ELA'S On the Water

ELA'S On the Water: seafood and steak cuisine facing Shelter Cove Harbour

ELA'S On the Water is a restaurant located in Shelter Cove Harbour, on Hilton Head Island (South Carolina), known for its waterfront location and a menu focused on fresh seafood and prime cut steaks. The establishment presents itself as an award-winning restaurant and is part of a family group of four locations in the Lowcountry region.

Culinary offering and menus

ELA'S kitchen is based on fresh product selected daily: catch of the day fish and seafood, prime cut steaks, and locally sourced produce. The restaurant serves dinner every day and brunch Sunday through Friday. Among the dishes on its menu are the crab stack, swordfish, steak, roasted Carolina beet napoleon, and low country shrimp & grits. The wine list is extensive, with numerous boutique offerings, and the restaurant allows customers to bring their own bottle.

Spaces and atmosphere

The venue spreads its offering over three levels and provides diverse experiences: casual dining at the bar, romantic dinners on the garden patio, and spaces for special events. All tables have water views. The restaurant's contemporary decor was designed by Erin Wasem, and the artwork decorating the interior belongs to the late local artist Peter Karis. There is live music on weekends.

Private events and catering

ELA'S offers private event and catering services, aimed at receptions, anniversaries, cocktail parties, and private dinners. The restaurant also offers bespoke menus for holidays, seasonal celebrations, and island events.

Accessibility and services for boaters

Docking is free for customers with a reservation at ELA'S; to do so, it is necessary to contact the Harbour Master by radio when approaching Shelter Cove. The restaurant has elevator access to the first-floor dining room and asks customers with difficulty using stairs to indicate this when making their reservation.

Family group and other locations

ELA'S is part of a family group of Lowcountry restaurants, along with The Pearl Kitchen & Bar (Bluffton), Roadhouse Ribs (near Beaufort), and Celeste (north end). All four establishments were developed by Earl "The Pearl" Nightingale. The name ELA'S comes from the initials of his three children: Erin, Lauren, and Alexander. Erin Wasem, interior designer, created the ambiance of the four locations; her husband, musician John Wasem, performs, books music, and selects wines; and Alexander Nightingale is owner and manager of The Pearl, as well as collaborating with Earl in managing the group.

Location and contact

Phone: (843) 785-3030 · Email: elasgrille@elasgrille.com · Hours: Monday to Friday: 11:00-14:00 and 17:00-22:00; Saturday: 17:00-22:00; Sunday: 11:00-14:00 and 17:00-22:00