Quarterdeck — Restaurant in Hilton Head Island

We did not have the best dining experience here tonight. I had previously visited with a client and had a wonderful time, so we were looking forward to returning. Unfortunately, this visit was quite disappointing.

A quick PSA to the ladies: do not get dressed up for this restaurant unless you confirm your seating location in advance. We spent an hour getting ready—blow-drying and curling our hair—only to arrive and find that our table was outside. In the July heat. humidity and sun. There was no indication during the reservation process that this would be outdoor seating, and after spending the day in the sun, it’s certainly not what we would have chosen. We honestly didn't even consider that they would have put us there. Of course, we did ask to move, and we were told that they did not have any availability- despite seeing plenty of indoor tables.

We considered leaving, but we were already dressed and doubted we’d find another reservation on such short notice. At this point, we had already driven half an hour to get there, park, etc .This really should have been clearly disclosed when booking. Within ten minutes, our hair and appearance were ruined. It’s frustrating to spend time getting ready and trying to look nice only to be seated outside to melt. Our table had no umbrella either.

As for the food, it was okay—nothing exceptional. The outdoor seating also meant we were upstairs from live music on the lower level, which made conversation difficult.

The real issue, however, came with the bill. For a party of two—one salmon entrée and one chicken Alfredo—the server accidentally charged us $366!!! I had to go inside and track him down to point out the error, as he had already run my credit card. I asked for documentation of the charge reversal, but he said he couldn’t provide anything. I then asked to speak with the manager, who came over some time later and also stated that no confirmation of the reversal could be given—assuring us instead that it “should” drop off in a few days. That was hardly reassuring, and I had to ask for his name and contact information in case this doesn't drop off.

And what was offered to make up for this inconvenience? Nothing. Usually, if our restaurant leaves you The sun for 20 minutes while they fix their mistake, something should be done. Instead, the choice was made to do nothing.No complimentary appetizer, no discount—nothing at all. This was a major missed opportunity for service recovery. Mistakes happen, but after being seated in the July heat, dealing with a billing error That now I have to spend 20 minutes sitting outside to fix, and having to chase down both the server and manager, something should have been offered.

They may not be going out of business anytime soon, but they do need to get their processes in order. At a minimum, reservations should clearly state if the table is outdoors—or guests should be given the option to choose. Being surprised with an outdoor table in the summer heat is not the experience anyone wants when they’re dressed for a nice evening out.

Definitely not a...

Rileigh was our server and she was so sweet! This review is NOT for Rileigh, but for management. We visited this location on April 5, 2025 on a Bachelorette/Birthday Trip (Table for 8). Instantly when we were seated it was EXTREMELY cold to the point of misery. We were seated towards the back of the restaurant near the bar & directly next to the register. Rileigh tried her best to fix the cold issue and communicated it to the manager. I was seated next to the register, where two employees (one was a black male with a beard & the other was a black women with wavy like long hair.. both had accents) were standing, and asked them, “Is it normally this cold in here?” The employees looked directly at me, laughed & returned to what they were doing on the register. There was some sort of smart remark made in response to my question. Rileigh stated that she spoke with a manger and they were going to adjust and turn the fan off. We sat for another 25 minutes with the freezing cold air continuously blowing directly on us, people at our table even walked outside due to the condition. We asked to speak with a manager with hopes to allow them to feel how cold it was in our area. The manager happened to be the same employee who laughed in our faces previously. She walked over and told us the air was no longer set to 69 & that they bumped it to 73. My friend was explaining to her that it was still freezing. The MANAGER followed back with, “How are you telling me you’re cold, but you look sweaty?” (to which she was not, her skin was very moisturized due to her skin care routine, but regardless). This was so rude, unprofessional, & embarrassing as it was heard by the entire table! That is no way to speak to a customer or anyone in general! My friend voiced to the waitress (Rileigh) how rude the Manager was. Magically after the interaction with the Manager the cold air finally turned off. The Manager returned later and gave a “Sorry if you felt I offended you” apology that was pretty half a*s. I would NOT recommend this place based on management alone. There are establishments that offer comfort, friendly, and excellent customer service. We were looking forward to this place all weekend, such a bad experience. I called the restaurant to request the name of the manager, was told her...

Pros: Beautiful atmosphere and décor

Great drinks at the bar, with attentive bartenders

A few genuinely kind and attentive servers who should be the standard for our waiter to follow

Cons: The hostess was unwelcoming, barely made eye contact, and seemed bothered by every guest she interacted with.

Despite making a reservation three days in advance and requesting indoor seating, we were placed outside upon arrival. When we reminded her that we requested indoors, the hostess told us it would be at least a 20-minute wait, without an apology or even a courteous “thank you for your patience.”

When we were finally seated, the first table offered was inside their private room, where a large party of 20+ guests was dining. It was so uncomfortable and awkward, we asked for anything else (picture opening big double doors and 20 people turning toward you, like..."who are you?!"). The next table was by the kitchen and serving area, in addition to a door constantly opening and closing by customers. Our waiter there was kind and attentive.

Unfortunately, a glass was accidentally dropped near our table, and shards hit my leg, cutting it. Accidents happen, but the lack of concern from the manager or staff was disappointing—no one came to check if I was okay. A small gesture of care would have gone a long way.

We moved one table over (further from the chaos). Unfortunately, the new server lacked engagement. He didn’t share the specials, barely interacted with us, and came across as indifferent. We overheard another table expressing the same frustration.

While the appetizers were quite good, the entrées were just average. We would've ordered dessert, but waiter, as he was walking by, dropped dessert menu on table and kept walking.

This is a busy tourist area with limited options for waterfront dining, so perhaps there’s less emphasis placed on service because of the high volume of visitors. Still, I believe good service should matter everywhere—especially at a restaurant in such a beautiful setting with so much potential. The atmosphere and drinks remain excellent, but the attentiveness at the hostess stand, management’s presence, and consistency among servers need improvement. We’ve had wonderful experiences here before, and I truly hope these areas can be...