What’s New in Isle of Palms Dining: Winter 2026 Update.

Earlier this year we put together our complete guide to every restaurant on Isle of Palms. A lot can happen on a small island in a few months, so here's what's new on the IOP dining scene, plus our tips for eating well during the quieter (and, honestly, delicious) winter season.

What's New on the Island

Now Open: Heavy's Barburger

1012 Ocean Blvd | Tuesday – Sunday | Closed Mondays

The "coming soon" sign from our last guide is officially gone. Charleston's favorite smash burger spot has opened its third location on Front Beach, in the former Papi's Taqueria space, and it's only a short stroll from the sand. Expect the same menu fans love downtown and on Daniel Island: smash burgers, crinkle-cut fries, colossal onion rings, wings and frozen drinks, all with a fun, retro vibe. It's walk-in only, so no reservations needed. Just come in sandy and hungry. Check current hours at Heavy's Barburger.

Coming Soon: Ben & Jerry's Returns

Ocean Park Plaza | 1400 Palm Blvd

After closing its Ocean Boulevard shop in 2022, Ben & Jerry's is making its way back to the island with a brand-new, larger scoop shop in Ocean Park Plaza, run by the same local franchise owner as the original. Look for hand-scooped ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, cookies and non-dairy options. No opening date has been announced yet, so keep an eye on Ben & Jerry's Isle of Palms for updates.

Dining on IOP in the Off-Season

Winter is one of the best times to eat your way around Isle of Palms. There are shorter waits, easier parking, and it's prime season for local oysters. A few tips to make the most of it:

Check hours before you go

Some island favorites are seasonal or shorten their hours in the cooler months. Beachfront spots like Coconut Joe's and treat shops like Shaka Shack are especially worth checking ahead. A quick look at a restaurant's website or social media can save you a trip.

It's oyster season

Cooler months mean Lowcountry oysters are at their best. Belly up to the raw bar at Islander 71 on the Intracoastal Waterway or Long Island Cafe, and don't miss the Thursday oyster roasts at The Dinghy, a local tradition from November through March.

Year-round favorites you can count on

For a reliable breakfast, Sea Biscuit Cafe (cash and checks only) and Acme Lowcountry Kitchen are island institutions, and The Refuge and The Co-OP are perfect for coffee and a bite before a winter beach walk. When you want something warm and casual after a day out, grab a seat at The Windjammer, IOPizza Co. or the new Heavy's. Find addresses and details for all of them in our full IOP dining guide.

Holiday Dinners & Special Occasions

Spending Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year's on the island? Many restaurants run special holiday hours or close on the holidays themselves, so call ahead and book early for any sit-down dinner.

For a celebration meal, our top picks are The Boathouse at Breach Inlet for sunset views where the waterway meets the ocean, Coda del Pesce for Italian-inspired seafood with Atlantic views, and Coastal Provisions at Wild Dunes Resort for refined, relaxed resort dining. All three are just as perfect for a Valentine's dinner, so if you're planning a February getaway, reserve your table when you book your stay.

Or bring the feast home

One of the best parts of a vacation rental is a full kitchen and a big table. Cook your family's holiday traditions your way, pick up fresh local seafood for an at-home oyster roast, or grab wine and snacks from Hudson's Market at Wild Dunes. Need a hand stocking up before you arrive? Ask us about our concierge services.