Roy's Grille in Beaufort: Low-Country Barbecue and Seafood

What Roy's Grille serves and where to find it

Roy's Grille sits on Lady's Island in Beaufort, a few minutes from downtown, and serves barbecue alongside fresh seafood and Lowcountry classics. The restaurant focuses on smoked meats—pulled pork, brisket, ribs—cooked in-house, paired with sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread. The space is casual and family-friendly, with a straightforward counter-service setup that keeps the pace moving during lunch and dinner rushes.

The menu reflects the Beaufort area's dual identity: inland barbecue tradition meets coastal seafood. You'll find shrimp and fish prepared simply—fried, grilled, or steamed—alongside the smoked proteins. Portions are generous, and prices sit in the moderate range for the region. Roy's does not take reservations, so expect to order at the counter and find a seat in the dining room or on the patio when weather permits.

Key Takeaways

• Roy's Grille serves smoked barbecue and fresh Lowcountry seafood in a casual, counter-service format on Lady's Island near Beaufort.
• The barbecue is cooked in-house daily, with pulled pork, brisket, and ribs as the main proteins, supported by traditional sides.
• Seating is first-come, first-served with no reservations, so arriving during off-peak hours (mid-afternoon or early evening) reduces wait time.
• The restaurant is family-friendly and walkable from nearby hotels and attractions, making it a practical stop during a Beaufort visit.

The barbecue and how it's prepared

Roy's smokes meat on-site using traditional methods that take hours. The pulled pork comes tender and pulls apart easily, with a light smoke ring and seasoning that lets the meat flavor come through. Brisket is sliced thick and holds its shape without drying out. Ribs are meaty and fall cleanly from the bone. The restaurant does not publish exact cooking times or wood types, but the consistency across visits suggests a disciplined process.

Sauce is available on the side—a thin, tangy vinegar-based style typical of the Carolinas—but the meat stands on its own without it. Sides matter here: the collard greens are cooked with a savory depth, mac and cheese is creamy without being heavy, and cornbread is buttered and slightly sweet. Baked beans round out the plate. Most people order a meat plate with two or three sides, which fills a standard tray.

Seafood and Lowcountry sides

The seafood menu changes based on what's available locally and what the kitchen has on hand that day. Fried shrimp comes in a basket with hushpuppies and coleslaw. Grilled fish—usually flounder, grouper, or seasonal catch—is simply seasoned and served with lemon. Steamed shrimp by the pound is a casual option for eating at the counter or taking back to your hotel. Prices for seafood plates are comparable to the barbecue, making it easy to mix and match if you're dining with others.

The Lowcountry sides extend beyond what comes with the meat plates. Shrimp and grits appears on some menus as a special. Fried okra, mac and cheese, and sweet potato fries are available as add-ons. The kitchen keeps portions realistic—you can order a light meal or load up a tray depending on appetite. Iced tea and soft drinks are standard; beer is not served.

When to visit and what to expect

Lunch runs from around 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the heaviest crowds between noon and 1 p.m. Dinner service typically starts at 5 p.m. and runs until 8 or 9 p.m., with a slower period around 5:30 to 6 p.m. Weekends draw more families and tourists, especially Saturday lunch. If you want to avoid a line, aim for mid-afternoon or the first hour after dinner opens.

The dining room is air-conditioned and casual—no tablecloths, no dress code. Outdoor seating is available weather permitting. Service moves quickly once you order; most people have food in hand within 10 to 15 minutes. The restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Cash and card are both accepted. Parking is available in a small lot adjacent to the building.

Location and nearby attractions

Roy's Grille is located on Lady's Island, accessible via SC-21 from downtown Beaufort. The drive from downtown is about five minutes. Several hotels and vacation rentals are within a short drive, making it convenient for visitors staying in the area. The restaurant sits near other casual dining and shopping, so you can combine a meal with browsing nearby shops or running errands.

Beaufort itself is worth exploring before or after eating. The historic downtown waterfront is about 10 minutes away by car and features the Beaufort Arsenal, art galleries, and smaller restaurants. Hunting Island State Park is 15 minutes south and offers beach access, a historic lighthouse, and nature trails. If you're in the area for a day trip or longer stay, Roy's fits naturally into a Beaufort itinerary as a practical, satisfying meal.

Dietary considerations and menu flexibility

The kitchen can accommodate some dietary requests within reason. Vegetable sides are available as standalone orders, so vegetarians can build a meal from collard greens, mac and cheese, baked beans, and cornbread. Gluten-free options are limited—cornbread contains wheat, and most sides are prepared in shared kitchens—so those with celiac disease should ask staff about preparation before ordering.

Portions are large enough that one plate often serves two people with lighter appetites. The restaurant does not offer a kids' menu, but smaller portions can be requested, and most children eat comfortably from a half-order of pulled pork with one or two sides. Takeout is available and works well for hotel meals or picnics at nearby parks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

No. Roy's Grille operates on a first-come, first-served basis with counter service. You order at the counter, pay, and find a seat. During peak lunch hours (noon to 1 p.m.), you may wait 10 to 20 minutes, but the line moves steadily.

What are the hours?

Roy's is typically open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. to 8 or 9 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Hours can shift seasonally, so calling ahead or checking online before a visit is wise. The restaurant is closed Sundays and Mondays.

Can I get takeout?

Yes. Takeout orders are handled at the same counter as dine-in orders. Most people order and pick up within 15 minutes. Containers are sturdy enough for transport, and the food travels well, especially the barbecue.

Is there parking?

Yes, there is a small lot adjacent to the building. Parking is free and usually available, though it can fill during peak lunch hours. Street parking is also available nearby if the lot is full.

What's the price range?

Barbecue plates with two sides typically run $12 to $16. Seafood plates are in a similar range. Sides alone cost $3 to $5. A meal for one person usually costs $15 to $20 before tax and tip.