From waterfront patios to tucked-away courtyards, discover the best spots to soak up sunshine and savor every bite.
One of the best parts of being in Charleston, SC is the year-round warm weather that makes you want to dine outside. Beyond those warm summer days, you may be wanting to soak up some sunshine, feel the sea breeze or dine with your dog. With our 11 cafes and restaurants around The Village, there’s no shortage of outdoor dining options (most are dog friendly!). Take a tour with us, from casual to fine dining, explore some of our favorite al fresco dining options here on Kiawah Island.
Café Eugenia
Café Eugenia brings a fresh, European-inspired flair to your outdoor dining experience, keeping it effortless with casual seating overlooking the lake. Start your day with avocado toast and a lavender latte, or swing by for a midday break with a glass of wine and a seasonal salad or tasty sandwich. Leashed dogs are welcome to dine with you outside, and umbrellas offer shade in the afternoon sun.
Cantina 76
For bold flavors and breezy vibes, Cantina 76 delivers. This Mexican-inspired taqueria is known for its creative cocktails and handcrafted tacos, all served up on a spacious, dog-friendly corner patio at the south end of The Village. Several umbrella-covered tables offer welcome shade, making it an ideal spot for sipping a jalapeño margarita and snacking on house-made guacamole. With its lively atmosphere and inviting outdoor setup, it’s a favorite for casual get-togethers and sunset happy hours.
Harvest
Tucked along a quiet brick alley just off The Village Green, Harvest offers outdoor seating perfect for a peaceful, open-air meal. Known for its seasonal ingredients and nourishing dishes, it’s a great spot to enjoy a wholesome bite in a charming, tucked-away setting. Whether you’re grabbing lunch after a class or meeting a friend for a mindful meal, the alley seating provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen
At the center of The Village, right across from The Village Green, sip and savor al fresco at FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen. Their shaded, dog-friendly patio features a mix of high-top and low-top tables, offering a variety of seating options for any group. Whether you’re sampling charcuterie or indulging in a full dinner, the peaceful outdoor setup combines a refined atmosphere with relaxed charm. Inside, guests can browse from over 40 wines by the glass via self-serve dispensers, then return to the patio to enjoy their picks under the trees or umbrellas.
Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill
Craving fresh sushi with a side of sunshine? Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill offers casual outdoor dining with views of the lake. Tucked in a quiet corner of The Village, this dog-friendly patio is perfect for everything from date night to lunch with friends. Enjoy the breeze while dining al fresco, with the option to sit in the sun or relax under an umbrella. It’s also a favorite for happy hour, with scenic views that make every visit feel like a getaway.
Hege’s
For a classic French dining experience with Lowcountry flair, Hege’s offers elegant outdoor seating in the heart of The Village. Their patio sits in the beloved courtyard, adored by co-owner and general manager Scott Hudson himself, and is just right for enjoying steak frites, mussels in white wine sauce or one of their thoughtfully crafted seasonal specials. Twinkling lights, a relaxing fountain, add a glass of wine and you’ve got the makings of a perfect evening under the stars! Pro Tip: There’s only a limited number of outdoor seats so come early or make your reservation ahead of time!
La Tela Pizzeria
Wood-fired pizza, a robust wine list and a tucked-away patio. That’s the La Tela trifecta! This Italian trattoria invites guests to dine outside just steps from the open kitchen, where the aromas are as satisfying as the flavors. Whether you’re splitting a Margherita pie or enjoying a glass of Chianti, the cozy outdoor space makes every bite feel like a mini vacation.
The Co-Op
Famous for its frosé and playful menu, The Co-Op brings beach-town charm to The Village. The outdoor tables are perfect for any time of day, from brunch to a post-bike ride snack. Think pimento cheese sandwiches, breakfast burritos and a frozen drink in hand, all with the breeze rolling through.
No matter your taste or time of day, dining outside at Freshfields Village makes every meal a little more memorable. With so many options just steps from shopping, live music and family-friendly events, it’s easy to turn an ordinary outing into something special. You can always make your own outdoor dining space by grabbing a meal to go and enjoying a picnic on The Village Green. So grab a seat outside, raise a glass and enjoy the flavors of The Village, served with a side of sunshine.
Snapping a photo of your outdoor spread or that golden-hour toast? Tag us on Instagram. We’d love to see how you’re dining al fresco at Freshfields Village!
