Hooray for Hollywood Dining: Six Restaurants Worth a Stop

Travelers tooling down SC Highway 162 through the rural crossroads village of Hollywood aren’t looking for glamour and bright lights. They are likely on their way to the shores of Edisto Island to enjoy the serenity of the beach and the pleasures of dining on fresh SC seafood.

While the “We’re the Real Hollywood” signs will certainly evoke a good-natured chuckle from passersby, when it comes to good eats, this tiny Tinseltown namesake is no laughing matter.

If you find yourself hungry and within the vicinity—or if you just want to sample some starring dishes—make a pit stop at one of these locally famous restaurants. 

Easton Barbecue Co.

6270 SC Highway 162
(843) 620-8952

Joel Easton was mentored by pitmaster Elliott Moss at Asheville's acclaimed barbecue house, Buxton Hall. The storied BBQ joint is no more, but you can still indulge in all that rich Carolina barbecue heritage at Easton Barbecue Co.

It is a true Hollywood gem owned and operated by Easton, who is now a pitmaster in his own right. 

Pizza A Modo Mio and Cafe

6231 SC Highway 162
(843) 889-3333

Hollywood meets the Big Apple at Pizza a Modo Mio, where magic issues from its ovens in the form of New York-style pies. Because the dough comes straight from NYC, this is as close to the real deal as it gets in these parts.  Get a whole pie or order by the slice. 

Pane e Vino

6350 SC Highway 162
(843) 564-1765

Before opening its doors in Hollywood, Pane e Vino enjoyed a long run in downtown Charleston. Now, its legion of fans gladly traverses the extra 21 miles to get their pasta fix inside a cozy, upscale renovated fire station.

Chef Alfredo Temelini has continued his tradition of serving fine Italian cuisine without missing a beat. Dinner is served Wednesday through Saturday, with brick oven pizza offered on Tuesday and Friday. Reservations are strongly suggested, as is the tiramisu.

Pier 162 Bistro and Seafood Market

6281 SC Highway 162
(843) 564-1735

Fresh, local fish and seafood are the specialty of the house at this unassuming market and bistro called Pier 162. Fried seafood baskets are a favorite as are daily soul food specials like oxtails with rice, rich ham-studded butterbeans, pork chops, turkey wings and more.

House of Flavor

6278 SC Highway 162
(843) 620-8147

Casual eats and tons of good taste - literally - that's what you'll find at the aptly named House of Flavor. From seafood platters to sandwiches and wings to tantalizing hibachi-style lamb and beef to luscious pasta dishes, your tastebuds are in for a savory surprise.

Starring Nearby
Venture just a little farther to check out one more restaurant worthy of applause:

Roxbury Mercantile

4398 Highway 174, Meggett
(843) 889-0044

Just a short drive from Hollywood along SC 174 toward Edisto, you’ll find this historic dining gem that most recently housed Captain Jimmy Bell’s seafood cafe.

Renovated and named for the general store that burned down after serving the area for six decades, Roxbury Mercantile is infused with Southern charm and a Lowcountry menu worthy of a place in local culinary lore.

The outdoor areas are designed for socializing, with a fire pit, joggling boards and rockers on the homey front porch, a small stage for live entertainment, and a prettily landscaped patio with plenty of tables for diners.