Taste Spring 2011 by Taste of Hilton Head

A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 3

CONTENTS Spring Issue • 2011 FEATURES

12 24 40 44 54 60 64 66

The Sage Room Local. Sustainable. Successful. (By Choice…). Panera Bread Company An Everyday Oasis.

Hilton Head Hospitality Profile Lauren Toombs of Captain Woody’s.

The Heritage Golf Tournament A Local Food & Beverage Windfall. Wingfest 16 Hilton Head’s largest one day event.

Hilton Head Island Wine and Food Festival A Mega-Event Sporting Mega-Volunteers. In the Kitchen With Franz Auer at the Old Oyster Factory. Lavon Stevens Musician of Many Genres.

Tobacco Road The Island's most complete Smoke Shop!

IN EVERY ISSUE 6

Publisherʼs Note

A Taste Of Dinner

A Taste Of Lunch

A Taste Of Island Recipes

A Taste Of Breakfast/Brunch

A Taste Of Nightlife/Lounges

A Taste Of Entertainment/Services

Advertising Directory/Map

PUBLISHERS NOTE

With the arrival of spring every year, comes the arrival of the tourist season and a welcome influx of diners eager to try our great restaurants. Most people think of dining out as a luxury or a convenience. Here on Hilton Head, however, it is so much more. Restaurants are an integral part of our economy, providing an abundance of jobs and an infusion of cash that is redistributed to other local businesses. Quite simply, it is an industry that is responsible for circulating millions of dollars. Also an integral part of our local economy, the Heritage Golf Classic has become another welcome rite of spring to all aspects of our Island community. It would be fair to say that the golf tournament has possibly been the most important aspect in the Island’s growth since the first Heritage over 40 years ago. The numbers are staggering when you look at how many dollars the tournament is responsible for bringing into the local economy, not to mention the secondary effect it has on local businesses. For some of these numbers, you can check out pages 40-43, but I think to really get a realistic view, try and imagine the third week in April without the tournament. I have and it’s is not a pretty view. There is no foreseeable way the Island could replace the dollars, not to mention the national exposure that we welcome every April. So while the Heritage means a week long party to some, to so many others it is a way of life, a means to pay the rent, an avenue that brings business to their door not only for one week, but year-round. With the future of the Heritage on the line, it is essential that you, our locals and faithful visitors, do all you can to support the tournament. The more corporate sponsorships, weekly packages, and daily passes sold, the more attractive the tournament looks to major sponsors, which is precisely what we need to host this great tournament for another forty years. As people think of dining out as a luxury, I’m sure some think of the Heritage in the same light. The Island could certainly not survive without its restaurants and I assure you the face of Hilton Head Island would change dramatically without our beloved golf tournament. So bid welcome to the spring and please support our Heritage Classic as well as the many other festivals and events that make our community unique.

David Mudwilder

Volume VI, Issue 1 Spring - 2011

Publisher

David Mudwilder

Art Director Kim Bowen

Contributing Writers Craig Hysell Louise Lund Risa Williams McMillan

Contributing Photographer Rob Kaufman

Distribution Bryan Kirby

A Taste of Hilton Head 3 Cardinal Court #572 Hilton Head Is., SC 29926 (843) 384-2014 mud@atasteofhiltonhead.com

ABOUT THE COVER

The Champagne Poached Mano Leon Scallop from the Sage Room prepared by chef Matt Jording. Photography by Rob Kaufman. 6 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

The Sage Room Local. Sustainable. Successful.

(By Choice…)

BY CRAIG HYSELL • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

Some people out there in this lovely little world relegate a person’s or people’s success to the realm of luck. In most instances this observation is not just absurd, but practically derogatory and a borderline defamation of character. It’s not luck that makes a person take risks, make sacrifices, work hard or persevere in the face of adversity. These are choices, and to cast these decisions off as Fate’s circumstantial musings says a lot about 8 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

the person making the observation. Fortunately there are places in the world where you can taste the deliciously divine difference between choice and luck. And, fortunately, one of those places is on Hilton Head Island. Matt and Carol Jording are effervescent. The owners of The Sage Room, a super-engaging, ultra-tasty hideaway tucked in one of Hilton Head’s neat little corners off of Pope Avenue,

work hard, shake your hand firmly and smile in that unforced, it’s-legitimatelynice-to-see-you sort of way. To say that Matt handles the kitchen and Carol handles the front is like saying The Incredible Hulk has been known to have a slight temper: sure it’s true, but the understatement to everyone “in the know” is so obvious it might as well be, um… huge and bright green… “I’m not afraid to fail, but I really

wanted to make it work,” says Matt when recalling The Sage Room’s beginnings. Matt was 23 years-old when he opened the Jording’s restaurant nine years ago, but he had already been running a kitchen at another highly successful Hilton Head restaurant for 7 years before that under his uncle’s tutelage. “Our restaurant is the hardest place on earth to find,” he says smiling. “But I was young, we didn’t have the capital at the time and I wanted to invest in quality, high-end, New York-style food, not sunsets or an ocean view.” Of course, starting such a successful restaurant at such a young age in such an odd place isn’t where this unique story ends, it’s where it begins. Matt and Carol actually like people. So much so that Matt designed The Sage Room’s kitchen to be open to the public so he could interact with guests while cooking their food. He doesn’t interview his staff so much for skills as he does for demeanor and attitude. In that regard “I have a team that’s with me, not behind me,” says Matt, “and that’s a huge part of what makes this thing work.” In that regard as well, Matt is practically the polar opposite of a majority of chefs in

the world: he wants both he and his staff to talk with guests while they handle a restaurant full of orders. The other huge part? The food. The Sage Room’s menu is built around two relatively simple but perpetually dynamic concepts: quality and freshness. Simple because it sounds so easy, dynamic because simplicity can get rather complicated. Matt’s father grows a good deal of The Sage Room’s organic vegetables (so organic the veggies are actually grown with that most fragrant of natural fertilizers: manure) on a one acre plot of land in Hilton Head Plantation during the Island’s two main grow seasons: spring and fall. “He’s out there every… single… day… and it’s a labor of love. You’ve got to know how to do it,” says the chef of his dad. If it’s not good—vegetable, meat or fish—Matt and his staff won’t serve it. The quality control is endless and Matt checks in his shipments of food everyday personally, sending product back if it’s not right and not batting an eye. “It’s not a love or a passion, I’m not going to go down any of those weird roads, I have a fascination with restaurants and the

different quality of foods that are out there. A lot of people will say that’s the best I can do, and I don’t think that’s even close to being true.” In Matt and Carol’s search for the best, they have come up with some of Hilton Head Island’s best known dishes. Ivory Salmon, Alaskan Wild Halibut and squash blossoms are extremely popular during the spring. “The squash are grown in my father’s garden, stuffed with local shrimp and they are absolutely fabulous.” The wine list has grown from 7 total bottles when The Sage Room first opened to over 150 “and it’s a great wine list for what we are.” A full menu can be seen on thesageroom.com. You can friend The Sage Room on Facebook to keep up with Upcoming Events, find them online at the aforementioned address, drop in on them at 81 Pope Avenue, Suite 13 in Heritage Plaza or simply call (843) 785-5352 for more information. They are open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday. I’d probably choose to make a reservation if I were you, otherwise you might be lucky if you get a seat. A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 9

A TASTE OF DINNER

ALEXANDERʼS Located at 76 Queens Folly Rd. in Palmetto Dunes. Outstanding menu featuring fresh seafood, great steaks, lobster, creative salads and chef prepared desserts. Dine in our lovely dining room or on our enclosed porch overlooking the picturesque lagoon. Vintage Harleys and an extensive wine list. Serving dinner nightly from 5 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 785-4999.

A LOWCOUNTRY BACKYARD Located at 32 Palmetto Bay Road in the Village Exchange. Capture the true essence of the island while enjoying local and regional inspired cuisine featuring owner Dave Peck’s family recipes. Choose from Dad’s baked chicken, Mom’s macaroni salad, Potato chip meatloaf, Charleston fried green tomato sandwich, shrimp & grits and a wide selection of other lowcountry favorites. Dine in or outside in the comfortable backyard. Experience the island, love the food! Serving breakfast/brunch, lunch and dinner. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) for seasonal hours or visit us online at www.hhbackyard.com. 10 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE Located at 69 Pope Avenue. Enjoy fantastic food and good times with your friends. Featuring the best Steaks on the Island, Authentic Mexican fare, Momma Reilleys famous Italian cuisine, all-you-can eat Crab Legs and much more. Full bar with daily happy hour and kid’s menu available. Serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 785-7700. THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE Located upstairs in Coligny Plaza, Oceanside. A 1940’s themed restaurant with reasonable prices and huge portions. Our extensive menu features steaks, ribs, seafood, pasta, burgers, salads, sandwiches, pizza and more. Great early bird specials from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Also, check out our 2 for Tuesday specials. Fantastic kid’s menu available. Enjoy popcorn on the house with your favorite beverage from our full bar. Serving lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. and dinner from 3:30 until 10 p.m., Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 686-3443.

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Panera Bread Company An Everyday Oasis BY CRAIG HYSELL • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

Every now and then this little mystery called life forces us to look at ourselves and make an attitude adjustment. That’s just the way things are. It’s natures law; as commonplace as the law of gravity, the laws of man and the Law and Order television series. However, what we do, whether we are paying attention or not and how we learn from these moments are all singular decisions. Franchise restaurants—outside of a few fast food chains, Outback, Applebee’s on the north end of the Island and perhaps a tiny smattering of others— have long been unsuccessful on Hilton Head. Why? Well, there are probably as many theories as there are long-time 12 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

residents, but one quiet little restaurant resting under oak limbs and Spanish Moss is proving that it doesn’t take no rules to be just right. (Or, dear reader, please feel free to insert your own clever play on franchise tag lines here. Have fun with it.) Hilton Head’s Panera Bread Company isn’t just thriving, it’s renovating the industry. Rich Connolly was a Burger King franchisee for 25 years in Virginia before he retired to Hilton Head in 1998. A property owner on the Island since 1989, Rich and his long-time friend and equal partner, Dave Smith along with operating partner, Bo Gdovin, opened their first Panera café in Columbia in 2004. They now own thirteen in less than

seven years throughout the Lowcountry and Georgia. (Not bad for the worst recession since The Great Depression…) The Hilton Head store has been open since July of 2008, in what may or may not be ironically, a former Burger King establishment. “We’re very fortunate,” says Rich, “our Hilton Head location is experiencing growth while a lot of other restaurants are seeing declines and overall, Panera, the brand itself, has seen double-digit comparable growth for the last ten years.” So, what’s in this magic, recessionproof recipe for success? “A host of things,” says Rich. Along with atmosphere, cleanliness and service, Rich outlines the key factor with simplicity,

“We have a moderately priced meal. In this economy, fine-dining is on one end of the spectrum and fast food is on the other. We’re in the middle. We have a ten dollar check average and we’re certainly driven by value, that’s our strength: the value.” Value meaning food. The Panera Bread Company bakes their own bread. Every day. Which means, every day there is a baker in the restaurant during the wee hours of the morning baking up delicious breads and bagels, croissants and muffins, cookies and scones, pastries, soufflés and breakfast sandwiches. The café menu is chocked full of hand-tossed salads like the Fuji Apple Chicken Salad and Orchard Harvest Chicken Salad. (With

natural chicken that is antibiotic-free!) Panini-style sandwiches, signature and café sandwiches and hearty soups on cool spring days flush out a full menu centered around healthy-living and quality ingredients. The Hilton Head café boasts free wifi, awesome cups of coffee, espressos, lattes, mochas, smoothies, catering, super fast ticket times (the average wait for a healthy meal is under 5 minutes), daily donations of food to Deep Well and the very first drive-up window in Panera’s history. “I fought very hard for it,” says Rich discussing his idea for the drivethrough window. “We were a test. Now there’s thirty of them.” Which, on a convenience scale from one to ten for a

busy commuter or an uncaffeniated parent with a carload of hungry kids, goes way beyond thirty. The Panera Bread Company sits at 1012 William Hilton Parkway, right beside The Village at Wexford. They’re open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and have outdoor seating. Call (843) 686-3838 for more information. A new Bluffton location opens in Tanger I Outlet March 2011. “We offer our customers a way to break out of the everyday hustle and bustle,” says General Manager, Frank Cassone, “and in that sense one of the sayings we have is that we are an everyday oasis.” Which is an attitude adjustment we can all use, tagline or not. A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 13

BRAVO! PIZZA Located next to Blockbuster Video on New Orleans Rd. Specializing in both a thin and a traditional crust, Bravo! Pizza’s family recipes will have you coming back for more. Also serving salads, pasta, boneless wings, and Grinder-style sandwiches. Delivery available. Open from 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Call (843) 342-7757.

BRITISH OPEN PUB Located in The Village at Wexford, Sheridan Park and Sun City. Authentic English fare served in an attractive pub-style atmosphere with golf art, memorabilia, and the only bar by Titleist. Great nightly specials including BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Prime Rib, Live Lobster, Fish and Chips, 1/2 lb. Angus Burgers, Lobster Pot Pie and more. Full bar, extensive wine list and beers, ales and stouts from around the world. Kid’s menu available. Open for dinner daily from 5 p.m until 10 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736, Bluffton 815-6736 or Sun City 705-4005. CALLAHANʼS SPORTS BAR & DELUXE GRILL Located at 49 New Orleans Road. Voted “Best Pub Food and Best Burger on the Island”. Great sandwiches, wings, soups, salads and more all served at the Island’s original sports bar.

14 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

Catch a game on one of our 35 TV’s, play NTN Buzztime Trivia, shoot pool at one of the six pool tables or try your luck at one of the video games. Full bar and take-out available. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. until 2 a.m. Call (843) 686-POOL (7665).

CAPTAIN JOHNʼS GALLEY AT THE SALTY DOG CAFE Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Enjoy seafood right out of the ocean and onto your plate while overlooking beautiful Braddock’s Cove. The legendary captain serves up fresh seafood, steaks, pasta and more in this fun, nautical atmosphere. Early bird dining special, 10% off from 5 until 6:30 p.m. Full bar and kid’s menu available. Open Nightly from 5 p.m. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233).

CAPTAIN WOODYʼS Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. The Local Hangout. Great seafood and more in a casual atmosphere overlooking Palmetto Bay Marina. Serving a wide variety of fresh seafood, great signature sandwiches (Grouper melt & Po Boy’s), soups and salads all at affordable prices. Dine inside or on the patio.

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A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 15

Open daily from 11 a.m. til 10 p.m., bar until late. Call (843) 785-2400 or 757-6222.

CAROLINA CAFÉ Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Southern hospitality is alive and delicious at the Carolina Café where warm smiles are guaranteed to please visitors and local islanders alike. Casual, fun and unique – the Carolina Café features all-day dining sure to satisfy every appetite. Open for dinner daily from 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Hours vary seasonally. Call (843) 681-4000. CATCH 22 FRESH SEAFOOD & GRILL Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. Serving the freshest and best seafood along with USDA prime steaks, pasta, chops and the best bone-in filet. Fantastic specials and delicious menu choices make us a favorite with locals and visitors alike. For Early Bird specials call for hours and reservations. Happy Hour from 5 to 6:30 p.m. daily. Open daily for dinner from 5 p.m. Call (843) 785-6261.

CASEYʼS SPORTS BAR & GRILL Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. Offering a full menu for the hearty and healthy appetite. Great Buffalo

16 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

wings, roast beef on weck, burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads and more. An awesome sports atmosphere with over 40 TV’s and a great collection of sports memorabilia. Full bar and fantastic happy hour. Open daily from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-2255.

CHARLIEʼS LʼETOILE VERTE Located at 8 New Orleans Rd., just off Hwy. 278. The only restaurant on the Island that writes its entire menu daily based on the freshest local seafood available. Our epicurean dinner menu offers an array of Fresh Fish, Rack of Lamb, Filet Mignon and many other delights. Our wine list, The Best of Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence”, offering half off all bottles of wine under $100 on Monday nights. Serving dinner Monday thru Saturday from 5:30 p.m. and lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Smoke-free bar and private parties are accepted. Call (843) 785-9277 for reservations.

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views of the Intracoastal waterway and extraordinary service. The expansive menu features fresh fish, pristine seafood, succulent steaks, Lowcountry specialties and an extensive collection of fine wines and decadent desserts. Relax on the expanded contemporary patio. Open for lunch and dinner daily, as well as Sunday Brunch. Happy hour offered daily from 4 until 7 p.m. Call (843) 342-9066 or online at www.charthouse.com. Reservations are recommended.

COCOʼS ON THE BEACH Located at the end of the boardwalk at Hilton Head Resort mile marker 7 or on the beach at beach marker 94A Singleton Beach. Just steps from the beach with a spectacular ocean view. Coco’s is an authentic beach bar and grill with a casual friendly atmosphere; your place for island enjoyment. Unwind ocean side in the Carolina sun with one of the largest selections of Beer, Rum, Tequila and the best Margarita’s on the Island. Coco’s grill menu offers something for the entire family. Live entertainment Friday’s 6-9 p.m. Visit our website at Cocosonthebeach.com or become a fan of Coco’s on Facebook. Open 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. in season (hours vary seasonally) For directions and information, Call (843) 842-2626 (COCO).

CONROYʼS Located in the beautifully restored Marriott Resort and Spa in Palmetto Dunes. At Conroy's we strive to offer the best of tastes and textures serving only the freshest salads, local seafood and certified Angus Beef. Early Bird menu available. Join us for dinner nightly 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Call (843) 686-8400.

CORKS WINE BAR Located South Island in the Publix Shopping Center next to Staples and Old Towne Bluffton in the Calhoun Street Promenade. The Lowcountry’s only neighborhood wine bar where class meets comfort in a warm, friendly and fun atmosphere. Offering wines by the glass, bottle, flight and porron. Gourmet ‘Big’ small plates made from fresh, local and organic ingredients and a full selection of spirits and American craft beers. Great happy hour specials from 4 until 6 p.m. daily. Open Monday thru Saturday from 4 p.m. until midnight. Catch us online at www.corkswinecompany.com. CRANEʼS TAVERN STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD Located at 26 New Orleans Rd. A family tradition of excellence in quality and value for over 100 years. The

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COOKING CLASSES

AND

D E M O N S T R AT I O N S H E L D W E E K LY

OUR

TUSCAN INSPIRED CULINARY CENTER Serving Dinner Monday - Saturday beginning at 5:15 p.m. Orleans Plaza, 37 New Orleans Road, Hilton Head Island

8 4 3 . 7 8 5 . 6 2 7 2 Call or visit our website for Details W W W. M I C H A E L - A N T H O N Y S . C O M 18 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

destination for steak and seafood lovers offering all USDA Prime Grade beef, including our Famous Prime Rib. Fresh selection of seafood, pastas, soups and salads as well as tantalizing desserts. Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence” for a wine list comprised of over 500 selections. AAA Three diamond award. Early dining menu available from 5 to 6 p.m. Great Bar menu available with half off during happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Serving dinner daily from 5 p.m. Reservations suggested. Call (843) 341-2333. CRAZY CRAB Located in Harbour Town in Sea Pines and Hwy. 278 on Jarvis Creek. Fresh local seafood served in two picturesque settings on the water. Casual dining and great family fun. Enjoy local seafood favorites prepared anyway you like. Kid’s menu available. Serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Call (843) 363-2722 or 681-5021.

FLATBREAD GRILL Located at Coligny Circle oceanside in the Beach Market Center. Opening mid April, this upscale casual dining sensation is sure to be a favorite of both visitors and locals. Choose from Neopolitan pizza, fresh pasta, gourmet salads, or hearty sandwiches all cooked in our open hearth oven. Hang out in

20 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

our friendly lounge and enjoy a nice selection of appetizers and cocktails while viewing your favorite sporting event on our HDTV’s. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 341-2225 or online at www.flatbreadgrillhhi.com.

THE FROSTY FROG CAFÉ Located in Coligny Plaza, next to the Art Café. A comfortable, casual atmosphere offering a “web-footed lickin” menu and an enormous amount of frozen daiquiris by the glass or by the gallon. Our menu features a wide array of selections including our 20 oz. Certified black angus burger, crab cakes, pizza, prime rib sandwich, salads, subs, wraps, appetizers and of course fried frog legs. NTN Trivia is also available as well as a kid’s menu. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-FROG (3764). HINOKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR Located at 37 New Orleans Road in New Orleans Plaza. Enjoy traditional Japanese dishes such as grilled fish, chicken and steak, suki yaki, a variety of noodle dishes, tempura, daily specials, plus sushi and sashimi. The very extensive menu

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“Most Innovative Menu” – Hilton Head Monthly

“Catch 22’s Bone-On Filet is the BEST STEAK on Hilton Head Island”

USDA PRIME STEAKS & FRESH SEAFOOD

Consistently Voted one of Hilton Headʼs Top 3 Restaurants

A Sampling of Catch 22’s Menu Items…

Early Dining March - May

Cracked Pepper Tuna • Pan-seared Jumbo Scallops

PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS AND EXTENDED HOURS

Almond Encrusted Tilapia • Crispy Roasted Half Duck

5:00 - 6:15 p.m. $16.95 • Glass of wine, salad & choice of 7 menu entrees

Eggplant Napoleon • Chicken Cordon Blue Veal Parmesan • Tarragon Grilled Ribeye Seafood Pasta • Lump Crab Cake

Char-Braised Short Ribs • The Catch 22 Surf & Turf Thurs. Slow Roasted USDA Prime RIB $23 & $29 (A few menu items will change seasonally).

785-6261

Reservations Suggested • Evenings from 5-10 1/4 mile from the Sea Pines Circle, Orleans Plaza, New Orleans Rd (The Road behind McDonalds)

Complimentary Chef’s Choice Appetizer Present your KEY and receive with dinner. (Limited to one appetizer per table) Not to be combined with any other discounts including Early Dining.

A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 21

includes dozens of appetizers, several kinds of broiled fish, salads and over 20 entrees from which to choose. Three intimate dining rooms, a sushi bar and a cocktail lounge offers something for everyone. Early Bird specials and take-out available. Open for dinner 5:30 until 10:00 p.m., Monday thru Saturday and lunch, 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Call (843) 785-9800 for reservations. HUDSONʼS SEAFOOD ON THE DOCKS Located on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. Celebrating over 30 years, Hudson’s is one of the Island’s most recognized landmarks. Featuring fresh seafood from our docks to your table, as well as pasta, steaks, chicken and more. Fabulous waterfront dining and spectacular sunsets all in a comfortable atmosphere. Kid’s menu available. Featured on the Food Network “Best of Hilton Head Island” and “$40 a day”. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.

choices of wine. Private party room available. Reservations accepted and walk-ins welcome. Open Monday thru Saturday for lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 until. Call for reservations (843) 342-9949.

JUST PASTA Located Oceanside in Coligny Plaza. A casual café featuring over 100 pasta combinations, seafood specialties, daily specials, salads and much more. Mix and match your choice of pastas, sauces, meats, seafood and vegetables to make the perfect meal. Also offering an extensive wine list, children’s menu and takeout is available. Don’t miss the early bird special for only $12.95. Serving Hilton Head for over 18 years. Open for lunch, Monday thru Friday from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and dinner, 7 nights a week starting at 4:30 p.m. Call (843) 686-3900. THE JAZZ CORNER Located in the "corner" of The Village at Wexford. Voted "Favorite Restaurant with Live Entertainment". Our intimate, elegant atmosphere is the perfect setting to enjoy an evening of world-class entertainment enhanced by our innovative

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AGOLFER’S DIET Island’s Best Fish & Chips Certified Angus Prime Rib “Specialty Pot Pies” Steak, Chicken or Lobster Martinis & Around the World Wines On the Draft Guinness, Boddingtons, Yuengling, Bass Ale, Smithwicks, Tennents & Stella Artois

Lunch & Dinner Daily 11 am til Late Call about our Feature Nights

Super Sundays Our Famous Sunday Brunch & Sunday Dinner: 9 am til 9 pm

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, VILLAGE AT WEXFORD: 843.686.6736 BLUFFTON, SHERIDAN PARK: 843.815.6736 • SUN CITY: 843.705.4005 22 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

Voted Island's Best Bar/Tavern and Best Fish N' Chips in 2010!

Lauren Toombs

of Captain Woodyʼs BY CRAIG HYSELL

PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

don’t have to chat it up with me either, but you could answer me when I ask you a question. That’d be nice.

Years in food and beverage: 10 Place of Employment: Captain Woody’s Title: General Manager Years living on Hilton Head: 11 Lauren Toombs is an Australian native with a heart the size of Texas and a smile as easy-going as the Mississippi. As she prepares for her wedding in May, Lauren sits down with Taste to talk about what she likes best about her job, dogs on restaurant tables and why she’d make a lousy food critic. Taste: What do you like best about your job? Lauren: I like the people I work with. I like the fact that I’m not stuck in an office. I love the fact that I’m not 24 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

stuck in the same cubicle everyday and that my job is very social. T: What’s your favorite item on the menu? L: My favorite item? After 10 years? I’ll say the chicken melt. It’s the first thing I ever ate here and I still like it. T: What advice would you give to the public when dining out? L: Enjoy your dinner. Enjoy your night out! Enjoy the fact that you might be on vacation or that you can even afford to go out to eat and just make it a happy experience rather than be miserable. I don’t understand the people that come out to dinner, sit at a table and don’t speak. Why’d you come out to dinner? Could you not talk to each other at home? You

T: What’s the strangest thing that’s ever happened to you on the job? L: That would have to be the couple with their dog on the table outside, eating off the gentleman’s plate; like eating his salad, eating his soup and drinking out of his vodka drink. And the man was eating the food right after the dog took a bite. I kept looking around for hidden cameras. T: If you could do any job in the world, what would you like to do? L: I’ve thought about this quite a bit, lately. I’ve really become addicted to Man Vs. Food and I really enjoy food and travel so much. I think I could give him a run for his money. Or… I would love to be a restaurant critic. I would enjoy traveling and eating. Although I don’t think I’d be a very good critic; I’m pretty easy to please. And that’s what makes Lauren so awesome. For more information or a chicken melt, call Captain Woodys on the Island at (843) 785-2400 or in Bluffton at (843) 757-6222 or online at www.captainwoodys.com.

southern flavors menu and impeccable service. The Jazz Corner offers a signature martini menu, extensive wine list, full bar and late-night menu. Open nightly from 6 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Call (843) 842-8620 or check us out online at www.thejazzcorner.com.

KINGFISHER SEAFOOD, PASTA, AND STEAK HOUSE Located at 18 Harbourside Ln. at Shelter Cove Harbour. Affordable casual dining in a 5 star setting with breathtaking waterfront views from inside or on the outside deck. Early Bird from 4:30 until 6 p.m. Best Island Happy Hour from 4:30 until 7 p.m. featuring $11.95 crab legs, .45¢ shrimp, .75¢ oysters on

26 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

the half shell, $2 drafts, $2.75 wine, and $3.75 well drinks. Live music and dancing starting at 8 p.m. with Target-the band on Shag Wednesdays, classic soft rock with David Wingo on Thursdays and Jazz with Earl Williams on Fridays. Tableside magic shows at 6 p.m. on Sunday and Monday. Call (843) 7854442 for reservations or online at www.kingfisherseafood.com.

KURAMA JAPANESE SEAFOOD AND STEAK HOUSE SUSHI BAR Located at 9 Palmetto Bay Rd. Specializing in complete dinners, prepared at your Teppanyaki table in the Japanese tradition. Our well-trained chef’s serve a delicious combination of food and entertainment all in a charming Japanese setting. An extensive sushi bar serving tempting sushi and sashimi. Children’s menu, Early Bird specials and take-out available. Open daily for dinner from 4:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. Call (843) 785-4955 for reservations.

LANDʼS END TAVERN Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Featuring great seafood, steaks, sandwiches and salads. A casual atmosphere with a pirate theme ensures fun for the whole

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family. Great kid’s menu and desserts. It’s a bounty of treasure waiting to be plundered. Serving all day, every day starting from 8 a.m. Call (843) 671-5456.

MANGIAMO New location, 2000 Main Street next to the Main Street Inn. A comfortable and cozy atmosphere featuring outstanding pizza, subs, salads and pasta. Beer and wine, kid’s menu, and daily specials offer something for everyone. Enjoy half price cheese pizza from 3 until 4 p.m. Dine inside, on the patio or take it to go. North Island delivery available. Your home away from home for The Ohio State Buckeyes. Open Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. Call (843) 682-2444.

MELLOW MUSHROOM Located in Park Plaza. If you’re looking for a fun and lively place for the whole family, this is it. Specializing in great pizza and calzones, monumental hoagies and fresh salads all in a comfortable and casual setting. Kid friendly and affordably priced menu for both lunch and dinner. Over twenty-four beers on tap, fifty more by bottle and a full bar available. Dine inside or outside in the courtyard. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-2474.

MICHAEL ANTHONYʼS Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. Offering classic Italian cuisine. Homemade gnocchi, succulent veal dishes and creative fish preparations are offered nightly. The versatile wine list offers a broad selection designed to satisfy the novice or seasoned enthusiast. Reservations are suggested. Weekly cooking classes offered in the Tuscan inspired demonstration kitchen. The adjacent Italian Market offers a wide array of Italian wines and gourmet foods. Open Monday thru Saturday beginning at 5:15 p.m. Call (843) 785-6272 or visit www.michael-anthonys.com. MURPHYʼS IRISH PUB Located in Heritage Plaza off Pope Avenue. An Authentic Irish pub serving Fish & Chips, Cottage Pie, Bangers & Mash, Steak, Pasties, Sandwiches, Soups, Salads and more. Full bar with Guinness, Harp, Stella Artois and Smithwicks on tap plus imports and domestics by the bottle and wines by the glass. Also, Irish coffees and desserts. Take-out and kid’s menu available. Call (843) 842-3448 for seasonal hours.

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SERVING THE FINEST WATERFRONT SUNSETS!

Fresh From our Docks to Your Table! World Famous Waterfront Restaurant Established 1912

Featured on the Food Network “Best of Hilton Head Island” & “$40 a Day”. Serving lunch & dinner everyday. Oyster Bar opens at 11 a.m. daily

Phone: 681-2772

Located just off Squire Pope Road on the Intracoastal Waterway. visit us on the web at www.hudsonsonthedocks.com A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 29

OCEANS Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Indulge with the finest seafood, cocktails and views of the Atlantic at Oceans. Catch up with friends as you cheer for your favorite sports team or watch the tides from one of Hilton Head Island's best ocean view restaurants. Open for dinner daily 4:30 – 10:00 p.m, drinks until late. Call (843) 681-4000. THE OLD OYSTER FACTORY Located on 101 Marshland Rd. Waterfront dining with expansive views of Broad Creek and beyond. Serving the Island’s best steaks and freshest seafood. Extensive wine menu and great service will guarantee a wonderful dining experience. Children’s menu and large groups welcome. Serving dinner from 4:45 p.m., 7 nights a week. Call (843) 681-6040.

30 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

hot paninis, delicious soups and signature salads. Catering also available. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Call (843) 686-3838.

REDFISH On the corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. Serving Innovative Cuisine with an upbeat flair. Offering local seafood, steaks, salads and nightly specials. Attached retail wine shop and bar with over 1,000 selections of fine wines. Outdoor seating available. Serving lunch Monday thru Saturday from 11:30 a.m. and dinner daily from 5 p.m. Call (843) 686-3388.

REILLEYʼS Located in Reilley’s Plaza just off the Sea Pines Circle and Port Royal Plaza. An Island tradition since 1982. Featuring Beef Tenderloin, Grilled Pork Tenderloin, Bacon Wrapped Shrimp, Fish & Chips, Cottage Pie and much more in a casual Island atmosphere. Dine inside or on our new patio. Full bar, extensive wine list, take-out and kid’s menu available. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4414 or 681-4153 or online at www.reilleyshiltonhead.com.

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THE SAGE ROOM Located at 81 Pope Avenue in Heritage Plaza. Enjoy fine dining in a casual atmosphere with unique appetizers, diverse cuisine and nightly innovative specials. Elegant palate pleasing fare is prepared in our open kitchen which highlights the restaurant. An extensive wine list, full bar and fantastic service, complete a perfect night out. Open for dinner Monday thru Saturday from 6 until 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Call (843) 785-5352 or check us out online at www.thesageroom.com.

THE SALTY DOG CAFE Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. The Island’s favorite outdoor café overlooks beautiful Braddock’s Cove and offers fantastic seafood and great beverages in a truly fun and casual atmosphere. Full menu available at Captain John’s Galley, Jake’s Pizza or try Kiwi’s Island Cookout (seasonal). For dessert, visit our ice cream shop or just sit back and enjoy our live entertainment. Offering something for the whole family. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233).

SAN MIGUELʼS MEXICAN CAFE Located at Harbourside III on Shelter Cove Harbour. Serving Hilton Head’s freshest Mexican food for over 25 years. Dine inside or out while enjoying breathtaking views of the marina. Burrito’s, enchiladas, fajitas, chimichangas, seafood and salads plus a full bar complete with the Island’s best margarita. Kid’s menu available. Serving dinner daily from 5 p.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Call (843) 842-4555. SANTA FE CAFÉ Located at 807 William Hilton Parkway near the entrance to Palmetto Dunes. Our elegant yet casual, cozy atmosphere captures the spirit of New Mexico. Innovative southwestern cuisine features dinner favorites such as Tortilla Crusted Salmon, Wood Roasted Quail, Grouper, 30 oz. Ribeye and many more great selections including our all new vegetarian menu. Excellent wine list, imported beers and full bar. Takeout available. Reservations are “gladly” accepted. Open for dinner 7 nights a week from 5 p.m., and for lunch Monday thru Friday from 12 noon until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-3838 or www.santafehhi.com.

THE SMOKEHOUSE Join us in our larger and newly renovated location at 34 Palmetto Bay Rd. Serving up award-winning ribs and BBQ, our new expanded menu offers even more outstanding choices 32 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

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Tapas Restaurant The Island's Fabulous Taste of Paradise. In 1992, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake shook Southern California early one June morning. The tremblor was enough to rattle Ardis Matthews and her husband, Max, into travelling across the country “to fabulous places, none of which were exactly right.” But, as it turns out so many times in life, the road less traveled, led to the most adventure. When the Matthews were in Charleston “we were sitting in a bar being friendly,” laughs Ardis. “We were talking to a nice couple from Hilton Head about our trip to Savannah. They said Hilton Head was right on the way, just make a left and go over a bridge.” The Matthews fell in love with the Island immediately. “It reminded us of our old home in California.” After trading one paradise for another, and replacing surprise earthquakes with preemptive hurricane warnings, Ardis had to find out what to do with herself.

Ardis is perpetually jovial and enthusiastic. She is enthusiastic about anything. Anything. Every new experience is “exciting”, “cool” or “fabulous”. Every past experience, even if it was less than grand, has one little slice of humor, wisdom or combination of the two. She is sweet, sassy and indefatigable. She doesn’t fear change, she embraces it. “This is all learning by doing,” she says of her extensive menu. “Except that I did have a fabulous […there’s that word again,

‘fabulous’…] opportunity to take cooking classes with some of the greatest chefs of the 1980’s in California.” Wolfgang Puck, Bert Greene and Julia Childs among them. “It was mostly fun. And the main thing I learned from these classes was, ‘I can do this.’” To Ardis, the best cooking she comes up with is “looking around that kitchen and reinventing the same ingredients over and over and over again. I’m not classically trained, I just makes what tastes good. And fortunately it seems to taste good to other people too.” Besides food that tastes good, the good food changes all the time. “There are certain items I would never take off the menu. I like the classics, but then I like totally wacky new flavors.” Ardis reflects and then starts laughing again, “And then I like the stuff in between! I don’t know! I like food! Anything but beets!” You can’t help but smile in her presence.

Chef/Owner Ardis Matthews has been featured in Bon Appetit

Serving Dinner Nightly From 5 p.m. - til’ *Catering Available 11 Northridge Plaza, by Cinema 10 and Homegoods (843) 681-8590

Complimentary House Wine • 2 glasses per person maximum with minimum food purchase of $16 per person • Not valid with any other offers • Must present ad when ordering *A 15% Gratuity will be added to the pre-discounted total

S c a l l o p s • E s c a r g o t • Fi l e t M i g n o n • Tuna

L o b s t e r Th e r m a d o r e • S h r i m p • A l l i g a t o r

Award Winning She Crab Soup • Crab Rangoon • Quail • Lamb

Fr i e d G r e e n To m a t o e s • S a l m o n • C h i c k e n • Po r k • D u c k • Ve a l • Ti l a p i a A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 33

including fresh cut steaks, fantastic seafood, sandwiches, salads and a great selection of appetizers. Enjoy the large covered outdoor deck complete with brick fireplace or sit at the expanded bar and enjoy an ice cold brew. Kids menu, convenient takeout and catering available. Serving continuously from 11:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 842-4BBQ (4227) or visit us at smokehousehhi.com.

STEAMER SEAFOOD Located on the pond in Coligny Plaza. Featuring huge portions of fresh seafood, shellfish, pastas, sandwiches, soups, salads and desserts all served in a rustic Lowcountry atmosphere. Choose from over five fresh local catches daily. The most kid-friendly restaurant on the Island with seating inside or outside on the deck or patio. Seasonal live entertainment featuring Todd Cowart. Full bar and take-out available. Open from 11:30 a.m. until late, 7 days a week. Call (843) 785-2070.

STELLINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT Located at 15 Executive Park Dr., just off Pope Avenue. Voted the Island’s best Italian restaurant, Stellini features popular menu items from the Little Italy section of New York and northern New Jersey. Choose from items such as Clams Casino, Veal Saltimbocca, Zuppa di Pesce, Osso Buco, Lasagna and more. Extensive wine list, Early Bird specials, children’s menu and take-out available. Serving dinner Monday thru Saturday from 5 p.m. Call (843) 785-7006 for reservations.

THE STUDIO Located at 20 Pope Executive Park Rd., just off Pope Avenue. An artistic dining experience. Innovative cuisine with Chef Paul Colella and featuring a fine art gallery with artwork by Lunonia Colella and guest artists. Live musical entertainment Friday and Saturday evenings with Armand DeMille. Serving dinner Tuesday thru Sunday from 5:30 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 785-6000 for reservations.

TAPAS RESTAURANT Located at 11 Northridge Plaza, near the Northridge Cinemas. Join Chef/Owner Ardis Matthews, who has been featured in Bon Appetit magazine, for an outstanding dining experience. A tapas style menu includes dishes such as Lobster Thermador, Escargot, Filet Mignon, Fried Green Tomatoes, She Crab soup and many more delicious selections. Great selection of fine wines available as well as a full bar. Catering available. Open for dinner from 5 p.m. nightly. Call (843) 681-8590.

34 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

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TRUFFLES CAFE Located in Sea Pines Center, off Pope Avenue in Executive Park and Belfair Towne Village in Bluffton. Casual cafés featuring the freshest food and finest service for over 25 years. Fresh local seafood, Black Angus steaks, baby back ribs, homemade soups, fresh garden salads, Angus burgers, pasta, and excellent desserts. Outside seating available at Pope Ave. and Belfair locations. Full bar and fine wines by the glass or bottle. Reservations accepted. Private dining available for 6 to 100 people. Serving lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 671-6136, 785-3663 or 815-5551 or go to www.trufflescafe.com. TURTLES BEACH BAR & GRILL Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Refresh with an exhilarating concoction while enjoying a taste of South Carolina Low Country fare prepared with a Caribbean twist. Cheer for your favorite sports team or watch the tides of the Atlantic from one of Hilton Head Island’s best ocean views. Open for dinner daily 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m., drinks until late. Hours vary seasonally. Call (843) 681-4000.

WILD WING CAFE Located at 72 Pope Avenue in Circle Center and just off Hwy. 278 in Bluffton. Celebrating over 20 years on the Island, Wild Wing is famous for serving “The Best Wings South of Buffalo” in 33 different flavors. With a huge menu, there's something for everyone including big beefy burgers, char-grilled chicken sandwiches, tender baby-back ribs, mountains of nachos, awesome salads and the original Bucket O’ Beer. Wild Child Menu and take-out available. Live music and late night fun all week. Open Monday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., and Sunday 12 noon until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-9464 or 837-9453 or check us out online at wildwingcafe.com.

THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Overlooking beautiful Braddock’s Cove, The Wreck offers casual waterfront dining in the same spirit of The Salty Dog Cafe. Featuring fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, pastas, salads and great desserts. Early Bird dining special, 10% off from 5 until 6:30 p.m. Full bar, great wine selections and kid’s menu available. Open nightly for dinner, 4 until 10 p.m. and lunch, 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Call (843) 671-7327.

36 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Pizza, Subs And An Ohio State University Football Oasis.

Mangiamo is unmistakably partial to Ohio State football. You could be color blind and illiterate and still come to the conclusion, quite quickly, that this pizza and sub shop on Main Street on the north end of Hilton Head Island has an affinity for Buckeyes. Memorabilia cakes the walls. Football theory and pigskin prognosti-cations are constantly discussed, some-times rather zealously, over slices of ‘za. On game day, it’s scarlet and gray go time. But it wasn’t always so… When Brian Bambeck opened Mangiamo in July of 2002 he had a smattering of beer signs and “one [Ohio State] flag and one 24-inch tv.” Things weren’t Trumptastic by any stretch of the imagination for Bambeck, but the doors stayed open. The food was dialed in, but Brian needed something more, something to elevate Mangiamo to that list of places considered unique. One fall day Bambeck, an alumnus of The Ohio State University, was asked by a customer if he would be watching

The Game— meaning the Ohio State football game, of course— on Saturday. Brian replied that if he was going to be at his restaurant (which he would indeed be because, in those early years, he was there “nine days a week”) The Game was going to be on. That first Saturday, more than 20 people showed up. Not bad for the fledgling business. By the end of November, 2002, more than 80 people were watching The Game at Mangiamo. And that’s how things normally begin in life, very small. The “Ohio State thing” has grown and will grow again in March 2011, (Bambeck is building a new location just across the street) from one 24-inch picture tube television to 10 HD flat screens (one TV in each bathroom) and a 60” big screen outside on game days, over 200 Buckeye fans filling up the inside restaurant as well as the outdoor patio every Saturday in the fall and an identity forever tied to Mangiamo now. The place is packed with artifacts. Mangiamo is practically a case study in Buckeye football legacy. A functional football museum busying itself slinging pies, subs, salads and apps and keeping

its guests happy. Mangiamo has a full complement of 8” subs, pizzas, calzones, appetizers, salads, soups and kid’s items. Brian uses his own homemade dough for his pizzas. He also makes his own marinara sauce, salad dressings, tomato sauce and BBQ sauce. Everyday, from 3 to 4 p.m., is happy hour where customers get cheese pizza for half price and every Wednesday is half-price spaghetti. A wide selection of fountain drinks, wine and bottled or draft beer soothes any throat. And, if you just can’t make it up there, Mangiamo will deliver! Mangiamo is open from 11a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday** and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Call (843) 682-2444 for more information or go to www.hhipizza.com.

OPENING MARCH 2011

New Location-2000 Main Street (next to the Main Street Inn)

Be sure to ask about the new party room where private dining is available

A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 37

Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. FOR MORE INFORMATION call (843) 671-CAFE Margarita Salm on f r o m Th e S a l t y Do g C a f e

s from Crab Cake f th e Sa l t y Do g o k c e r T he W

E F A C 1 7 843-6 The Salty Dog is going Green by recycling, using environmentally friendly products and reducing our carbon “paw” print.

Saturday, Ap Salty Dog Ea ril 23, 2011 ster Egg Hun t

March 12, 2011 Annual Kid’s Shamrock Hunt

Ja ke’s

It is easy Jake’s S to SEE Pizza Alw alty Dog Handm ays deli vers ade P Ap izza petize rs

At the Salty D og

20 843-671-2a0l Hours

671-20 20 FREE S

EA PIN ES DELIVE Cafe • RY South Bea ch Vill age

son Call for Sea

SNOW CRAB L at Lan d ’s En d Ta EGS v e rn

2011 SOUTH BEACH CALENDAR AN N U AL K I D ’ S SH AMR OCK H U N T : Mar ch 1 2 Hunt BEGINS at 10:00 am. Find four leaf clovers redeemable for free Salty Dog T-Shirts, prizes & treats. Jake the Salty Dog and kid’s entertainment 10 am - Noon. Plus, a special Irish lunch! AN N U AL E AST E R E GG H U N T : Apr il 2 3 Prizes & candy for the kids from Jake & the Easter Bunny. Face painting for the kids with children’s entertainment. Hunt begins at 10 am and the fun lasts until noon! T H E SALT Y D OG CAF E The Salty Dog is located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines and overlooks beautiful Braddock Cove. Live music and children's entertainment echo the sounds of family fun nightly during the season, while fresh seafood is served daily. T H E WR E CK OF T H E SALT Y D OG The same delicious menu as The Salty Dog, but with a few extras. Its casual waterfront dining boasts two bars with extraordinary views of Braddock Cove. If you're lucky, you can even catch a glimpse of the dolphins feeding in the creek. L AN D ’ S E N D TAV ER N Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at South Beach Marina during the season. Land's End Tavern offers delicious steaks and seafood with a fun, pirate theme. The upstairs crow's nest ensures a bird's eye view of the marina where you can watch the charter boats float in and out as dolphins and wildlife feed in the creek. www.saltydog.com 232 S. Sea Pines Dr. • Hilton Head Island, SC

s, & Calz Hot ones

of Paradise A Little Slicel ty D o g P i z z a a S fr o m Ja k e ’s

The Heritage Golf Tournament A Local Food & Beverage Windfall

BY RISA WILLIAMS McMILLIAN • PHOTOS COURTESY THE HERITAGE

You know the Heritage Golf Tournament is coming to town when the flights fill, condos are cleaned and local food and beverage owners overstock their bars and refrigerators and start booking entertainment and adding staff. You know the Heritage has officially arrived when the hotels and condos hang their “no vacancy” shingle and the restaurants have exterior bars set up to appease the parched spectators and entertain those waiting for a table. The boat slips and bar stools fill to the brim and the parties start early and end late…day after day after day. Happy Easter food and beverage people, your annual windfall is back for its 43rd year! The Impact of The Heritage on the Food & Beverage Industry: “The thing about Heritage is that it is all about repeat customers. We see 40 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

people that have been coming back for the tournament every year and a lot of these same people come back again at a different time of year because they like it so much!” Chuck Larson, co-owner Crazy Crab restaurants. “The wonderful part of the Heritage is the great exposure that we get.” Jerry Leonard, owner of the Smokehouse. “The main thing about the Heritage is that it puts Hilton Head on the map, not just for a week, but for the whole year. People see us on television and we are beautiful and it gives the Island credibility. The impact of the tournament lasts all year.” Dianne Crowley, co-owner and founder of Wild Wing Café. “The Heritage brings the Island national television exposure and we get it year round because the announcers love to talk about our par 3’s and famous 18th. I

don’t think Hilton Head Island as we know it would be here without the Heritage Golf Tournament.” David Reilley, co-owner, Reilley’s and Aunt Chiladas.

“The Heritage is not just about the competition on the golf course like at other big golf tournaments. The unique thing is that it is a community event, a charity event, a team effort where there is no “I” in team. The impact to the community in general and to the food and beverage industry in itself is tremendous.” Steve Wilmot, Tournament Director

Why is the tournament so important to the Island? For forty three years the profitable arms of the Heritage have been many and far reaching. Aside from the fact that the tournament is by far the largest single annual event boon to the Island, the Heritage also brings revenue and national exposure to the county and state. The entire hospitality industry gets a huge leg up when the Heritage comes to town and local food and beverage owners can consider their season officially kicked off. For the statisticians out there, according to a Clemson University and

translates to a whole lot of hungry and thirsty golf fans that are not only buying thousands and thousands of dollars of concessions on the course every day from a number of local non-profit organizations, but they are renting rooms, patronizing our local restaurants, eating, drinking, and… drum roll please… spending money like mad! Because the tournament lost Verizon as its title sponsor last year, at press time it had a general sponsor in the Heritage Classic Foundation (HCF), which had to come up with 6 million dollars to retain the tournament. According to Angela

on hand whose sole responsibility is to come up with a title sponsor and at press time she was still hopeful that they would find one before the 2011 tournament. The Heritage has certainly done its part in putting our Island paradise on the map and while we have enjoyed 43 years of great golf, the food and beverage industry would certainly like to enjoy another 43. The dates for the 2011 tournament are April 18-24.

USC Beaufort study, the 2010 Heritage packed an $81.90 million dollar punch, almost double the $44 million dollars garnered from the tournament in 1999. 71.2% of the tournament’s spectators are from outside Beaufort County and the average visitor spends $345 per day. With an estimated 30,000 folks lining the fairways and greens every day, that

McSwain, Marketing Director for the HCF, the impact of the tournament on the local food and beverage industry is astronomical. “Not only do the restaurants that cater on-site reap the benefits of the tournament, but local restaurants also win as they are packed all week.” The HCF has a PGA Tour employee

special ticket holders? That would be a handful of local restaurants that hit the pavement hard and know that Heritage week is not for sleep or sissies.

They Work Hard for the Money: So who caters food and beverage for the players, the press, the security, and the

Wild Wing Café, A Day in the Life: Dianne Crowley, co-owner and cofounder of Wild Wings, is on the golf course by 7 a.m. each morning during A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 41

Heritage. She spends her day going back and forth between their two private, glassed-in skyboxes on the 15th and 18th greens. Access to these skyboxes is only available to Arnold Palmer Pass holders ($375 for the week). Dianne makes sure that their full bars are set-up and ready to go and checks on the kitchen that they have set up behind the 15th, replete with fryers, ovens, and a grill. She keeps a watchful eye on their upscale buffets that feature everything from their signature wings to shrimp cocktail. “I don’t leave the course ‘til after dark, and then sometimes I go check on how things are doing at the restaurant,” said Dianne. Wild Wing Café, on Pope Avenue, is jamming, to say the least. “Not only is the restaurant packed every night, but we provide huge to-go orders.” Wild Wings adds employees the week of the Heritage who stay on through the long term and they also book “name” entertainment. The restaurant closes at 2 a.m. and then it is back to the course the next day at 7. “There is no sleep during Heritage week. The Monday after is ‘breakdown and fall-down day,’” said Dianne. Reilley’s and Aunt Chiladas, A Day in the Life: David Reilley is up at 4 a.m. and in the Player’s House by 4:30 making sure the coffee is brewing and eggs have been delivered during Heritage Week. Two of David’s restaurants, Reilley’s and Aunt Chiladas, cater the player’s house during the tournament. “The Heritage was one of the first golf tournaments to provide the players with free food and beverage and they all take advantage of it,” said David. The first pros show up shortly after 5 a.m. looking for sustenance before forging out to the lighted driving range. David and his nephew and partner, Brendan Reilley, and their wives are on hand all day to make sure everything is perfect for the pros. They do the cooking on the 42 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

premises and provide the golfers with a full breakfast - eggs any style, bacon, sausage, French toast, and made-to-order omelets. The lunch line has already formed by 11 a.m. with golfers hungry for a hot dog, hamburger, or chicken sandwich before their tee time. Snacks are provided throughout the afternoon. What is the favorite fix for the athletes? “Candy and milkshakes with Hilton Head Ice Cream.” Hey, everybody needs a little sugar fix before tackling Harbour Town’s narrow fairways and skinny greens, right? The Reilleys also keep busy providing box lunches to all the security crew every day as well as catering the Tartan Club Skybox on the 16th green. When he leaves the course every evening, David swings by Aunt Chiladas which has turned into a favorite watering hole for the caddies and many of the pros. “Quite simply, Heritage is huge for us,” said David. The Crazy Crab, A Day in the Life: So if the players are up and about at the crack of dawn, so too must be the media. The job of keeping all those photographers, writers, and sportscasters happy and well fed goes to The Crazy Crab. Chuck Larson, co-owner of both Crazy Crab restaurants, attests to the fact that Heritage is their busiest week of the year. Chuck arrives in Harbour Town to snag a good parking space at 6 a.m. His staff arrives on the first buses at 7 a.m. (car access is limited to special passes) and they have danishes and coffee to the press tent by 8 and lunch to them by 11. The Crab also caters to numerous boats docked at the marina, both individually and corporately owned. According to Chuck, “Heritage is not only the biggest bar tab week of the year, but it’s the best spending week with people buying top shelf liquors and upscale entrees like lobster tails.” The Crab feeds a full house all week long during the Heritage and while Chuck ambles home at midnight, the rest of his staff is on duty ‘til closing at 2 a.m. “The whole staff works double shifts every day the whole week. No days off.” So what would spring be like on Hilton Head without the Heritage Golf tournament? The thought of that for local food and beverage people, not to mention hundreds of other local businesses, is a nightmare that they will hopefully never have to answer. According to Steve Wilmot, “Everyone feels the ripple effect of the tournament from the Governor, on a state level, to f & b, local realtors, golf course owners, charities, accommodations, and lots of businesses you wouldn’t even think of. I have printing companies call and thank us because people start to print menus and invitations. The landscape and paint companies can’t wait for the tournament because everyone is sprucing up their exterior. What people don’t realize is that sponsors and spectators come here and spend 1/3 of their money on the tournament and 2/3 they spread around the community.” Now if we could just procure a private sponsor…

A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 43

Wingfest16 BY LOUISE LUND • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

Who has the best wings in the area? The Island Recreation Association is proud to present the sixteenth annual Hargray Wingfest to take place on Saturday, March 19, 2011, from 11a.m.6 p.m. It’s an extravaganza of chicken wing cookery held at Shelter Cove Community Park. Food lovers rejoice! It’s been a long, cold winter. Area restaurants will be cooking up their BEST wings! The event will be held in a fun-filled, festive atmosphere, with live music from Deas Guyz, and other bands to be announced. Restaurants and amateur cooks vying for the “Best Wing” and “People’s Choice” awards will serve up 6,000 pounds of wings at this year’s Wingfest. Flavors range from standard Buffalo wings to more unique concoctions, such as Street Meet’s Chicken and Waffles. This year,

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approximately twenty-two restaurants and amateurs will be slathering up wings with their special glazes. While participants are justifiably proud of their special recipes for chicken wings, there is so much more to the culinary scene than hot sauce and blue cheese dressing. Created in spring 1994, the Wingfest began its annual one-day tradition of food, fun and philanthropy. The festival was created by Joe Cain, Event Director for Island Recreation Association, with input from Cecil and Dianne Crowley, owners of Wings Over America, the franchising agent for Wild Wing Café. Together they saw the Wingfest event as an opportunity to celebrate wings while raising money for a good cause. “Wingfest is Hilton Head’s largest one day event,” Cain said. The depth of

the annual Wingfest far exceeds just being a friendly venue for professional food vendors to showcase their expertise in preparing chicken wings. “In fifteen years, the Wingfest has raised more than $150,000 for the Association’s Scholarship Fund. Some of the funds go toward assisting families in need to pay for their children’s summer camp at the Island Rec Center. It is one of the premier area outdoor festivals, and a great opportunity to celebrate the beginning of spring.” “More than 5,000 people flocked to last year’s event,” Cain said. Nineteen restaurants vied for honors in the People’s Choice contest and a juried competition was judged by local dignitaries. Some of last year’s participating restaurants were Wild Wing Cafe, Remy’s Bar & Grill, Street Meet, the Smokehouse, Kenny B’s, The Westin, L’ Wood’s, One Hot Mamas, Hilton Head Diner, Captain Woody’s, and the Hilton Head Brewing Co. “I tell people to not make them too hot, because if you light the judges up, they’re not going to vote for you. You really need to go with a traditional taste,” Cain said. Street Meet will again be cooking hot dogs and hamburgers at the Wingfest. “We’re trying to build up a cult following,” said Street Meet owner Carey Basciano, who explained how the restaurant soaks their wings in buttermilk, flours them, and then fries them before tossing the final product in homemade maple syrup. “It’s labor-

intensive, but it’s kind of fun and we only do it once a year.” They also will be making cajun chicken Alfredo wings topped with onion rings. “We figure we’d rather go with a couple of crazy flavors than just something that’s hot.” Local favorite the Smokehouse has drawn compliments on its offerings, dubbed appropriately, “the Wingfest wing.” What does Smokehouse chef E.D. Monro plan to do this year to place in the competition? “The same thing as last year,” he said.

Last year’s winners were:

People’s Choice: 1. Street Meet 2. One Hot Mama’s 3. L’Woods Judges’ Choice: 1. One Hot Mama’s 2. The Smokehouse 3. G.W.’s at Mickey’s Pub

Other flavors to expect at this year’s Wingfest include a jambalaya wing with Creole marinade from Kenny B’s Cajun Seafood Hut and a sweet and tangy barbecue wing from Hilton Head resident Sally Kerr-Dineen, who again

plans to use her great-grandmother’s family recipe for the sauce. Other activities being offered at Wingfest are a kid’s zone, rock wall, a mechanical bull and Basketball’s March Madness on a big screen television provided by Custom Audio Video. CocaCola and Budweiser will be on hand again while Rollers Total Beverages will have different wines available. Giuseppi’s pizza, ice cream and Street Meet hot dogs will be available for purchase. Adventure Radio will be broadcasting from the park and the professional judging for the best wing starts at 1:30 p.m. “Wingfest is a fun and popular event that raises money for a great cause,” Sarah Calvert, Island Rec Center’s Marketing Director said. “Without your attendance and the generosity of Hargray and our other corporate sponsors, this most worthy and fun event could never take flight.” So mark your calendar for Saturday, March 19, and make plans to go to Shelter Cove Community Park for wings, wings and more wings! Enjoy delectable wings from Hilton Head’s top restaurants, serving up all flavors and styles – BBQ, teriyaki, garlic – mild,

medium, and hot! Enjoy the best chicken wings our Island has to offer! Food, live entertainment, activities and fun! Don’t miss it! For more information go to www.islandreccenter.org, call (843) 6817273 or email info@islandreccenter.org. A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 45

A TASTE OF LUNCH

A LOWCOUNTRY BACKYARD Located at 32 Palmetto Bay Road in the Village Exchange. Capture the true essence of the island while enjoying local and regional inspired cuisine featuring owner Dave Peck’s family recipes. Choose from Dad’s baked chicken, Mom’s macaroni salad, Potato chip meatloaf, Charleston fried green tomato sandwich, shrimp & grits and a wide selection of other lowcountry favorites. Dine in or outside in the comfortable backyard. Experience the island, love the food! Serving breakfast/ brunch, lunch and dinner. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) for seasonal hours or visit us online at www.hhbackyard.com.

AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE Located at 69 Pope Avenue. Liven up your day with lunch at Aunt Chiladas. A fun, festive atmosphere with great food and drinks. Featuring at least 5 daily lunch specials starting at $6.95 including meatloaf, fried chicken, fish ‘n chips and great Italian specialties served with homemade mashed potatoes and vegetables. You may also order your favorite Mexican fare from our regular menu as well as a wide variety of salads. Full bar and kid’s menu available. Serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 785-7700. THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE Just steps from the beach, the Big Bamboo Cafe is located in Coligny Plaza on North Forest Beach Drive. Featuring great seafood, delicious salads and the legendary Big Bamboo burger, the Big Bamboo Cafe provides an all American menu in a laid back beach atmosphere. Thirsty? Try a famous margarita as you sit amongst the WWII memorablia and the Bamboo inspired island vibe. Full bar and kids menu available. Serving lunch Mon-Sat. 11.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (843) 686 3443. BRITISH OPEN PUB Located in The Village at Wexford, Sheridan Park and Sun City. Authentic English fare served in attractive pub-style atmosphere with golf art, memorabilia, and the only bar by Titleist. Featuring our famous Sandwedges like the Aberdeen Burger, Clubhouse Classic, Wexford Reuben, French Dip and Crab Cake Sandwedge. Full bar and beers, ales, and stouts from around the world. Open for lunch daily, from 11:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736, Bluffton 8156736 or Sun City 705-4005.

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CALLAHANʼS SPORTS BAR & DELUXE GRILL Located at 49 New Orleans Road. Voted “Best Pub Food and Best Burger on the Island”. Great sandwiches, wings, soups, salads and more all served at the Island’s original sports bar. Catch a game on one of our 35 TV’s, play NTN Buzztime Trivia, shoot pool at one of the six pool tables or try your luck at one of the video games. Full bar and take-out available. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. until 2 a.m. Call (843) 686-POOL (7665). CAPTAIN WOODYʼS Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. The Local Hangout. Unique Island Location highlights fresh seafood, daily specials, great signature sandwiches (Grouper melt & Po Boy’s) and more in one of Hilton Head’s favorite dining destinations. Dine inside or on the patio. Open daily from 11 a.m. until late. Call (843) 785-2400 or 757-6222.

CAROLINA CAFÉ Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Recharge your day with delightful Lowcountry creations at the Carolina Café. Come experience southern hospitality that is alive and delicious. Casual, fun and unique – the Carolina Café features all-day dining sure to satisfy every appetite. General hours are 6:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. for breakfast and lunch, 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. for dinner. Hours vary seasonally. Call (843) 681-4000.

CASEYʼS SPORTS BAR & GRILL Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. Offering a full menu for the hearty and healthy appetite. Great Buffalo wings, roast beef on weck, burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads and more. An awesome sports atmosphere with over 40 TV’s and a great collection of sports memorabilia. Full bar and fantastic happy hour. Open daily from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-2255.

CHARLIEʼS LʼETOILE VERTE Located at 8 New Orleans Rd., just off Hwy. 278. Casual dining at its best. One-of-a kind Cobb salad piled high with crispy bacon, turkey and cheese. Dressed with Essie’s homemade sweet tomato vinaigrette that has kept the locals hooked for more than 25 years. Fish Cakes, Sauteed Flounder and an array of salads for anyone on the run. Dine-in or Take-out. Open for lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., and dinner Monday thru Saturday from 5:30 p.m. Call (843) 785-9277.

THE CHART HOUSE (Formally Charley’s Crab) Located at Two Hudson Rd., just off Squire Pope Rd. Serving up sensational food prepared by

Executive Chef Eric Seaglund, accompanied by spectacular water views of the Intracoastal waterway and extraordinary service. The expansive menu features fresh fish, pristine seafood, succulent steaks, Lowcountry specialties and an extensive collection of fine wines and decadent desserts. Relax on the expanded contemporary patio. Open for lunch and dinner daily, as well as Sunday Brunch. Happy hour offered daily from 4 until 7 p.m. Call (843) 342-9066 or online at www.charthouse.com. Reservations are recommended.

COCOʼS ON THE BEACH Located at the end of the boardwalk at Hilton Head Resort mile marker 7 or on the beach at beach marker 94A Singleton Beach. Just steps from the beach with a spectacular ocean view. Coco’s is an authentic beach bar and grill with a casual friendly atmosphere; your place for island enjoyment. Unwind ocean side in the Carolina sun with one of the largest selections of Beer, Rum, Tequila and the best Margarita’s on the Island. Coco’s grill menu offers something for the entire family. Visit Coco’s website Cocosonthebeach.com or become a fan on Facebook. Seasonal live entertainment. Open 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. (hours vary seasonally). For directions and information, call (843) 842-2626 (COCO).

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CRAZY CRAB Located in Harbour Town in Sea Pines and Hwy. 278 on Jarvis Creek. Fresh local seafood served in two picturesque settings on the water. Casual dining and great family fun. Enjoy local seafood favorites prepared anyway you like. Kid’s menu available. Serving lunch and dinner daily. Call (843) 363-2722 or 681-5021. FLATBREAD GRILL Located at Coligny Circle oceanside in the Beach Market Center. Opening mid April, this upscale casual dining sensation is sure to be a favorite of both visitors and locals. Choose from Neopolitan pizza, fresh pasta, gourmet salads, or hearty sandwiches all cooked in our open hearth oven. Hang out in our friendly lounge and enjoy a nice selection of appetizers and cocktails while viewing your favorite sporting event on our HDTV’s. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 341-2225 or online at www.flatbreadgrillhhi.com.

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gallon. Our menu features a wide array of selections including our 20 oz. Certified black angus burger, crab cakes, pizza, prime rib sandwich, salads, subs, wraps, appetizers and of course fried frog legs. NTN Trivia is also available as well as a kid’s menu. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-FROG (3764).

HINOKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR Located at 37 New Orleans Road in New Orleans Plaza. Enjoy traditional Japanese dishes such as grilled fish, chicken and steak, suki yaki, a variety of noodle dishes, tempura, daily specials, plus sushi and sashimi. The very extensive menu includes dozens of appetizers, several kinds of broiled fish, salads and over 20 entrees from which to choose. Three intimate dining rooms, a sushi bar and a cocktail lounge offers something for everyone. Early Bird specials and take-out available. Open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., Monday thru Friday and dinner from 5:30 until 10 p.m., Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9800. HUDSONʼS SEAFOOD ON THE DOCKS Located on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. Celebrating over 30 years, Hudson’s is one of the Island’s most

recognized landmarks. Featuring fresh seafood from our docks to your table, as well as pasta, steaks, chicken and more. Fabulous waterfront dining and spectacular sunsets all in a comfortable atmosphere. Kid’s menu available. Featured on the Food Network “Best of Hilton Head Island” and “$40 a day”. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.

IL CARPACCIO Located in Pineland Station. Enjoy highly regarded, authentic cuisines from Northern Italy in a casual, attractive atmosphere overlooking the duck pond. Savor original Italian pizza cooked in our brick oven, specialties made to order and excellent choices of wine. Private party room available. Reservations accepted and walk-ins welcome. Open Monday thru Saturday for lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 until. Call (843) 342-9949.

KENNY BʼS CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT Located in Circle Center, just off Pope Avenue. Enjoy Creole cuisine with a Lowcountry influence. Find an appealing choice of Cajun fare such as Shrimp Etoufee, Crawfish Etoufee, Jambalaya, N’awlins Po Boy’s, Red Beans & Rice and authentic Gumbos. Great soups and salads, as well as a kid’s menu and take-out service available. Also, cold beer and awesome desserts. Open Monday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday, 8:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. Call (843) 785-3315. LANDʼS END TAVERN Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Featuring great seafood, steaks, sandwiches and salads. A casual atmosphere with a pirate theme ensures fun for the whole family. Great kid’s menu and desserts. It’s a bounty of treasure waiting to be plundered. Serving all day, every day starting from 8 a.m. Call (843) 671-5456. MANGIAMO New location, 2000 Main Street next to the Main Street Inn. A comfortable and cozy atmosphere featuring outstanding

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pizza, subs, salads and pasta. Beer and wine, kid’s menu, and daily specials offer something for everyone. Enjoy half price cheese pizza from 3 until 4 p.m. Dine inside, on the patio or take it to go. North Island delivery available. Your home away from home for The Ohio State Buckeyes. Open Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. Call (843) 682-2444.

MURPHYʼS IRISH PUB Located in Heritage Plaza off Pope Avenue. An Authentic Irish pub serving Fish & Chips, Cottage Pie, Bangers & Mash, Pasties, Sandwiches, Soups, Salads and more. Full bar with

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Guinness, Harp, Stella Artois and Smithwicks on tap plus imports and domestics by the bottle and wines by the glass. Also, Irish coffees and desserts. Take-out and kid’s menu available. Call (843) 842-3448 for seasonal hours.

OCEANS Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Recharge your day with delightful Lowcountry creations and a panoramic view of the great Atlantic at Oceans. Open for lunch and dinner, drinks until late. Call (843) 681-4000.

PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way. Serving breakfast and lunch all day. Awesome sandwiches, burgers, salads, soups, chicken, seafood and daily blue plate specials in cozy and comfortable atmosphere. Beer, wine and liquor available as well as take-out and childrens menu. Eat inside or relax on the outside patio. “One of the Best Breakfasts on Hilton Head”, Southern Living magazine. Open Daily Monday thru Friday, 6 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Call (843) 686-3232 for more information.

PANERA BREAD Located at 1012 William Hilton Parkway, just before the Sea Pines circle. With the skill of an Artisan, the heat of the oven and a few fine ingredients our bakers make bread that is simply delicious and baked fresh right here every day. Offering a wide selection of fantastic food including our signature sandwiches, hot paninis, delicious soups and signature salads. Catering also available. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Call (843) 686-3838. PLANTATION CAFÉ & DELI Located South Island at 81 Pope Avenue in Heritage Plaza and North Island at Port Royal Plaza. An Island favorite since 1974. From soups and salads to sandwiches and Blue plate specials, we have something for everyone. Choose from a great selection of meats and sides and a wide array of salads, soups and sandwiches, all served at moderate prices. We promise you will not leave hungry. Beer and wine available. Open for lunch Monday thru Saturday at 11:30 a.m., and Sunday brunch from 7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-9020 or 342-4472.

REDFISH On the Corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. Serving Innovative Cuisine with an upbeat flair. Specializing in excellent seafood, steaks, salads and daily specials. Attached bar and retail wine shop with over 1,000 selections of fine wines. Outdoor seating available. Serving lunch Monday thru Saturday from 11:30 a.m. and dinner daily from 5 p.m. Call (843) 686-3388.

REILLEYʼS Located in Reilley’s Plaza just off the Sea Pines Circle and Port Royal Plaza. A long running lunch destination, Reilley’s offers fish & chips, cottage pie, corned beef & cabbage, great sandwiches, soups, salads, seafood and much more in a casual Island atmosphere. Dine inside or outside on our new patio. Full bar, take-out and kid’s menu available. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4414 or 681-4153 or online at www.reilleyshiltonhead.com. THE SALTY DOG CAFE Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Enjoy the famous steamed shrimp, frozen drinks and casual atmosphere at the Island’s favorite outdoor cafe. Full lunch menu or try great pizza from Jake’s Pizza Parlor. Visit our ice cream shop for dessert. Truly something for the whole family. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233).

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SAN MIGUELʼS MEXICAN CAFE Located at Harbourside III on Shelter Cove Harbour. A great combination of beautiful views and Mexican delicacies makes this the perfect spot for food from south of the border. Burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, chimichangas and more Mexican fare offers something for everyone. Open for lunch daily from 11:30 a.m until 5 p.m. Dine inside or out. Call (843) 842-4555.

SANTA FE CAFÉ Located at 807 William Hilton Parkway near the entrance to Palmetto Dunes. Our elegant yet casual, cozy atmosphere captures the spirit of New Mexico. Innovative southwestern cuisine featuring our Quesadilla Soup and Salad Trio, Santa Fe Salad, Fish Tacos, Steak Fajitas and many other great lunch selections including our all new vegetarian menu. Excellent wine list, wide selection of imported beer and full bar. Takeout available. Open for lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. and Dinner 7 nights a week starting from 5 p.m. Call (843) 785-3838.

THE SMOKEHOUSE Join us in our larger and newly renovated location at 34 Palmetto Bay Rd. Winner of over 30 food awards since 1999, choose from hand-pulled pork barbeque, Texas-style beef brisket, baby back ribs, smoked turkey, burgers, wings and more all served with delicious sides and cold beverages. Enjoy the large covered outdoor deck or sit inside and catch a game on one of the flat screen TV’s. Kids menu, convenient take-out and catering available. Serving continuously from 11:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 842-4BBQ (4227) or visit us at www.smokehousehhi.com.

STEAMER SEAFOOD Located on the pond in Coligny Plaza. Fresh seafood, shellfish, sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts all served in a rustic Lowcountry atmosphere. Try one of our famous baskets with your choice of chicken, fish, shrimp or oysters. The most kid-friendly restaurant on the Island with seating inside or outside on the deck or the patio. Full bar and take-out available. Open for Lunch daily at 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 785-2070. TAPAS RESTAURANT Located at 11 Northridge Plaza, near the Northridge Cinemas. Join Chef/Owner Ardis Matthews, who has been featured in Bon Appetit magazine, for an outstanding dining experience. A tapas style menu includes dishes such as Lobster Thermador, Escargot, Filet Mignon, Fried Green Tomatoes, She Crab soup and many more delicious selections. Great

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selection of fine wines available as well as a full bar. Catering available. Call for information regarding private lunch parties. Open for dinner from 5 p.m. nightly. Call (843) 681-8590.

TRUFFLES CAFE Located in Sea Pines Center, off Pope Avenue in Executive Park and Belfair Towne Village in Bluffton. Delicious homemade soups, fabulous salads, sandwiches, burgers, pasta and fresh local seafood. Casual Cafes featuring the freshest food and finest service for over 25 years. Full bar and fine wines available by the glass or bottle. Don’t forget to try one of our outrageous desserts. Outside seating available at Pope Ave. and Belfair locations. Reservations accepted. Serving lunch and dinner daily. Call (843) 671-6136, 785-3663 or 815-5551 or go to www.trufflescafe.com. TURTLES BEACH BAR & GRILL Enjoy refreshing summer cocktails and Lowcountry fare prepared with a Caribbean twist at our poolside restaurant Turtles Beach Bar & Grill. Relax from the day with lunch al fresco, served seasonally and weather permitting. Call (843) 681-4000.

WILD WING CAFE Located at 72 Pope Avenue in Circle Center and just off Hwy. 278 in Bluffton. Celebrating over 20 years on the Island, Wild Wing is famous for serving “The Best Wings South of Buffalo” in 33 different flavors. With a huge menu, there's something for everyone including big beefy burgers, chargrilled chicken sandwiches, tender baby-back ribs, mountains of nachos, awesome salads and the original Bucket O’ Beer. Wild Child Menu and take-out available. Live music and late night fun all week. Open Monday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., and Sunday 12 noon until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-9464 or 837-9453 or online at www.wildwingcafe.com.

THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Enjoy a casual and fun atmosphere in the same spirit as the Salty Dog Cafe. Fresh seafood, sandwiches, salads and soups all served with your favorite beverages. Enjoy spectacular waterfront views of Braddock’s Cove. Open daily for lunch, 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. and dinner, 4 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 671-7327.

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HILTON HEAD ISLAND WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL A Mega-Event Sporting Mega-Volunteers

BY RISA WILLIAMS McMILLIAN • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

Twenty six years in the making, the Wine & Food Festival began as a quaint parking lot wine festival with some food on the side and has grown into a series of events which begin with a much revered and anticipated wine judging competition and culminate in one of the east coast’s largest wine festivals. The Wine & Food Festival has become a rite of passage into spring, a beckoning for the tourist season to begin, a harbinger of good things to come. It has evolved into not only a wonderful wine-tasting gala, but also a celebration of our talented Island chefs and amazing restaurants. It is a chance for both wine and food connoisseurs and rookies to bask in the glories of palate pleasing. It is a social event as well as an education. Some people think it’s about the 54 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

wine. Some think it’s about the food. But really, whether you are in it to educate your palate or just for the pure pleasure of swishing and swirling those bountiful and beautifully aged grapes and feasting on our Island’s finest flavors, the Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival will make you one happy customer.

T H E V OL U N T E E R S What Wine and Food Festival revelers don’t realize is that this mega event is only made possible through the generous donation of countless hours of time by hundreds of volunteers. There is no “staff”, only a director, a leadership team (of volunteers), and hundreds of selfless worker bees. According to past President of the Island Hospitality Association, Tom Hines, who has not only been to all 26 Winefests but also helped coordinate the last 16 of them, “There are hundreds of wine festivals out there, but none like ours. It literally takes hundreds of volunteers to pull off. The logistics of organizing and pulling off all of these events is astounding. What goes on in the back room is what makes it work.”

So, food and wine aside, this festival is an Island-wide effort that shows the spirit and camaraderie of our hospitality industry. If you talk to enough people that have been involved with this event over the years, they all agree about one thing: the glue that keeps the festival together and the tool that makes it run smoothly is the volunteers. According to Jeff Gerber, a part of the volunteer leadership team of Winefest, “This event could not work without the hundreds of volunteers. It is a volunteer-run organization now.” Why do all these people give so generously of their time? “The food and wine dining destination crowd spends money and everyone in the hospitality industry recognizes this,” said Tom. Bottom line is that the whole array of events is meant to mark Hilton Head as a culinary destination and, as Tom says, “Put heads in beds.” Co-leader for the Great chefs of the South events, Chef Russell Keane from WiseGuys explained their vision: “We are all trying to create an image of Hilton Head that we are as good as Charleston and Savannah when it comes to phenomenal food. We have added a number of food events to the original Winefest because it is time for people to know us as a culinary

destination.” The Wine and Food festival is sporting a new theme and look this year, meant to pull in the food aspect of the event. “Launching a new era of wine and food” will be used in marketing efforts by both the wine festival committee and

participating restaurants, as well as by the Chamber of Commerce in attracting the ever increasing population of culinary tourists. According to Susan Thomas with the Hilton Head/Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, 17% of Americans travel for culinary reasons and experiences. This dining experience, they have learned, is one of the top draws to the Island. “The Wine & Food Festival is our marquee event to celebrate,” said Susan. According to a study conducted by the College of Charleston, the economic impact of the festival last year totaled $3.2 million. This figure takes into account everything from ticket sales and retail purchases to lodging and restaurants. So how does it work? Each particular event in the festival, from the opening dinner to the Public Tasting, is run and coordinated by a leadership team composed of community professionals. Each volunteer leader has his or her own crew of volunteers. The concept looks good on paper: A bunch of seasoned professionals orchestrating their area of expertise, recruiting and directing a large cast of characters to help pull off the details. But can it and more importantly, does it, work? In a word… yes. Ellen Lam, co-chair in charge of Public Relations & Promotion for the festival, A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 55

explains that, “Winefest is put on for the community, by the community.” A crowd of 5,000 is again anticipated for this year’s Public Tasting. T HE EV ENT S The Hilton Head Wine & Food Festival officially kicked off back in January with the Uncork the Festival opening dinner at WiseGuys, followed by the International Wine Judging & Competition. Julie Musselman, director of the festival, expressed that “Our wine festival achieves a huge level of credibility not only because it has been going on for 26 years, but because we do a judging.” The Wine Judging & Competition involves a world of logistical nightmares. Jeff Gerber, volunteer-leader in charge of managing the back room at the competition, oversaw setting up the wines, categorizing them into flights, and working with a team of dozens of volunteers that shuffled bottles, poured wines, and worked with the judges. “What goes on in the back room is what makes this event work,” said Tom Hines. The judging was conducted over a two day period by a panel of 30 credentialed wine judges who tasted some 800 different wines. “There are so many competitions for vineyards to enter that we upped our judging ante by industry standards when we provided all certified judges,” Jeff explained. Vineyards pay a fee for each label they enter and wines are flighted according to classification. Aside from awards for Best of Show and Best Values in both red and white and champagne, double gold, gold and silver medals are presented. Some of the award winning vineyards from the 2010 judging were: Alexander Valley, J. Lohr, Kluge Estate Winery, Cooper’s Hawk, Bogle Vineyards, and Folie a Deux. This year’s winners were not known at press time, but many of them will be available to taste and purchase at the Public Tasting & Auction on March 12th. March plays host to the bulk of the food and wine pairing events starting with Great Chefs of the South, 2 weeks-worth of unforgettable dinners, and ending with the Public Tasting & Auction. Play your cards right and you could be wined and dined every night for a full two weeks! The major culinary draw for locals and visitors is the two week long Great Chefs of the South, an incredibly popular dinner pairing of fine food and wine that takes place prior to the big Public Tasting from March 3rd-13th. According to Chef Russell, co-chair of these dinners with chef Christine Bohn of Christine’s, they will schedule various dinners every night. “We will pair restaurants with a winery. Every chef will come up with his own theme and will work with the particular vineyard for the perfect food/wine pairing and it all goes to benefit a local United Way charity.” Chef Russell plans on doing a Bubbles Ladies night with plenty of fine food and sparkling wine galore. Other dinners were not inked at press time, but you can expect 56 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

events that follow along the same lines as last year: Michael Anthony’s hosted a “Great Chef’s of the World Dinner”; RedFish put on a “Farm-to-Table House Dinner”; Santa Fe Café chefs put together an “Immersion into Southwestern Cuisine”; and Charlie’s L’etoile Verte had an “Iron Sommelier Challenge”. These dinners will run from March 3rd -13th and they sell out quickly. Not for the wine-tasting rookie, the Grand Wine Tasting & Auction will be held March 11th at Harbour Town Conference Center. This event is a premier showcase to a select audience of the festival’s top end wines, $50 and up per bottle. Vineyard representatives will be on hand to pour and sell their selections and heavy hors’ doeuvres will be served. Tickets prices were halved to $50 this year and the event will go from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. “We dropped the price to give people the opportunity to taste wines they never otherwise would have,” said Tom. All the pieces of the Wine & Food Festival lead up to the signature event, The Public Auction & Tasting, March 12th from 12 to 4 p.m. at Honey Horn Plantation. Forty dollars will buy you a wine glass at the gate which you can use to sip the grapes of some 40 wineries while being entertained by chefs and competitions. Vineyard reps will be present to pour, explain, and sell their wines. Also at the Public Tasting will be a dozen food tents, some local vendors, and an Outdoor Gourmet featuring cooking demonstrations in a café setting. “We are getting back to basics this year and the Public Tasting is all about local competitions, local restaurants, and local vendors,” said Tom. Aside from sipping wines, the festival will have an extensive public and silent auction to benefit the John F. Curry Scholarship fund. Wines will be mixed and matched and great deals can be had for the bidding. If you are looking for the friendly local competitions listen for the crowd roars and cheers, explained Talley Lauderdale, head volunteer of fun at the festival. In the Bartender’s Challenge, 16 bartenders will square off displaying their showmanship and enthusiasm whipping up a drink of their choice with a sponsor’s liquor. Last year’s winner was Anthony Triceri from Michael Anthony’s who, according to Talley, “made a killer cocktail!” In the Waiter’s Race, 20 servers dress up in their work gear and at the gun have to open a bottle of wine, pour two glasses, and cart them around on a tray, over their shoulder, as they dance around obstacles, through cones, over bales of hay. Speed and a steady hand will prevail. So welcome March and the spring with open arms and open mind and get ready for some lip smacking culinary pleasures. For a full schedule of dinners and events and to purchase tickets go to www.hiltonheadwineandfood.com. Tickets for the Great Chefs of the South and Grand Tasting are limited and sell out quickly. Public Tasting & Auction tickets are also available for purchase at the event.

VISIT VISIT

ISLAND WINERY

Tasting Room/Store Hours Monday thru Saturday • 12:30 to 5:30 pm Available variety of award winning wines made on premise.

Flights of Wine offered 12:30 - 2:30pm Select Three Wines and we will pair a complimentary chees tray to enhance your tasting

Happy Hour Begins at 4 pm Enjoy light appetizers while sampling a varity from our extensive wine list Located North end of Wm Hilton/278 pkway (near the HH airport) Matthews to Cardinal Rd (mailbox on wine barrel)

12A Cardinal Rd • Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 842-3141 • www.islandwinery.com A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 57

TASTE OF ISLAND RECIPES

FUSILLI WITH CRAB, ASPARAGUS, SPRING ONIONS AND GRAPE TOMATOES Courtesy of Michael Anthony’s

Ingredients: 1 bag handmade fusilli (or pasta of choice) 1 lb jumbo lump crabmeat ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 cup blanched asparagus tips ½ cup medium diced scallions (spring onions) ½ cup grape tomatoes, halved 2 tsp minced garlic ¼ cup white wine ½ cup vegetable broth 3 Tbsp chopped Italian parsley Parmigiano (optional) Preparation: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions. In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the blanched asparagus tips, scallions and tomatoes and sauté for about one minute. Add garlic and sauté until light brown. Deglaze

the pan with white wine, then add the vegetable broth and simmer for two minutes. Add the drained pasta and toss. Add the crabmeat and toss thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients. Add the Italian parsley and a pinch of grated Parmigiano if desired. Toss once more and serve. Serves 4-6.

FRESH APPLE CAKE

Courtesy of A Lowcountry Backyard Ingredients: 3 Cups Flour 2 Cups Sugar 2 Teaspoons Cinnamon 2 Teaspoons Baking Soda 1 Teaspoon Salt 4 Cups Peeled and Cubed Granny Smith Apples 4 Tablespoons Lemon Juice 2 Eggs 1 Cup Vegetable Oil

Preparation: Sprinkle prepared apples with lemon juice. Let apples stand while mixing dry ingredients. Stir in eggs and oil to dry mix to form a smooth batter. Fold apples into batter. Bake in bundt pan or 13 x 9 inch pan for about 1 hour at 350 degrees or until you can insert a toothpick and remove it clean. Topping: Mix 1/2 cup melted butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Spread on warm cake. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts, pecans or your favorite chopped nut! 58 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

RISOTTO ALLA ZUCCA E SALSICCIA BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND SAUSAGE RISOTTO Courtesy of Kingfisher

Ingredients: 5 quarts vegetable stock 3 cups Arborio rice 4 Tbsp butter 1 Tbsp olive oil Salt 1 tsp garlic, minced 1 medium onion, finely minced 2 bay leaves ½ cup white wine 2 Tbsp Italian parsley, chopped 1 small butternut squash, cut into medium dice 2 cups cooked and crumbled Italian sausage ¼ cup heavy cream Parmigiano cheese Preparation: In a large sauce pan, bring the vegetable stock to a boil and continue to simmer over low heat until the dish is completed. Prepare the butternut squash for the risotto by peeling, removing all seeds and chopping into a medium dice. Set aside. In a separate saucepan or risotto pot, over medium heat sauté the onions and bay leaves in the olive oil and 2 Tbsp of the butter until tender. Add minced garlic. Stir in the rice until the grains are well coated with the olive oil and are nearly translucent for

approximately 2 minutes. Add the white wine and stir until it is absorbed. Season with salt. Begin adding the simmering vegetable stock into the rice only one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed. Wait until the stock is completely absorbed before adding the next ladle full. Approximately 10 minutes later, the rice should appear slightly tender and partially cooked. Add chopped butternut squash and cooked sausage. Continue ladling the stock into the rice, stirring constantly until rice is creamy and fully cooked. In the last 3-5 minutes of cooking time, add the cream, the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter and the parsley. The total cooking time is approximately 22 minutes. Rice varies so you may not need all of the stock or you may need more stock. If you run out of vegetable stock, you can finish with a little hot water. Finish the risotto with freshly grated Parmigiano. Adjust seasonings and serve immediately. Serves 6.

SOUTH PACIFIC CHICKEN

LIME PEPPER CHICKEN WITH PINEAPPLE MANGO SALSA Courtesy of Big Bamboo Café 6 oz. Chicken Breast (one per person) coated with olive oil and seasoned with Lime Pepper, Chargrilled. Pineapple Mango Salsa 4 0z. to top.

1 Gold Pineapple diced 1 Mango fresh diced 1 tbsp. fresh Cilantro 1 oz. Red Pepper diced 2 Large Tomato diced

Ingredients: 1 tbsp. Garlic Chili sauce 1 Peach diced 1 oz. Green Pepper diced 2 oz. Yellow Onion diced

Preparation: Blend all ingredients, let sit 12 hours and serve over chargrilled chicken! A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 59

IN THE

KITCHEN with Franz Auer at the Old Oyster Factory

BY LOUISE LUND • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

The Old Oyster factory is situated on the docks overlooking Broad Creek, providing one of the low country’s best panoramic views of the marshland landscape. The restaurant was built on the site of an original oyster cannery. From 1925 until the 1990’s, 1700 acres of nearby creeks and wetlands were harvested and their yield brought to a one-story concrete building located directly under the restaurant. The oysters were then ferried across to the mainland where they were distributed from Savannah to Charleston and beyond. Over the years, commercial development and natural selection tightened distribution, and eventually the state classified all the acreage as protected from commercial harvesting. With head chef and co- owner Franz Auer turning out wonderful and aweinspiring dishes, Old Oyster Factory has consistently been voted one of the best places to dine on the island since they opened in 1989. A native of Austria, Franz apprenticed in Vienna, and developed his skills in Paris, London and Montreal, to name a few of the places where he worked alongside trendsetters and innovators. Apart from being known for its oysters, and its marsh and sunset views, Old Oyster Factory is widely known for its good food. The restaurant generally stays busy year round. Because it is waterfront and guests want to enjoy the views, there is plenty of outdoor as well as indoor seating. The food has a lightness and elegance to it. It’s extremely innovative and creative, and the wine 60 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

parings and different plays on colors, flavors and textures work extremely well. With only a few ingredients, Chef Auer seems to create magic on every plate. Taste visited with Franz to get some behind the scenes information. Taste: How did you get started in the restaurant business? Franz: I was interested in baking and cooking and enjoyed watching one of the first TV cooking shows in Austria. During my high school years I got to meet a famous TV chef , who inspired me to follow his profession. Taste: Where did you train and what is your experience? Franz: After high school, I attended hotel school and then did an apprenticeship in Vienna, Austria. After that, I traveled the world - Germany, England, France (Paris, Cote D’Azur, Cannes, Nice) Holland, Holland America Line, South America, Asia, and Montreal, Canada, learning the finer points of worldly cuisine along the way. Taste: What brought you to Hilton Head Island? Franz: I came to Hilton Head for a weekend trip to visit a friend and found out what a great place it is! Taste: When did you start with Old Oyster Factory? Franz: I’ve been here since we opened our doors in 1989.

Taste: What do you like best about being a chef? Franz: I enjoy meeting lots of nice people from all around the world. Taste: What are your favorite dishes to prepare at the restaurant? Franz: Salmon is my favorite, but I enjoy preparing any seafood and shellfish that is available. Taste: What do you like to cook at home? Franz: Seafood is always on my menu. I usually keep things simple, usually grilled, with veggies, and lots of garlic! Taste: When you’re not cooking, what do you like to do to relax? Franz: I love all sports, but soccer is my favorite. I also enjoy golf, biking, and going to the gym. Taste: What do you like about living on Hilton Head Island? Franz: I enjoy the quality of life here on the island and the beauty of our Lowcountry. Franz Auer is also the co-owner of Alexander’s and Red Fish, both on Hilton Head Island. The Oyster Factory is located at 101 Marshland Road on Hilton Head Island. For reservations or information, call (843) 681-6040.

A TASTE OF BREAKFAST / BRUNCH

A LOWCOUNTRY BACKYARD Located at 32 Palmetto Bay Road in the Village Exchange. Capture the true essence of the island while enjoying local and regional inspired cuisine featuring owner Dave Peck’s family recipes. Choose from Uncle Bill’s biscuits and gravy, Aunt Sandra’s hash brown casserole, James Island crab cake benedict, Backyard benedict and a wide selection of other lowcountry favorites. Dine in or outside in the comfortable backyard. Experience the island, love the food! Serving breakfast/brunch, lunch and dinner. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) for seasonal hours or visit us online at www.hhbackyard.com.

AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE Located at 69 Pope Avenue. There’s no place like Aunt Chiladas for Sunday Brunch. Our Buffet features an omelet station, made to order waffles, smoked bacon, link sausage, garlic hash browns, fruit salad, cheese grits, English muffins and more. Catch your favorite team on one of our 18 flat screen TVs screens, including 6 plasma’s while enjoying a Bloody Mary, Mimosa, Margarita or a wide variety of other beverages. Serving Sunday Brunch from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-7700.

BRITISH OPEN PUB Located in The Village at Wexford, Sheridan Park and Sun City. Fabulous Sunday Brunch served in an authentic English style pub. Choose from Watson’s Steak & Eggs, Eggs Faldo (Benedict), Old Tom Morris Omelette, Pancakes, Alpine French Toast and more. Add a bottomless glass of champagne or mimosa for $2.99. Hilton Head location open for Brunch from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. and Sun City location from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736, Bluffton 815-6736 or Sun City 705-4005.

CAROLINA CAFÉ Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Southern hospitality is alive and delicious at the Carolina Café. Start your day with an energizing 62 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

breakfast as you choose from the breakfast table buffet or a variety of fresh beginnings. From eggs your way to waffles and pancakes, the Carolina Café is sure to satisfy every appetite. General hours are 6:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. for breakfast and lunch, 5:30 - 10 p.m. for dinner. Call (843) 681-4000.

THE CHART HOUSE (Formally Charley’s Crab) Located at Two Hudson Rd., just off Squire Pope Rd. Serving up sensational food prepared by Executive Chef Eric Seaglund, accompanied by spectacular water views of the Intracoastal waterway and extraordinary service. The expansive menu features fresh fish, pristine seafood, succulent steaks, Lowcountry specialties and an extensive collection of fine wines and decadent desserts. Relax on the expanded contemporary patio. Open for lunch and dinner daily, as well as Sunday Brunch. Happy hour offered daily from 4 until 7 p.m. Call (843) 342-9066 or online at www.charthouse.com. Reservations are recommended.

KENNY BʼS CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT Located in Circle Center, just off Pope Avenue. Enjoy Creole cuisine with a Lowcountry influence. Our Sunday brunch buffet features beignets, scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, grits, fruit and a made-to-order omelette station with eggs benedict. For a sampling of our regular weekday menu, choose from french toast, crabcake benedict, Mississippi tall stack pancakes, café au lait, quiche and a creole omelette. Open Monday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday, 8:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m until 9 p.m. Call (843) 785-3315.

LANDʼS END Located in Sea Pines at South Beach Marina overlooking beautiful Braddock's Cove, Land's End Tavern is one of the few Hilton Head Island restaurants with a spectacular, waterfront view. Complete with a broad selection of breakfast favorites, plus lowcountry staples like Crab Cake Benedict and Shrimp and Grits. Land's End Tavern is a casual atmosphere with a pirate theme that the whole family will enjoy. Open daily from 8 a.m. Call (843) 671-5456.

PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way. An Islander favorite for breakfast and brunch featuring eggs benedict, omelettes, french toast, pancakes, quiches, daily specials and more. Enjoy a bloody mary, mimosa, coffee or your favorite beverage while dining inside or on the patio. “One of the Best Breakfasts on Hilton Head”, Southern Living magazine. Open Daily Monday thru Friday, 6 a.m.-2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Call (843) 686-3232 for more information. PANERA BREAD Located at 1012 William Hilton Parkway, just before the Sea Pines circle. With the skill of an Artisan, the heat of the oven

A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 63

Lavon Stevens Musician of Many Genres

BY RISA WILLIAMS MCMILLAN PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

The music of Lavon Stevens is full of soul and passion. Listening to him belt out a Stevie Wonder classic and dazzle a keyboard is as rich as the history of Jazz itself. He sat down with Taste to share his story. Taste: Why music? Lavon: I started singing in church as a boy. The church has always been my foundation. My older brother used to study classical piano and I would listen to his lessons and then go play the music by ear. I started playing the violin and then viola in 5th grade and was part of the inaugural Youth Orchestra in Savannah. That progressed to bands in high school. Taste: Is piano your instrument of choice and jazz your venue? Lavon: People think of me as a Jazz pianist, but really I am a singer that plays the piano. I used to play rock, R & B, Motown. Now I play it all. I do everything from solo to an 8 piece band. Taste: Ah, you’re multi-talented and multifaceted. Lavon: I have multi-bills to pay. Taste: What else do you do? Lavon: I got into real estate 6 years ago. I used to just take people around and show them the Island. The next thing I knew

they’d come into the Jazz club and buy me a drink after buying a house in Wexford. Finally one day I thought, “There’s more to this real estate thing,” and I got my license. I had a couple good years. Now it’s real estatesolitaire. Taste: Any fun stories? Lavon: My first job on the Island was 30 years ago at a piano bar called Scratch & Magoos. I was green. Some guy came in and asked me to play “New York, New York.” I thought he wanted 2 songs. I learned the piano bar business and the next time someone came in asking for that song I knew it and he gave me a $50 tip. Then he came in again and gave me $100 tip for the same song. Everyone at the bar started giving me these huge tips because they thought that was what they were supposed to do. Taste: What advice do you have for budding musicians? Lavon: The same thing I tell my two sons. Music is a wonderful vehicle that can take you anywhere you want in the world. Let Lavon’s music take you away. He plays at the Jazz Corner, The Hilton, or as Worship Leader at First Presbyterian Church. For his schedule, go to: www.lavonstevens.com.

and a few fine ingredients our bakers make bread that is simply delicious and baked fresh right here every day. Offering a wide selection of hot breakfast sandwiches and freshly baked bagels. Choose from a variety of coffee drinks, smoothies, espresso drinks and more. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Call (843) 686-3838.

PLANTATION CAFÉ & DELI Located South Island at 81 Pope Avenue in Heritage Plaza and North Island at Port Royal Plaza. An Island favorite since 1974. Offering fresh breakfast items such as omelettes, crab cake benedicts, skillet dishes, pancakes, waffles, French toast, biscuits & gravy and much more, all at moderate prices. Also a wide variety of sides and beverages to complete any meal. Open for breakfast, Monday thru Saturday from 6:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and Sunday 7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. for breakfast and brunch. Call (843) 785-9020 or 342-4472.

REILLEYʼS Located in Reilley’s Plaza just off the Sea Pines Circle and Port Royal Plaza. Quite possibly, The Island’s longest running brunch. Our legendary brunch features Eggs Benedict, Omelettes, Steak and Eggs, as well as all of our regular lunch

items. Champagne, Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s complement the casual Island atmosphere. Dine inside or on our new patio. Serving Brunch on Sunday from 11 a.m. Call (843) 842-4414 or 681-4153 or online at www.reilleyshiltonhead.com.

SUNSET GRILLE Located off Hwy. 278 on Jenkins Road at the Hilton Head Harbour. Sunset Grille offers wonderful views of the waterway. Specialties include scallop salad and cheese stuffed burgers. Sunday Brunch is served 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., lunch is served Tuesday thru Friday 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and dinner Tuesday thru Sunday from 6 p.m. Call (843) 689-6744.

TRUFFLES CAFE Located in Sea Pines Center, off Pope Avenue in Executive Park and Belfair Towne Village in Bluffton. Fabulous weekend brunch in a casual cafe featuring the freshest food and finest service. Featuring Eggs Benedict and a full lunch menu. Outside seating available at Pope Ave. and Belfair locations. Open for brunch Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. Call (843) 671-6136, 785-3663 or 815-5551 or go to www.trufflescafe.com.

The Best Reason to Get up Early While on Hilton Head.

We know you want to sleep in, but breakfast is ready! We’ve got omlettes, pancakes and crab cake benedict waiting for you. Hurry though, you don’t want to miss the morning views of South Beach. It’s breakfast with a view and it’s the best reason to get up and start your day.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner opens 8:00 am - Call for Seasonal Hours 843-671-5456 • 232 S. SEA PINES DR.

LANDSENDTAVERN.COM A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 65

Tobacco Road The Island's most complete Smoke Shop! BY LOUISE LUND • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

Hilton Head Island’s oldest smoke shop, Tobacco Road, has been helping Islanders unwind with a good cigar for more than 10 years. Their clientele spans the spectrum from frequent locals to first-time and returning island visitors, and from experienced cigar aficionados to novice cigar smokers. “One of the many beauties of smoking cigars is that you can never get bored,” said Mickey Fulton, owner of Tobacco Road. “ There is always a new cigar to taste, always a new limited or regional edition to try or a moment to smoke one of your old favorites. It takes a while to smoke a cigar. I think that’s 66 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

why they’re associated with relaxation. It’s not something you can rush through. People talk about them – how they’re made, their history. It’s a lot like a fine wine or liqueur.” In addition to the quality cigars, the store provides a soothing atmosphere, complete with a sofa, tables and chairs, that’s reminiscent of a lodge with its cigar-store Indian and tobacco leaf décor. “There are quite a few regulars who stop in almost every day and buy a cigar and relax awhile,” smiles Mickey. If you are a novice and need some advice and direction, Mickey is there to help, and you’d be hard pressed to find a

more competent tutor. Stop in and have a chat with her, and you’ll learn something about tobacco varieties and the craftsmanship that goes into making one cigar unique from others. According to Mickey, as long as the correct humidity level is maintained, tobacco will keep as well in any room as if stored in a humidor. At Tobacco Road, the whole store is temperature regulated and serves as a walk in humidor. “You’re sure to find a cigar to suit the taste of any palate,” she said, “and if you’re looking for a brand we don’t have, let us know and we’ll special order it for you.” Due to the smoking ban in July 2007, it

is becoming more and more difficult to enjoy a good cigar in a comfy place, which partly explains why there are so many new cigars which are relatively smaller. If you have to enjoy them outside, you may want to be quick, particularly during the cooler months. Cigar aficionados will find familiar brands like Cohiba, Punch, Padrón, Montecristo, Machanudo and Ashton Cabinet on the shelves of Tobacco Road. Over the years, Mickey has built the relationships with fine quality cigar companies that have allowed her to offer rare specials and brands that aren’t likely available in any tobacco store. Cigar novices can rely on the expertise that Mickey has built from years in the business to find just what they’re looking for. “It’s more complicated than people think,” she said. Quality can be influenced by a variety of factors - from where the tobacco was grown to the quality of the leaves that comprise the binder and wrap. The majority of the cigars in

Tobacco Road have been hand-rolled in Central or South America. “At the beginning of the cigar craze in the early ’90s, everyone wanted mild cigars,” Mickey said. “Now they’re moving to more full-flavored.” While some customers have a particular brand loyalty, others like to shop around and try different brands. I like the interaction with people,” Mickey added. “I really get excited about new brands and introducing them to people.” The inventory at Tobacco Road is not limited to cigars. They also carry a range of domestic and imported cigarettes. Island visitors from Canada come to Tobacco Road for their preferred Canadian smokes not found in other retail establishments. Distinctive brands such as Nat Sherman and American Spirit, known for their use of additive-free and organically grown tobaccos, and Djarum clove cigars from Indonesia are available as well. Tobacco Road carries smoking accessories, including a full line of humidors,

cigarette and cigar cases, cutters, lighters, fine gifts and smoking accessories, ashtrays, lighters, and cutters. The cigars, however, are the real stars of the show at Tobacco Road. Mickey has been in the tobacco business for more than two decades. She and her late husband Don owned 11 tobacco stores in the Kansas City area before they relocated to Hilton Head Island in 1999. “Our goal was to live at the beach,” she said. “We loved it here.” “You have to dedicate time to truly enjoy the experience of smoking a cigar,” Mickey said. In their friendly and comfortable atmosphere, Tobacco Road has everything for your smoking enjoyment and is the perfect place to relax. In fact you can do just that in a lounge area right in the store. And, you won’t be asked to take it outside. Tobacco Road is located at 119B Arrow Road. For hours and more information, call (843) 341-6265 or visit www.hiltonheadcigars.

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A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 67

A TASTE OF NIGHTLIFE / LOUNGES AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE Located at 69 Pope Avenue. Voted the Island’s best Happy Hour. Awesome Happy Hour menu featuring special prices on steamed shrimp, chicken wings, tacos, Mexican pizzas and Alaskan Snow Crab Legs. Drink specials include a gold dollar back on any liquor drink and a Kennedy half dollar back on any beer or wine selection. Catch your favorite team on one of our 18 flat screen TVs, including 6 plasma’s while enjoying your favorite fare from our regular menu. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 785-7700. THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE Located upstairs at Coligny Plaza, Oceanside. The Island’s finest selection of imported and microbrewed draft beer in a unique 1940’s themed bar. Awesome happy hour with Margarita Madness and many other specials. Live music during dinner Friday and Saturday. Call for late night entertainment schedule. Full menu available. Open from 11:30 a.m. until 2 a.m., Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 686-3443.

BRITISH OPEN PUB Located in The Village at Wexford, Sheridan Park and Sun City. Hilton Head’s first true golfer’s pub featuring the only bar by Titleist. A wide selection of beers, ales, stouts and wines from around the world. Awesome appetizer selections, brilliant martini list and full menu available. Blarney is invited, singing encouraged and good humor admired. Open daily from 11:30 a.m until late. Call (843) 686-6736, Bluffton 815-6736 or Sun City 705-4005.

CALLAHANʼS SPORTS BAR & DELUXE GRILL Located at 49 New Orleans Road. Hang out with the locals at the Island’s original sports bar. Catch your favorite team on one of our 35 TV’s, play NTN Buzztime Trivia or shoot pool on one of our six pool tables. Voted “Best Pub Food and Best Hamburger on the Island”. Also serving a wide variety of sandwiches, wings, soups, salads and more. Full bar and takeout available. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. until 2 a.m. Call (843) 686-POOL (7665).

CAPTAIN JOHNʼS GALLEY AT THE SALTY DOG CAFE Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Step up to Jake’s raw bar for some of the Island’s finest seafood and good times. Enjoy spectacular views of Braddock’s Cove while selecting from steamed oysters, shrimp, crab legs and more. Full bar available 68 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

and the frozen drinks are made with fresh fruit. Happy hour from 4 until 6 p.m. Open nightly at 5 p.m. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233).

CAPTAIN WOODYʼS Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. The locals hangout for fresh seafood and fine beverages. Great signature sandwiches (Grouper Melt & Po Boy’s), oysters, crab legs, shrimp and scallops served with your favorite beer, wine or cocktail all while overlooking Palmetto Bay Marina. Happy Hour from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. daily with great prices. Open daily from 11 a.m. until late, food available until 10 p.m. Call (843) 785-2400 or 757-6222.

CASEYʼS SPORTS BAR & GRILL Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. The sports bar of choice offers an awesome sports atmosphere with over 40 TV’s and a great collection of sports memorabilia. Karaoke on Tuesday and Friday nights as well as Trivia on Thursdays. A full bar and fantastic happy hour with great drink and food specials. Also serving a full menu featuring award-winning Buffalo wings, burgers, sandwiches, salads and more. Open daily from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-2255.

CATCH 22 FRESH SEAFOOD & GRILL Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. A great choice for some of the Island’s best Happy Hour deals. Relax in a comfortable and cozy atmosphere and choose from great seafood appetizers and beer, wine and liquor specials. A full menu is also available at the bar as well as a wide selection of fine wines. Happy Hour from 5 to 6:30 p.m. daily and dinner served from 5 p.m. Call (843) 785-6261.

the bar with Jeff and try one of his famous real chocolate martinis or one of his other unique concoctions. Full bar, extensive wine and beer offerings, and happy hour specials. Dinner is available at the bar. Happy hour from 5 until 7 p.m. Non-smoking environment. Open Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9277.

COCOʼS ON THE BEACH Located at the end of the boardwalk at Hilton Head Resort mile marker 7 or on the beach at beach marker 94A Singleton Beach. Just steps from the beach with a spectacular ocean view. Coco’s is an authentic beach bar and grill with a casual friendly atmosphere; your place for island enjoyment. Unwind ocean side in the Carolina sun with one of the largest selections of Beer, Rum, Tequila and the best Margarita’s on the Island. Coco’s grill menu offers something for the entire family. Visit Coco’s website Cocosonthebeach.com or become a fan of Coco’s on Facebook. Seasonal live entertainment. Open 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday - Saturday (hours vary seasonally). For directions and information, call (843) 842-2626 (COCO). CORKS WINE BAR Located South Island in the Publix Shopping Center next to Staples and Old Towne Bluffton in the Calhoun Street Promenade. The Lowcountry’s only neighborhood wine bar where class

“Brilliant” Hilton Head’s Authentic Irish Pub Heritage Plaza , 81 Pope Avenue, Suite 11 (Behind New York City Pizza)

843-842-3448 Open Monday-Saturday from 2 p.m. until Closed on Sunday www.murphyspubhhi.com A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 69

meets comfort in a warm, friendly and fun atmosphere. Offering wines by the glass, bottle, flight and porron. Gourmet ‘Big’ small plates made from fresh, local and organic ingredients and a full selection of spirits and American craft beers. Great happy hour specials from 4 until 6 p.m. daily. Open Monday thru Saturday from 4 p.m. until midnight. Catch us online at www.corkswinecompany.com.

CRANEʼS TAVERN STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD Located at 26 New Orleans Rd. Relax around our antique Old English bar and enjoy a cocktail, appetizer, sandwich or full meal. Select from our extensive wine and liquor list, true classic cocktails, infused martinis, aged scotches and small batch bourbons. Enjoy half off the bar menu during happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. daily. A family tradition of excellence in quality and value for over 100 years. Serving dinner daily from 5 p.m. Call (843) 341-2333. FLATBREAD GRILL Located at Coligny Circle oceanside in the Beach Market Center. Opening mid April, this upscale casual dining sensation is sure to be a favorite of both visitors and locals. Choose from Neopolitan pizza, fresh pasta, gourmet salads, or hearty sandwiches all cooked in our open hearth oven. Hang out in our friendly lounge and enjoy a nice selection of appetizers and cocktails while viewing your favorite sporting event on our HDTV’s. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 341-2225 or online at www.flatbreadgrillhhi.com.

THE JAZZ CORNER Located in the "corner" of The Village at Wexford. Voted "Best Live Entertainment Venue". Our intimate, elegant atmosphere is the perfect setting to enjoy an evening of world-class entertainment enhanced by our innovative southern flavors menu and impeccable service. The Jazz Corner offers a signature martini menu, extensive wine list, full bar and late-night menu. Open nightly from 6 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Call (843) 842-8620 or check us out online at www.thejazzcorner.com.

KINGFISHER SEAFOOD, PASTA, AND STEAK HOUSE Located at 18 Harbourside Ln. at Shelter Cove Harbour. Live music and dancing with Target-the band on Shag Wednesdays, Classic Rock with David Wingo on Thursdays and Jazz with Earl Williams on Fridays. Tableside magic shows on Sundays and Mondays. Affordable casual dining in a 5 star setting with breath-taking waterfront views of Shelter Cove Harbour and Broad Creek. Call (843) 785-4442 or online at www.kingfisherseafood.com. 70 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

MELLOW MUSHROOM Located in Park Plaza. A fun and lively place with great food, beer and service. Over twenty-four beers on tap, fifty more by bottle and a full bar all in a comfortable and casual setting. Specializing in great pizza and calzones, monumental hoagies and fresh salads. Plenty of TVs to view your favorite teams. Win prizes at live team trivia Wednesday nights at 9 p.m. Enjoy Karaoke on Saturday Night. Happy Hour from 3 until 6 p.m. everyday. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-2474. MURPHYʼS IRISH PUB Located in Heritage Plaza off Pope Avenue. Come join us for a pint in this Authentic Irish pub. Featuring Guinness, Harp, Stella Artois and Smithwicks on tap plus imports and domestics by the bottle and wines by the glass. Happy Hour from 2 until 6 p.m. with drink and food specials. Great Irish dishes, coffees and desserts available. Take-out available. Catch a rugby match, live English soccer game or Irish hurling or football on one of our TVs. Call (843) 842-3448 for seasonal hours.

REDFISH On the corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. Our unique bar and retail wine shop offers a contemporary, yet casual atmosphere for the wine connisuer. Over 1,000 hand-selected wines from all over the world are available as well as a full bar selection. The wine shop is open Monday thru Saturday at 10 a.m. Dinner is available daily from 5 to 10 p.m. Call (843) 686-3388. REILLEYʼS Located in Reilley’s Plaza just off Sea Pines Circle and Port Royal Plaza. An Island Tradition since 1982. Happy Hour from 4 until 7 p.m. featuring 50% off on all liquor, wine, beer and appetizers. Also, occasional live entertainment (call for schedule). Full menu and bar available inside or outside on our new patio. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4414 or 681-4153 or online at www.reilleyshiltonhead.com.

THE SALTY DOG CAFE Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Great food, frozen drinks and live entertainment at the Island’s favorite outdoor cafe. Beautiful views of Braddock’s Cove in this fun and casual atmosphere. Happy hour daily from 4 until 6 p.m. Full menu available, Pizza from Jake’s Pizza Parlor, ice cream and much more. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233).

SAN MIGUELʼS MEXICAN CAFE Located at Harbourside III on Shelter Cove Harbour. Do Mexican on the marina while enjoying the Island’s best margaritas. The outdoor bar overlooking the marina is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Great happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m.,

seasonal live entertainment and panoramic views make this a must stop. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4555.

SANTA FE CAFÉ Located at 807 William Hilton Parkway near the entrance to Palmetto Dunes. Capturing the spirit of New Mexico in an elegant yet casual, cozy atmosphere. Our outdoor rooftop cantina is the perfect setting for one of our famous margaritas, sangrias or an imported beer. Enjoy Happy Hour daily from 5 until 7 p.m. and live entertainment Wednesday thru Saturday. Open Daily for dinner from 5 p.m., and lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-3838 or www.santafehhi.com.

THE SMOKEHOUSE Join us in our larger and newly renovated location at 34 Palmetto Bay Rd. The island’s newest nightlife destination for Rhythm and Brews! Offering 12 choices of ice-cold beer from our state of the art beer towers, full complement of premium liquors and wines, plenty of flat screen TV’s and an amazing sound system and occasional live entertainment to keep you rockin! For a more mellow evening you can chill out on our outdoor deck complete with a brick fireplace. Open daily at

11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4BBQ (4227) or visit us at www.smokehousehhi.com.

STEAMER SEAFOOD Located on the pond in Coligny Plaza. Fresh seafood, amazing appetizers, raw bar delicacies all served with a wide variety of beverages. Over 250 beers from around the world, buckets of beer, frozen drinks, pitchers of cocktails and wine by the glass or bottle. Celebrating 20 years on the Island. Seasonal live entertainment featuring Todd Cowart. Open from 11:30 a.m until late, 7 days a week. Call (843) 785-2070.

TRUFFLES CAFE Located just off Pope Avenue on Executive Park Road. Featur-

A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 71

ing a comfortable and contemporary atmosphere. Choose from an impressive selection of fine wines, top shelf liquors and premium beers. Happy hour is available from 5 until 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. until close with special pricing on all beverages and appetizers. A full menu is available in the bar area. Our new outdoor terrace provides a perfect atmosphere for outside dining. Open for lunch, Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and dinner, Monday thru Saturday from 5 until 10 p.m. Reservations accepted. Call (843) 785-3663.

TURTLES BEACH BAR & GRILL Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Refresh with an exhilarating concoction while enjoying a taste of South Carolina Low Country fare prepared with a Caribbean twist. Cheer for your favorite sports team or watch the tides of the Atlantic from one of Hilton Head Island’s best ocean views. Open for dinner daily 4:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., drinks until late. Hours vary seasonally. Call (843) 681-4000.

WILD WING CAFE Located at 72 Pope Avenue in Circle Center and just off Hwy. 278 in Bluffton. When the sun goes down on Hilton Head, the night lights up at the Wing! Of course this legendary hot spot serves “The Best Wings South of Buffalo” in 33 different flavors, but there's a whole lot more as well. Known as one of the premier spots for live music, sports on the big screen and late night fun including karaoke and trivia. Enjoy the original Bucket O’ Beer, fantastic food, great service and more in this Island institution for over 20 years. Open Monday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., and Sunday 12 noon until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-9464 or 837-9453 or check us out online at wildwingcafe.com. THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Enjoy a casual and fun atmosphere in the same spirit as the Salty Dog Cafe. Great food and beverages while overlooking beautiful Braddock’s Cove. Crab, shrimp and food specials from 4 until 5:30 p.m. and drink specials from 4 until 6 p.m. Open daily. Call (843) 671-7327.

72 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

YOUR MOMʼS KITCHEN Producer of Hilton Head’s own bloody mary mix, Your Mom’s Island Original. Available at local retailers, restaurants, and throughout the state. The official “Home” of Island Original can be found at Bravo! Pizza located next to Blockbuster Video on New Orleans Rd. Stop in to learn more or to find other products. Taste the layers for yourself! Call (843) 2472427 or online at www.yourmomskitchen.com.

A TASTE OF ENTERTAINMENT/SERVICES

HEAVENLY SPA BY WESTIN Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Amidst the palmetto lined boardwalks, winding through lush gardens, serene fountains and enchanting lagoons rests a heavenly oasis. The first Heavenly Spa by Westin in the continental United States includes a full service salon. We welcome you to experience pampering essences to soothe the spirit, rejuvenate the body and enrich the mind. Open daily 8:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (hours vary seasonally). Call (843) 6811019 to book an appointment or visit us online at www.HiltonHeadHeavenlySpa.com.

HILTON HEAD ICE CREAM Located at 55 New Orleans Road, just off Pope Avenue. Hilton Head Ice Cream has received accolades from CNN, Warner Books, Southern Living magazine and voted best of Hilton Head in every local media poll. Even the U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain has touted Hilton Head Ice Cream. The shop has created many flavors: Girl Scout Cookie, Flower Power, Mocha Pecan, Banana’s Foster and Espresso. Salt air is our secret ingredient and there is love in each batch too. Call (843) 842-6333. ISLAND FUDGE SHOPPE Located in Coligny Plaza. The best homemade confections anywhere. Offering16 flavors of fudge made fresh daily, 8 flavors of saltwater taffy and a large variety of hand dipped chocolates sure to please even the sweetest tooth. Gift baskets and shipping available. Locally owned and operated. Senior citizens receive a 10% off discount. Call (843) 842-4280 for more information or check us out online at www.islandfudge.com.

ISLAND WINERY Located at 12A Cardinal Rd. Island Winery presents a unique concept in fine wines, traveling the world’s vineyards to select the perfect grapes and handcrafting their wines in small batches right on Hilton Head. Also featuring Lowcountry specialty wines with unique recipes made from local fruit. Enjoy tastings Monday thru Saturday, from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., or join the wine and cheese happy hour each Monday thru Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. Call (843) 842-3141 for directions and information or online at www.islandwinery.com. MICHAEL ANTHONYʼS Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. Designed to reflect old world ambiance the culinary center has a state of the art designer kitchen where Executive Chef Michael Cirafesi

holds classes each week and teaches the art of classical Italian cooking. Hands-On participation classes and Demonstration classes are offered Wednesday thru Saturday starting at 11:00 a.m. The adjacent Italian Market offers a wide array of Italian wines and gourmet foods. Reservations are required. Call (843) 785-6272 or visit www.michael-anthonys.com for more information.

OCEAN TIDES SPA Located at 23 Ocean Lane in Palmetto Dunes Plantation at the Hilton Oceanfront Resort. Spend the day being pampered from head to toe by the specially trained therapists. Choose from among an extensive massage menu, facials, manicures, pedicures and wraps. Emerge renewed through an enchanting ritual of treatments and experience the soothing atmosphere of this ocean front spa. Offering the only beachside Cabana massages on the Island. Open daily with evening and sunrise appointments available. Call (843) 341-8056.

SPA SOLEIL Located inside the Marriott Resort & Spa in Palmetto Dunes. Relax and let us take care of you in our beautiful and tranquil European spa. An absolutely breathtaking relaxation room complete with amazing lighting, waterwall and fireplaces is the perfect atmosphere for you to enjoy a variety of spa treatments all served with a touch of southern hospitality. Open from 7:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. (hours vary with season). Call (843) 6868420 or 686-8429 or online at www.csspagroup.com. TOBACCO ROAD Located at 119 Arrow Road, Suite B. An impressive array of cigars, perfect humidification and a well trained staff will meet all your needs. Hilton Head’s oldest smoke shop has catered to locals and tourists alike for over ten years. Offering a complete selection of fine cigars, domestic and imported cigarettes, and a comfortable smoking lounge in which to enjoy them. Open Monday thru Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Call (843) 341-6265 or online at www.hiltonheadcigars.com. YELLOW CAB The largest cab fleet on Hilton Head. All vehicles are radio dispatched, late model sedans or mini-vans. Serving all area airports. Service 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Providing great service and comfortable air-conditioned transportation. Call (843) 686-6666.

A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011 • 73

A TASTE OF ADVERTISERS / MAP LOCATION 1. A LOWCOUNTRY BACKYARD

(843) 785-YARD (9273)

2. ALEXANDERʼS

(843) 785-4999

3. AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE

(843) 785-7700

4. THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE

(843) 686-3443

5. BRITISH OPEN PUB

(843) 686-6736, 815-6736 or 705-4005

6. CALLAHANʼS SPORTS BAR & DELUXE GRILL

(843) 686-POOL (7665)

7. CAPTAIN JOHNʼS GALLEY AT THE SALTY DOG CAFE

(843) 671-CAFE (2233)

8. CAPTAIN WOODYʼS

(843) 785-2400 or 757-6222

9. CAROLINA CAFE

(843) 681-4000

10. CASEYʼS SPORTS BAR & GRILL

(843) 785-2255

11. CATCH 22 FRESH SEAFOOD & GRILL

(843) 785-6261

12. CHARLIEʼS LʼETOILE VERTE

(843) 785-9277

13. CHART HOUSE

(843) 342-9066

14. COCOʼS ON THE BEACH

(843) 842-COCO (2626)

15. CONROYʼS

(843) 686-8400

16. CORKS WINE BAR

(843) 671-7783 or 815-5168

17. CRANEʼS TAVERN STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD

(843) 341-2333

18. CRAZY CRAB

(843) 363-2722 or 681-5021

19. FLATBREAD GRILL

(843) 341-2225

20. THE FROSTY FROG CAFÉ

(843) 686-FROG (3764)

21. HEAVENLY SPA BY WESTIN 22. HILTON HEAD ICE CREAM

(843) 681-1019 (843) 842-6333

23. HINOKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR

(843) 785-9800

24. HUDSONʼS SEAFOOD ON THE DOCKS

(843) 681-2772

25. IL CARPACCIO

(843) 342-9949

26. ISLAND FUDGE SHOPPE

(843) 842-4280

27. ISLAND WINERY

(843) 842-3141

28. THE JAZZ CORNER

(843) 842-8620

29. JUST PASTA CAFE

(843) 686-3900

30. KENNY BʼS CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT

(843) 785-3315

31. KINGFISHER SEAFOOD, PASTA AND STEAK HOUSE

(843) 785-4442

32. KURAMA JAPANESE SEAFOOD AND STEAK HOUSE SUSHI BAR

(843) 785-4955

33. LANDʼS END TAVERN

(843) 671-5456

34. MANGIAMO

(843) 682-2444

35. MELLOW MUSHROOM

(843) 686-2474

36. MICHAEL ANTHONYʼS

(843) 785-6272

37. MURPHYʼS IRISH PUB

(843) 842-3448

38. OCEANS

(843) 681-4000

39. THE OLD OYSTER FACTORY

(843) 681-6040

74 • A TASTE OF HILTON HEAD • SPRING 2011

40. PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE

(843) 686-3232

41. PANERA BREAD

(843) 686-3838

42. PLANTATION CAFE & DELI

(843) 785-9020 or 342-4472

43. REDFISH

(843) 686-3388

44. REILLEYʼS

(843) 842-4414 or 681-4153

45. THE SAGE ROOM

(843) 785-5352

46. THE SALTY DOG CAFE

(843) 671-CAFE (2233)

47. SAN MIGUELʼS MEXICAN CAFE

(843) 842-4555

48. SANTA FE CAFE

(843) 785-3838

49. THE SMOKEHOUSE

(843) 842-4BBQ (4227)

50. SPA SOLEIL

(843) 686-8420 or 686-8429

51. STEAMER SEAFOOD

(843) 785-2070

52. STELLINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

(843) 785-7006

53. THE STUDIO

(843) 785-6000

54. TAPAS RESTAURANT

(843) 681-8590

55. TOBACCO ROAD

(843) 341-6265

56. TRUFFLES CAFE

(843) 671-6136, 785-3663 or 815-5551

57. TURTLES BEACH BAR & GRILL

(843) 681-4000

58. WILD WING CAFE

(843) 785-9464 or 837-9453

59. THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG

(843) 671-7327

60. YOUR MOMʼS KITCHEN

(843) 247-2427