One of the best parts of any vacation is indulging in the local cuisine and dining at the same restaurants the natives frequent. You get a taste of the area’s favorite dishes, and you can see what it’s like to be a local and meet some incredible people along the way. Luckily, there are plenty of great places to eat near our Jekyll Island vacation homes!
You can find something for every palate here, from seafood to Southern food to global cuisine. But if there’s one common thread between the island’s most popular restaurants, it’s burgers!
While staying in one of our Jekyll Island cottages, indulge in a burger from one of these top eateries.
Driftwood Bistro
Driftwood Bistro has been one of the most popular Jekyll Island restaurants since it opened its doors 12 years ago. The casual atmosphere invites you to come as you are and enjoy a delicious meal with your friends and loved ones. Here, they offer “Southern cuisine with a twist,” which includes fresh-caught seafood and delicious Southern classics. Of course, we’re here to talk about the burgers!
Every burger here contains eight ounces of the best ground beef and is topped with lettuce, sliced tomato, and red onion. You can also add toppings like cheese, bacon, green olives, sauteed mushrooms, and more. Pair with a side of French fries for the perfect lunch or dinner.
Driftwood Bistro is located at 1175 North Beachview Drive, just steps from the water (the view is unmatched!) and near other famous attractions like Driftwood Beach and Horton House.
Beach House
When you step into Beach House, you will surely be impressed by the vibrant colors and fun atmosphere. It’s an upscale yet unintimidating eatery that’s been capturing hearts and appetites for years. Catch the big game, enjoy one of 24 beers on tap, and check out menu options like local seafood, artisan pizzas, and hand-crafted soups and salads.
You won’t be disappointed if it’s a burger you’re after. The sandwiches here are served on a toasted Brioche bun and come with Bay fries. Try their specialty burger, the Taproom Burger, if you want something unique. This 8-oz Angus burger comes with bacon, caramelized onions, a fried egg, and pepper jack cheese. You can also Build Your Own Burger (BYOB)! You’ll get lettuce, tomato, pickle, and red onion, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings.
Beach House is located at 715 North Beachview Drive, sitting right on the shores of the Atlantic. This restaurant is near the Jekyll Island Oceanview Beach Park, Beach Life Massage, and Jekyll Island Fun Tours.
Tortuga Jacks
There’s no better place to experience oceanfront dining than Tortuga Jacks. Labeling itself as the biggest tiki bar on the East Coast, this restaurant offers something for everyone, including live music, a private tequila collection, dog-friendly seating, and more. You’ll find all kinds of Tex-Mex favorites on the menu, including fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and more.
Tortuga Jacks is best known as a Mexican restaurant, so you might not think it’s the place to come for burgers, but you’d be surprised at how delicious and popular their burgers are! The classic burger is customizable with your choice of lettuce, pickles, onions, and cheese. Try the Southwest Chili Queso Burger if you want something more daring. It’s seasoned with Cajun spice and topped with housemade chili, crispy seasoned tortilla strips, and queso cheese.
Visit Tortuga Jacks at 201 North Beachview Drive. Once you’re done eating, visit nearby attractions like Great Dunes Park, the Bald Eagle Nest, and the Mosaic Jekyll Island Museum.
Eighty Ocean Kitchen
Eighty Ocean Kitchen describes itself beautifully: “Where oceanfront and open-air meet Southern coastal fare.” You’ll get a relaxing and welcoming ocean view while enjoying Lowcountry dining. Try an artisanal pizza or fresh seafood while you watch the game at the bar, or feel the ocean breeze from the screened-in porch.
The main burger on the menu here is the ever-popular Short Rib Burger. You’ll get a mouthwatering burger topped with pimento cheese, green leaf lettuce, tomato, shaved red onion, and bread and butter pickles. It’s hard to find a more delicious lunch or dinner! Other popular handheld options include the Shrimp Po’Boy and the Grilled Chicken Club.
You’ll find Eighty Ocean Kitchen inside the Jekyll Ocean Club at 80 Ocean Way. In addition to the beautiful waterfront view, you can enjoy proximity to other attractions like Beachside Bike Rentals and the Jekyll Island Convention Center.
Wee Pub
McGarvey’s Wee Pub is a favorite eatery of guests in our Jekyll Island vacation rentals, and it’s easy to see why. Their menu offers something for everyone, from traditional Irish classics to favorite American fare. You can enjoy live sports on the big screen or live music on select days. The team is incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere invites all guests to come as they are and relax with a fantastic meal.
All burgers are cooked to order to guarantee maximum freshness and flavor. For a classic option, try the Bacon Cheese Burger, which comes with bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickle. The Pub Burger is also popular, featuring American cheese, black and tan onion rings, BBQ sauce, lettuce, tomato, and pickle.
Finally, the Black N Bleu burger is topped with a delicious homemade bleu cheese dressing, blackening seasoning, bacon, and crispy fried onions. If someone in your group has dietary restrictions and can’t indulge in a burger, don’t worry. Wee Pub offers vegetarian and gluten-free menus as well!
Check out Wee Pub at 20 Main Street, Unit 100. While they’re not right on the beach, you don’t have to travel far to get there. You’ll also be near the Jekyll Island Convention Center and Great Dunes Park.
Plan Your Visit!
Are you ready to eat like a true Jekyll Island local? Begin planning your unforgettable Georgia vacation today! Simply view our Jekyll Island cottage rentals, book your favorite, and prepare to vacation in a foodie paradise!
Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint
Last but not least is Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint, which has a unique connection with the area’s musical history. Experience the delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere just moments from the beach. As soon as you walk in, you’ll understand why this restaurant is a local staple!
The menu offers plenty of Southern favorites, like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, ribs, fried chicken, and more. But we’re here to talk about the burgers! The Juke Cheeseburger is the star of the show, featuring a half-pound of fresh ground beef, your choice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion. You’ll get a large serving of steak fries on the side.
Visit Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint at 41 Main Street. Attractions like the beach, Great Dunes Park, and the Jekyll Island Convention Center are just moments away.
During your stay in one of our Jekyll Island or St. Simons Island rentals, be sure to visit at least one of these incredible restaurants. After your meal, head back to our Villas by the Sea or The Cottages at Jekyll Island to relax and unwind or to get ready for a night out on the town. Contact us today to start booking your dream Jekyll Island vacation!
