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CONTENTS FEATURES 12 OYSTER REEF’S LAGERHEAD TAVERN
A 19th Hole like No Other.
16 TWISTED CORK COCKTAIL & WINE BAR
And Island Classic, with a Twist.
22 POOL BAR JIM’S
A New Location for an Island Legend.
26 SPICE UP YOUR SUMMER SMOOTHIE Health and Fitness Tips from Christy Baroni. 30 IN THE KITCHEN Hinoki Chef Chikara “Chi Chi” Yamagishi. 36 HURRICANE MATTHEW AFFECTED US ALL
For Some Island Restaurants, it Posed the Greatest Challenge they’d ever Faced.
44 JUNIOR JAZZ FOUNDATION
Keeping the Beat Alive Through Camps and Concerts.
55 THE NICE GUYS
Talented Teens bring a New Sound to the Island.
56 SUMMER OF FUN
Popular Family Fun Activities.
76 CLAUDE & ULI’S
Brings the Best Flavors of the Continent Under One Roof.
78 SUMMER SPIRITS BLUFFTON STYLE
Drink Your Way Through B-Town with a Selection of Delectable Drinks.
IN EVERY ISSUE 8
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
10 A TASTE OF DINNER 40 A TASTE OF ISLAND RECIPES 46 A TASTE OF LUNCH 60 A TASTE OF SERVICES & SWEETS 62 A TASTE OF BREAKFAST/BRUNCH 66 A TASTE OF NIGHTLIFE/LOUNGES 73 A TASTE OF BLUFFTON 82 ADVERTISING DIRECTORY/MAP 6
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
I was reminiscing recently about growing up and the topic of eating-out came up. It made me recall that my family didn’t really eat out too much. I remember going to the Dipperwell Diner in Middletown, KY on Sunday nights. We would grab take out from Burger Queen occasionally. I don’t think we had pizza at home until I was a teenager and even then we had to pick that up as well. I think that’s the way it was for most people during that era. Man, how times have changed. Dining out now is a way of life and most people do this multiple times a week. The food and beverage industry here on Hilton Head Island and more recently in Bluffton is a busy industry and an amazing non-stop process. People that go out to eat do not usually grasp what actually takes place behind the scenes. To run a good restaurant and be consistently excellent requires a round-the-clock operation that requires so much more than opening the doors and feeding everyone that walks in. When I started this magazine twelve years ago, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what makes local restaurants tick. But looking back, I really didn’t realize the challenges that each and every one of them face on a daily basis. With over 250 restaurants on the Island, the competition is fierce not only for customers but for labor as well. The work is hard, hours are long, and there is always something that needs to be done. Staffing, placing orders, cleaning, accounting, advertising and much more are all part of the never ending daily checklist that local restaurants must account for. Almost all of the restaurants in this magazine are locally owned and operated. When I say locally operated, these owners are literally in their establishments every day taking care of not only the behind the scenes tasks, but serving, cooking, or checking on the patrons. Long days, weekends and holidays are spent making sure their customers are taken care of and that each visit is a pleasant experience. With all that goes into owning and operating a restaurant on the Island or in Bluffton, it is amazing to me the quality of selection, service, and cuisine that is available in such a small area. Expand your horizons this summer. Venture into some of the best restaurants in the country and take advantage of all the hard work that goes into making your dining experience the best that it can be. I know you’ll enjoy it and they will love feeding you and making your meal an unforgettable one. Bon Appetit! David Mudwilder Publisher 8
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TASTE OF HILTON HEAD VOLUME XII, ISSUE 2 PUBLISHER David Mudwilder ART DIRECTOR Kim Bowen CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Rob Kaufman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christy Baroni Barry Kaufman Risa Williams McMillan DISTRIBUTION Bryan Kirby TASTE OF HILTON HEAD 3 Cardinal Court #572 Hilton Head Is., SC 29926 (843) 384-2014 mud@atasteofhiltonhead.com /TasteHHI
ABOUT THE COVER
The Old Oyster Factory, an island restaurant destination for over 25 years, features amazing waterfront views and fresh caught seafood and steaks. Photography by Rob Kaufman.
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A TASTE OF DINNER
ALEXANDER’S RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR
Located in Palmetto Dunes at 76 Queens Folly Road adjacent to the General Store. Alexander’s, a long-time favorite of the Hilton Head Island dining scene since 1977, is an upscale seafood restaurant featuring seasonally inspired cuisine, locally-caught seafood and many locally sourced ingredients. Alexander’s will be offering dinner nightly from 5 p.m. -10 p.m. with early dining from 5 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. For more information, visit www.AlexandersRestaurant.com or 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 and Raina Peck’s family recipes. Choose from Potato chip meatloaf, Charleston fried green tomato sandwich, shrimp & grits, the Bischick and a wide selection of other lowcountry favorites. Dine in or outside in the comfortable backyard. Experience the island, love the food! Serving lunch Monday - Friday 11 a.m. 3 p.m., Saturday 12 - 3 p.m. and dinner 4:30 - 9 p.m., Monday - Saturday and brunch on Saturday 9 - 12 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) or visit us online at www.hhbackyard.com.
ANNIE O’S SOUTHERN EATS
Located at the corner of Arrow and Target Road. “All-Natural” makes the difference! Serving All-Natural proteins including Grass Fed Beef, Pastured Pork, Free-Range Chicken, CageFree Eggs and Wild/Sustainable Seafood. The Southern inspired menu offers traditional Southern favorites featuring All-Natural products because “It just tastes better”. Enjoy indoor seating and the newly created outdoor deck and garden seating. Open Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. Call (843) 341-2664.
AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE
Located at 69 Pope Avenue. With a tag line of “Not your everyday Mexican” one can only imagine what a familyfriendly, fun restaurant Aunt Chilada’s is to both locals and visitors alike! Located on the south-end of Hilton Head, visit Aunt Chilada’s for fresh margaritas, fajitas, unique tacos and even crab legs! The huge, covered outdoor patio is perfect for all gatherings. Kids menu available. Take-out and party platters available. Open seven days a week. Happy hour at both bars from 4 - 7 p.m. A member of the Coastal Restaurants and Bars family of restaurants. Call (843) 785-7700 for reservations or visit auntchiladashhi.com. #auntchiladashhi. 10
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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, award-winning ribs, local seafood, burgers, salads, fresh fish tacos, pizza and more. Fantastic kid’s menu available. Early Bird menu from 4 5:45 p.m. includes entree, house salad or soup of the day and a glass of house wine or house beer. Serving lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. and dinner from 4 until 10 p.m., Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 686-3443.
BIG JIM’S BBQ, BURGERS & PIZZA
New restaurant located in Palmetto Dunes at the Robert Trent Jones Clubhouse. Big Jim’s features BBQ, gourmet burgers and grilled pizza plus fresh seafood, certified Angus steaks & slow-smoked ribs. Enjoy big screen TV’s and expanded outdoor seating overlooking the golf course. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hours are 7:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Happy Hour every day 4 until 7 p.m. and seasonal live entertainment. Take out and catering available. Call (843) 785-1165 or www.palmettodunes.com/big-jims.
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Just start thinking about tacos, tequila, margaritas and you’ll feel better, so it’s no wonder everything about ¡Holy Tequila! just makes you feel good. This island hotspot features a menu of creative, modern Mexican cuisine with fresh seasonal cocktails and exhibits an unparalleled proficiency in all things tacos and tequila. Additionally, the restaurant has a unique coastal cantina vibe with open air dining and features live music every day of the week. It’s the most recent concept by HHI Hospitality, the same local hospitality group behind the award winning Charbar burgers, that is owned and operated by local entrepreneur, Nick Bergelt.
#1. THE AWARD WINNING FOOD Holy Tequila was voted Hilton Head’s Best Mexican Restaurant in both 2015 and 2016. Additionally, they were voted Hilton Head’s Best Margarita & Best Tacos and were also featured as the Top 10 Taco Spots and Top 6 Mexican Restaurants of South Carolina in 2016!
#3. IT’S A TEQUILA MECCA Housing over 65 premium tequilas and other agave spirits like mezcal. Guests can indulge in a number of delicious tequila inspired drinks or their award winning margaritas. Plus, they offer happy hour specials on tequila’s every day from 4pm-7pm.
#2. THE RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE When dining at Holy Tequila we feel they strike the perfect balance of chic lounge meets casual cantina in the heart of Mexico. So whether your straight off the beach or out for a date night, it is always a fun time!
#4. THEY WAKE UP FOR BRUNCH! Almost as well known for their brunch as they are for their normal lunch & dinner offerings. Every weekend from 11am3pm they offer a special menu which includes Churro French Toast, Huevos Rancheros and Mexican mimosas.
Located in Park Plaza • 33 Office Park Rd, Suite 228 • Hilton Head, SC 29928 • www.HolyTequila.com • 843-681-8226 Open for Lunch & Dinner • Monday-Friday 12pm-10pm • Saturday & Sunday 11am-10pm • Happy Hour Daily from 4-7pm
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Oyster Reef’s
Lagerhead Tavern A 19th Hole like No Other BY RISA WILLIAMS MCMILLAN • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN
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While Hilton Head Island golf courses are known for their award winning designs, meticulous grooming, and sweeping fairways and views, not many can boast a unique restaurant that flaunts a comfortable atmosphere, a 19th hole with many refreshing options, and an award winning chef and menu to boot. Lagerhead Tavern, located inside Hilton Head Plantation’s Oyster Reef Clubhouse, is raising the bar to new heights as it establishes itself as a competitive dining option open to the public. Many locals might see it as a favorite watering hole due to their amazing Happy Hour and Early Bird drink and food specials, but with its new extended hours and hand crafted dinner menu, it is redefining the role of the 19th hole. Owned locally by the Heritage Golf Group, the Lagerhead Tavern was renamed and redesigned two years ago. The name was a creative marriage between the much esteemed Loggerhead turtle and of course their bar staple, lager beers. Christopher Wylie, a marketing and hospitality major from Cincinnati took over as clubhouse manager at the beginning of the year and has implemented new menus, specials and a focus on personalized service. Whereas it used to be a place to get a sandwich after golf, it is now a restaurant with multiple dining options and varied menus. “All we have to do is get people in here once and they come back for more.” It is not hard to see the reality behind his words after taking in the setting and enjoying a meal. The relaxed indoor dining room is replete with soothing sea-tones while the bar and the ample patio overlook the driving range where balls are flying high. “We are actually more casual than we probably look. Locals are welcome to bike in for a bite in their shorts and sandals,” said Christopher. The menus, of which there are many, were designed by head Chef Eric Seaglund to compliment his southern lowcountry style cooking with a Louisiana flare. Chef Eric went to Culinary School in Michigan before working for Charley’s Crab, a seafood chain out of Detroit. He moved to Hilton Head in 1999 when the chain opened up a spot on the Island which he ran for 6 years during which time he received numerous “Best of” awards. In 2015, Eric joined up with the Heritage Golf Group which owns Oyster Reef and 2 other local golf courses. He now oversees each of the restaurants at the different golf courses. ‘It’s very challenging running 3 entities but I love it,” explained Eric. “It’s a different part of the food business that I have never seen before.”
Chef Eric follows two rules of thumb when designing his menus: Local and Seasonal. “Probably the most important thing I look for is local ingredients: oysters, shrimp, and produce. Number two is seasonal – whatever is running I will serve it.” Popular times to visit the Lagerhead are afternoon and early evening when they pull out their Early Bird and Happy Hour menus. The Happy Hour menu, which is served from 4-6:30 anywhere inside the restaurant or at the patio or bar, is designed in price point tiers for food and drink. “You can come in here for Happy Hour and have 2 drinks and 2 appetizers and get out for less than $20,” shared Christopher. Appetizer choices are either $4, $5, or $7 and include Hot Chicken Sliders ($4), Lagerhead Hushpuppies with lump crabmeat and pepper honey butter ($5), and fresh oysters, Prime Rib Sliders, or BBQ Pork Nachos ($7). Happy Hour refreshments include Domestic beers for $2, Craft draft beers for $3, house wines and well drinks for $4, and specialty cocktails for only $5. The Early Bird menu is “a value meal” and is served from 3-5:30, 7 days a week. For $19.95, diners can choose a house wine or beer, salad, and choice of entrée which are all regular sized portions like on the dinner menu. Not to leave the kiddos out, there is a Little Lagerheads menu served all day for $6 which includes the likes of burgers and dogs, grilled cheese, and pasta. The Lagerhead opens at 8 a.m. with a breakfast menu that they have geared to keep simple so golfers can get out on the course and locals can get a quick bite. Staples include French toast, Eggs Your Way, Avocado Toast, and omelets. Quick Eats such as a granola parfait and breakfast burrito are available to go. Recognizing that the 19th hole is an important part of their clubhouse, the Lagerhead has spared no creativity in designing their bar menu. They have 9 draft beers with a heavy focus on craft and local, wine by the glass, and specialty cocktail favorites. The Lagerhead Lemonade is their signature cocktail and is made with Bacardi and Malibu rums, vodka, and lemonade. Their Cranberry Screwdriver has
cranberry vodka, cranberry juice, OJ, and Grand Marnier. The dinner menu at Lagerhead has been snowballing in popularity with locals. Chef Eric made sure to please all palettes with his array of appetizers, salads, burgers, sandwiches, and entrees. His southern twist can be seen in items such as the Louisiana Barbeque Shrimp & Grits served with an andouille sauce, the Low Country Reuben, which is made with pulled pork, pickled cabbage and Bloody Mary mayo, and the Herb Crusted Salmon served with collard greens. If you are in the mood for a good burger, there are 6 handcrafted burgers on the menu which all look delicious. The Juicy Lucy, stuffed with cheddar cheese and topped with caramelized onions and bourbon peppercorn sauce, is a Lagerhead staple. The Surf & Turf Burger is topped with fresh lobster and béarnaise sauce and the Carolina Crunch is topped with jalapeno jelly, fried onion rings, and barbeque sauce. “Dinner is really starting to take off,” said Christopher. This is probably due in part to the Tavern Weekly Specials. A local’s favorite is Trivia Night every Tuesday at 6:30 where the top 3 teams receive gift certificates for the Lagerhead. Wednesday is Prime Rib night where $19.95 will buy you a slow roasted 10 ounce cut, salad, and mashed potatoes. Thursday is Hilton Head Plantation appreciation day where property owners receive 20% off (dine in or take out), and Friday nights feature live music. As they are open to the public, locals and visitors can receive entrance to the plantation at either gate just by mentioning the Lagerhead. “Once people try us they come back for more. Word is getting around. We have a lively atmosphere and are a friendly neighborhood watering hole and restaurant where you can sit at the bar and not feel alone,” said Christopher. “People come here because we serve quality local food with personalized service at a good, affordable price.” The Lagerhead also offers curbside service for take-out as well as a drive-by window where golfers can order ahead and pick up anything on the menu, food
and drink, on the fly. The Lagerhead, as well as the other 2 Heritage Golf Group locations – Robber’s Row Grill in Port Royal and the Brickyard Pub in Shipyard, share a rewards system where patrons can get an app on their phone and earn points to be used for future visits.
LAGERHEAD TAVERN The Oyster Reef Golf Club, 155 High Bluff Rd (843) 681-2184 www.hiltonheadgolf.net/dining/ TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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BRITISH OPEN PUB
Located in The Village at Wexford and Sheridan Park in Bluffton. 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. Serving daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Brunch served Saturday, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736 or Bluffton (843) 815-6736.
CAPTAIN JOHN’S 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. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233) for seasonal hours.
CAPTAIN WOODY’S
All New Location at 6 Target Road on Hilton Head and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. A local favorite for over 30 years! Great seafood and more in a casual and comfortable atmosphere. Serving a wide variety of fresh seafood, great signature sandwiches (Grouper melt & PoBoy’s), soups and salads all at affordable prices. Fantastic outdoor deck and bar. Open daily from 11 a.m. til 10 p.m., bar until late. Call (843) 785-2400 or (843) 757-6222 or online at www.captainwoodys.com.
CAROLINA CRAB COMPANY
Located in Palmetto Bay Marina, just off Helmsman Way. With a pet-friendly patio and bar as well as indoor dining, Carolina Crab Company offers an array of fresh seafood, burgers, crab legs, Lowcountry boil and daily Chef specials. Open seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. Happy hour at the bars daily from 4 - 7 p.m. Enjoy water views from the outside bar. A member of the Coastal Restaurants and Bars family of restaurants. Call (843) 842-2016 for reservations or visit carolinacrabco.com. #carolinacrabco.
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. Wednesday and Thursday 10% discount on dinner at the bar, Saturday and Sunday 1/2 price bottle of wine (under $100) with 2 entrees. Happy Hour from 5 to 6:30 p.m. daily. Open daily for dinner from 5 p.m. Call (843) 785-6261. (continued on page 18) 14
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Twisted Cork. COCKTAIL & WINE BAR And Island Classic, with a Twist BY BARRY KAUFMAN • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN
There’s an old saying we’ve all heard at one point or another: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. And the thing about the former Corks Wine Bar in Hilton Head Island’s Island Crossing Center, it wasn’t broke. Its rustically sophisticated interior, complex wine list and upscale-yet-chilled out vibe earned it a spot among the island’s premier hotspots, and rightfully so. So when Melissa Roy took over the location, she didn’t “fix” anything. Instead, what she did might inspire a new saying: if it ain’t broke, give it a twist. What she has created at Twisted Cork Wine Bar takes everything that made Corks great and puts a new shine on almost every aspect of the place. New menu items add depth and complexity to the offerings, creating even more pairings for the famed wine collection. New weekly events have given islanders even more reason to make it a night out. And then, of course, there is the cocktail selection. Because if Corks was an island institution with a dedicated and 16
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loyal following, the same could be said for Roy herself. An island resident for 12 years, she has amassed a huge fanbase as a bartender through her years behind the taps at places like CharBar and Up The Creek Pub. That fanbase helped propel her to not just one, but two “Favorite Bartender” awards back-to-back in 2015 and 2016. So with that under her belt – the first step in launching Twisted Cork was to keep it simple. “I didn’t really have to change much, which is great,” she said, noting that all she’s really done is update some paint here and there to brighten the main space at Corks. The sophisticated-yetrustic motif of the main room, with its rich brick walls, dark woods and polished granite bar, jives nicely with the ambience that Roy has created at Twisted Cork. You’ll still find the same eye-catching center rebar-and-granite sidebar. You’ll still find the same upscale atmosphere, but you’ll also find little surprises here
and there in which Roy has put her signature on the place. “You can come in and have a glass of wine, or you can have 10 people in the back room – it’s a great spot,” she said, guiding a tour back into the surprisingly roomy private space tucked away neatly in a private corner of the bar. Beneath modern-yet-funky light fixtures that carry Twisted Cork’s trendy vibe, a massive table dominates a space that offers an intimate space for larger parties (as well as its own private bar for the full VIP experience). “We can sit 20 comfortably in here,” she said. “We’ve had everything from baby showers to Christmas parties.” Just outside its doors is a secluded corner where a circle of armchairs present the perfect tucked-away spot for friends to enjoy a few glasses of wine and a few hours of each others’ company in relative seclusion. “Wine brings people together, in a way,” Roy said. “You can sit here with a bottle of wine for hours… it’s funny, the
conversations that evolve around a bottle of wine.” For such a small footprint, Twisted Cork does a marvelous job of setting up varied spaces. And while the cosmetic changes are almost negligible, where Roy has really been able to put her stamp on the place is in the menu, both food and drink. While the previous tenants had a full stock of spirits, the emphasis had never been on creating any kind of cocktail list before. A bartender by her nature is going to tend bar, so Roy saw fit to remedy that right away, with an inspired list of Twisted Cocktails. “This is the fun part, trying out new syrups and recipes,” she said. “I wanted to include a little bit of everything, plus things that are a little bit different.” The tight list of greatest hits checks all those boxes, with cocktails that feature local spirits – the Cackilacky Mule uses Virgil Kaine Ginger Bourbon while the Basil Gin Smash uses Bulrush Gin – plus a few designed with one particular customer in mind. “My mom’s a martini girl,” said Roy. “So the martinis are on there for mom.” While the spirits are her specialty, Roy has brought her extensive experience to the small-plate, shareable-focused menu. Added to a list of offerings that should be fairly familiar to long-time patrons you’ll now find items like a Baked Goat
Cheese Dip; the Mediterranean trio with hummus, tzatziki and Greek salsa; and the Greek flatbreads. If there’s a common theme to the new additions, it’s borne entirely out of preference and not heritage. “People ask me all the time if I’m Greek,” Roy said with a laugh. “I’m not, I just love the food.” We have to agree. But even if the flavors of Greece aren’t your thing, there’s plenty on the menu to entice you, from the delicate baked brie to the ultra-popular charcuterie board. And there’s more on the horizon, with an expended selection of flatbreads planned to complement the existing favorites like the Angry Shrimp Flatbread and signature Twisted Flatbread. It’ll give you plenty of options for pairing flavors and textures with that perfect red or white. Or martini, or craft beer, or whatever you’re into. Get in during happy hour and you can enjoy your wine at half-price, opening up even more frontiers for pairings. Roy has also upped the ante at Twisted Cork with regular events like Monday trivia and live music every Friday. For Roy, creating her own vision for an upscale, sophisticated nightspot on Hilton Head Island is the culmination of
years spent observing the island’s unique needs. Ask anyone, and they’ll tell you that if you want hospitality, you find your nearest bartender “I try to welcome everyone in here like it’s my home,” she said. “This is my living room.” And Twisted Cork is just like being welcomed into someone’s living room. Except in this case it’s a living room with dazzling décor, an expertly curated list of wine and cocktails and mouth-watering food. You know; a living room with a twist. TWISTED CORK COCKTAIL & WINE BAR 11 Palmetto Bay Rd., Suite 102 next to Staples in the Publix shopping center (843) 802-0510 TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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CHARBAR CO
Located in Park Plaza right outside Sea Pines Plantation on Hilton Head. A local favorite serving award winning gourmet burgers, sandwiches, salads and more! We feature specialty craft beers, wines and a music collection spanning the decades in a relaxed indoor/outdoor environment. Voted Hilton Head Island “People’s Choice Best Burger”, 1st Place Winner of Burgers & Brews 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2016! Come enjoy our large outdoor patio with a fireplace and the only outdoor bar in Park Plaza! Kids menu and takeout available. Happy Hour specials daily from 4-7 p.m.! Serving daily 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Call (843) 785-CHAR (2427) or visit us online at www.Facebook.com/CharbarCo!
CHARLIE’S L’ETOILE 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. Semi-private parties are accepted. Call (843) 785-9277 for reservations or check us out online at www.charliesgreenstar.com.
CQ’S RESTAURANT
Tucked under the oaks in Harbour Town, CQ’s signature dishes embody Executive Chef Jimmy Corbett’s passion for the best produce and cuisine from the Lowcountry bounty. Guests can gather at the bar and lounge to enjoy tasting dishes and shareable small plates. The exceptional wine list includes a variety of wines selected specifically with the menu in mind. Open nightly 5 to 9 p.m. Reservations accepted. Call (843) 671-2779 or visit CQsRestaurant.com for complete menus or to make reservations.
CRANE’S TAVERN STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD
Located at 26 New Orleans Rd. A family tradition of excellence in quality and value for over 100 years. The 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 from 5 to 6 p.m. and great bar menu available. Serving dinner daily from 5 p.m. Reservations suggested. Call (843) 341-2333.
THE CRAZY CRAB
Two great waterfront locations- South end in the heart of Harbour Town in Sea Pines and North end Hwy. 278 (continued on page 20) 18
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overlooking Jarvis Creek. The “Islander’s place for fresh seafood for over 30 years,” The Crazy Crab restaurants are a must-visit for those enjoying all Hilton Head has to offer. Fresh local seafood is prepared any way you wish – broiled, fried, steamed, blackened, etc. Gluten free and vegan options also available. Open seven days a week. See the largest salt-water aquarium on Hilton Head (Hwy. 278 location). Call (843) 3632722 (Harbour Town), (843) 681-5021 (Jarvis Creek) or visit thecrazycrab.com. #crazycrabhhi.
THE DRYDOCK SEAFOOD GRILL & SPIRITS
All new location at 840 William Hilton Pkwy. Go where the locals go for fresh seafood, cold drinks and good times. We are easy to find, but hard to leave. Choose from a wide variety of fresh seafood, signature sandwiches, salads and more in a casual and comfortable atmosphere. Dine inside or enjoy the outdoor patio. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-9775.
ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE
Located at One Shelter Cove Lane. Featured in Bon Appetit and winner of numerous Open Table awards, Ela’s offers fresh catch seafood and prime cut steaks of the highest quality, all prepared by our culinary team of experts and complimented by an extensive boutique wine selection. Known for the best water views on the island, we have a casual intimate interior,
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wrap around dining patio exterior and nightly entertainment. Private parties, rehearsal dinners and special events welcome. Open for lunch Monday thru Friday, 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and dinner nightly from 5 p.m. Reservations recommended. Call (843) 785-3030 or online at www.elasgrille.com.
FISHCAMP ON BROAD CREEK
Located at 11 Simmons Road, mid-island on Broad Creek. Fishcamp is Hilton Head’s newest casual waterfront dining destination. Enjoy delicious seafood, steaks and more in a chic, backyard, fish camp style setting complete with a bocce court, ladder golf, jenga, a fire pit and sunset views. Choose from Daufuskie Blue Crab Cakes, Seafood Risotto, Stuffed Lobster, or Filet Mignon (just to name a few). Dine indoors, or enjoy the large, pet-friendly patio and bar while soaking in the view. Happy hour at the outdoor bar (heated on cool nights) and high-top tables from 4 - 6 p.m. daily. Bar menu available starting at 3 p.m., dinner service beginning at 5 p.m., bar open until midnight. Lunch daily from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Call (843) 8422267 for reservations. View full menus at fishcamphhi.com. #fishcamphhi.
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POOL BAR JIM’S HAS POOL-HOPPED BY RISA WILLIAMS MCMILLAN • PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN
Local legend Jim Lisenby of Pool Bar Jim’s fame is back open for business and his thousands of faithful followers are doing the wave with their flip flops and sunglasses. Thanks go out to Dave Peck, owner of Lowcountry Backyard, who acquired the poolside bar and restaurant at the Sea Crest and wooed him back to the bar. For all of Jim’s faithful followers and those about to become part of the cult, the familiar face is the same, the fruit is as fresh as ever, the only difference is that our Pool Bar Jim has pool-hopped down the beach. “I couldn’t be happier,” said Jim of his new venue. “I had several opportunities to go places but I knew I wanted to be on the ocean. Dave has incredibly great food and you take that and how we complement each other and add the beach and it doesn’t get better than that.” It truly is a marriage made in heaven as the Sea Crest folks just scored a coup with this new addition to their property, Coligny Beach-goers are a hop skip and a jump away, and all of Jim’s old customers are just a short walk or bike ride away. “Everyone is happy… even the real estate agents who say they are seeing values going up,” he added. I guess I should explain to those new to the Island why Pool Bar Jim’s is such a big deal. Jim has been in the business for decades and he has taken frozen and fruity to a new level. All of his drinks have taken years and years of research. He has been up and down the coasts of Florida and Mexico, all over the Caribbean and Hawaii, and even to Cuba in search of recipes and secrets. At the urging of a customer, he put all of his knowledge into the most colorful and informative book on frozen drinks that you will find on the planet. He has over 1,000 drink recipes and they are all available for the tasting at Pool Bar Jim’s. Everything he does with his cocktails is an art form from the choice of liquor, to quality of the fruit, to the amount of ice used, to the blending time. On any given summer day, Jim and his blending crew will go through 6 flats of strawberries, a case of bananas, and 2 cases of coconuts. He will carry as many as 22 different kinds of fresh fruits to make your day and drink special. “My bar is like Burger King,” said Jim. “Any way you like it. You make a drink and you make it perfect. You take the time even if customers are 3 people deep.” The menu at Pool Bar Jim’s was designed by Dave to be southern with a beach flair. “You have to have seafood in the lowcountry so we have plenty of that,” explained Dave. So aside from their yummy burgers and lighter salads and lettuce wraps, they offer Peel ‘n Eat Shrimp, Pina Colada Shrimp served with a pineapple/coconut dipping sauce, fresh fish of the day sandwich, and Sweet Tea Glazed Chicken. Every Friday and Saturday they have Pizza Happy Hour between 3 and 6 p.m. with homemade, made to order pies. They also have a Sunday Brunch Buffet which Dave refers to as “instant gratification for $10.” Their 1-trip buffet includes plenty of quiches and fresh fruit and southern favorites like grits and fried green tomatoes and Dave enthused that it is the best deal for a meal on the beach. Pool Bar Jim’s is located overlooking the beach at the Sea Crest at 10 N Forest Beach. Public parking is available. Summer bar hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and food will be served until 7 p.m.
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FLATBREAD GRILL
Located at Coligny Circle oceanside in the Beach Market Center. This upscale casual dining sensation is sure to be a favorite of both visitors and locals. Choose from Neopolitan pizza, fresh pasta, fajitas, steak, salmon, 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. Take-out available. Call (843) 341-2225 or online at www.flatbreadgrillhhi.com.
THE FROSTY FROG CAFÉ
Located in Coligny Plaza. A comfortable, casual atmosphere offering a “web-footed lickin” menu and an enormous amount of frozen daiquiris by the glass or by the gallon. Outside seating with retractable roof, fire pit, beach area and tiki bar. Live music nightly. Black angus burger, crab cakes, pizza, prime rib sandwich, salads, subs, wraps, peel & eat shrimp, calamari, crab legs, shrimp dishes, ahi tuna, fish and shrimp tacos and of course fried frog legs. 28 HD TV’s for great sports viewing as well as a kid’s menu. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-FROG (3764) or online at www.frostyfrog.com.
HINOKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR Located at 37 New Orleans Road in New Orleans Plaza. Enjoy
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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 takeout 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.
HOLY TEQUILA
Located in Park Plaza, the Holy Tequila taqueria blends gourmet tacos with American flavors, Mexican street food and tequila in an eclectic atmosphere! Prepare your senses for a fusion of flavors that reaches into the heart of Mexico! Holy Tequila combines an open kitchen with indoor/outdoor dining and a dynamic bar to create a high energy fiesta! We serve gourmet tacos, quesadillas, and smalls plates all under $10, with a full bar offering over 40 kinds of premium tequilas. The cuisine is modern, fun and uninhibited, just like our guests! The restaurant is open 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily with happy hour specials from 4-7 p.m. Call us at (843) 681-TACO (8226) or visit us online at www.Facebook.com/HolyTequila! (continued on page 28)
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SPICE UP YOUR
SUMMER SMOOTHIE BY CHRISTY BARONI • PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN
Summer time is known for hot afternoons, long days at the beach, and simply just enjoying all the Lowcountry has to offer. You may find you are more active, outdoors more often, and burning off a few more calories during these sizzling summer months. A perfect complement to a long summer afternoon is a smoothie with a little kick! When you think of a smoothie you may think of a traditional easy fruit mixture, or a health conscience green blend. While are both are great on their own, a combination of the two packs a well rounded nutritional punch. Adding in some non-traditional spices can take your smoothie from good to great. Every tiny bit of punch benefits both your digestion and your metabolism.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Ginger – This tasty root has immediate benefits to your digestive system. While it is commonly used to treat nausea, sea sickness, and morning sickness, ginger can also aid in muscle soreness and recovery. Regular intake of ginger also may aid in stabilizing blood sugars. Try it in this exotic mixture.
Green Ginger Zinger • 2 handfuls of kale or baby spinach • 1 cup frozen mango cubes • ½ cup frozen peaches (optional, depending on how sweet you want to go) • 1 tbsp minced ginger • Water and ice to taste
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Cayenne – This spicy red pepper is a natural anti-inflammatory and metabolic booster. While it doesn’t aid in long term fat loss, it can increase your metabolism short term by raising your body temperature. It is also packed with Vitamins A, C, and E. Try it in this high energy blend.
Nutmeg – While you may typically crave this warm spice in the winter months, adding it to your fruit smoothie will make you feel like you are enjoying a savory dessert rather than a healthy meal option. Nutmeg has natural detoxifying qualities, it also improves circulation and can aid in giving your skin a youthful glow. This smoothie is a perfect breakfast that is equal parts decadent and filling.
Mexican Mocha • 2 ounces of baby spinach or kale • ½ banana • ½ tsp coffee • 1 cup water • ½ cucumber, chopped • 1 tbsp cocao powder or chocolate protein powder • 1 tsp cayenne pepper • 1 cup ice • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Blueberry Cobbler Blend • 1/8 cup rolled oats • 1 tsp ground flaxseed • 1 cup frozen blueberries • ½ cup almond milk • ¼ cup of greek yogurt • ½ tsp nutmeg • ½ tsp cinnamon • Water and ice to taste • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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As with any smoothie recipe, you have complete freedom to make it your own. If you can tolerate a lot of spice, then feel welcome to turn up the heat. If you aren’t so sure about it, start with a smaller amount and work up to something you can tolerate. Along with that, you can add a handful of baby spinach to almost any smoothie recipe. It doesn’t change the taste or texture, but you still get the nutritional benefits of having some greens in there. Christy Baroni is a Nutrition Specialist, CrossFit L1 Trainer, and a certified Personal Trainer. She is a military spouse, a mother of two, and is dedicated to helping people cultivate the daily habits to build the body and life of their dreams. For more healthy living ideas or to create your own fitness and nutrition plan contact her today at 843-290-5803 or Christy@ThriveFitnessAndNutrition.com.
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HUDSON’S SEAFOOD HOUSE ON THE DOCKS
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. With 50 years of casual dining experience and spectacular views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Hudson’s is one of the Island’s most recognized landmarks. Featuring the freshest, local seafood in the area as well as pasta, steaks, chicken and more. Kids menu available. Featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today and Bon Appe´tit. Open daily at 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.
THE JAZZ CORNER
Located in the “corner” of The Village at Wexford. One of the top “100 Great Jazz Rooms” in the world, Downbeat Magazine 2011-17. 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.
KENNY B’S CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT
Located in Circle Center, just off Pope Avenue. Enjoy Creole cuisine with a Low country 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
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and take-out service available. Also, cold beer and awesome desserts. Open Monday from 11:30 a.m. until 9 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.
LAGERHEAD TAVERN
Located at The Oyster Reef Golf Club, 155 High Bluff Rd. LagerHead Tavern brings a lively, stylish dining experience to the already vibrant island destination with its inviting and alluring atmosphere. Developed by Chef Toscano, the menu features signature items including Shrimp Gazpacho, Smoked Chicken Wings and The Low Country Reuben. Open for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 681-2184.
LAND’S 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 for seasonal hours.
LUCKY ROOSTER KITCHEN & BAR
Located at 841 William Hilton Parkway in South Island Square. An American Bistro with southern soul serves seasonal inspired (continued on page 32)
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AUTHENTICALLY
CHI CHI BY CHRISTY BARONI
PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN
While this island is full of hidden culinary gems, our resident sushi rock star can be found at Hinoki Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar. If you’ve ever wondered where other chefs come to enjoy authentic Japanese sushi, you will find them here on their night off. From the locals who show up at the moment the doors open to secure their spot at his bar, to the chefs who wrap up the night, they all come here to Hinoki to experience the pure joy that is Chef Chi Chi. Chef Chikara “Chi Chi” Yamagishi is equal parts sushi chef, comedian, and restaurateur. From the moment you see his smile it’s clear his heart’s desire is for you to enjoy your sushi, enjoy your experience, and to keep coming back for more. He chuckled as he explained, “I want you to feel special. I enjoy myself while I am making your sushi and when people eat my sushi they feel happy and want to come back again.” He makes special tiny rolls for children who may be intimidated by trying sushi. His eyes light up as he remembers serving first rolls to people who are now grown and bring their own children in to learn to love Chi Chi’s sushi. Born and raised in Tokyo, Chi Chi came to the United States when he was just 20 years old. The story he told his mother was that he was coming here to play tennis, but the truth is that it was really to find a lady. While the lady has come and gone, Chi Chi has grown roots here in Hilton 30
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Head where he gets to play tennis for fun and roll sushi for a living. Starting as a busboy at Kyoto Japanese Restaurant, he was trained by Teruyuki Suzuki back in the mid-90’s. He grew authentically in the business learning every role in the restaurant from the ground up. He was an island favorite when he worked a hibachi table. Patrons would choose to wait for his table rather than be seated with someone else due to the fun he brought to his guests. He is now part owner of Hinoki with Teruyuki Suzuki, and works closely with the man who gave him his first job here in the US. He has lived here on the island since 1992 and has seen it grow and change, build and re-build. He has done the same. He has grown and changed, built and re-built his career and his life. When Chef Suzuki opened Hinoki in 2001, Chef Chi Chi, and Chef Kai Chan joined forces with him, to bring worldclass sushi creations and Japanese-style dishes to the island. Sixteen years later, Hinoki continues to grow, and now offers
catering, complete with sushi station and chef(s) – sure to make your special event an affair to remember! Be on the look-out for Chi Chi driving the Hinoki van with his photo on the side panel, and give him a thumbs up! Or check out their Facebook page for the many photos and videos of the masters at work behind the sushi bar. A naturally curious person, Chi Chi loves learning from other chefs. He is always searching for new rolls, new concepts, and new flavor combinations. What keeps patrons coming back is that you never know what you will get with Chi Chi behind the bar. He has been known to put on a sumo wig and serenade his guests. While he is regarded as a rock star, he admits that he never feels that way. He says he is a normal guy who likes music, ladies, sushi, and making happy memories for his guests. His favorite dish on the menu is the Dinosaur Egg (spicy tuna sashimi, a little crunchy tempura, balled in rice and topped with avocado). Technically, it’s
not a roll, but actually a sushi “egg”. You won’t find this creation on any other menu, as it’s a perfect combination of his natural curiosity and his master skill at pairing foods, home-made dressings/ sauces and rolling sushi. He explained that there are so many types of rolls, and Japanese offerings to choose from, and he always enjoys when people experience their creations. When asked about his favorite thing to eat when he’s not here at the restaurant, Chi Chi admits sheepishly that he loves his momma’s food best of all. She still resides in Japan and he works to see her as often as possible. It’s a common thread with Chi Chi that what is authentic is closest to his heart. HINOKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR 37 New Orleans Road, Orleans Plaza 843-785-9800 - Lunch & Dinner Hinokihhi.com Facebook.com/hinokihhi
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food with local beers, craft cocktails and an esoteric wine list. Our menu is constantly changing and evolving with seasons, tides, weather and our inspirations. Dine inside or outside on our patio. A healthy children’s menu is also available. Call for hours (843) 681-3474 or online at www.luckyroosterhhi.com.
MANGIAMO
Located at 2000 Main Street. 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 Sunday thru Thursday from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 682-2444.
MEDITERRANEAN HARBOUR
Located at 13 Shelter Cove Lane in Shelter Cove Marina. A warm and comfortable dining experience featuring Lebanese cuisine. Choose from our hearty chicken, beef or lamb kabobs, delicious seafood as well as vegan and gluten free selections including falafel, grape leaves and baba ghanouj. Our dishes are created from homemade recipes and spices from Lebanon. Enjoy beautiful views of the harbour from our outdoor dining area or outside bar. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 842-9991 for more information or reservations.
MELLOW MUSHROOM
Located in Park Plaza on Hilton Head and at 878 Fording Island Rd. in Bluffton. 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 on the patio. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-2474 (HHI) or (843) 706-0800 (B-Town).
MICHAEL ANTHONY’S
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.
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OLD FORT PUB
Located at 63 Skull Creek Drive on the Intra-coastal Waterway, Old Fort Pub showcases unrivaled nightly sunsets & award winning cuisine! Guests enjoy Chef Keith Josefiak’s “New Southern” favorites inspired with influences from around the globe. Serving Sunday Brunch 11-2 p.m., Bar opens at 4 p.m. daily and dinner is served nightly 5-9 p.m. Early Bird dining is served from 5-5:30. Outdoor dining available. Call (843) 6812386 or visit OldFortPub.com for a complete menu or to make reservations.
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 or online at www.oldoysterfactory.com.
OMBRA
Located in the Village at Wexford. Serving authentic classical Italian cuisine. Being of Italian heritage, Chef Michael Cirafesi proudly promotes all of the foods and wines of Italy. He prepares all pastas, homemade gnocchi, desserts and breads daily as well as a large variety of fish, veal, beef and game additions. An extensive wine list is available with a brilliant array of wines from every region in Italy. Open nightly from 4:30 until 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended and walk-ins welcome. Call (843) 842-5505 or visit us online at www.ombrahhi.com.
PISCES SEAFOOD, STEAK & SUSHI
Located at 841 William Hilton Parkway in South Island Square. Featuring fresh local seafood, certified Angus beef and an amazing sushi bar in a casual and comfortable upscale atmosphere. Serving the islands only tableside flambe desserts as well as a kid friendly menu. Great happy hour and early bird specials from 4 until 6 p.m. Open Monday thru Saturday for dinner from 4 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 341-3300 for more information or to make reservations.
REDFISH
On the corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. on Hilton Head, and 32 Bruin Rd. in Bluffton. Serving Innovative Cuisine in a unique and inviting atmosphere. 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. For more information call (843) 686-3388 or (843) 837-8888 or online at www. redfishofhiltonhead.com.
REILLEY’S GRILL & BAR
Located in Reilley’s Plaza, just off Sea Pines Circle. Serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton 34
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Head Island for over 35 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, the family-friendly atmosphere will have your family dining with the Reilley family again and again. Dine indoors or outside on the deck. Enjoy nightly dinner specials with family, or toasting to the good life with mimosas and Sunday brunch. Lunch and dinner served seven days a week. Happy Hour from 4 until 7 p.m. Take-out and kids menus available. Call (843) 8424414 for reservations or visit reilleyshiltonhead.com. #reilleyshhi.
REILLEY’S NORTH END PUB
Located in Port Royal Plaza. The sister restaurant of Reilley’s Grill & Bar (located on the south end), Reilley’s North End Pub has been serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton Head for over 30 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, Reilley’s is reminiscent of a true Boston pub. Experience the family-friendly atmosphere for some local fun and Tuesday Trivia. Enjoy nightly dinner specials with family, or toasting to the good life with mimosas and Sunday Brunch. Lunch and dinner served seven days a week. Happy hour daily from 4 until 7p.m. Take-out available. Call (843) 681-4153 for reservations or visit reilleysnorth.com. #reilleysnorth.
ROCKFISH SEAFOOD AND STEAKS @BOMBORAS Located a at 5 Lagoon Road across from Coligny near the beach. Hilton Head’s Seafood Destination offering fresh oysters, fresh shrimp, local seafood, steaks and much much
more. Featuring a fun and inviting indoor or outdoor dining experience. The owners are from Cincinnati so they have an intriguing “Cincinnati” section to their menu featuring Montgomery Inn Ribs, Big Boy Burgers and more. Extensive craft draft list, wine and creative cocktails. Want a date night? Drop your kids off at the Art Cafe (a paint your own pottery studio located just above Rockfish) during their Kids Night Out and enjoy a night out alone! Open for brunch on weekends, lunch, happy hour and dinner 7 days a week. Call (843) 6892662 or visit online at rockfishhhi.com.
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. Great food, frozen drinks and live entertainment from the island’s favorite (continued on page 38)
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MATTHEW AFFECTED US ALL.
For some island restaurants, it posed the greatest challenge they’d ever faced. BY BARRY KAUFMAN • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN
A hurricane is never a simple thing to deal with. For many of us, Hurricane Matthew meant a few days in exile while we evacuated away from the island, then a few weeks spent digging out with a chorus of chainsaws ringing out at all hours. Some of us had more to dig out than others – trees crushed homes, docks floated away, entire neighborhoods were submerged – but now, with the storm well and truly behind us, we can safely say we have returned to normal. Or at least Hilton Head normal, which is usually anything but. For our islands restaurants, however, an evacuation right during Columbus Day weekend represents lost revenue during the shoulder season. Extended power outages mean thousands of dollars in spoiled product. Opening delays mean lost wages for staff. And that’s to say nothing of a restaurateur’s livelihood depending on a building that’s just as susceptible to water, trees and wind as anything else. But as anyone know who has dined on the island, our restaurateurs are nothing if not creative. Even those hardest hit by the storm showed their ingenuity and resourcefulness in getting back up and running, keeping our first responders fed and ultimately coming out of the storm stronger than ever.
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SURVEYING THE DAMAGE For many of us, the first image we saw of Hilton Head Island after the storm hit was also the most shocking: Palmetto Bay Marina, its docks torn apart by the storm, boats scattered among the marsh grasses like toys. To anyone desperate for news of the impact to the island, the image was shocking. For Leslie Stewart, owner of Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café, it was horrifying, knowing that her restaurant was down there amid the wreckage. “We were freaking out,” she said. “For us, that’s something we see every day.” Fortunately, one of her employees had stayed behind and was able to get over to the restaurant. Although the parking lot was flooded and trees were still falling all over the island, Maureen Hanley made it out to Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café and snapped a picture through the front door. “Everything was normal,” said Stewart. “We could tell from that picture alone we at least had something to come back to.” Although the storm had reduced the marina’s docks to splinters, it had spared the café. But not everyone was so lucky, as Andrew Carmines found out when he pulled his boat up to Hudson’s Seafood House on The Dock the next day. “There was three feet of water inside,” he said. “It was particularly bad because the dock next door had come loose and smashed a hole in the side of the building.”
Across the island, restaurateurs and business owners who had stayed were making their way through the tree-strewn roads of Hilton Head Island to survey the damage. And then the real work began. DIGGING OUT, DIGGING IN One of the most overlooked aspects of Hurricane Matthew was how anyone managed to stay fed in the days that followed the storm. Supplies were low and fresh product wouldn’t be in for days. And the questionable power in those few days meant nearly anything perishable had to be pitched. But people needed to eat, especially the first responders who kicked into action immediately to restore Hilton Head Island. For Dave Martin, owner of Piggly Wiggly in Coligny Plaza, getting everyone fed turned out to be something of a divine calling. “We decided we’d open Sunday after the storm for a few hours, and told a few locals,” he said. “I got up Sunday just dead tired thinking I’d give it another day before I opened. I came around the corner around 10:30 Sunday morning and there were about 70 people waiting out in front of the store. I said to my wife, ‘I guess Jesus told me what I was going to do today.’” Pulling in a few volunteers and as many flashlights as they could muster, Martin opened the store. Reading prices
by flashlight and tallying totals on solar calculators, he helped feed hundreds. Mellow Mushroom’s island location was quick to reopen as well, thanks to ready supplies from its Bluffton location. They were not only selling deeply discounted slices within days of the storm, they were able to help feed those who had stayed on Daufuskie Island. “We were able to put together a stack of pizzas, plus things like socks and toiletries, to bring over to Odis Boyles, a firefighter on Daufuskie,” said Mellow Mushroom owner John Boyce. “We met him at the Haig Point landing with all of it and he was able to get it over there. There’s a special place in our hearts for Daufuskie, and they had very little food; certainly no hot food.” At Sunrise Café, they boiled water and raided Sam’s Club in order to open up with a limited selection, feeding relief workers from the Red Cross off of a handwritten menu. But there was still work to be done. In the days following the storm, a small army of first responders flocked to the island: law enforcement, national guard, linemen and more all working around the clock. Someone had to feed them, and Hilton Head’s restaurants were quick to step up. “Someone from the town called me and said they were trying to put together a relief kitchen. They’d heard I’d stayed and told me they had a lot of guys to feed,” said Nick Bergelt, owner of Charbar.
He’d managed to keep one cooler going on a generator at his restaurant, and Bergelt immediately started putting out calls. Roy Prescott pitched in with product. Dave Peck of A Lowcountry Backyard gave Bergelt the combination to the lock on his restaurant and told him, “I have a full freezer; if it’s still good, you’re welcome to it.” Russell Keane, who was feeding responders at NEO off-island, arranged to have food cleared to cross the bridge. Bergelt found a venue for this relief kitchen at Lucky Rooster after owner Clayton Rollison was cleared to re-enter the island. “A friend of mine is with BCSO, and he sent me a picture of my restaurant, saying ‘I’d do anything for a hot cup of coffee,’” said Rollison. “I told him, if there’s electricity and potable water, I’ll have a hot cup of coffee for you in two and a half hours.” Thanks to our island’s selfless restaurateurs, first responders had a hot meal for the first time in days, when they needed it most. “Some of the National Guard guys were literally falling asleep at the table,” said Rollison. “It was pretty incredible what these people did.” REBUILDING These days, Hurricane Matthew is nothing more than a bad memory for most. You can still look into the forest and
see root balls towering upward, you can still see the odd leaner resting against another tree, but Hilton Head Island is back. And some of our restaurants are not only back, they’re better than ever. With its old dock washed away, Hudson’s took the opportunity to improve, creating an expansive overwater seating area with a brand-new bar. Carmines was even able to keep his employees paid during the downtime, cutting everyone’s annual vacation checks early and hiring any employee on who was willing to pitch in with cleanup. Their efforts cut a three-month rebuilding process down to three weeks. “I have three kids and I just thought, ‘what if it were me and I was a server at Hudson’s,’” he said. “That’s why we decided to keep everyone employed and in a paycheck while we reopened. And I think it brought us closer together.” That sentiment of togetherness echoed across the island. “Every single person who was on this island was just raising their hand saying, ‘I’m good to help you however I can,’” said Bergelt. “Our community really shined.” While the storm may have taken a toll, the silver lining on this cloud can be found everywhere. Whether it’s a new dock at Hudson’s or just a new spirit of the community coming together, our island’s restaurants are stronger for it.
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outdoor cafe. Enjoy beautiful waterfront views overlooking Braddock’s Cove in a fun and casual atmosphere. Happy Hour daily with a full menu available, plus an outdoor cookout, Salty Dog Ice Cream and Jake’s Pizza during the season. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233) for seasonal hours.
THE SANDBAR
New restaurant located in historic Coligny Plaza at 101 Pope Ave., just steps from the beach. The Sandbar always has something delicious cooking. With its beach inspired décor, comfortable seating and laid-back atmosphere, they are serving up modern comfort foods such as steak and frites, Jamaican Jerk lobster tails and slow cooked ribs. The Sandbar is a great place for family and friends to enjoy our new outdoor patio and bar and share appetizing food and drinks. Children will also feel welcome with their own menu of homemade healthy choices. Hours – 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. (843) 342-SAND (7263).
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 vegetarian items. Excellent wine list, imported beers and full bar. Early dining menu from 5 until 6 p.m. Live entertainment Tues. thru Sat. Take-out available. Reservations are “gladly” accepted. Open for dinner 7 nights a week from 5 until 10 p.m., and for lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 7853838 or www.santafehhi.com.
SEA GRASS GRILLE
Located at 807 Wm. Hilton Parkway in the Plantation Center, just outside the entrance to Palmetto Dunes Resort. Intimate yet casual dining. Chef owned and operated and a local favorite for over 10 years. Featuring fresh fish plus seasonal specialties like soft shell crabs, bluffton oysters, cobia and more. Also, Filet Mignon, Rack of Lamb, Veal Scallopini, Pasta, and Chops. An extensive wine list with over 50 by the glass. Gluten free friendly. Serving lunch 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9990 or visit us online at www.seagrassgrille.com.
SKILLETS CAFE
Located just off the beach in Coligny Plaza. An excellent choice for the whole family since 1994. Wonderful selections including old-fashioned lunches, great sandwiches, burgers, jambalaya, chicken pot pie or our extensive salad bar. Full bar and wine list available. Kids menu and take-out. Dine inside or on the patio (Dog Friendly). Open daily from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Call (843) 7853131 or check us out online at www.skilletscafe.com.
STELLINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Located at 15 Executive Park Dr., just off Pope Avenue. 38
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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. Chefs specialties created nightly. Extensive wine list, Early Bird specials, children’s menu and take-out available. Serving dinner Monday thru Saturday from 5 p.m. til 9:30 p.m. Call (843) 785-7006 for reservations.
43 Jenkins Rd. The Grille offers a casual fine dining experience with breathtaking sunset views. The creative menu, prepared by Executive Chef Tom Egerton features house specialties such as Hugh’s famous hot smoked salmon, shrimp & grits, grilled sea scallops & braised lamb shank all prepared to perfection. An extensive wine list, craft beer selection and full bar available. Call (843) 689-6744 for reservations or visit sunsetgrillehhi.com. Dinner is served Tuesday-Sunday 5:30 p.m. until.
STREET MEET
TWISTED CORK COCKTAIL & WINE BAR
Located in Port Royal Plaza near BILO. This Family Tavern & Restaurant is HHI’s Ohio Bar and Home of the HHI Browns Backers. Kitchen serving food from 11:30 a.m. until midnight 7 days/week. Offering a wide range of homemade, from scratch American food at reasonable prices and have been voted Island’s Best Wings, Best Fish and Chips, and Best Hotdog (“Hofmann from Syracuse, NY). Featuring a complete Healthy Menu that includes GlutenFree, Paleo, & Vegetarian options plus more. Full bar with daily drink specials and happy hour as well as indoor & outdoor seating plus a new dining room that is GREAT for large parties or groups. Kids pay what they weigh on Saturday! Acoustic Mayhem plays every Tues. night on the patio from 6 - 9 p.m. Call (843) 842-2570 or online at www.streetmeethhi.com.
SUNSET GRILLE
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway at Hilton Head Harbor,
Located at 11 Palmetto Bay Rd., Suite 102 next to Staples in the Publix shopping center. A local’s favorite, featuring an extensive wine list available by the glass or the bottle in a warm and intimate atmosphere. Choose from a fantastic selection of craft cocktails, beer and small plates. Happy hour includes half off all bottles of wine, half off well liquor and $2 domestic and $3 import beers. Open Monday thru Saturday from 5 p.m. Call (843) 802-0510.
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. Serving a full bar with excellent food and waterfront view overlooking South Beach Marina and Braddock’s Cove, The Wreck offers excellent Happy Hour drink and appetizer specials. Available for private parties. Call (843) 671-SEAS (7327) for seasonal hours.
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A TASTE OF ISLAND RECIPES
Tuscan Panzanella Salad Courtesy of Michael Anthony’s
Ingredients 4 cups tomatoes, cut into large chunks (use a mix of Heirloom and regular) 4 cups day-old crusty bread (Italian or French loaf), cut into chunks the same size as the tomatoes* 1 cucumber, peeled and seeded, cut into large chunks 1/2 red onion, sliced thin 1 bunch fresh basil, torn into little pieces 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions * If you don’t have hard old bread sitting around, you can use fresh crusty bread. Cut it into big cubes, lay the cubes out on a baking sheet, and put in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes, until the outer edges have dried out a bit (not toasted, just dried). If you use fresh bread without doing this, the bread may disintegrate into mush in the salad. Mix everything together and let marinate, covered, at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. Do not refrigerate or you will destroy the texture of the tomatoes. Serve at room temperature.
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:
Junior Jazz
Foundation Keeping the Beat Alive Through Camps and Concerts BY RISA WILLIAMS MCMILLAN
Everyone around here with an ear for music knows about The Jazz Corner and how it has put our little Island on the map as one of the premier Jazz venues in America. But what people may not know is that The Jazz Corner is not only sharing this piece of Americana with adults, but they have set up a Junior Jazz Foundation in order to nurture this knowledge with our children and keep the beat alive. Bob Masteller, founder of The Jazz Corner, came up with the idea for The Junior Jazz Foundation 11 years ago. According to his wife Lois, his efforts behind starting the club and the Jazz Foundation were to preserve the art form of Jazz which was slowly dying. “He wanted to set up a charity or a fund to make sure Jazz not only stayed alive but that we could pass it on to the next generation,” explained Lois. “He wanted the children to hear it and he wanted them to play it.” The mission of The Junior Jazz Foundation is to “preserve Jazz through education and live performance.” They go beyond just teaching and providing ample performance opportunities as they also provide instruments to schools and young musicians; if there is a will there is a way. Through undying support from the local community, the Foundation has grown by leaps and bounds. The main component that drives the educational side of the Foundation is their summer jazz camp. The camp started seven years ago when the Mastellers jumped on board with the Fine Arts Director at Hilton Head Christian Academy, James Berry, who was starting a camp at the school for budding musicians. The camp is held on the campus of Hilton Head Christian Academy (HHCA) 44
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and has grown from 9 students in its first year to 100 students now. They have also expanded to two weeks to accommodate musicians of different experience levels. The first camp is a four day clinic for beginners with only one year of experience in Jazz or guitar. Both the Jazz Clinic and the Jazz Guitar Institute run from June 26-29, from 1 to 4 pm daily. Camp-goers will experience lessons and instruction in theory and improv as well as a trip to Savannah and a final performance held in the HHCA Performing Arts Center. The 2nd camp, known as the Hilton Head Jazz Camp, runs from July 10-15 and is for aspiring musicians between the ages of 10 and 20 that have at least 3 years of experience. It is an immersive study in improvisation, theory, combos, masterclasses, big band and elective courses with 15 instructors that include Grammy winners and famous Jazz musicians from all over the southeast. “The instructors come from near and far as they see the value to these eager young musicians,” said Lois. There will also be additional evening performances and activities. The camp separates musicians by instrument (big band, strings, percussion, voice) and each group breaks off into classrooms for instructions. “We keep everything fun and these kids not only learn a lot but have a great time and come back year after year,” she expressed. They now even have former students that are college students coming back as interns. For campers that are not local, they provide lodging at the Comfort Inn in Bluffton and have resident RA’s. “We have faculty concerts, movie nights, cookouts, and activities.” Everything culminates on the last Saturday of camp when everybody gets to perform what they learned. “The kids are fabulous: Enthusiastic, respectful, talented – like sponges. We become a camp family,” she continued. In keeping with their goal of offering these young musicians venues at which to perform, The Junior Jazz members will kick off each night of “Bob Masteller’s Jazz For All Ages Jazzfest”. The Jazzfest starts September 7th and culminates at The Jazz Corner on Sunday the 10th with an afternoon tribute to Nat King Cole. Thursday and Friday events will be held at The Sonesta Resort and Spa. Thursday’s entertainment will be held outside at the Ocean Pavilion and will include “What a Wonderful World” - The Music of Louis Armstrong, performed by acclaimed pianist, Kris Tokarski, and The New Orleans All-Stars. Friday’s event is “A Centennial Celebration of Ella Fitzgerald” and will feature Grammy Award Winning Vocalist Carmen Bradford with Joe Gransden’s 17-Piece Big Band. For tickets and information on JAZZ FEST, please visit www.jazzforallages. com. For more information about The Junior Jazz Foundation summer Jazz camps, visit hhjazzcamp.com or to register, go to hhjazzclinic.eventbrite.com. For more information on The Junior Jazz Foundation please visit thejuniorjazzfoundation.org. TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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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 and Raina Peck’s family recipes. Choose from Potato chip meatloaf, Charleston fried green tomato sandwich, shrimp & grits, Southern Belle salad and a wide selection of other lowcountry favorites. Dine in or outside in the comfortable backyard. Experience the island, love the food! Serving Lunch Monday Friday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Saturday 12 - 3 p.m. and Dinner 4:30 9 p.m., Monday - Saturday and Brunch on Saturday 9 - 12 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) or visit us online at www.hhbackyard.com.
ANNIE O’S SOUTHERN EATS
Located at the corner of Arrow and Target Road. “All-Natural” makes the difference! Serving All-Natural proteins including Grass Fed Beef, Pastured Pork, Free-Range Chicken, CageFree Eggs and Wild/Sustainable Seafood. The Southern inspired menu offers traditional Southern favorites featuring All-Natural products because “It just tastes better”. Enjoy indoor seating and the newly created outdoor deck and garden seating. Open Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. Call (843) 341-2664.
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AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE
Located at 69 Pope Avenue. With a tag line of “Not your everyday Mexican” one can only imagine what a familyfriendly, fun restaurant Aunt Chilada’s is to both locals and visitors alike! Located on the south-end of Hilton Head, visit
Aunt Chilada’s for fresh margaritas, fajitas, and even crab legs! The huge, covered outdoor patio is perfect for all gatherings. Open seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. Kids menu available. A member of the Coastal Restaurants and Bars family of restaurants. Call (843) 785-7700 or visit auntchiladashhi.com. #auntchiladashhi.
THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE
Just steps from the beach, the Big Bamboo Cafe is located in Coligny Plaza on North Forest Beach Drive. Featuring fresh seafood, fish tacos, delicious salads and the build your own burgers, 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.
BIG JIM’S BBQ, BURGERS & PIZZA
New restaurant located in Palmetto Dunes at the Robert Trent Jones Clubhouse. Big Jim’s offers signature Southern dishes, including BBQ, gourmet burgers and grilled pizza plus soups, salads, seafood, steaks and ribs. Enjoy indoor or outdoor seating with big screen TVs and golf course views. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hours are 7:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Happy Hour daily 4 until 7 p.m. and seasonal live entertainment. Take out and catering available. Call (843) 7851165 or www.palmettodunes.com/big-jims.
BRITISH OPEN PUB
Located in The Village at Wexford and Sheridan Park in Bluffton. Authentic English fare served in attractive pub-style atmosphere with golf art, memorabilia, and the only bar by Titleist. Featuring our famous Fish n’ Chips or Sandwedges like the Aberdeen Burger, Clubhouse Classic, Wexford Reuben, English Dip and Lobster Roll. Full bar and beers, ales, and stouts from around the world. Serving daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Brunch served Saturday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736 or Bluffton (843) 815-6736.
CAPTAIN WOODY’S
All New Location at 6 Target Road on Hilton Head and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. A local favorite for over 30 years! 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. Fantastic outdoor deck and bar. Open daily from 11 a.m. until late. Call (843) 785-2400 or (843) 757-6222 or online at www.captainwoodys.com.
CAROLINA CRAB COMPANY
Located in Palmetto Bay Marina, just off Helmsman Way. With a pet-friendly patio as well as indoor dining, Carolina Crab Company offers an array of fresh seafood, burgers, crab legs, Lowcountry boil and daily Chef specials. Open TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. Happy hour from 4 - 7 p.m. at the bars. Enjoy water views from the outside bar and patio. A member of the Coastal Restaurants and Bars family of restaurants. Call (843) 842-2016 for reservations or visit carolinacrabco.com. #carolinacrabco.
CHARBAR CO
Located in Park Plaza right outside Sea Pines Plantation on Hilton Head. A local favorite serving a chef inspired menu featuring award winning gourmet burgers, signature sandwiches, veggie and shrimp burgers and salads that are as great as our burgers — all for around $8-10 with quick casual dining experience. We feature a fun and inviting indoor/ outdoor environment with a full bar and a music collection spanning the decades. Voted Hilton Head Island “People’s Choice Best Burger”, 1st Place Winner of Burgers & Brews 2012, 2013, 2014,2015 & 2016! Open daily from 11:30-10 p.m. Kids menu and takeout available. Call us at (843) 785-CHAR (2427) or visit us online at www.Facebook.com/CharbarCo!
CHARLIE’S L’ETOILE 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 30 years. Fish Cakes, Sauteed Flounder and an array of salads for anyone on the run. Dine-in or Take-out. Open for
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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) 7859277 or check us out online at www.charliesgreenstar.com.
THE CRAZY CRAB
Two great waterfront locations- South end in the heart of Harbour Town in Sea Pines and North end Hwy. 278 overlooking Jarvis Creek. The “Islander’s place for fresh seafood for over 30 years,” The Crazy Crab restaurants are a must-visit for those enjoying all Hilton Head has to offer. Fresh local seafood is prepared any way you wish – broiled, fried, steamed, blackened, etc. Gluten free and vegan options also available. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. See the largest salt-water aquarium on Hilton Head (Hwy. 278 location). Call (843) 363-2722 (Harbour Town), (843) 681-5021 (Jarvis Creek) or visit thecrazycrab.com. #crazycrabhhi.
DELISHEEYO
Located at 32 Palmetto Bay Rd. in The Village Exchange. The Island’s health food kitchen features organic juices, smoothees, salads, wraps, bowls and healthy snacks. Offering food that makes you feel good, choose from raw, vegan or gluten free options. Open Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Call (843) 785-3633 or online at www.delisheeyo.com.
THE DRYDOCK SEAFOOD GRILL & SPIRITS
All new location at 840 William Hilton Pkwy. Go where the locals go for fresh seafood, cold drinks and good times. We are easy to find, but hard to leave. Choose from a wide variety of fresh seafood, signature sandwiches, salads and more in a casual and comfortable atmosphere. Dine inside or enjoy the outdoor patio. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-9775.
ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE
Located at One Shelter Cove Lane. Featured in Bon Appetit and winner of numerous Open Table awards, Ela’s offers fresh catch seafood and prime cut steaks of the highest quality, all prepared by our culinary team of experts and complimented by an extensive boutique wine selection. Known for the best water views on the island, we have a casual intimate interior, wrap around dining patio exterior and nightly entertainment. Private parties, rehearsal dinners and special events welcome. Open for lunch Monday thru Friday, 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and dinner nightly from 5 p.m. Reservations recommended. Call (843) 785-3030 or online at ww.elasgrille.com.
FISHCAMP ON BROAD CREEK
Located at 11 Simmons Road, mid-island on Broad Creek. Fishcamp is Hilton Head’s newest casual waterfront dining destination. Enjoy delicious seafood, steaks and more in a chic, backyard, fish camp style setting complete with a bocce court, ladder golf, jenga, a fire pit and sunset views. Choose from lunch selections such as a Surf ‘N Turf Burger, Shrimp & Polenta, or an Oyster Po’ Boy (just to name a few). Dine indoors, or enjoy the large, pet-friendly patio and bar while soaking in the view. Lunch from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. daily. Happy hour at the outdoor bar (heated on cool nights) and hightop tables from 4 - 6 p.m. daily. Bar menu available starting at 3 p.m., dinner service beginning at 5 p.m., bar open until midnight. Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Call (843) 8422267 for reservations. View full menus at fishcamphhi.com. #fishcamphhi.
FLATBREAD GRILL
Located at Coligny Circle oceanside in the Beach Market Center. 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. Take-out available. 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. A comfortable, casual atmosphere offering a “web-footed lickin” menu and an enormous amount of frozen daiquiris by the glass or by the gallon. Outside seating with retractable roof, beach area and tiki bar. Black angus burger, TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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crab cakes, pizza, prime rib sandwich, salads, subs, wraps, peel and eat shrimp, calamari, crab legs, shrimp dishes, ahi tuna, fish and shrimp tacos and of course fried frog legs. 28 HD TV’s for great sports viewing as well as a kid’s menu. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-FROG (3764) or online at www.frostyfrog.com.
GRINGO’S DINER
Located at 6 Lagoon Rd., near the beach in Coligny Plaza. This cozy and comfortable diner serves breakfast and lunch all day. The food and service makes for the perfect stop for visitors and locals alike. Enjoy contemporary American and Mexican food in a warm atmosphere with friendly service. Enjoy fantastic lunch selections like our yummy homemade burgers, sandwiches, B.L.T’s, hot dogs, fried baskets, awesome Philly cheesesteaks and famous hand cut French fries and shakes. Dine inside or outside. Take out is available. Open daily from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Call (843) 785-5400.
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.
HOLY TEQUILA
Located in Park Plaza, the Holy Tequila taqueria blends gourmet tacos with American flavors, Mexican street food and tequila in an eclectic atmosphere! Prepare your senses for a fusion of flavors that reaches into the heart of Mexico! Holy Tequila combines an open kitchen with indoor/outdoor dining and a dynamic bar to create a high energy fiesta! We serve gourmet tacos, quesadillas, and smalls plates all under $10 with a full bar offering over 40 kinds of premium tequilas. The cuisine is modern, fun and uninhibited, just like our guests! The restaurant is open 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily with happy hour specials from 4-7 p.m. Call us at (843) 681-TACO (8226) or visit us online at www.Facebook.com/HolyTequila!
HUDSON’S SEAFOOD HOUSE ON THE DOCKS
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. With 45 years of casual dining experience and spectacular views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Hudson’s is one of the Island’s most recognized landmarks. Featuring the freshest, local seafood in the area as well as pasta, steaks, chicken and more. Kids menu available. Featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today and Bon Appetit. Open daily at 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.
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KENNY B’S CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT
MANGIAMO
LAGERHEAD TAVERN
MELLOW MUSHROOM
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 11:30 a.m. until 9 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.
Located at The Oyster Reef Golf Club, 155 High Bluff Rd. Enjoy fresh, regional ingredients from the LagerHead Tavern lunch menu and spend quality time with family and friends after a round of golf. The Tavern celebrates the indigenous Loggerhead Sea Turtle creating an atmosphere that is coastal, casual and fun. Open for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 681-2184.
LAND’S 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 for seasonal hours.
Located at 2000 Main Street. 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 Sunday thru Thursday from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 682-2444.
Located in Park Plaza on Hilton Head and at 878 Fording Island Rd. in Bluffton. 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 on the patio. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-2474 (HHI) or (843) 706-0800 (B-Town).
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
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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.
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 (843) 342-4472.
POOL BAR JIM’S
Located overlooking the beach at the Sea Crest at 10 North Forest Beach. Local legend Pool Bar Jim has combined with culinary favorite A Lowcountry Backyard in the perfect setting for tropical and exotic drinks and great lowcountry cuisine. With beautiful views, tasty beverages and delicious food, this is a destination not to be missed. Enjoy Happy hour or try our new Sunday Brunch. Open daily from noon until 8 p.m. Call (843) 816-4648.
REDFISH
On the Corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. on Hilton Head, and 32 Bruin Rd. in Bluffton. Serving Innovative Cuisine in a unique and inviting atmosphere. 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) 6863388 or (843) 837-8888 or online at edfishofhiltonhead.com.
REILLEY’S GRILL & BAR
Located in Reilley’s Plaza, just off Sea Pines Circle. Serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton Head Island for over 35 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, the family-friendly atmosphere will have your family dining with the Reilley family again and again. Dine indoors or outside on the deck. Enjoy daily lunch and dinner specials with family, or toasting to the good life with mimosas and Sunday brunch. Lunch and dinner served seven days a week from 11 a.m. Happy Hour from 4 until 7 p.m. Take-out and kids menus available. Call (843) 842-4414 or visit reilleyshiltonhead.com. #reilleyshhi.
REILLEY’S NORTH END PUB
Located in Port Royal Plaza. The sister restaurant of Reilley’s Grill & Bar (located on the south end), Reilley’s North End Pub has been serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta 52
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and sandwiches on Hilton Head for over 30 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, Reilley’s is reminiscent of a true Boston pub. Experience the family-friendly atmosphere for some local fun and Tuesday Trivia. Enjoy daily lunch and dinner specials with family, or toasting to the good life with mimosas and Sunday Brunch. Lunch and dinner served seven days a week. Happy hour daily from 4 until 7p.m. Take-out available. Call (843) 681-4153 or visit reilleysnorth.com. #reilleysnorth.
ROCKFISH SEAFOOD AND STEAKS @BOMBORAS Located a at 5 Lagoon Road across from Coligny near the beach. Hilton Head’s Seafood Destination offering local seafood, fish and chips, shrimp po’ boys, she crab soup, hand rolled hush puppies and much much more! Featuring a fun and inviting indoor or outdoor dining experience. The owners are from Cincinnati so they have an intriguing “Cincinnati” section to their menu featuring Montgomery Inn Ribs, Big Boy Burgers and more. Extensive craft draft list, wine and creative cocktails. Want to paint? Rockfish also offers lunch upstairs at the Art Cafe (the island’s paint your own pottery studio). Open for brunch on weekends, lunch, happy hour and dinner 7 days a week. Call (843) 689-2662 or visit online at rockfishhhi.com.
THE SALTY DOG CAFE
Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Great food, frozen drinks and live entertainment from the island’s favorite outdoor cafe. Enjoy beautiful waterfront views overlooking Braddock’s Cove in a fun and casual atmosphere. Happy Hour daily with a full menu available, plus an outdoor cookout, Salty Dog Ice Cream and Jake’s Pizza during the season. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233) for seasonal hours.
THE SANDBAR
New restaurant located in historic Coligny Plaza at 101 Pope Ave., just steps from the beach. The Sandbar always has something delicious cooking. With its beach inspired décor, comfortable seating and laid-back atmosphere, they are serving up modern comfort foods such as homemade burgers, amazing tacos, chargrilled oysters and Not Your Mama’s Meatloaf sandwich. The Sandbar is a great place for family and friends to enjoy our new outdoor bar and patio and share appetizing food and drinks. Children will also feel welcome with their own menu of homemade healthy choices. Hours: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. (843) 342-SAND (7263).
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. Excellent wine list, wide selection of imported beer and full bar. Take-out available. Open for lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. and Dinner 7 nights a week from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 785-3838 or santafehhi.com. TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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SEA GRASS GRILLE
Located at 807 Wm. Hilton Parkway in the Plantation Center, just outside the entrance to Palmetto Dunes Resort. Intimate yet casual dining. Chef owned and operated, and a local favorite for over 10 years. Great salads, sandwiches, homemade soups and local favorites such as Carolina Tomato Pie, Lump Crab Potato Pancake, and daily specials. Lunch take-out available, gluten free friendly. Serving lunch from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9990 or visit us online at seagrassgrille.com.
SKILLETS CAFE
Located just off the beach in Coligny Plaza. An excellent choice for the whole family since 1994. Wonderful selections including old-fashioned lunches, great sandwiches, burgers, jambalaya, chicken pot pie or our extensive salad bar. Full bar and wine list available. Kids menu and take-out. Dine inside or on the patio (Dog Friendly). Open daily from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Call (843) 7853131 or check us out onlineat www.skilletscafe.com.
STREET MEET
Located in Port Royal Plaza near BILO. An American style tavern, select from our $7 lunch menu, paleo bowls, or choose from popular items like our NY Hofmann hot dogs, butcher ground burgers, homemade black bean burgers, homemade Italian wedding soup or the island’s best fish and chips. Enjoy a
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cold beer or cocktail after a day at the beach in an atmosphere that welcomes the entire family (Penny a pound for kids on Saturday). Serving from 11:30 a.m. until midnight daily. Call (843) 842-2570 or online at www.streetmeethhi.com.
SUNSET GRILLE
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway at Hilton Head Harbor, 43 Jenkins Rd. The Grille offers a casual fine dining experience with breathtaking sunset views. The lunch menu offers a great selection of gorgeous salads, Mussels provencal, shrimp & grits, smoked salmon and the famous stuffed burger as well as daily specials. Come enjoy a fantastic lunch with fantastic views. Lunch is Tuesday thru Friday 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Call (843) 689-6744. www.sunsetgrillehhi.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. Serving a full bar with excellent food and waterfront view overlooking South Beach Marina and Braddock’s Cove, The Wreck offers excellent Happy Hour drink and appetizer specials. Available for private parties. Call (843) 671-SEAS (7327) for seasonal hours.
THESE NICE GUYS WILL NEVER FINISH LAST BY RISA WILLIAMS MCMILLAN
They may be young, but these Nice Guys mean business when it comes to entertaining their audience and having fun at the same time. In an animated interview where these 17 year olds went from ribbing each other to sharing their group enthusiasm, it was easy to see how they have maneuvered themselves into a name about town and why these Nice Guys will never finish last. The Nice Guys band is composed of Andrew Mooney on drums, Nick Myhre on electric guitar and vocals, Kevin Myhre on bass and vocals, Davis Lentz playing sax, and Alex Syragakis (better known as Suave) on keyboard and vocals. The common threads that pull these guys together are their love for music, nurtured by their fathers at an early age, and the fact that they ended up together on their sophomore year Christian Academy worship team, mentored by James Berry. “We actually sounded good so started playing more together and learning popular songs,” said Nick. Their defining and inspirational moment came last year when, at the urging of Mr. Berry, they performed in a Rising Stars music competition put on by the Island School Council
for the Arts. After an energetic “Back to the Future”-esque performance of Chuck Berry’s “Johnny Be Good”, they took home first place. After that, they played in more competitions and began practicing in earnest in Nick and Kevin’s garage. Now they have quite the song repertoire which they are constantly adding to and have a regular schedule of gigs. Some of their favorite songs to play include Fireball by Pitbull, Jungle Boogie by Kool & the Gang, and Sunday Morning by Maroon Five. There are many things that make this cover band different from their appearance to their appeal. Their friendly banter describing themselves was refreshing. They came up with the name for the band after one of the boys (he-who-shall-not-be- named) was turned down for a date because he was ‘too nice’. With their Blues Brothers-like uniform of white shirts with long, black, skinny ties that sway to the beat, their sound is quite mature for their age and they pride themselves on always coming up with their own “mash-ups”. “We take original songs and put our own spin on them,” said Suave. “We use our personalities.” “It is more of a show,” Davis piped in. They describe
their talent as refreshing dance music that they play to please the audience. “Everyone in our music community knows each other and crosses over into different bands. Our music is different. Musicians can’t just jump in,” explained Davis. “The dynamics between us are just not like other bands because we are having so much fun,” said Andrew. “We are not interested in the money… but it sure is nice,” added Andrew with a smile. “Our goal is to appeal to everyone, especially teenagers. We want them to know everything we play,” said Kevin. As for their goals, they just met one of them which was to play at the biggest gig that high school kids could land – their school prom. Their next goal? To play at their first wedding. As far as when they go off to college in the not so far off future, they hope to keep the songs coming when they are home on breaks. This summer you can find them on Tuesdays at Big Bamboo in Coligny, Thursday nights outside at Coligny Plaza, and under the oak tree in Harbour Town in Sea Pines on Thursdays. For a full schedule of their shows, visit them on Facebook and Instagram. TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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Summer of Fun Popular Family Fun Activities BY CHRISTY BARONI • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN
If you are lucky enough to spend part of your Summer on Hilton Head Island, you are lucky enough! From historical sites to hysterical sing-along shows, there is something here for the entire family to enjoy together. Biking our paths, paddle boarding our waterways, or relaxing on our beaches: the choices are endless and
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the only limitation is your imagination. Join us for some of the most popular activities along with some hidden treasures!
Coastal Discovery Museum
Located on the North End of island, Coastal Discovery Museum offers hands on exhibits and tours that parents will enjoy as
much as the kids. While admission is free, a $5 donation is appreciated. If you’ve visited before, you’ll notice a new entrance right off of 278 due to the role this amazing facility played Hurricane Matthew. As one of the main processing centers for debris removal, the property completed mulching and re-sodding in April, and are
back in business with a full schedule of programs. The Blue Crab Discovery is one of the most popular programs offered. You will pull a crab right from the trap and learn how to clean, prepare, cook, and enjoy these tasty critters. Along with this experience, you can also meet the friendly folks from Low Country Critters. Every Wednesday and Friday they bring alligators, chickens, ducks, snakes and many other creatures to hold and observe. While there is an educational component to learning about these animals, you also get a little adrenaline rush of holding an actual alligator. What a photograph to share with your friends back home! The museum also offers Beach Discovery tours, Butterfly Habitat tours, Dolphin & Nature Cruises, among other opportunities to experience the quiet parts of our beautiful island. Recommend you book early as these often sell out. A new
programs, and you can book online at coastaldiscovery.org or via phone at (843) 689-6767.
Salty Dog Cafe’
feature this year is that the Tom Peeples Discovery Lab will be open to the public. The highlight is a touch tank with marine invertebrates and the bee hive observation area. Not only do these programs appeal to elementary and middle school age children, parents have equal amounts of fun as well. ou can get up close and personal with low country wildlife, and see why we are so invested in protecting and caring for our natural habitat. Reservations are required for most
A staple on the south end of the Island, the Salty Dog Café offers an environment where the whole family can cut loose a little. From Memorial Day through Labor Day they offer complimentary activities throughout the day starting with a story hour at noon and picking back up from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. every single evening. The restaurants here are popular and do not take reservations so they make the wait part of the fun. DJ Salty Dog spins family friendly Top 40 tunes, and the family can partake in things like temporary tattoos, hula hoop contests, and musical sing-alongs. Saturdays are a rainbow of fun at the color party. You can try out hair chalking, colored party lights, and try your creative hand at the mobile tie-dying unit where you walk away with your own t-shirt creation. Sundays bring Ben the Juggler
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out with a jaw dropping show and lessons to follow. This is truly a place where kids can run around like monkeys and parents can enjoy a cocktail while waiting for a delicious dinner. Stay up to date on any special scheduled activities at cal. saltydog.com and for our 21 and up crowd you can visit cruise. saltydog.com for information on the specialty cruises featuring a full bar, live music, and island-inspired cuisine onboard.
Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
Located mid-Island at the entrance to Shelter Cove Harbour, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina hosts not just creative and performing arts camps throughout the summer, but is also debuting a Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) program as well. Theatre Camp gives kids (ages 9-14) a chance to shine center stage and peek behind the curtain to see what goes in to putting on an award-winning production. They will write scripts, create sets, design costumes, and also star in the show. Your superstar can also take center stage and explore dance, drama, and music with a week-long camp that wraps up with a showcase performance of their own. The Arts Center is offering options for 6-8 year olds and a separate session for ages 9-13. For an experience where you can really get your hands dirty, join either the Clay Camp or the Visual Arts Camp. Again broken in to groups for younger and older campers, they will be exposed to techniques and materials from around the world. New this year is the STEAM Camp that includes handson learning for kids ages 9-14. They will build robots, create pendulum paintings, and complete experiments including everything from electromagnetism to simple machines. If being part of the audience is more appealing to you, be sure to get your tickets for either Sister Act (April 26th - May 21st) or Mamma Mia (June 14th – Aug 6th). Sign up for workshops artshhi.com/workshops or get your seats for one of their award winning shows at artshhi.com/ theater-season.
Sea Pines / Harbour Town
For over 40 years, you have found Island legend and icon Gregg Russel entertaining families under the Liberty Oak from 8 – 9:30 p.m., every Sunday – Friday evening. In addition to this island favorite, you can also enjoy hay rides, fresh water fishing tours, bike tours, horseback riding, and stargazing excursions as well. Give Sea Pines a call at (843) 842-1979 or visit www.seapines. com for special events and activities taking place throughout the summer.
Island Rec Center
You will not want to miss Summer Jam, every Tuesday from June 13th – August 15th at Shelter Cover Town Center. Island Rec hosts this fun weekly summer party that starts at 5:30 pm and ends each evening with fireworks right after sunset. Complete with bounce houses, food trucks, and face painting to name a few things, the whole family can enjoy an easy summer night lounging by the water. But that’s not the only thing Island Rec hosts this summer. They offer sports camps all summer long for every level of athlete in a variety of sports. Week of Champions is a Christian Sports 58
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camp for ages 8-12, All American Football camp hosts college and NFL coaches and players for kids K-8th grade, and ages 3-12 can enjoy a cheer camp led by our very own Seahawk Cheerleaders. If you want to cool off under the stars, join us at the Island Rec pool for Dive-In Movies. View “The Princess Bride” on May 26th, “Top Gun” on July 28th, and “Jaws” on Sept 22nd. You can float while you watch, or play movie themed games and munch on movie theater snacks. Visit www.islandrec.org to register for camps, and for event specifics.
Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Join the fun every Friday night from June 16th – August 18th for the Sunset Celebration. Enjoy bands like Deaz Guys, The Headliners, Cranford Hollow and many more. You can bring your beach chair or blanket and pick up a picnic style dinner from one of the many local restaurants who will be out there as well. This free event brings out the locals and visitors alike! Visit www.sheltercovetownecentre.com/events.
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
Tuesday night is set aside for HarbourFest at Shelter Cover Harbour & Marina. This weekly celebration includes our favorite Pirate and Entertainer, Shannon Tanner. He kicks off his 29th season with us on Memorial Day Weekend and entertains weekdays at 6:30 pm and 8:00 p.m. through September 4th. Then on Thursday evenings Shannon Tanner and the Oyster Reefers entertain us for Parrot Palooza starting at 7 p.m. They play your favorite island-inspired songs. Enjoy this popular show every Thursday from June 15th through August 17th. If you have little ones seeking pirate treasures and adventure, they can also join Shannon on Wednesday and Friday mornings from May 31st – June 4th for a Pirate Expedition. Meet at the stage at 8:30 a.m. sharp where you will don pirate gear, and search treasure on land and on the water. Visit www.palmettodunes.com/shelter-cove/hilton-head-harbourfest If you are curious to learn more about the Carolina salt march ecosystem, kids from 7 years old and up can join Coastal Carolina Camp at the Shelter Cove Marina. Daily activities including kayaks, crabbing, water trampoline, and games that all introduce them to the plant and animal life along our coast. Visit www.outsidehiltonhead.com
The Sandbox
This hands-on interactive museum is the perfect place to get out of the blazing sun and step in to a cool and refreshing indoor playground. With a safe and separate section for crawlers, The Sandbox is fun for even the youngest of families. They offer day camps throughout June and July with weekly themes that include exploring coastal aquatics, astronomy, and learning more about the Palmetto State. Be sure to swing by on July 19th for Christmas In July. The festivies include bouncy houses, holiday themed scavenger hunts, and even SNOW! For prices and special event details visit www.TheSandbox.org.
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A TASTE OF SERVICES & SWEETS DELISHEEYO
Located at 32 Palmetto Bay Rd. in The Village Exchange. The Island’s health food kitchen features organic juices, smoothees, salads, wraps, bowls and healthy snacks. Offering food that makes you feel good, choose from raw, vegan or gluten free options. Open Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. until 8 - p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Call (843) 785-3633 or online at www.delisheeyo.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 local media polls. Even the U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain has touted Hilton Head Ice Cream. The newly renovated shop has created many flavors: Cookie Monster, Butter Pecan, Brownie Cheesecake, Chocolate Cupcake and Reese’s Cup. Salt air is our secret ingredient and there is love in each batch too. Call (843) 842-6333 or www.hiltonheadicecreamshop.com.
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THE ICE CREAM CONE An island tradition since 1971 serving the most scrumptious selection of premium ice cream, soft serve frozen yogurts, shakes, malts, floats and sundaes. A wide array of flavors and toppings make it easy to create your special treat or try one of our new novelites. Open daily from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Follow the herd...to The Ice Cream Cone in Coligny Plaza next to Coligny Hardware. Call (843) 785-4440.
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.
PIGGLY WIGGLY
Located at 1 North Forest Beach in Coligny Plaza, near the beach. A full service grocery offering fresh seafood, full deli, beach accessories, beer, wine and our famous Piggly Wiggly T-shirts. Locally owned and operated for over forty years. Call (843) 785-3881 or online at www. pigglywigglycoligny.com.
RITA’S ITALIAN ICE Celebrating our 23RD year on Hilton Head. Featuring real soft serve custard and Italian Ices made fresh daily on premise with real fruit. Cool off with Rita’s Famous Gelati, an amazing combination of Italian Ice and Frozen Custard layered to perfection. If it’s just old-fashioned Frozen Custard you want, we have Vanilla, Chocolate or Twist available on a cone, in a shake, in a sundae or our Blendini. And you can’t beat the heat better that with our frozen Lemonades. Located Oceanside at Coligny Plaza. Call (843) 341-5587.
SNO CONES BY CHRIS Located in Palmetto Bay Marina right across from Palmetto Bay Watersports at 114 Helmsman Way. Chill out at the coolest place on Hilton Head. Come in and enjoy a delicious sno cone treat…with over 35 flavors to pick from…the flavor combinations are endless! Be sure to try one with our new marshmallow or caramel toppings too! See the island’s largest and only exhibit of world famous icons made entirely out of Legos! Open Everyday from 1-8 pm. (843) 683-0592.
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.
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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 and Raina Peck’s family recipes. Choose from Uncle Bill’s biscuits and gravy, James Island crab cake benedict, Backyard benedict, Bananas Foster french toast and a wide selection of other lowcountry favorites. Dine in or outside in the comfortable backyard. Experience the island, love the food! Serving Lunch Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Saturday 12 - 3 p.m. and Dinner 4:30 - 9 p.m., Monday Saturday and Brunch on Saturday 9 - 12 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) or visit us online at hbackyard.com.
BIG JIM’S BBQ, BURGERS & PIZZA
New restaurant located in Palmetto Dunes at the Robert Trent Jones Clubhouse. Big Jim’s serves breakfast daily from 7 until 10 a.m. featuring classic favorites plus the $5 breakfast special. Enjoy a bloody mary or mimosa to start your day. Lunch and dinner daily featuring BBQ, gourmet burgers and grilled pizza. Hours are 7:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Happy Hour every day 4 until 7 p.m. and seasonal live entertainment. Take out and catering available. Call (843) 785-1165 or www.palmettodunes.com/big-jims.
BRITISH OPEN PUB
Located in The Village at Wexford and Sheridan Park in Bluffton. Fabulous Brunch served in an authentic English style pub. Choose from Watson’s Steak & Eggs, Eggs Faldo (Benedict), Old Tom Morris Omelette, Pancakes, Cinnamon French Toast and more. Serving bottomless Mimosa’s and made from scratch Bloody Mary’s. Brunch served Saturday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m and Sunday 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736 or Bluffton (843) 815-6736.
CAPTAIN WOODY’S
All new location at 6 Target Road on Hilton Head and in Bluffton on the Calhoun Street Promenade. Serving Sunday brunch featuring shrimp & grits, steak & eggs, crab cake benedict, prime rib benedict, French toast, omelettes and much more. Wash it all down with a Captain Woody’s Bloody Mary, May River Mimosa or Promenade Poinsetta.
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Open for brunch on Sunday’s only from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-2400 or (843) 757-6222 or online at www.captainwoodys.com.
DELISHEEYO
Located at 32 Palmetto Bay Rd. in The Village Exchange. The Island’s health food kitchen features organic juices, smoothees, salads, wraps, bowls and healthy snacks. Offering food that makes you feel good, choose from raw, vegan or gluten free options. Open Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Call (843) 785-3633 or online at www. delisheeyo.com.
ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE
Located at One Shelter Cove Lane. Featured in Bon Appetit and winner of numerous Open Table awards, Ela’s offers fresh catch seafood and prime cut steaks of the highest quality, all prepared by our culinary team of experts and complimented by an extensive boutique wine selection. Known for the best water views on the island, we have a casual intimate interior, wrap around dining patio exterior and nightly entertainment. Private parties, rehearsal dinners and special events welcome. Open for lunch Monday thru Friday, 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and dinner nightly from 5 p.m. Reservations recommended. Call (843) 785-3030 or online at www.elasgrille.com.
FISHCAMP ON BROAD CREEK
Located at 11 Simmons Road, mid-island on Broad Creek. Fishcamp is Hilton Head’s newest casual waterfront dining
destination. Enjoy delicious brunch, seafood, steaks and more in a chic, backyard, fish camp style setting complete with a bocce court, ladder golf, jenga, a fire pit and sunset views. Choose from brunch selections such as a Stuffed French Toast (with Snickers bars filling!), Smoked Salmon Benedict, or Steak and Eggs (just to name a few). Dine indoors, or enjoy the large, pet-friendly patio and bar while soaking in the view. Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Happy hour at the outdoor bar (heated on cool nights) and high-top tables from 4 - 6 p.m. daily. Lunch daily from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Bar menu available starting at 3 p.m., dinner service beginning at 5 p.m., bar open until midnight. Call (843) 842-2267 for reservations. View full menus at fishcamphhi.com. #fishcamphhi.
GRINGO’S DINER
Located at 6 Lagoon Rd., near the beach in Coligny Plaza. This cozy and comfortable diner serves breakfast and lunch all day. The food and service makes for the perfect stop for visitors and locals alike. Enjoy contemporary American and Mexican food in a warm atmosphere with friendly service. We offer tremendous pancakes, breakfast burritos and tacos, omelettes, chimichangas, and more. Dine inside or outside. Take out is available. Open daily from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Call (843) 785-5400.
HOLY TEQUILA
Located at 33 Office Park Road in Park Plaza-- Holy Tequila
has a new weekend brunch from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturday & Sundays that will blow your taste buds away. Come sample the island’s best brunch with favorites like churro french toast, steak and egg tacos, shrimp and grits and huevos rancheros on our open air indoor/ outdoor patio! Brunch drink specials include $3 Mimosas and $5 Specialty brunch cocktails and margaritas! Call 843-681-TACO (8226) to reserve your space!
HUDSON’S SEAFOOD HOUSE ON THE DOCKS
Located at 1 Hudson Rd. on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. Enjoy a wide variety of sweet and savory Lowcountry dishes complete with brunch cocktails and sweeping views of Port Royal Sound. Lots of seafood-focused menu items featuring extremely fresh and local products like Blue Crab Benedict, Cathead Biscuits and Gravy, Shrimp and Grits and many more. Serving Brunch every Sunday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Call (843) 681-2772 or online at www.hudsonsonthedocks.com.
KENNY B’S 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
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stack pancakes, café au lait, quiche and a creole omelette. Open Monday from 11:30 a.m. until 9 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.
LAND’S 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 for seasonal hours.
OLD FORT PUB
Located at 63 Skull Creek Drive on the Intra-coastal Waterway, Old Fort Pub provides the perfect setting for enjoying a spectacular Sunday Brunch. Served every Sunday from 11-2 p.m. Guests enjoy Chef Keith Josefiak’s “New Southern” favorites inspired with influences from around the globe. Outdoor dining available. Call (843) 681-2386 or visit OldFortPub.com for a complete menu or to make reservations.
PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE
Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way. An
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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.
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 (843) 342-4472.
REILLEY’S GRILL AND BAR
Located in Reilley’s Plaza, just off Sea Pines Circle. Serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton Head Island for over 35 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, the family-friendly atmosphere will have your family dining with the Reilley family again and again. Dine indoors or outside on the deck. Enjoy nightly dinner specials with family,
toasting to the good life with mimosas and Sunday brunch or lunch with friends on the patio. Lunch 11 a.m. Mon. - Sat. and dinner 5 p.m. served seven days a week. Brunch on Sundays 11:30 a.m. Happy Hour from 4 until 7 p.m. Take-out and kids menus available. Reservations accepted. Call (843) 842-4414 or visit reilleyshiltonhead.com. @reilleyshhi.
REILLEY’S NORTH END PUB
Located in Port Royal Plaza. The sister restaurant of Reilley’s Grill & Bar (located on the south end), Reilley’s North End Pub has been serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton Head for over 30 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, Reilley’s is reminiscent of a true Boston pub. Experience the family-friendly atmosphere for some local fun and Tuesday Trivia. Enjoy nightly dinner specials with family, or toasting to the good life with mimosas and Sunday Brunch 11 a.m., or lunch with friends. Lunch and dinner served seven days a week. Happy hour daily from 4 until 7 p.m. Take-out available. Reservations accepted. Call (843) 681-4153 or visit reilleysnorth.com. #reilleysnorth.
ROCKFISH SEAFOOD AND STEAKS @BOMBORAS Located a at 5 Lagoon Road across from Coligny near the beach. New weekend brunch from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. The fabulous brunch menu includes Award winning pulled pork omelet, crab cake Benedict, breakfast sliders, ribs n eggs and the “Rocky” omelet that features a
Cincinnati favorite goetta and much much more! Offering breakfast cocktails including a bottomless mimosa option. Open for brunch on weekends, lunch, happy hour and dinner 7 days a week. Call (843) 689-2662 or visit online at rockfishhhi.com.
SKILLETS CAFE
Located just off the beach in Coligny Plaza. A breakfast favorite of both visitors and islanders alike since 1994. Try one of our famous layered dishes prepared in a porcelain skillet. Also offering steak and eggs, pancakes, french toast, omelettes, eggs benedict, Belgian waffles and too many others to mention. A wide beverage variety including fresh coffees, juices, bloody marys, and more. Dine inside or on the patio (Dog Friendly). Open daily from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Call (843) 7 85-3131 or check us out online at www.skilletscafe.com.
SUNSET GRILLE
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway at Hilton Head Harbor, 43 Jenkins Rd. The Grille offers a casual fine dining experience with breathtaking sunset views. One of the best brunches on Hilton Head. Offering Linda’s deep dish-quiche, fried chicken & biscuits with bacon gravy, filet mignon over bleu cheese grits, crab cake benedict and many more island favorites. Voted one of the best bloody mary’s in the Southeast by Garden & Gun Magazine. An amazing brunch with an amazing view. Call (843) 689-6744 for reservations. Sunday Brunch is 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Online at www.sunsetgrillehhi.com.
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A TASTE OF NIGHTLIFE / LOUNGES
A LOWCOUNTRY BACKYARD
Located at 32 Palmetto Bay Road in The Village Exchange. A true Lowcountry experience offering a full bar complete with beer, wine and cocktails served in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Try our South Carolina moonshine, moonshine punch or lemonshine for a unique twist from the norm. Enjoy live entertainment on the outside stage (please call for schedule). Open Monday thru Saturday for lunch and dinner, and Saturday and Sunday for Brunch. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) or online at www.hhbackyard.com.
AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE
Located at 69 Pope Avenue. With a tag line of “Not your everyday Mexican” one can only imagine what a familyfriendly, fun restaurant Aunt Chilada’s is to both locals and visitors alike! Located on the south-end of Hilton Head, visit Aunt Chilada’s for fresh margaritas, fajitas, and even crab legs! The huge, covered outdoor patio is perfect for all gatherings. Open seven days a week. Live music on the patio nightly (in season - weather permitting). A member of the Coastal Restaurants and Bars family of restaurants. Call (843) 785-7700 or visit auntchiladashhi.com. #auntchiladashhi.
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, $3 appetizer menu and many other specials. Live music daily March thru October. Call for late night entertainment schedule. Full menu available. Open from 11:30 a.m. until late, Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 686-3443.
BIG JIM’S BBQ, BURGERS & PIZZA
New restaurant located in Palmetto Dunes at the Robert Trent Jones Clubhouse. Big Jim’s features a wine and beer menu, delicious appetizers and Happy Hour daily from 4 until 7 p.m. in a casual atmosphere. Enjoy seasonal live entertainment, big screen TVs and outdoor seating overlooking the golf course. Big Jim’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily featuring BBQ, gourmet burgers and grilled pizza. Hours are 7:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Take out and catering available. Call (843) 785-1165 or www.palmettodunes.com/big-jims.
THE BOARDROOM
Located in Reilley’s Plaza just off Sea Pines Circle. Visit the Boardroom to find the Island’s best craft cocktails and live music venue - all in one place! Enjoy one of the latest happy hours on the Island with happy hour from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 66
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daily. Be sure to follow The Boardroom on Facebook and Instagram to always stay up-to-date on the latest bands, events and specials at this local spot. 21 and over after 10 p.m. Open 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. nightly. Call (843) 363-6636 or visit theboardroomlive.com. #theboardroomhhi.
BRITISH OPEN PUB
Located in The Village at Wexford and Sheridan Park in Bluffton. 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. Happy hour daily from 4 until 7 p.m. Open daily from 11 a.m until late. Brunch served Saturday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 686-6736 or Bluffton (843) 815-6736.
CAPTAIN JOHN’S 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 and the frozen drinks are made with fresh fruit. Happy hour from 4 until 6 p.m. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233) for seasonal hours.
CAPTAIN WOODY’S
All new location at 6 Target Road on Hilton Head and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. A local favorite for over 30 years 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. Happy Hour from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. daily with great prices. Fantastic outdoor deck and bar. Open daily from 11 a.m. until late, food available until 10 p.m. Call (843) 7852400 or (843) 757-6222 or online at www.captainwoodys.com.
CAROLINA CRAB COMPANY
Located in Palmetto Bay Marina, just off Helmsman Way. With a pet-friendly patio and bar as well as indoor dining, Carolina Crab Company offers an array of fresh seafood, burgers, crab legs, Lowcountry boil and daily Chef specials. Open seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. Enjoy water views from the outside bar. Happy hour daily at the bars (only) from 4 - 7 p.m. A member of the Coastal Restaurants and Bars family of restaurants. Call (843) 842-2016 or visit carolinacrabco.com. #carolinacrabco.
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. Wednesday and Thursday 10% discount on dinner at the bar, Saturday and Sunday 1/2 price bottle of wine (under $100) with 2 entrees. Happy Hour from 5 to 6:30 p.m. daily and dinner served from 5 p.m. Call (843) 785-6261.
CHARBAR CO
Located in Park Plaza right outside Sea Pines Plantation on Hilton Head. A local favorite serving award winning gourmet burgers, sandwiches, salads and more! We feature specialty craft beers on tap, niche wines, two full service bars, and a lounge equipped with a music collection spanning the decades in a fun indoor/outdoor environment. Voted Hilton Head Island “People’s Choice Best Burger”, 1st Place Winner of Burgers & Brews 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2016! Enjoy our large outdoor patio with flatscreens, fireplace and the only outdoor bar in Park Plaza! Happy Hour specials daily from 4-7 p.m.! Live music nightly! Call (843) 785-CHAR (2427) or visit us online at www.Facebook.com/CharbarCo!
CHARLIE’S L’ETOILE VERTE
Located at 8 New Orleans Rd., just off Hwy. 278. Casual yet sophisticated atmosphere. Relax on the leather couch or sit at 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
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including half price wines by the glass, from 5 until 7 p.m. Select bar menu and full dinner menu available at the bar. Open Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9277 or check us out online at www.charliesgreenstar.com.
CQ’S RESTAURANT
Tucked under the oaks in Harbour Town, CQ’s signature dishes embody Executive Chef, Jimmy Corbett’s passion for the best produce and cuisine from the Lowcountry bounty. Guests can gather at the bar and lounge to enjoy tasting dishes and shareable small plates. The exceptional wine list includes a variety of wines selected specifically with the menu in mind. Open nightly 5 to 9 p.m. Reservations accepted. Call (843) 671-2779 or visit CQsRestaurant.com for complete menus or to make reservations.
CRANE’S 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. Great bar menu and 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.
THE CRAZY CRAB
Two great waterfront locations- South end in Harbour Town in Sea Pines and North end Hwy. 278 overlooking Jarvis Creek. The “Islander’s place for fresh seafood for over 30 years,” The Crazy Crab restaurants are a must-visit for those enjoying all Hilton Head has to offer. Fresh local seafood is prepared any way you wish – broiled, fried, steamed, blackened, etc. Gluten free and vegan options also available. Open seven days a week. Outdoor patio bar open seasonally (Hwy. 278 location). Call (843) 363-2722 (Harbour Town), (843) 681-5021 (Jarvis Creek) or visit thecrazycrab.com. #crazycrabhhi.
THE DRYDOCK SEAFOOD GRILL & SPIRITS
All new location at 840 William Hilton Pkwy. Go where the locals go for fresh seafood, cold drinks and good times. We are easy to find but hard to leave. Great happy hour specials, full bar and plenty of flat screen TV’s for all the best in sports viewing. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-9775.
ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE
Located at One Shelter Cove Lane. Featured in Bon Appetit and winner of numerous Open Table awards, Ela’s offers fresh catch seafood and prime cut steaks of the highest quality, all prepared by our culinary team of experts and complimented by an extensive boutique wine selection. Known for the best water views on the island, we have a casual intimate interior, wrap around dining patio exterior and nightly entertainment. Private parties, rehearsal dinners and special events welcome. 68
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Open for lunch Monday thru Friday, 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and dinner nightly from 5 p.m. Reservations recommended. Call (843) 785-3030 or online at www.elasgrille.com.
FISHCAMP ON BROAD CREEK
Located at 11 Simmons Road, mid-island on Broad Creek. Fishcamp is Hilton Head’s newest casual waterfront dining destination. Enjoy live music and nightlife most evenings along with, seafood, steaks and more in a chic, backyard, fish camp style setting. Challenge friends to a game of bocce on the bocce court, ladder golf, jenga, or simply enjoy the fire pit and sunset views. Try craft cocktails such as the Marina Margarita, the Bulleit Bloody and Zai Tai to add flavor to your night. Large, pet-friendly patio and bar (heated on cool nights). Happy hour at the outdoor bar and high-top tables from 4 - 6 p.m. daily. Lunch daily from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Sundays only). Bar menu available starting at 3 p.m., dinner service beginning at 5 p.m., bar open until midnight. Call (843) 842-2267 for reservations. View full menus at fishcamphhi.com. #fishcamphhi.
FLATBREAD GRILL
Located at Coligny Circle oceanside in the Beach Market Center. 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. Catch your favorite sporting event on one of our HD TV’s. Enjoy Happy Hour from 4 - 6 :30 p.m. featuring $4 cocktails, beer and wine and $3 appetizers. Take-out available. 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. A comfortable, casual atmosphere offering a “web-footed lickin” menu and an enormous amount of frozen daiquiris by the glass or by the gallon. Outside seating with retractable roof, fire pit, beach area and tiki bar. Live music nightly. Black angus burger, crab cakes, pizza, prime rib sandwich, salads, subs, wraps, appetizers and of course fried frog legs. 28 HD TV’s for great sports viewing as well as a kid’s menu. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-FROG (3764) or online at www.frostyfrog.com.
HOLY TEQUILA
Located in Park Plaza, the Holy Tequila taqueria blends gourmet tacos with American flavors, Mexican street food and tequila in an eclectic atmosphere! Prepare your senses for a fusion of flavors that reaches into the heart of Mexico! Holy Tequila combines an open kitchen with indoor/outdoor dining and a dynamic bar to create a high energy fiesta! We serve gourmet tacos, quesadillas, and smalls plates with a full bar offering over 40 kinds of premium tequilas and live music
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at night. The cuisine is modern, fun and uninhibited, just like our guests! The restaurant is open 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily with happy hour specials from 4-7 p.m.! Call us at (843) 681-TACO (8226) or visit us online at www.Facebook. com/HolyTequila!
HUDSON’S SEAFOOD HOUSE ON THE DOCKS
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. With 45 years of casual dining experience and spectacular views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Hudson’s is an island icon. Featuring the freshest, local seafood in the area as well as pasta, steaks, chicken and more. Enjoy beer, wine or specialty cocktails in the Oyster Bar or while watching the sunset on the deck bar. Featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today and Bon Appétit. Open daily at 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.
THE JAZZ CORNER
Located in the “corner” of The Village at Wexford. One of the top “100 Great Jazz Rooms” in the world, Downbeat Magazine 2011-2016. 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.
and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 842-9991 for more information or reservations.
MELLOW MUSHROOM
Located in Park Plaza on Hilton Head and at 878 Fording Island Rd. in Bluffton. 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 (HHI) at 9 p.m. (Tuesday’s at 9 p.m. in Bluffton). Happy Hour from 3 until 6 p.m. everyday. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-2474 (HHI) or (843) 706-0800 (B-Town).
OLD FORT PUB
Located at 63 Skull Creek Drive on the Intra-coastal Waterway, Old Fort Pub showcases unrivaled nightly sunsets & award winning cuisine! Guests enjoy Chef Keith Josefiak’s “New Southern” favorites inspired with influences from around the globe. Serving Sunday Brunch 11-2 p.m., Bar opens at 4 p.m. daily and dinner is served nightly 5-9 p.m. Early Bird dining is served from 5-5:30. Outdoor dining available. Call (843) 681-2386 or visit OldFortPub.com for a complete menu or to make reservations.
OMBRA
Located at The Oyster Reef Golf Club, 155 High Bluff Rd. The atmosphere at LagerHead Tavern makes it the ideal place for friends to socialize, enjoy the island’s camaraderie with progressive cuisine, hand crafted cocktails and southern hospitality or just sit back and watch the game with an ice cold glass of beer. Open for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 681-2184.
Located in the Village at Wexford. Enjoy authentic classical Italian cuisine prepared daily by Chef Michael Cirafesi. Relax at the elegant, yet casual bar and enjoy a brilliant array of wines from every region in Italy. A large selection of Italian specialty cocktails, aperitifs, digestivos, homemade limoncello and grappa are also available. Open nightly from 4:30 until close. Call (843) 842-5505 or visit us online at www.ombrahhi.com.
LUCKY ROOSTER KITCHEN & BAR
PISCES SEAFOOD, STEAK & SUSHI
LAGERHEAD TAVERN
Located at 841 William Hilton Parkway in South Island Square. An American Bistro with southern soul serves seasonal inspired food with local beers, craft cocktails and an esoteric wine list. Our menu is constantly changing and evolving with seasons, tides, weather and our inspirations. Dine inside or outside on our patio. A healthy children’s menu is also available. Call for hours (843) 681-3474 or online at www.luckyroosterhhi.com.
MEDITERRANEAN HARBOUR
Located at 13 Shelter Cove Lane in Shelter Cove Marina. A warm and comfortable dining experience featuring Lebanese cuisine. Choose from our hearty chicken, beef or lamb kabobs, delicious seafood as well as vegan and gluten free selections including falafel, grape leaves and baba ghanouj. Our dishes are created from homemade recipes and spices from Lebanon. Enjoy beautiful views of the harbour from our outdoor dining area or outside bar. Open for lunch 70
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Located at 841 William Hilton Parkway in South Island Square. Featuring fresh local seafood, certified Angus beef and an amazing sushi bar in a casual and comfortable upscale atmosphere. Serving the islands only tableside flambe desserts as well as a kid friendly menu. Great happy hour and early bird specials from 4 until 6 p.m. Open Monday thru Saturday for dinner from 4 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 341-3300 for more information or to make reservations.
POOL BAR JIM’S
Located overlooking the beach at the Sea Crest at 10 North Forest Beach. Local legend Pool Bar Jim has combined with culinary favorite A Lowcountry Backyard in the perfect setting for tropical and exotic drinks and great lowcountry cuisine. With beautiful views, tasty beverages and delicious food, this is a destination not to be missed. Enjoy Happy hour or try our new Sunday Brunch. Open daily from noon until 8 p.m. Call (843) 816-4648.
REDFISH
On the corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. on Hilton Head, and 32 Bruin Rd. in Bluffton. Our unique bar and retail wine shop offers a contemporary, yet casual atmosphere for the wine connoisseur. 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 or (843) 837-8888 or online at www.redfishofhiltonhead.com.
REILLEY’S GRILL AND BAR
Located in Reilley’s Plaza, just off Sea Pines Circle. Serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton Head Island for over 35 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, the family-friendly atmosphere will have your family dining with the Reilley family again and again. Dine indoors or outside on the deck. Enjoy nightly dinner specials with family, or toasting to the good life with mimosas and Sunday brunch. Lunch and dinner served seven days a week. Happy Hour from 4 until 7 p.m. at both the outdoor patio bar and indoor bar. Take-out and kids menus available. Call (843) 842-4414 for reservations or visit reilleyshiltonhead.com. Bar open until 2 a.m. Visit Facebook for event information. #reilleyshhi.
REILLEY’S NORTH END PUB
Located in Port Royal Plaza. The sister restaurant of Reilley’s Grill & Bar (located on the south end), Reilley’s North End Pub has been serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton Head for over 30 years. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, Reilley’s is reminiscent of a true Boston pub. Experience the family-friendly atmosphere for some local fun and Tuesday Trivia. Enjoy nightly dinner specials with family, or toasting to the good life with mimosas and Sunday Brunch. Lunch and dinner served seven days a week. Happy hour daily from 4 until 7p.m. at the bar. Bar Open 11:30 a.m. - late. Take-out available. Call (843) 681-4153 for reservations or visit reilleysnorth.com. #reilleysnorth.
ROCKFISH SEAFOOD AND STEAKS @BOMBORAS
Located a at 5 Lagoon Road across from Coligny near the beach. New and very generous Happy Hour from 4 - 7 p.m. daily including, but not limiting to 75 cent fresh oysters, 40 cent peel n eat shrimp, $15.95 1 lbs snow crab legs, 1/2 price select appetizers, $2 domestic drafts and more! Happy Hour prices are subject to change. Featuring a fun and inviting indoor or outdoor dining experience. Extensive craft draft list, wine and creative cocktails. Open for brunch on weekends, lunch, happy hour and dinner 7 days a week. Call (843) 6892662 or visit online at rockfishhhi.com.
THE SALTY DOG CAFE
Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Great food, frozen drinks and live entertainment from the island’s favorite outdoor cafe. Enjoy beautiful waterfront views overlooking Braddock’s Cove in a fun and casual atmosphere. Happy Hour daily with TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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a full menu available, plus an outdoor cookout, Salty Dog Ice Cream and Jake’s Pizza during the season. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233) for seasonal hours.
THE SANDBAR
New restaurant located in historic Coligny Plaza at 101 Pope Ave., just steps from the beach. The Sandbar is an ideal setting to enjoy late afternoon Happy Hour and evening outdoor entertainment. Serving up your favorite island cocktails along with a great selection of local beers on tap. Also enjoy our outdoor grill featuring guest chefs and international treats. Hours are 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. with Happy Hour from 4-6 p.m. (843) 342-SAND (7263).
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 Tuesday thru Saturday and first Sunday of every month. 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.
STREET MEET
Located in Port Royal Plaza near BILO. Relax in our newly
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expanded American style tavern and enjoy our wide selection of beer, wine, and full bar libations. Join us for happy hour from 4 until 7 p.m. featuring daily drink specials. Serving our full menu til midnight nightly. DirecTV programming for your team and home of the Hilton Head Brown’s Backers club. Acoustic Mayhem plays on the patio, every Tuesday from 6 - 9 p.m. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. until midnight. Call (843) 842-2570 or online at www.streetmeethhi.com.
TWISTED CORK COCKTAIL & WINE BAR
Located at 11 Palmetto Bay Rd., Suite 102 next to Staples in the Publix shopping center. A local’s favorite, featuring an extensive wine list available by the glass or the bottle in a warm and intimate atmosphere. Choose from a fantastic selection of craft cocktails, beer and small plates. Happy hour includes half off all bottles of wine, half off well liquor and $2 domestic and $3 import beers. Open Monday thru Saturday from 5 p.m. Call (843) 802-0510.
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. Serving a full bar with excellent food and waterfront view overlooking South Beach Marina and Braddock’s Cove, The Wreck offers excellent Happy Hour drink and appetizer specials. Available for private parties. Call (843) 671-SEAS (7327) for seasonal hours.
A TASTE OF BLUFFTON BRITISH OPEN PUB
Located in Sheridan Park in Bluffton and The Village at Wexford. Authentic English fare served in attractive pub-style atmosphere with golf art, memorabilia, and the only bar by Titleist. Featuring our famous Fish n’ Chips or Sandwedges like the Aberdeen Burger, Clubhouse Classic, Wexford Reuben, English Dip and Lobster Roll. Full bar and beers, ales, and stouts from around the world. Serving breakfast from 8 a.m. until 11 am., Monday - Friday. Lunch and Dinner daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., and Brunch Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736 or Bluffton (843) 815-6736.
CAPTAIN WOODY’S
Located at the Calhoun Street Promenade. Visit Old Town Bluffton and enjoy great seafood in a casual and fun atmosphere. Serving a wide variety of fresh seafood, great signature sandwiches (Grouper melt and Po Boy’s), soups and salads all at affordable prices. Dine inside or out or enjoy the rooftop bar. Serving lunch and dinner Sunday thru Thursday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 757-6222 or visit us online at www.captainwoodys.com.
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CLAUDE & ULI’S BISTRO
Located at 1533 Fording Island Rd, Suite 302 just over the bridge from Hilton Head. For nearly two decades, Chef Claude and Uli have delighted diners with their bistro’s European cuisine, hospitality and charming, casual ambiance. Chef Claude applies his classic French training and international experience in preparing coastal South Carolina’s seafood, meats and produce. Open for dinner Tuesday thru Saturday from 5 p.m., lunch Wednesday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., and Early Bird is served Tuesday thru Saturday from 5 until 6 p.m. Call (843) 837-3336 or online at www.claudebistro.com
FARM BLUFFTON
Located at 1301 May River Rd in the Promenade. With a focus on fresh and local, our menu is inspired by the seasonal bounty of local produce, cultural traditions from around the world and ever evolving culinary ideas. Based on a mutual respect for the land, the animals and the people who tend to them, we grow a lot of our own produce and select only the best from other farmers. Open Tuesday thru Saturday for lunch from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and dinner from 5 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 707-2041 or online at www.farmbluffton.com.
FAT PATTIES
Located on 46 in Old Town Bluffton and just outside the Parris Island gate in Beaufort. Fat Patties is a Hand Crafted American Burger Joint. We offer our innovative burger creations with the option of 6 different patties: Grass Feed Beef, 1/2 and 1/2 (Ground Beef and Ground Bacon),Wild American Shrimp, Turkey, Chicken Breast, or a Vegetarian Black Bean Pattie served on our homemade buttery buns. Our Brats are simmered in American Ale and topped with the same extravagant toppings as our Burgers. You can’t go wrong with one of our 38 American Craft beers on draft (some of which are brewed right upstairs at Salt Marsh Brewing). We also produce our own Ice Cream with flavors like Burnt Marshmallow and Bacon Maple Syrup we will take you back to your childhood. We can’t wait for you to try it! Open Daily at 11 a.m. Call (843) 815-6300 or (843) 379-1500 or Online at www.fat-patties.com.
MAY RIVER GRILL
Located at 1263 May River Rd. in old town Bluffton. Voted best of Bluffton for eight straight years, this intimate restaurant features excellent food, great décor and quality service. Our extensive menu offers 20 different entrees, daily specials, locally caught seafood, walleye, lake Erie perch, and hand picked vegetables. Fantastic wine selections as well as an early bird menu available Monday thru Friday. Open Monday thru Saturday, from 5 until 9 p.m. Call (843) 757-5755 for reservations or online at www.mayrivergrill.com.
MELLOW MUSHROOM
Located in Park Plaza on Hilton Head and at 878 Fording Island 74
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Rd. in Bluffton. 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 on the patio. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-2474 (HHI) or (843) 706-0800 (B-Town).
OLD TOWN DISPENSARY
Located right off of Calhoun Street, in the heart of historic, downtown Bluffton. Delicious food, cold drinks, and a great atmosphere make this place a locals favorite! Dine inside or sit outside and enjoy live music under the stage. Open daily from 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. Happy Hour is offered seven days a week from 4-7 p.m., and Sunday Brunch is served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Visit otdbluffton.com for more information, or call (843) 837-1893.
THE PEARL KITCHEN & BAR
Located at 55 Calhoun Street in the historic art district of Bluffton. The newest restaurant to top the Bluffton restaurant scene, The Pearl brings a fresh approach to dining focusing on a complete sensory experience offering fresh “clean eating”. Contemporary food preparations utilizing the best fresh catch seafood, certified steaks and local produce available. Live music Thursday thru Sunday. Open for dinner daily at 5 p.m. Reservations recommended, call (843) 757-5511.
POUR RICHARD’S
Located at 4376 Bluffton Parkway. Creative food and wine are just a few things that keep people coming back for more! Known for their daily seasonal specials, the menu also features a variety of small plates, seafood and wood fired pizzettas. Reserve a table or dine at the bar where the friendly staff knows how to make you feel right at home. Open for dinner Monday thru Saturday from 5:30 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 7571999 or online at www.pourrichardsbluffton.com.
REDFISH BLUFFTON
Located at 32 Bruin Road. Our eclectic menu specializes in locally caught fish, natural and free range meats and vegetables from our garden to provide the freshest ingredients possible. Dine inside or out on the beautiful patio. Extensive wine list and full bar available. Serving lunch Monday thru Saturday, 11:30 a.m until 2 p.m., dinner nightly from 4:30 until 10 p.m. and Sunday Brunch from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 837-8888 or online at redfishofbluffton.com.
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Claude & Uli’s brings the best flavors of the continent under one roof. BY BARRY KAUFMAN • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN
He’s the French chef with the Italian name, the one who’s been delighting diners from coast to coast for decades. She’s the Austrian hostess who works the front of house like no one else, her natural charm making every visit like coming home. When Claude & Uli Melchiorri opened Claude & Uli’s in 2005, their fame preceded them. And every day since then, they’ve built on that fame with an inspired menu of European cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere that has brought back a loyal clientele time and again. “We have had a lot of good help around us, and we’re consistent,” said Claude. “If you get good people in the kitchen and you do a good job, people come to you.” The good people in Claude’s kitchen, under his watchful eye, 76
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do a good job, to say the least. The Carrée d’Agneau (rack of lamb), one of the restaurant’s signatures, melts with rich flavors on the palate. The Moules frites (mussels with French fries) luxuriate in a shallow pool of white wine and shallot broth that enraptures both taste and smell. There’s a certain set of lofty expectations that come with French food. Here, those expectations are blown away with every delectable course that arrives at your table. “French cooking is simple,” said Uli. “As Claude says, a potato has to look and taste like a potato. He cooks with simple, French ingredients… It’s not farm to table, it’s not organic, it’s just good French food.” And here we see how Claude’s dual pedigree from two of
the finest culinary traditions in the world definitely favors his French side over his Italian side. Especially when the soufflé comes out, delicately perched on a heavenly cloud that is in then further inflated with a rich Grand Marnier sauce. The experience is a sublime medley of sweetness and a touch of savory, of airiness with a light crisp of caramelized sugar. However, we’d be remis if we didn’t point out something of a border dispute in-house over the soufflé. “I told Claude the soufflé was invented in Austria and he didn’t believe me,” said Uli, smiling to herself and checking to see if her husband was nearby. “We looked it up and I was right. He told me, ‘The Austrians may have invented it, but the French perfected it.” When asked his take on the iconic French food’s Austrian origins, Claude for his part merely laughed and issued a few veiled threats to this writer that were charmingly blunted by his happy demeanor and charming accent. Their daughter Amanda, who manages the restaurant, gave a very diplomatic response when asked about the soufflé. “We went to Austria on a trip and ordered a soufflé. This thing came out looking like a swirly donut almost,” she said, wisely dodging the question. “Austrian soufflé and French soufflé are two totally different things.” Whichever country invented it, it’s hard to argue that it hasn’t been perfected at Claude & Uli’s. But that’s almost to be expected, given Claude’s passion for cooking and his extensive background, starting in iconic kitchens like Maxim’s in Paris before serving as an executive chef with the French Navy (“I tell you, the French Navy, they eat good,” he said through a chuckle. “Especially the commander”) and moving on to fame at restaurants from Switzerland, London and Bermuda. He found his way to America in 1971, landing in San Francisco at the tail end of the Haight Ashbury era. “It was… interesting,” he said, illustrating where his daughter gained her skills for diplomacy. “I was 25 years old you know? I was working like a dog, but I found time to play, too.” After serving in kitchens around California, Claude finally found his chance to own his own restaurant in 1980, when he opened La Normandie in Orlando, Florida. “It was a totally different world, from San Francisco to Orlando.” A visit to an old customer on Lady’s Island introduced Claude to the South Carolina Lowcountry. From that point, his story is like so many of ours. “I discovered Hilton Head and never left.” And now, more than a half-century after starting as a pastry assistant in Lisieux, France, Claude has established himself as Hilton Head Island’s go-to gourmet.
CLAUDE & ULI’S BISTRO
1533 Fording Island Rd, Suite #302 in Moss Creek Village (843) 837-3336 www.claudebistro.com TASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM
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SUMMER SPIRITS
Bluffton Style Drink your way through B-Town with a selection of delectable drinks. BY BARRY KAUFMAN • PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN
Summer has arrived, and with it comes that most wonderful time of year: cocktail season. Of course, Bluffton’s cocktail season runs roughly from early June until late May, but there’s something about the rising mercury just being kept at bay by those breezes off the bluff that puts us in high spirits. We asked some of Bluffton’s best cocktail destinations for their take on summer, and the results look delicious. Mix one up yourself or stop by to have it prepared by the experts.
Farmer’s Market Martini courtesy of Pour Richard’s
Strawberry Shrub courtesy of FARM
So what is shrub? Shrub is the divine syrup created when you rest fresh, local strawberries in organic cane sugar for two days, allowing the berries to gently release their juice. At FARM, they strain the resulting mixture and rinse with house-brewed kombucha. The result is a tangy sweet syrup that’s crucial for this refreshing cocktail. 1.25 oz. Shrub 1.25 oz. Vodka .5 oz. St. Germain .25 oz. Lime 78
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The summer calls for something sweet and citrusy, with all the flavors of summer’s fertile orchards. This drink will have you filling up your basket with delectable berries and tangy citrus fruits for a perfectly balanced salute to summer. 2 oz. Tito’s Vodka 2 oz. fruit base (recipe below) Combine with ice in a martini shaker and shake hard. Strain into an ice-cold martini glass. FRUIT BASE 1/2 cup each of raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, & strawberries 1 orange, lemon, & lime peeled and seeded 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup each brandy, Cointreau and Grand Marnier 1 cup tangerine or orange juice 1 cup cranberry juice Blend all of these together until smooth...you want a thick but pourable mix
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Scarlett Mule
courtesy of Captain Woody’s Captain Woody’s likes to do things a little differently, and it shows in their unique take on the classic Moscow Mule here. Cranberry vodka lends a refreshing tangy note to a drink that’s pure summer. And come on, were else are you going to get a drink in a cool can like this? 1.5 oz. Deep Eddy Cranberry Vodka Fill with Ginger Beer Splash of Lime Juice
Big Kid Cherry Coke courtesy of Fat Pattie’s
Just because a place is famous for its beer doesn’t mean they can’t mix a mean cocktail. The list at Fat Pattie’s is definitely worth checking out for something tasty to enjoy out in the beer garden. Our top pick has to be this scrumptious spirit straight from the South. 1 oz. 44 North Cherry Vodka 1 oz. Daufuskie Island Rum Vanilla 6 oz. Coke 1 Tbls. of Griotte Cherry mixture (Macerated Griotte Cherries with fresh Tahitian Vanilla Beans cut length wise and scraped) Splash of Grenadine
Island Bloom
courtesy of Red Fish This light, refreshing summer drink evokes tropical breezes and benefits tremendously from floral notes courtesy of, well, a flower. If you don’t happen to have hibiscus flowers marinating in syrup, feel free to substitute any edible flower and a splash of Grenadine. 1 oz. Vodka 4.5 oz. Champagne Edible hibiscus flower in syrup Serve in Champagne glass 80
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French Mojito
courtesy of Claude & Uli’s Oh, you thought the classic Mojito was strictly a Cuban drink? Here we sample a continental twist on the Caribbean classic featuring Calvados. 1.5 oz. Calvados 10 Mint Leaves, muddled ½ Lime, muddled Serve in rocks glass topped with ginger ale.
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A TASTE OF ADVERTISERS / MAP LOCATION 1. ALEXANDER’S RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR
(843) 785-4999
2. A LOWCOUNTRY BACKYARD
(843) 785-YARD (9273)
3. ANNIE O’S SOUTHERN EATS
(843) 341-2664
4. AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE
(843) 785-7700
5. THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE
(843) 686-3443
6. BIG JIM’S BBQ, BURGERS & PIZZA
(843) 785-1165
7. THE BOARDROOM
(843) 363-6636
8. BRITISH OPEN PUB
(843) 686-6736 or 815-6736
9. CALLAHAN’S SPORTS BAR & DELUXE GRILL
(843) 686-POOL (7665)
10. CAPTAIN JOHN’S GALLEY AT THE SALTY DOG CAFE
(843) 671-CAFE (2233)
11. CAPTAIN WOODY’S
(843) 785-2400 or 757-6222
12. CAROLINA CRAB COMPANY
(843) 842-2016
13. CATCH 22 FRESH SEAFOOD & GRILL
(843) 785-6261
14. CHARBAR CO
(843) 785-CHAR (2427)
15. CHARLIE’S L’ETOILE VERTE
(843) 785-9277
16. CQ’S RESTAURANT
(843) 671-2779
17. CRANE’S TAVERN STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD
(843) 341-2333
18. CRAZY CRAB
(843) 363-2722 or 681-5021
19. DELISHEEYO
(843) 785-3633
20. THE DRYDOCK SEAFOOD GRILL & SPIRITS
23. FAT PATTIES
47. OMBRA
24. FISHCAMP ON BROAD CREEK
48. PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE
25. FLATBREAD GRILL
49. THE PEARL KITCHEN & BAR
26. THE FROSTY FROG CAFÉ
50. PIGGLY WIGGLY
27. GRINGO’S DINER
51. PLANTATION CAFE & DELI
28. HILTON HEAD ICE CREAM
52. POOL BAR JIM’S
29. HINOKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR
53. POUR RICHARD’S
(843) 815-6300 or (843) 379-1500
(843) 842-2267 (843) 341-2225
(843) 686-FROG (3764)
(843) 757-5511
(843) 785-3881
(843) 785-5400
(843) 842-6333
(843) 785-9800
30. HOLY TEQUILA
(843) 681-TACO (8226)
31. HUDSON’S SEAFOOD HOUSE ON THE DOCKS
(843) 681-2772
(843) 785-4440
32. THE ICE CREAM CONE 33. ISLAND FUDGE SHOPPE
(843) 842-4280
34. THE JAZZ CORNER
(843) 842-8620
35. KENNY B’S CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT
(843) 785-3315
36. LAGERHEAD TAVERN
(843) 681-2184
37. LAND’S END TAVERN
(843) 671-5456
38. LUCKY ROOSTER KITCHEN & BAR
(843) 681-3474
39. MANGIAMO
(843) 682-2444
40. MAY RIVER GRILL
(843) 757-5755
41. MEDITERRANEAN HARBOUR
(843) 842-9991
42. MELLOW MUSHROOM
(843) 686-2474 or 706-0800
43. MICHAEL ANTHONY’S
(843) 785-6272
44. OLD FORT PUB
(843) 681-2386
(843) 686-3232
(843) 842-5505
(843) 785-9020 or 342-4472 (843) 816-4648 (843) 757-1999
54. REDFISH
(843) 686-3388 or 837-8888
55. REILLEY’S
(843) 842-4414 or 681-4153
(843) 341-5587
56. RITA’S ITALIAN ICE
57. ROCKFISH SEAFOOD AND STEAKS @BOMBORAS
(843) 689-2662
58. RUAN THAI HUT
(843) 681-3700
59. SAGE ROOM
(843) 785-5352
60. THE SALTY DOG CAFE
(843) 671-CAFE (2233)
61. THE SANDBAR
(843) 342-SAND (7263)
62. SANTA FE CAFE
(843) 785-3838
63. SEA GRASS GRILLE
(843) 785-9990
64. SNO CONES BY CHRIS
(843) 683-0592
65. STELLINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT
(843) 785-7006
66. STREET MEET
(843) 842-2570
67. SUNSET GRILLE
(843) 689-6744
68. TOBACCO ROAD
(843) 341-6265
21. ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE
45. THE OLD OYSTER FACTORY
69. TWISTED CORK COCKTAIL & WINE BAR
22. FARM BLUFFTON
46. OLD TOWN DISPENSARY
70. THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG
(843) 842-9775 (843) 785-3030
(843) 707-2041
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(843) 681-6040 (843) 837-1893
(843) 802-0510 (843) 671-7327
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