HUNTER HOUSE Inn - Reviews ~ Tybee Island Georgia

Hunter House offers elegant dining on Tybee
By Richard Allen - Morning News Restaurant Reviewer
Originally published in Diversions - (in the dining out section)

We slipped onto Tybee Island one recent Friday night, for a quite, but delightful dinner at Hunter House.

I got into a bit of trouble a few years back when, in reviewing another island restaurant, I mentioned that fine dining had finally come to Tybee. My error. Hunter House brought elegant dining to the island a long time ago. Sometimes the brain doesn't work like it should.

This bed and breakfast inn is just a few blocks from the beach, so it gets a nice breeze in the evening, much needed when the temperature is as scorching as it's been lately. A few folks were settled on the second floor porch when we arrived and the dining room was pretty busy.

The restaurant stays that way, between tourist and locals, so don't try to get dinner here without a reservation. It just might be a wasted trip.

That regular menu features the usual seafood, chicken or steak entrees, but the specials list, which changes regularly, is worth your attention.

If the seafood bisque ($8) is available, jump on it. The tomato base is accented with basil and cognac, then loaded with the flavor of shrimp, lobster and lump crab meat. It is so substantial and delicious, I could make an entire meal of it. The fresh-baked bread served with dinner was perfect for sopping up whatever my spoon missed.

Fried shrimp, butter flied and served with a robust cocktail sauce, were fresh and perfectly cooked.

A salmon filet ($20), topped with a basil and macadamia pesto, was outstanding. The pesto held its own against the fish, while not overpowering it, and the nuts gave the dish a nice texture. The fish sat on a bed of mashed potatoes (not linguine, as the menu described), with sautéed veggies on the side.

Yellow tailed snapper ($22) was panned fried, then topped with two strips of crisp bacon and a subtle mint sauce. Fried green tomatoes, black beans and white rice finished the superb dish.

Desserts ($6.50) included a chocolate swirl cheesecake and tart key lime pie. Both delicious.

Service is attentive and prompt, without being rushed. Our waitress was enthusiastic about the food, and rightfully so, but not pushy about it.

Wine, beer and mixed drinks are available. Just remember, you have to drive Highway 80 home.
Don't overdo it.

Dinner for two without wine: $55-$85 Ambience: B+ Service: A Food: A