Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana

While seafood restaurants abound on HHI, when you're craving international flavors, visit Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana. Aside from its renowned Italian cuisine, it also features a cafe for a more laid-back dining experience and a cooking school! But first, let's explore the background of this eatery. 

Tony Fazzini and his wife, Becky, opened Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana in January 2002. The restaurant's name is a tribute to Tony's father, Michael Anthony Fazzini, and his grandfather, Miguel Antonio Fazzini.

What sets Michael Anthony's apart is its focus on the Fazzini family's Italian roots in Philadelphia. The restaurant showcases Philly recipes, flavors, and entrees alongside Lowcountry seafood and ingredients. 

In 2013, Michael Anthony's expanded and shifted to a larger spot within Orleans Plaza. The extra space enhanced the fine-dining experience while enabling them to open a casual cafe-style ambiance at The Market Cafe. 

The new facility also enabled the family-owned restaurant to offer a cooking school. Whether you sign up for demo, hands-on, or private classes, you'll walk away with recipes, insights, and honed skills to craft Italian cuisine at home. 

On the menu, you'll discover Italy's diverse culinary traditions, handmade pastas, and high-quality meats and local seafood. Wine lovers appreciate the award-winning wine program, 

So, grab lunch at The Market after a morning at Coligny Beach Park, or dine in elegance at sunset in the main dining room. Both locations offer authentic Italian cuisine that will have you coming back for more. 

Vibe

While the Orleans Plaza's facade blends with its surroundings, it's not the look you'd expect for a world-class restaurant. But don't be fooled by the drabness; the best awaits inside. 

The interior's atmosphere uses rich wood accents, soft lighting, and tables dressed for an elegant evening. While upscale, it's not pretentious; instead, it exudes the elegance of a home. 

The Market Cafe, on the other hand, resembles something you'd see in New York or Philadelphia. Here, red-and-white checkerboard tablecloths dot the tables, while the refrigerated section of the market is in the background. Stacked wine barrels comprise one wall, while limestone accents and archways give the room an earthy feel. 

With two distinctly different dining areas, Michael Anthony's caters to all vacationers in South Carolina. From a romantic dinner to a casual meal after exploring the Coastal Discovery Museum, you'll find it all here. 

Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana: Menu & Drinks

With two restaurants in one building and multiple menus, we can't list all of the standouts. Instead, we'll highlight top picks from Michael Anthony's and The Market Cafe. 

Begin your dinner with an appetizer like the Carpaccio di Manzo. This starter features thinly sliced raw Wagyu beef dressed with arugula, aioli, and shaved Parmigiano. 

For the main course, a vegetarian wonder is the Ravioli ai Funghi. This elegant dish features handmade gourmet mushroom ravioli in a gorgonzola cream sauce, a touch of demi-glace, and is garnished with gourmet mushrooms. 

Savor fresh-caught seafood with the Spaghetti con Gamberi e Capesante al Viareggio. Featuring shrimp and bay scallops sautéed in white wine, garlic, and fresh cherry tomatoes, it comes with arugula, a touch of butter, and house-made spaghetti.

The Market Cafe has lunch, dinner, and happy hour menus, making this spot very versatile. From small bites like veal, pork, and beef meatballs to hearty salads, classic entrees, and pizzas, there's something for every palate and budget. 

The Family-Style meals are delicious deals when you prefer to dine in your Hilton Head rental. Whether you order the small (serves 5-9) or the large (serves 10-15), you'll dine on appetizers, salads, entrees, side dishes, and desserts.

Regarding drinks, Michael Anthony's has earned awards for its wine list, featuring Italian and local bottles that pair beautifully with the food. The full bar lets mixologists create craft cocktails and classic martinis, prepared to your liking.  

Dining at Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana or the Market Cafe will enhance your stay on Hilton Head Island. From white-linen-covered tables to a family-friendly cafe, it truly offers everything.