Hungry surfers and beachgoers have long known where to find the freshest and fastest food on Hilton Head Island, packing their picnic baskets at Stu’s Surfside Subs. The smallest restaurant in town, located on Lagoon Rd., near Coligny Plaza, has been serving up big taste for the past six years. Riding a wave inland to a second location, Stu’s is now open at Port Royal Plaza on Mathews Dr.

Known for their fresh bread, made daily on the premises, the eight-inch subs are the tastiest around. The menu features twenty sandwich varieties as well as the option to design your own.

My personal favorite is The Islander, piled high with smoked turkey, topped with bacon and provolone cheese and served with Stu’s homemade Parmesan-peppercorn mayonnaise. Being a dessert lover, I like to top it all off with one of Stu’s homemade white chocolate macadamia nut cookies.

If you go to the tiny beach location, plan to take it and go. The new north end location has a little more seating room if you prefer to dine in, but expect it to be crowded at the noon to one rush hour. I personally prefer the drive through service at the north end location. (Stop by and pick up a menu to keep in your car.) The trick is to call ahead so that your order is ready when you drive through.

Stu’s is open for lunch only, Monday-Saturday. Coligny location, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., (843) 686-SURF (7873). Port Royal Plaza location, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., (843) 681-SURF (7873).

Island Girl

Hilton Head Restaurants~Stu’s Surfside Subs