
Wild Olive Restaurant - Johns Island, SC
A rustic-chic Italian eatery on Johns Island, celebrated for its comforting, artisanal dishes and extensive wine list.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Wild Olive Restaurant - Johns Island, SC

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rustic-chic Italian eatery on Johns Island, celebrated for its comforting, artisanal dishes and extensive wine list.
"The Wild Olive never disappoints; a true hidden gem with delightful food and a welcoming atmosphere."
Book Ahead
Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Don't Skip Appetizers
Portions are generous; consider sharing appetizers to save room for main courses.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Italian
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisanal Italian Cuisine
Rustic-chic Italian eatery serving comforting, approachable, and delicious dishes made with quality ingredients.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Calamari & Octopus
Exceptional appetizers, particularly the calamari with marinara and the charred octopus, are a must-try.

Decadent Homemade Desserts
Indulge in heavenly homemade desserts, with the chocolate cake and cheesecake often cited as unforgettable.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Don't Skip Appetizers
Portions are generous; consider sharing appetizers to save room for main courses.
Try the Specials
Daily specials offer unique culinary experiences and are worth exploring.
Ask for Kim or Karen
Servers like Kim and Karen provide exceptional service, making you feel truly at home.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Don't Skip Appetizers
Portions are generous; consider sharing appetizers to save room for main courses.
Try the Specials
Daily specials offer unique culinary experiences and are worth exploring.
Ask for Kim or Karen
Servers like Kim and Karen provide exceptional service, making you feel truly at home.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wild Olive is celebrated for its comforting and delicious artisanal Italian cuisine, with many praising the melt-in-your-mouth calamari, octopus appetizers, and decadent homemade desserts. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff enhance the dining experience. While generally highly regarded, some diners mention that seating can be tight and reservations are absolutely necessary.
"The Wild Olive never disappoints. Everything's perfect from the moment you walk in the door from the clean environment to the friendly staff and delightful food. A true hidden gem! The Chicken parmesan is always my go to "Happy Food". Their pastry chef always knocks it out of the park with her amazing desserts. I would highly recommend this restaurant."
Adrienne Harvey
"The Wild Olive is easy to miss, but should not be passed up. Everything about the restaurant feels curated and beautiful even the parking lot. The flowers and topiary garden out front let you know that they pay attention to detail even before you take your seat. We waited about 10 minutes for a high top table. Our waiter was an absolute STAR - gave splendid menu advice, drink recommendations, and even provided a list of places to eat the next night. The pasta was perfectly cooked and beef broth was so delicious."
Randal Moss
"A must try restaurant. Fantastic service (Karen).
Pictured here is the Halibut, Ribeye, and Chicken Parmigiana. All fantastic, served hot and perfectly cooked. End w peach pie or blueberry cheesecake cake! The decaf Slow Motion Coffee…excellent.
Reservation a must and necessary weeks out (summer months). Tight seating, that was the only reason for 4 ⭐️ not 5."
james blake
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are highly recommended and often necessary weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Many diners rave about the calamari, octopus appetizers, chicken parmesan, and homemade desserts like the chocolate cake and cheesecake.
Yes, Wild Olive offers full-menu curbside to-go daily from 4 pm - 9 pm.
Yes, there is ample parking available, which is noted as a convenience compared to some downtown Charleston options.
While not explicitly detailed, the restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and pasta dishes, suggesting vegetarian options are available.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
13 Best Restaurants in Charleston
What is it: This cozy Italian eatery has a homey, rustic feel, making it the perfect place for a weeknight get-together with friends, a casual date night or dinner with the whole family. The wine list is extensive and the food menu is so large that you could return here regularly and never eat the same thing twice.Why go: Italian food is pretty universally beloved and Wild Olive serves it in a way that’s comforting, approachable and just darn delicious. The chicken parmesan is not to be overlooked—always perfectly prepared and perpetually a crowd pleaser.Price: Pricey
Best Food in Charleston for Delivery & Takeout: Where to Order From Now
Wild Olive is offering their full menu for curbside to-go on a daily basis from 4 pm - 9 pm, which is a relief for Italian food enthusiasts struggling to make good pasta at home. Enjoy favorites like the suppli al telefono (decadent risotto fritters stuffed with sausage, spinach, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese), marinated olives, chicken parmesan, and their ever-popular housemade ricotta gnocchi that are like little pillows of heaven, if heaven was covered in mozzarella cheese.Cost: $14 for a small order of gnocchi, $21 for a large order; order by phone 843.737.4177
Restaurants in Charleston
What began as a neighborhood Italian joint on Johns Island was soon discovered by downtowners as a reason to drive off the peninsula. Chef Jacques Larson's amalgam of Italian cuisine and Lowcountry seafood is both authentic and inventive, from handmade Granny Smith apple ravioli to local littleneck clams, served with a spicy lemon-caper zupetta. The calm, romantic atmosphere rivals any date night downtown, but unlike anywhere along King Street, there's plenty of parking.
Charleston Restaurant Recommendations - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums
If you want to venture out of downtown, I highly recommend Wild Olive and The Royal Tern on Johns Island. If you make it to the other side of Charleston across the bridge on the Mt Pleasant side, you can find all kinds of restaurants shem creek that have good food, and great views of the water. Red's Ice House is a favorite for beer and oysters.
Best restaurants Lowcountry
The chef-owner, who also received high praise for Wild Olive, has demonstrated considerable range here, refocusing on light and playful plates of fresh veggies, pasta, seafood and unusual ingredients. Raw oysters are flown in from top locales, and vegetarians will leave exuberant.
Apr. 2023 · Pelican's Nest restaurant Johns Island • Pelican's Nest restaurant Johns Island photos • Pelican's Nest restaurant Johns Island location • Pelican's Nest … sydney harbour bridge impact on environment ANGEL OAK RESTAURANT, Johns Island - Tripadvisor https://usarestaurants.info/explore/united-states/south-carolina/charleston-county/johns-island/blue-oyster-720317.htm Menu - Blackbird Market https://www.menupix.com/restaurant-review/380333989/ The Best 10 Restaurants near Hart The Royal Tern menu - Johns Island SC 29455 - (877) 585-1085 MENU Wild Olive Seafood Restaurants in Johns Island - Tripadvisor https://www.tripadvisor.com/RestaurantReview-g54291-d3226944-Reviews-AngelOakRestaurant-JohnsIslandSouthCarolina.html WebEl Mercadito Mexican Restaurant, Johns Island, South Carolina. 584 likes · 1 talking about this · 2,100 were here. Happy Hour Monday-Friday 4-8pm sydney harbour bridge materials used https://www.wildolive.com/ THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Johns Island - Tripadvisor https://usarestaurants.info/explore/united-states/south-carolina/charleston-county/johns-island/pelicans-nest-843-768-1244.htm https://pamharringtonexclusives.com/blog/5-most-unique-johns-island-restaurants-try-soon/ WebRestaurant menu, map for The Royal Tern located in 29455, Johns Island SC, 3005 Maybank Highway.
like shrimp and Spicey dish The Bolognese, if you like meat… it is the … WebBest Restaurants in Johns Island, Charleston, SC 29455 - Minero Johns Island, Tattooed Moose Johns Island, Wild Olive, Blu Oyster, The Royal Tern, The Southern General, Tolli's Trattoria, Simply Seafood, Cabana Burgers & Shakes, Edison James Island Krazy Owls - Johns Island, Johns Island, SC WebWe are YOUR neighborhood bar and grill: serving up good food, good music, good games, and good times!. We are proud locals who are bringing you fresh, Local-Caught Shrimp and Kobe Beef. Join us on our dog-friendly patio with an outdoor bar, and join us to watch the Big Game on our 72˝ outdoor projection screen or one of our many TVs.
MENU Wild Olive WebBest Dining in Johns Island, Coastal South Carolina: See 5,107 Tripadvisor traveler reviews of 63 Johns Island restaurants and search by cuisine, price, location, and more. alawanegaine https://www.tripadvisor.com/RestaurantReview-g54291-d18545894-Reviews-KinFolkChs-JohnsIslandSouthCarolina.html https://www.fujicharleston.com/location/kiawah-island-fuji-charleston/ The 15 Best Restaurants in Johns Island - April 2023 … The Natural - Johns Island, SC KISS Cafe Johns Island, SC 29455 - Menu, 127 Reviews and 50 … Web135 Mcdonald’s jobs available in Johns Island, SC on Indeed.com. Apply to Crew Member, Swing Manager, Maintenance Person and more!.
Dining johns island Wild Olive Restaurant Johns Island Find the best place to eat in Johns Island, winter 2023 - Restaurant … WebTHE NATURAL - 32 Photos & 28 Reviews - 3303 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, South Carolina - Sports Bars - Restaurant Reviews - Phone Number - Yelp Auto Services The Natural 28 reviews Unclaimed $$ Sports Bars, … John Web275 Gardners Circle Johns Island, SC, 29455 (843) 768-0035. email protected(/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection) obgyn lifespan THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Johns Island - Tripadvisor WebFeb 16, 2023 · 3538 Meek's Farm Rd Johns Island, SC 29455.
The Southern General 236 Burgers Sandwiches $$ “Patty's Day to see which local restaurant has the best tasting corned beef and cabbage, … THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Johns Island - Tripadvisor WebWild Olive. The rustic-chic Wild Olive specializes in traditional Italian dishes made with local Lowcountry ingredients. The result is delicious in its simplicity: pastas like ravioli with … The Best 10 Restaurants near Johns Island, Charleston, SC 29455 - Yelp TATTOOED MOOSE - JOHNS ISLAND - Menu, … Johns Island, Charleston 40 restaurants on OpenTable WebWild Olive.
fattura elettronica carburante ip WebBest Restaurants in Johns Island, Charleston, SC 29455 - Minero Johns Island, Tattooed Moose Johns Island, Wild Olive, Blu Oyster, The Royal Tern, The Southern General, … WebTHE 10 BEST Dinner Restaurants in Johns Island (UPDATED 2023) United States South Carolina (SC) Coastal South Carolina Johns Island Johns Island Restaurants Johns Island Dinner Restaurants View map Sort by: Highest Rating We found great results, but some are outside Johns Island. Showing results in neighboring cities. Limit search to Johns Island.
kurkasklep.pl THE 10 BEST Dinner Restaurants in Johns Island … Top 5 Restaurants on Johns Island - Kiawah Island … WebWild Olive. The rustic-chic Wild Olive specializes in traditional Italian dishes made with local Lowcountry ingredients. The result is delicious in its simplicity: pastas like ravioli with … THE 10 BEST Seafood Restaurants in Johns Island … Best Restaurants in Johns Island, SC - Tripadvisor Web4 May 2023 · Educators can get free breakfast entrées from May 8 to May 12.
Best Restaurants on Johns Island for Local Flavors
Wild Olive is a beloved Italian-inspired restaurant nestled along Maybank Highway, celebrated for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and handcrafted dishes. Founded by Chef Jacques Larson, Wild Olive has become a cherished dining spot on Johns Island, seamlessly blending rustic Italian flavors with the finest Lowcountry produce. The restaurant's menu changes seasonally to showcase the freshest ingredients, from homemade pastas to rich, flavorful seafood dishes.
The Best Places to Eat in Charleston — Restaurants and More
Wild Olive is slightly out of town, but I'm convinced it's well worth the 20-minute drive from downtown Charleston. The change of scenery as you head to Johns Island also brings a change in flavors, and if you're looking for the region's best Italian food, I'd argue strongly in favor of Wild Olive. The property is framed by beautiful live oaks, and once inside, you can choose from the lively bar, the social long table, or the quieter front dining room for date night.
From Shrimp & Grits to Craft Brews - Where to Dine on Johns Island SC
Wild Olive Restaurant – The “Little Italy ” of Johns Island, Wild Olive is a critically acclaimed Italian restaurant creating some of the island’s premier Italian food all sourced from local South Carolina farms. It’s highly recommended you make a reservation before arriving as the restaurant is known to be booked all evening. Before dining on what’s sure to be a carb-loaded feast, arrive early to have a happy hour beverage at their neighbor, Low Tide Brewing.
10 of the Absolute Best Italian Restaurants in Charleston
Tucked away in Charleston’s local farming district in Johns Island, Wild Olive delivers simple, seasonal Italian fare in a lively yet relaxed setting. Start with crispy calamari paired with a bright Caesar salad before moving on to ricotta gnocchi blanketed in marinara or bavette pasta tossed with shrimp and blistered chiles. End the night on a sweet note with a slice of pistachio chocolate cake or a hazelnut pie cheesecake.
Tuck in to these star pasta dishes around Charleston this fall
Wild Olive on Johns Island has been pumping out pasta since 2009. Chef and owner Jacques Larson, who took over the restaurant six months after its opening, said two of Wild Olive’s current pastas have withstood the test of time, remaining on the menu since the beginning: the tagliatelle alla Bolognese and the pappardelle with guanciale, which is cured pork jowls or cheek. Guanciale is similar to pancetta, but a bit fattier.
Charleston's Most Romantic Restaurants for Valentine's Day
_**If you’d like a more casual experience that still feels special, there’s no better place than Wild Olive. Yes, you have to make the drive all the way out to Johns Island (the horror!) but it’s worth crossing any number of bridges for their house made pastas and cured meats. Their wine list is hearty, their cocktails are inventive, and their menu spans from classic favorites to adventurous specials.
Charleston's Most Romantic Restaurants for Valentine's Day
If you’d like a more casual experience that still feels special, there’s no better place than Wild Olive. Yes, you have to make the drive all the way out to Johns Island (the horror!), but it’s worth crossing any number of bridges for their house-made pastas and cured meats. Their wine list is hearty, their cocktails are inventive, and their menu spans from classic favorites to adventurous specials.
The Best Italian Restaurants in Charleston
Wild Olive has been among the most popular Italian restaurants in Charleston since 2009. This rustic-chic eatery is known for taking popular Lowcountry dishes and turning them into variations of Italian classics. Not only does Wild Olive use a majority of local produce, but also recycles and composts 85% of its waste, making sustainability just as important as the cuisine.
Where Are the Best Dinner Spots in Charleston, SC?
Address: Wild Olive Restaurant, 2867 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455. For more than a decade, Wild Olive Restaurant has brought fresh and simple Italian fare to the people of Charleston. Located on Johns Island, the chefs focused on creating a menu made from local and sustainable ingredients that highlight the flavors of Italian specialties.
The Ultimate Charleston Travel Guide
Venture outside of downtown Charleston for an Italian feast at Wild Olive. Located on Johns Island and opened in 2009, Wild Olive brings rustic dishes made from local ingredients to the people of Charleston. The menu changes seasonally, but you can rely on fresh pasta and deliciously flavored starters, with well-paired wine selections to boot.
A Local's Guide to Unique Spots
It might be a bit off the beaten path on Johns Island, but it’s a favorite among locals for good reason!. This cozy Italian spot is perfect for date nights or special celebrations, offering a welcoming atmosphere and incredible food. Their handmade pasta is truly to die for—every bite is fresh, flavorful, and crafted with care.
Johns Island: A Guide to the Hidden Gem of South Carolina
Some of the most popular restaurants on Johns Island include Wild Olive, Hege’s, and The Royal Tern. Wild Olive is a cozy Italian restaurant that offers delicious pasta dishes and a great wine selection. Hege’s is a seafood restaurant that serves fresh seafood caught daily and offers a beautiful waterfront view.
Great Valentine's Day Restaurants in Charleston
If Italian is your preference, Wild Olive strives to bring the classical Italian experience to the lowcountry. They offer simple seasonal cuisine reflecting both traditional Italian and local fusion options. Wild Olive prides itself on local ingredients including homemade pasta and home-cured salami.
Things to Do in Johns Island, SC
Wild Olive Restaurant, established in 2009, has been a Certified Green Restaurant since 2013. It serves superb Italian food, prepared by a cadre of professional chefs, and a choice of wines, overseen by a Certified Specialist of Wine. There is more than a hint of the sea in the menu items.
Johns Island Restaurants
A local favorite since 2009, diners appreciate executive Chef Jacque Larson’s celebration of ingredients used in the Italian-inspired menu. Diners enjoy a warm, friendly dining experience. House-made pasta, fresh seafood, and locally sourced produce come together in inspired dishes.
Must Eats in Charleston
What it's known for: Regional Italian dishes sourced from local ingredients make Wild Olive, a comfy restaurant in lush farm country, a must-stop. House-made pasta and house-cured salumi shine here, as does whatever is growing in the fields nearby. Leave room for dessert for sure.
Charleston Restaurant Guide
Wild Olive is a romantic spot and Italian staple for anyone visiting Johns Island. The old-world dining room services classic house-made pasta dishes and entrees like the braised pork shoulder with fingerling potatoes. Keep in mind that Wild Olive is packed on the weekend!
What are your Favorite Restaurants on Johns Island? (Seabrook Island: insurance, house) - Charleston area - South Carolina (SC) -Charleston - North Charleston - Mt. Pleasant - Summerville - Goose Creek
Fat Hen, Wild Olive, Tomato Shed, Angel Oak Restaurant (up on Hwy 17--double check lunch times; I believe they are not open for lunch on Sat), Sunrise Bistro, Hege's, JB's, Crave (has reopened on Bohicket Rd after a fire last summer), Chez Fish--all open.
Italian Restaurant Guide - Italian Restaurants Charleston
Off the peninsula, diners have Al di La, Fabio’s and La Fontana for a casual, family style Italian in West Ashley, the Wild Olive on Johns Island, Bacco for Italian-Southern fusion in Mount Pleasant, and Fratello’s Italian Tavern in North Charleston.
Moving to Charleston, SC? Here Are 14 Things to Know
Savor Italian dishes like Veal Scallopine, Grilled Mountain River Elk Loin, or house-made pasta Lasagna Bianca at Wild Olive Restaurant. Or go on one of the many Charleston culinary tours to find your next favorite lunch spot or sweet treat!
Love Where You Live: Johns Island | Love Where You Live
Wild Olive: Since Johns Island is also known for its farms, it is fitting that this Italian restaurant is located in the heart of it on Maybank Highway. Well-behaved children will love the upscale ambiance, crispy calamari and baked penne.
Johns Island, South Carolina Guide
🍝 Wild Olive | 2867 Maybank Hwy. | Taste Lowcountry in Italian classic dishes like Wild Olive’s house-made pasta + house-cured salumi. This restaurant is farm to table + table to farm. They compost 1,000 pounds of raw material every week.
Johns Island, SC: Escape to Natural Beauty
This outstanding restaurant is one of the city of Charleston’s best-kept culinary secrets. The Wild Olive restaurant serves artisan Italian fare and features a large wine selection. It is known for its friendly and lively atmosphere.
40 Best Restaurants in Charleston, SC for 2025 (Top Eats!)
2867 Maybank HwyJohns Island, SC 29455(843) 737-4177 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Established in 2009, this Italian eatery impresses guests with first-rate wines and seasonal cuisine.
Know Your Charleston Area Neighborhoods: Johns Island
Island eateries The Fat Hen (for French Huguenot cuisine) and Wild Olive (for Italian) are two of Charleston’s top restaurants. Another local favorite is the duck fat fries at the Tattooed Moose.
The 12 Best Gluten-Free Dinner Spots in Johns Island
Incredible food, charming ambiance, and super lovely restaurant!. They waiter was super knowledgeable about gluten free menu options. EVERYTHING we tasted was wow-worthy.
The heart of the internet
Fig, the ordinary, lowland tavern, verns, chubby fish, grace + grits, pages okra grill, Leon’s, loLA, palmira bbq, wild olive, SNOB, honeysuckle rose, bearcat.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit