Rice is an overlooked culinary component, often viewed as a necessary, but not particularly flavourful, staple to a meal. It’s a supporting cast member to the star on the plate, the designated driver of all things delicious.

But then there’s Carolina Gold rice – a product so sought after in the 18th and most of the 19th Centuries, both in North America and in Europe, that it made the Lowcountry and Charleston, South Carolina, one of the richest areas in the United States for a time. In the mid-18th century in Bluffton, rice fields sprawled throughout much of the forested land south of the May River, as the grain became the South Carolina colony’s most lucrative crop.

There’s nothing more relaxing than a day on the water with friends and family. But after a fun time on your boat, it’s time to unwind and grab a bite to eat. We’ve compiled a guide to many dock-and-dine locations in the Lowcountry. Tie up and enjoy a meal.

BRITISH FARE ON HILTON HEAD

British Open Pub is your window into “across the pond” featuring authentic English food and plenty of golf pics, art and memorabilia to ogle at while you are there. The British Open Pub puts forth outstanding Englishstyle fish and chips and other English fare as well as American specialties from the Prestwick Table, setting this place apart from anywhere in the Lowcountry.

FRESH LOCAL SEAFOOD | IN-HOUSE BUTCHERING

This family-oriented spot has room for more than 150 guests in its various dining rooms and bar area. Great for large parties and kids. The “go to” place for Pittsburgh Steelers’ fans on game day, decorated with the team’s memorabilia collected by owners Josh and Katie who have owned the restaurant for the past 15 years. The parking lot must be entered at 9 Park Lane, behind the building. Listen what a fan said about Nick’s on their Facebook page-

LOCAL | FRESH | FAMILY | FRIENDS | FUN

Truffles has been one of Hilton Head’s most popular family-owned restaurants for over 33 years. Located in Sea Pines Center on the south end of the island, here you will find a diverse menu featuring incredible soups, salads and sandwiches. Truffles is especially known for their signature pot pie, steaks and seafood. Their extensive wine list and full bar offers complements to every dish. Don’t skip the bread! The butter that comes with the bread will keep you coming back again and again.

COOL DOWN WITH THESE REFRESHING COCKTAILS

NORTHERN ITALIAN-INSPIRED CUISINE AND PIZZA

Dining at Il Carpaccio on Hilton Head Island can feel like stepping into a storied and elegant past, an experience that goes beyond the menu. Starting with the antipasti and continuing through the zuppe, pasta, carne or pesce, each dish here is made from scratch with the freshest available ingredients.

AUTHENTIC SOUTHWESTERN

Santa Fe Café is the only place on Hilton Head Island to find authentic Southwestern cuisine, and nothing is more representative of this favorite locals’ eatery than a bowl of painted desert soup.