Nestled in the heart of Johns Island at 3338 Maybank Highway, Lost Isle isn’t just another restaurant; it’s an experience. Forget choosing between indoor or outdoor seating – at Lost Isle Johns Island, every table is perfectly positioned under the open sky. Adjacent to the well-known Tattooed Moose on Maybank Highway, this charming white building might initially appear to be a quaint home, but step around back and you’ll be greeted by a captivating al fresco dining area. Imagine dining beneath sparkling chandeliers gracefully suspended from majestic live oak trees, all while the enticing aromas from the wood-fired kitchen waft through the air. This is Lost Isle Johns Island.
This unique culinary venture is the brainchild of restaurateur T.J. Lynch, known for the popular Folly Beach bar Lowlife (106 E. Hudson Avenue), in collaboration with entrepreneur Thomas Wilson and the talented chef Josh Taylor, formerly of Root Note Food. Lynch perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, stating, “Imagine if you had roommates and one was a chef and was a bartender, and you threw a dinner party in your backyard — it’s like that.” Lost Isle Johns Island aims to recreate that relaxed, convivial backyard dinner party vibe, but with expertly crafted dishes and drinks.
The heart of Lost Isle’s menu is undoubtedly its live fire cooking. Chef Josh Taylor draws inspiration from global culinary traditions that celebrate the art of open-flame cooking, citing influences from Argentina to Southeast Asia. The menu is designed to be both intriguing and satisfying. Diners can look forward to tantalizing dishes such as grilled shrimp paired with harissa cauliflower puree and the satisfying crunch of crispy chorizo. Another highlight is the charcoal chicken, glazed with a tamarind chili and complemented by a refreshing lemongrass salsa verde. Even vegetable dishes are elevated, like the roasted carrots served in a rich brown butter hazelnut sauce. However, one dish that has quickly become a menu standout is the curry braised collard greens. Inspired by a trip to Thailand, Taylor reimagines Southern greens with a flavorful khao soi broth, adding bread crumbs for a delightful textural contrast.
Wilson highlights the menu’s versatility, explaining, “The menu goes from smaller to mid-size to larger plates to shareable plates. It is really flexible, and I suggest that tables order plates to share. Everyone will have something to choose from.” This encourages a communal dining experience, perfect for sharing and exploring the diverse flavors Lost Isle Johns Island has to offer.
The beverage selection at Lost Isle is as thoughtfully curated as the food menu. Lynch emphasizes their approach to drinks: “We tend to try not to take ourselves too seriously. We wanted the drinks to be tasty, fun, and accessible — not too pretentious or complex. We hope you’ll have a good time and not have to worry so much about what’s in the glass.” Lost Isle boasts a variety of beers, cocktails, and wines, all conveniently available on tap from the outdoor bar, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Lost Isle Johns Island is now officially open and welcomes guests daily from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. For a sneak peek at their menu and to prepare your palate for a delightful outdoor dining experience, you can view a sample menu here. Discover your new favorite outdoor dining spot at Lost Isle Johns Island – where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a magical atmosphere await.
