie$24.00

Ela's Crab Stack$16.00

Oysters Rockefeller$14.00

Ela's Calamari$13.00

Roasted Carolina Beet Napoleon$10.00

Beef Carpaccio$13.00

Hand Selected Oysters

Tomato Basil Mussels$14.00

Honey Lime Shrimp$14.00

Ela's Classics

Ahi Tuna Tartare$16.00

Classic Shrimp Cocktail$16.00

Ela's Crab Cakes

Ela's Crab Cakes

Soups & Salads

Maine Lobster Bisque$11.00

Seafood Gumbo$12.00

Kumato Caprese Salad$11.00

Pear Arugula Salad$11.00

Ela's Caesar$10.00

Steakhouse Wedge Salad$10.00

Sides

Ela's Truffle Fries$10.00

Hand Cut Steak Fries$8.00

Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes$8.00

Seasonal Local Vegetables$8.00

Fresh Asparagus$8.00

Sauteed Wild Mushrooms$8.00

Wild Mushroom Risotto$12.00

Crab Risotto$14.00

Citrus Lobster Risotto$14.00

By Land

Grilled Pork Chop$36.00

Veal Osso Bucco Ravioli$30.00

Vegetarian Pasta Primavera$28.00

Malbec Braised Short Rib$32.00

Surf & Turf$52.00

Linz Filet Mignon$44.00

Brasstown New York Strip$40.00

Linz Black Angus Bone In Ribeye$50.00

Preparation Options

Grilled

Blackened

Coffee Rubbed

Peppercorn Encrusted

Pittsburgh

Steak Enhancements

Add 4 Jumbo Shrimp$12.00

Add Crab Cake$14.00

Add 6oz Lobster Tail$18.00

Add Bearnaise$4.00

Add Black Truffle Cabernet Demi Glace$6.00

By Sea

Pan Seared Diver Scallops$36.00

Crispy Diamond Scored Flounder$32.00

Seafood Scampi Bucatini$34.00

Pan Seared Grouper$35.00

Blackened Yellowfin Tuna$34.00

Steamed Lobster$40.00

Low Country Shrimp & Grits$30.00

Ela's Crab Cakes$32.00

Salmon Rockefeller$34.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Review summary

FAQs

Does ELA'S On the Water offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is ELA'S On the Water restaurant rated?

Is ELA'S On the Water currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout