Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte, which means Charlie’s Green Star, is a cottage-style French bistro at 8 New Orleans Road on the south end. Charlie Golson, a Savannah native who fell for French cooking in Paris, opened it as a one-room bistro, and it has grown since. The kitchen is now led by Chef Joe Galluzzi, who joined in 2019 as sous chef. The idea is still fresh local seafood cooked with a French, Lowcountry touch.

What to Order at Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte

The menu is written by hand every day around whatever fish came in, and the list of fresh fish is long, often a dozen or more. Reviewers name the swordfish, halibut, blackened snapper, parmesan crusted cod and duck, plus the escargot and the goat cheese starter. The she crab soup gets its own praise. Filet mignon and rack of lamb are there for anyone who does not want fish. Save room for dessert: the trifle, berry cobbler and creme caramel come up again and again. The wine list is a big part of the place, and on Monday nights the restaurant advertises half off full bottles under $100.

Reservations, Hours and Service

You can reserve online through OpenTable or by calling (843) 785-9277, and reviewers who booked ahead were seated promptly. Charlie’s serves lunch Monday to Friday and dinner Monday to Saturday, and it is closed on Sunday. The dining rooms are small and can be lively, so ask for a quieter table if you want to talk. Reviewers consistently single out the servers as attentive and knowledgeable, and prices are called fair for the quality and portions. Curbside pickup is offered if you would rather eat at your rental.

Getting There

Charlie’s is at 8 New Orleans Road, a short drive from the south-end beaches. For more places to eat, see the Hilton Head restaurants page or the dining guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte take reservations?

Yes. You can book online through OpenTable or call (843) 785-9277. Booking ahead is a good idea at dinner in season.

What kind of food does Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte serve?

Fresh local seafood with a French and Lowcountry touch. The menu is hand written every day around the fish available, with meat dishes such as filet mignon and rack of lamb as well.

Is Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte open for lunch?

Yes, Monday through Friday. Dinner is served Monday through Saturday, and the restaurant is closed on Sunday.

What does Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte mean?

It is French for Charlie’s Green Star, the name the founder gave the original one-room bistro.

Local guides like this come standard for Guests of Partner Properties — one small part of what a Partner Property gives every guest.

Book Partner Properties