Taste Summer 2012 by Taste of Hilton Head

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CONTENTS

FEATURES 8

RED FISH Palate Pleasing From The Vineyard To The Ocean.

12 ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE Seafood, Steaks And Style On The Water!

18 IN THE KITCHEN With Chef Karl Lammert Executive Chef For Big Bamboo Café.

26 SHANNON TANNER Shelter Cove’s Superstar.

34 HILTON HEAD COMEDY CLUB Top Of The Kingfisher - Great Food And Big Laughs.

44 FRESH AND LOCAL From The Farm To The Table.

48 SMOOTHIES Delicious and Healthy.

60 WHERE THE LOCALS DINE OUT A Date With Stan Smith Touring Pro, Sea Pines Racquet Club.

66 FINDING YOUR INNER WINE CRITIC! Great Tips For Wine Tastings.

68 HILTON HEAD HOSPITALITY PROFILE Gordon Sobel, Manager Of Corks Wine Bar.

79 THE EASY, HONEST DIET CHANGE Three Easy Steps From Cross Fit Hilton Head. 4

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IN EVERY ISSUE 6

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

10 A TASTE OF DINNER 50 A TASTE OF LUNCH 62 A TASTE OF BREAKFAST/BRUNCH 70 A TASTE OF ISLAND RECIPES 72 A TASTE OF NIGHTLIFE/LOUNGES 80 A TASTE OF ENTERTAINMENT/SERVICES 82 ADVERTISING DIRECTORY/MAP

PUBLISHERS NOTE

I always seem to be a step behind when it comes to what’s hot, what’s happening, and what the new trends are. Technology, fashion, hairstyles and a number of other things that so many people keep up with are just not on my radar. I guess it’s a y chromosome thing or in my DNA to catch on a little late, if at all. Publishing a food and beverage oriented magazine, however, has kept me a little more on top of the game when it comes to what’s popular in the culinary world. Twenty years ago, how many coffee houses were near your house? How about wine bars or tapas style restaurants? Did you ever have a smoothie? Growing up, I don’t remember having pizza delivered to my house. I’m almost certain we never had Mexican food. We went to diners or the local restaurant on special occasions. We ate hamburgers and drank milkshakes. I think we may even have had a milkman. Looking back the options seem very limited. But in today’s evolving food and beverage world, it’s not that hard to keep up with what’s hot or what the current trends are. They are right in front of your eyes and they will send your senses reeling. Everywhere you look you see a new restaurant, bar, or combination of the two. In this issue of Taste, you can find enough dining options to tickle your taste buds all summer. If you are fortunate enough to live on the island or just visiting, take the opportunity to expand your horizons and indulge in something new or something different. Step outside the box and try a new drink, a new dish, a new restaurant. With the growing trend of local and fresh you can sample what we catch off our shores and grow in our backyards. Even the bartenders use fresh local fruit when blending their umbrella drinks. It's all fabulous and it's all over the Island. Your options are endless. Enjoy!

David Mudwilder

TASTE OF HILTON HEAD VOLUME VII, ISSUE 2 PUBLISHER David Mudwilder ART DIRECTOR Kim Bowen CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Rob Kaufman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Craig Hysell Stephanie Ingersoll Louise Lund 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

ABOUT THE COVER Islander Wyatt Thomas cools off with a refreshing smoothie at the Westin Resort and Spa. Photography by Rob Kaufman.

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Red Fish Palate pleasing from the vineyard to the ocean. BY STEPHANIE INGERSOLL PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

They can toast the excellent service from a staff that stays on year after year. They can cheer the food – so fresh it might have been pulled from the water just hours before. And they can clink their glasses as they rave about the comfortable, yet classy atmosphere in the main dining room, Chef's Cellar or private wine room. And there is certainly no shortage of choices when it comes to the vino or food. Red Fish not only boasts mouthwatering seafood, steaks, chicken, chops and vegetables, it also has more than 1,500 labels of wine on site at any given time. Yes, 1,500 – and all available at retail prices. The huge selection of wines from around the world is just one way the restaurant has expanded since 2000. The restaurant, located at 8 Archer Road, just off Palmetto Bay Road, has grown in many ways. Its kitchen was expanded in 2005 when it took over space formerly occupied by a deli in the same building. Always eager to improve the quality and freshness of their product, the staff started their own garden, Bear Island Farms, and made arrangements with other local farmers to procure the best produce and natural or free-range meats. Red Fish even has its own boat to deliver fish straight from the water to the kitchen. Partner Robby Maroudas‘ experience with fisherman has certainly helped play a part in the restaurant's ability to get the very freshest fish year round. “I grew up in the fishing community around here,” he said. “I have a lot of contacts (with fishermen). When they get a good bite of grouper, we get the first phone call. We purchase straight off the boat.” He also has friendships with boat captains, in Georgia and all along the coast. That guarantees good local shrimp, cobia, tuna or whatever is in season. Sometimes it is black 8

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sea bass. Sometimes it's triggerfish. When the fish are biting, he is too. In fact, he catches some of it himself. Customer favorites include the scallops with lobster macaroni and cheese and grilled sea bass, he said. But there's always a demand for Lowcountry shrimp and grits, a center cut filet mignon or a vegetable strudel. Dinner selections can be cooked as described on the menu or “naked” – grilled with only extra virgin olive oil, lime and garlic. Executive Chef Sean Walsh is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has been dishing up delicacies at Red Fish since 2003. He worked in kitchens from New York to the mid-West and the Caribbean before settling in the Lowcountry. Those experiences have helped him build a unique and intriguing style with combinations of many culinary techniques. Diners can expect dishes with a fusion of Caribbean and panAsian flair brought to traditional Lowcountry cuisine. He and his team are constantly

working to offer up new and tempting creations using the products that are in season. And no matter which dish one orders, there is bound to be a wine to complement it. Different varieties line almost every wall, and represent more

countries than one can easily count. There are wines from Spain, Chile, Austrailia and more. There are more traditional California wines or more obscure eco-friendly varieties. Need help finding something spicy or sweet? Ask General Manager Jeff Martin for tips. He orders the wines and will be happy to help. Because the wines are sold through Red Fish's retail wine shop, they don't come with the high mark up found at many restaurants, Martin said. A bottle that cost $90 at another restaurant might be purchased for $30 or $40 at Red Fish. A $10 corkage fee allows that wine to be consumed in the restaurant. With so many labels to choose from – and even more can be ordered on request – diners can come back again and again to experiment while enjoying a night out. Dress is resort casual. There is a large patio for porch dining and three

dining rooms inside. Martin said Red Fish is a great place for a family on vacation or a date night. “You should feel comfortable coming in here in a pair of khakis, flip flops and a button up shirt,” he said. Red Fish is open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Dinner is served nightly, with an early dining menu from 5 to 5:45 p.m. Lunch choices include a variety of soups, salads and sandwiches with several chef's specialties. Prices range from about $8 for some sandwiches to $12 for a Crispy Flounder Tostada. Early dining specials include your choice of broiled tilapia, coconut fried shrimp, grilled salmon, Lowcountry shrimp and grits, braised beef short ribs, Latin ribs or baked chicken pot pie for $14.95. That includes a complimentary glass of wine, iced tea or lemonade. Dinner choices range from Cajun Shrimp and Lobster Burgers for $24 to a filet mignon for $36. Plenty of extras are also available and desserts range from carrot cake to Beignets and hot chocolate. For reservations, call (843) 6863388 or visit RedFishofHiltonHead.com. Catering is available and rooms are available for private parties. ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

A TASTE OF DINNER

ALEXANDER’S

ASIAN BISTRO

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

Located at 51 New Orleans Rd., just off the Sea Pines circle. Sleek contemporary style restaurant offering Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine as well as a nice selection of dim sum choices. A sushi bar, traditional bar and an all-you-caneat buffet (lunch only) highlight this magnificent Asian fusion location. Happy hour nightly from 5 until 8 p.m. and carry out is also available. Serving continuously from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily. Call (843) 686-9888.

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, Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.- 3 p.m., Dinner, Mon.-Sat. 4 p.m.- 9 p.m., Brunch, Sat. 8 a.m.11 a.m., and Sun. 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) or visit us online at www.hhbackyard.com.

AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE Located at 69 Pope Avenue. Enjoy fantastic food and good times with your friends. Featuring the best Steaks on the Island, Authentic Mexican fare, Momma Reilleys famous Italian cuisine, all-you-can eat Crab Legs and much more. Full bar with daily happy hour and kid’s menu available. Serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 785-7700.

THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE Located upstairs in Coligny Plaza, Oceanside. A 1940’s themed restaurant with reasonable prices and huge portions. (continued on page 14)

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ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE Seafd, Steaks and Style on e War! BY STEPHANIE INGERSOLL PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

If having an unbelievable water view – and food to match – earns a restaurant a thumb's up, you better grow another thumb. ELA's Blu Water Grille, located on Shelter Cove Harbour, was recently voted by Open Table, an online reservation system, as having the Best Water Viewing Dining in South Carolina. But you don't have to be on the outdoor garden patio to enjoy it. Or in the main dining room. There's also a second and third floor, with views of the Broad Creek on one side, boats on the other, and often even with fireworks overhead. Mix in a lot of paintings for sale by local artist, Pete Karis, and there's plenty to dazzle the eye. But it's tickling taste buds that the Nightingale family counts on to keep customers coming back. Earl Nightingale opened the restaurant, located next to the Shelter Cove Marina on July 1, 2011 after buying the old Ocean Grille from the Lowery group . 12

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From the beginning, launching the new venture was a family affair. Daughter Erin Wasem, who owns her own design company in Chicago, played a major part in renovations by creating a soothing, classy and artsy interior. She's the “E” in ELA's. Daughter, Lauren, helped handle hiring, administration and permits to get the company ready for opening. She's the “L.” Son, Alex – the “A” – handles most of Earl's “heavy lifting,” as ELA's vice president of operations. “It's a family-owned and operated business focusing on clean, fresh catch seafood, certified steaks and regional produce,” Earl said. After decades spent in the hotel and restaurant business working for some of the industries' biggest players, it seemed only natural for Earl to start his own company and he wanted his family to play a big part. Earl worked for Hyatt Hotels for 28 years, Omni for five and Hilton Hotels for three. It was Omni that first brought him the island to convert and revitalize

the Hilton Oceanfront in 2005. From 2009 to 2010, he went back to Chicago to run the famous Knickerbocker Hotel. But as 2010 came to an end, he decided to return to his Hilton Head home to continue his quest of running his own restaurant company. “I knew of this location and when I heard of it (being available), I jumped right on it,” he said. “This is one of the only and best restaurants around with waterfront dining.”

With the location secured, he turned his focus to the menu. He wanted offerings that would keep customers coming back. And for him that meant fresh seafood, harvested from local waters and fresh, regional vegetables. ELA's pan seared scallops seem to be a favorite entree for customers while the calamari – cut from the cheek in strips and served with a spicy remoulade sauce – rule the appetizer menu. But there's also plenty of fanfare for the Mahi Mahi and Maryland style crab cakes. For those who prefer steak, there's Gorgonzola Crusted Filet Mignon or grilled New York steak. There's even an “Ugly Burger.” Vegetarians can indulge in the Farmers Market Selection, which is Chef Chris Cohen's daily offerings of fresh, local and seasonal vegetables. In April the restaurant opened for lunch so daytime diners can choose from a variety of selections from a $7.95 Caesar salad to $12.95 for a crab cake sandwich or soft shell crab sandwich. Dinner entrees range from the $14 “Ugly Burger” to $32 steaks. But in Earl's eye, no dinner would be complete without the right wine or beverage to pair with it. ELA's offers beer and a full bar, of course, but it also boasts about 140 different wines, many from vineyards diners have never known.

“We call it a boutique wine collection because we focus on small vineyards,” Earl said. “From regional areas that people may not have had a chance to try.” There are wines from Chili, Argentina and France, among so many others. And because Earl believes every table should enjoy a bottle of wine, he sells them almost at cost so they are far less expensive than they would be at other restaurants. Because of Earl’s cost plus plan a bottle of wine that costs $38 at another restaurant may cost $18 at ELA's. For the wine collector there is no corkage fee for your special bottle. If the sights, tastes and smells aren't enough to attract locals and tourists, there's always the sounds. Singer Dean St. Hillaire is a favorite at the restaurant and plays eight different instruments. Live music is offered every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. And for every Tuesday of peak season, there's one of the biggest attractions of all. Because of ELA's waterfront locationt, diners at have a close up view of the fireworks set off every Tuesday night. The garden patio is the perfect place to view them from outdoors. The main floor and second floor also have a spectacular view. And on the third

floor, there is a small, private dining room surrounded by windows. That's where Paula Abdul spent last July 4 with a small party. It can be reserved for parties of up to 20 – or just two, who might want the privacy to pop an important question. The various areas can be booked for parties, corporate events and other celebrations. So far, ELA's has hosted a number of rehearsal dinners, corporate events and small wedding parties. “We're getting a great response,” Earl said. “I'm really pleased with how the local community has turned out.” Although in the past, dining was formal – as Harbour Masters it was among the last to require a jacket and tie – today, it's anything but. Earl calls it “resort, casual dining.” Even dogs are allowed on the patio, in a limited area. It's a great place to hang out with friends, or to take a date for a special occasion. From the main entrance to Shelter Cove, take the first left onto Shelter Cove Lane and drive until the road

ends in ELA's parking lot at 1 Shelter Cove Lane. Diners can also arrive by boat. Docking at the Shelter Cove Marina is free with restaurant reservations. For reservation call (843) 785-3030 or visit www.elasgrille.com or www.opentable.com for reservations. ELA's is open nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. for dinner, and Sunday thru Friday for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Takeout is available. ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

Our extensive menu features steaks, ribs, seafood, pasta, burgers, salads, sandwiches, pizza and more. Great early bird specials from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Also, check out our 2 for Tuesday specials. Fantastic kid’s menu available. Enjoy popcorn on the house with your favorite beverage from our full bar. Serving lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. and dinner from 3:30 until 10 p.m., Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 686-3443.

BRITISH OPEN PUB Located in The Village at Wexford, Sheridan Park and Sun City. Authentic English fare served in an attractive pub-style atmosphere with golf art, memorabilia, and the only bar by Titleist. Great nightly specials including BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Prime Rib, Live Lobster, Fish and Chips, 1/2 lb. Angus Burgers, Lobster Pot Pie and more. Full bar, extensive wine list and beers, ales and stouts from around the world. Kid’s menu available. Serving daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Sunday Brunch 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736, Bluffton 815-6736 or Sun City 705-4005.

CALLAHAN’S SPORTS BAR & DELUXE GRILL Located at 49 New Orleans Road. Voted “Best Pub Food and Best Burger on the Island”. Great sandwiches, wings, soups, salads and more all served at the Island’s original sports bar. Catch a game on one of our 35 TV’s, play NTN Buzztime Trivia, shoot pool at one of the six pool tables or try your luck at one of the video games. Full bar and take-out available. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. until 2 a.m. Call (843) 686-POOL (7665).

CAPTAIN 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 Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. A local favorite for 30 years! Great seafood and more in a casual atmosphere overlooking Palmetto Bay Marina. Serving a wide variety of fresh seafood, great signature sandwiches (Grouper melt & Po Boy’s), soups and salads all at affordable prices. Dine inside or on the patio. Open daily from 11 a.m. til 10 p.m., bar until late. Call (843) 785-2400 or 757-6222 or online at www.captainwoodys.com.

CAROLINA CAFÉ Located at the Westin Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Southern hospitality is alive and delicious at the Carolina Café (continued on page 16) 14

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where warm smiles and the island’s best seafood buffet are sure to please locals and visitors alike. Casual, fun and unique, the Café features all day dining. Open daily for dinner from 5:30 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 681-4000.

CATCH 22 FRESH SEAFOOD & GRILL Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. Serving the freshest and best seafood along with USDA prime steaks, pasta, chops and the best bone-in filet. Fantastic specials and delicious menu choices make us a favorite with locals and visitors alike. For Early Bird specials call for hours and reservations. Happy Hour from 5 to 6:30 p.m. daily. Open daily for dinner from 5 p.m. Call (843) 785-6261.

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

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

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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. Patio seating now available. Serving dinner Monday thru Saturday from 5:30 p.m. and lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Smoke-free bar and private parties are accepted. Call (843) 785-9277 for reservations or online at www.charliesgreenstar.com.

THE CHART HOUSE (Formally Charley’s Crab) Located at Two Hudson Rd., just off Squire Pope Rd. Serving up sensational food prepared by Executive Chef Eric Seaglund, accompanied by spectacular waterviews of the Intracoastal waterway and extraordinary service. The expansive menu features fresh fish, pristine seafood, succulent steaks, Lowcountry specialties and an extensive collection of fine wines and decadent desserts. Relax on the expanded contemporary patio. Open for lunch and dinner daily, as well as Sunday Brunch. Happy hour offered daily from 4 until 7 p.m. Call (843) 342-9066 or online at www.chart-house.com. Reservations are recommended. (continued on page 20)

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IN THE

KITCHEN with Chef Karl Lammert

Executive Chef for Big Bamboo Café BY LOUISE LUND • PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

The illusion of a World War II era, bamboo Quonset hut provides a unique dining atmosphere which contrasts quite nicely with the Jimmy Buffet type atmosphere in the bar area. Tristan and Keiron O’Grady have been the owners since 2000, and executive chef Karl Lammert has been with Big Bamboo since then. Karl took a few minutes out of his demanding day to answer a few questions about what it takes to be successful as a chef. TASTE: How did you get started in the restaurant business? KARL: I studied hotel and restaurant management, specializing in culinary arts, at Sullivan County Community College, a division of the State University of New York. TASTE: Where did you train and what is your experience? KARL: I’ve been in this business since 1978. I gained most of my experience with the Marriott Corporation, where I was a kitchen supervisor and food production manager. After leaving Marriott, I worked as chef in several local restaurants, then joined the Westin Hotel as a chef. TASTE What brought you to Hilton Head Island? KARL: I came to Hilton Head with Marriott Corporation in 1980 as a kitchen supervisor and food production manager of the Marriott hotel here, and have been here since.

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TASTE: When did you start with Big Bamboo? KARL: I joined Big Bamboo 12 years ago on April 1, 2000. TASTE: What do you like best about being a chef? KARL: Well, I’m never hungry. No seriously, I enjoy meeting the people and serving them what they like. I enjoy the controlled chaos in the kitchen, keeping the orders straight, and seeing everyone working together as a team to get the dishes out quickly and prepared correctly. TASTE: What do you consider to be your best creations, and what are the classics that you like to put on the menu? KARL: That would be the pasta specials and steak specials. We find great deals on steaks for customers, and prepare them to order. We make some great pasta dishes, and are always changing our menu, according to what sells best. TASTE: What is your favorite dish you enjoy cooking at home for your family? KARL: I’m a steak and potato person, but my wife, children, and grandchildren love my lasagna. I make it with four cheeses, sweet sausage, my own homemade sauce, and serve it with fresh garlic bread. TASTE: When you’re not at Big Bamboo, what do you like to do to relax?

KARL: Sunday is really my only day that I’m not working. I enjoy spending time with my family, and attending services at St. Francis Catholic Church and Ebenezer Church in Bluffton. I usually attend two church services on Sundays with family. Then, if something good is playing at the movies, I love to go with friends. TASTE: What do you like about living on Hilton Head Island? KARL: I enjoy the weather and meeting friendly people from everywhere. TASTE: What do you like best about being the chef at Big Bamboo? KARL: Besides meeting great people and having the opportunity to cook for them, I enjoy the family atmosphere of the staff. We are all here for each other. We all cross train so that we can cover for each other and work as a team. It doesn’t get any better than that! The Big Bamboo Café is located at Coligny Plaza. Call (843) 686-3443 or for more information visit their website at www.bigbamboocafe.com.

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COCO’S ON THE BEACH

CORKS WINE BAR

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

Located South Island in the Publix Shopping Center next to Staples and Old Towne Bluffton in the Calhoun Street Promenade. The Lowcountry’s only neighborhood wine bar where class meets comfort in a warm, friendly and fun atmosphere. Offering wines by the glass, bottle, flight and porron. Gourmet ‘Big’ small plates made from fresh, local and organic ingredients and a full selection of spirits and American craft beers. Great happy hour specials from 4 until 6 p.m. daily. Open Monday thru Saturday from 4 p.m. until midnight. Catch us online at www.corkswinecompany.com.

CRANE’S TAVERN STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD CONROY’S Located in The Marriott Resort and Spa in Palmetto Dunes. A unique experience awaits you in this fine dining restaurant named after the famous author. Offering the best of taste and textures so revered in the Lowcountry with each dish prepared with creativity and flair by our sous chef. Award winning crab cakes, and the best she-crab soup and lobster mac and cheese on the island. Amazing ocean views and relaxing atmosphere will take your breath away. Serving dinner nightly from 5 until 10 p.m., early bird from 5 until 6:30 p.m. Call (843) 686-8499.

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. (continued on page 22)

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CRAZY CRAB

FLATBREAD GRILL

Located in Harbour Town in Sea Pines and Hwy. 278 on Jarvis Creek. Fresh local seafood served in two picturesque settings on the water. Casual dining and great family fun. Enjoy local seafood favorites prepared anyway you like. Kid’s menu available. Serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Call (843) 363-2722 or 681-5021.

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. Call (843) 341-2225 or online at www.flatbreadgrillhhi.com.

THE DRYDOCK SEAFOOD GRILL & SPIRITS Located at 21 Office Park Rd. in the Sapelo building. Go where the locals go for fresh seafood, cold drinks and good times. 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 deck and bar. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-9775.

ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE Located at Shelter Cove Harbour. One of Hilton Head’s newest dining sensations offers some of the best water views on the island. Featuring Fresh Catch Seafood, Angus Steaks and Italian Creations. Extensive boutique wine collection and fantastic cocktails. Open Sun. - Fri. for lunch and nightly for dinner. Call (843) 785-3030 or online at www.elasgrille.com.

THE FROSTY FROG CAFÉ Located in Coligny Plaza, next to the Art Café. A comfortable, casual atmosphere offering a “web-footed lickin” menu and an enormous amount of frozen daiquiris by the glass or by the gallon. Our menu features a wide array of selections including our 10 oz. and 20 oz. Certified black angus burger, crab cakes, pizza, prime rib sandwich, salads, subs, wraps, appetizers and of course fried frog legs. 22 HD TV’s for great sports viewing and NTN Trivia is also available as well as a kid’s menu. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-FROG (3764) or online at www.frostyfrog.com.

(continued on page 24)

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HARBOURSIDE BURGERS & BREWS Located in Harbour Town, near wonderful Harbour Town shops, this seasonal open-air café offers a relaxed atmosphere over-looking the Harbour Town Yacht Basin and specializes in tasty refreshments, such as the Sunset Margarita, and light casual fare. Call (843) 842-1444, seapines.com/dining.

HARBOUR TOWN GRILL Located at the Harbour Town Golf Links Clubhouse, this “Tuscan steakhouse,” a Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence” winner, features wonderful steaks, delicious pastas, sides, desserts, a children’s menu and early bird value menu. Open daily to the public for dinner. Reservations suggested: (843) 363-8380, opentable.com, or seapines.com/dining.

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 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.

HUDSON’S SEAFOOD ON THE DOCKS Located on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. With 44 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 on the Food Network and in Bon Appétit. Open daily at 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.

HUGO’S Located at 841 William Hilton Parkway at South Island Square. Hugo’s features a truly original and memorable dining experience. For over 30 years, Hugo has served generations of locals & visitors. Hugo’s new location offers tableside flaming desserts to make your dinner the most memorable! Experience Hugo’s Award-Winning Steaks and Seafood. The most expansive & extensive menu available from Lobster, Flounder, Crab Legs, Salmon, Crabcakes, to Ribeyes, Chops, Bourbon BBQ Babyback Ribs & much more. Enjoy wines from Hugo’s climate controlled wine cellar or any cocktail from the full bar! Dinner at Hugo’s 7 nights/ week from 4:30 until close. Call (843) 785-HUGO (4846) or click to HugosHiltonHead.com for the full dinner menu. (continued on page 28) 24

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Shannon Tanner SHELTER COVE’S SUPERSTAR BY RISA WILLIAMS McMILLIAN

simplified -- more camp-like -- I love the interaction with the families. I have kids that sat on my lap 25 years ago that are now coming back to see me with their own kids. Bringing happiness to multiple generations is surreal. TASTE: Signature song? SHANNON: I know over 2,000 songs but play the same 25 every show. Bottom line is that it’s like Rocky Horror: people come back year after year and expect the same thing. We have some favorites like “The Purple People Eater” and “The Hair Had a Party Last Night” (which is basically a messy hair competition) and then another favorite is the sprinkler dance when the whole family gets up and dances.

The name “Shannon Tanner” has become synonymous with summers and Shelter Cove. He captivates our hearts and imaginations with his gift for song and smiles. TASTE had a chat with the Shelter Cove staple and superstar to see what keeps him coming back here year after year.

at Shelter Cove and that was right in my wheelhouse. Been playing there springs and summers for 25 years!

TASTE: I feel like I’m talking to a Hollywood headliner. How did you come to earn your star on the Walk of Fame? SHANNON: My stepdad bought me a PA system when I was a teen and immediately put me into an installment paying plan. I started performing when I was 15 years old at Hudson’s and then by 16 was playing full time at Pelican Point. I went to high school at Thomas Heyward in Ridgeland and would drive over and play every evening (except during football season!) and earned $40 per night plus tips. At 16 that was a fortune! Eventually I was offered the job

TASTE: Do you have a faithful family that follows you around? SHANNON: They used to. I married my high school sweetheart and we now live on Knowles Island (near Ridgeland) with my daughter and I have a son in college. They used to split semesters in school between here and Beaver Creek. That became too hard and now I just do a lot of commuting in the winter.

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TASTE: You play summers here and winters in Colorado. Tough life, huh? SHANNON: Just doing with the skill sets that were thrown my way.

TASTE: Where do you prefer to play? SHANNON: Definitely Hilton Head! I love the whole family thing. Even though my Hilton Head songs are

TASTE: Your Favorite? SHANNON: We do a pirate expedition on Wednesday and Friday mornings. The kids are decked out with bandannas, eye patches, and swords before we set out on our perilous adventure. We have to go out on the high seas and rescue our ship and find the treasure. Along the way, we battle worthy pirates and at the end, after we save our ship, the kids get the bounty in the treasure chest. They love it! I love it! You have to come out this summer and try it. Shannon can be heard at Shelter Cove Harbour Monday to Friday with 2 shows at 6:30 and 8 p.m. To keep up with his Pirate Expedition go to www.facebook.com/hiltonheadpirate or www.piratekidzofhiltonhead.com. Shannon also has a free app. for Iphones and androids (just do a search for his name) where you can download his music, videos, and get directions.

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

THE JAZZ CORNER Located in the "corner" of The Village at Wexford. Voted "Favorite Restaurant with Live Entertainment". Our intimate, elegant atmosphere is the perfect setting to enjoy an evening of worldclass 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.

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authentic Gumbos. Great soups and salads, as well as a kid’s menu and take-out service available. Also, cold beer and awesome desserts. Open Monday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday, 8:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. Call (843) 785-3315.

KINGFISHER SEAFOOD, PASTA, AND STEAK HOUSE Located at 18 Harbourside Ln. at Shelter Cove Harbour. Newly remodeled restaurant offers affordable casual dining in a 5 star setting with breathtaking waterfront views from inside or on the outside deck. Early Bird from 4:30 until 6 p.m. Best Island Happy Hour from 4:30 until 8 p.m. featuring incredible drink and seafood specials. Live music and dancing with Pete Carroll on Wednesdays, classic soft rock with David Wingo on Thursdays, and jazz with Earl Williams on Fridays. Tableside magic shows on Sundays and Mondays. Call (843) 785-4442 for reservations and information or online at www.kingfisherseafood.com.

KURAMA JAPANESE SEAFOOD AND STEAK HOUSE SUSHI BAR Located at 9 Palmetto Bay Rd. Specializing in complete dinners, prepared at your Teppanyaki table in the Japanese (continued on page 30)

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tradition. Our well-trained chef’s serve a delicious combination of food and entertainment all in a charming Japanese setting. An extensive sushi bar serving tempting sushi and sashimi. Children’s menu, Early Bird specials and take-out available. Open daily for dinner from 4:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. Call (843) 785-4955 for reservations.

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.

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

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 in the courtyard. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-2474 or 706-0800.

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) 7856272 or visit www.michael-anthonys.com.

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friendly atmosphere. Catch up with friends over a bottle of wine or your favorite cocktail. Indoor and outdoor seating available. At Oceans, good times are as regular as the tide. Call (843) 681-4000 for seasonal hours.

OKKO RESTAURANT Located at 95 Mathews Drive in Port Royal Plaza, Suite C. Contemporary Asian cuisine served in a magnificent atmosphere. Choose from Hibachi, Thai or Chinese or relax at the sushi bar or in the lounge. Open 7 days from 11:30 a.m. until 11:30 p.m., Sunday thru Thursday and 11:30 a.m. until midnight on Saturday and Sunday. Call (843) 341-3377 for more information or directions.

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.

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bakers make bread that is simply delicious and baked fresh right here every day. Offering a wide selection of fantastic food including our signature sandwiches, hot paninis, delicious soups and signature salads. Catering also available. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Call (843) 686-3838 or 757-5611.

PATTY’S PIG ‘N’ PIT Located at 32 Office Park Rd. in the Courtyard Building, just before the Sea Pines gate. Succulent Wood Smoked BBQ featuring a variety of regional sauces. Hand-cut steaks, chops, and the finest fresh seafood and much more round out a delectable menu at the island’s newest must visit eatery. For the casual diner, sit at the comfortable bar or enjoy the patio. Carry out and catering available. Serving lunch Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and dinner Monday thru Saturday from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 842-5555.

THE QUARTERDECK Head to Harbour Town’s legendary Quarterdeck, overlooking Calibogue Sound, to enjoy the island’s best sunsets, as well as light evening fare, such as the seared salmon burger. Live outdoor entertainment offered seasonally. Call (843) 842-1999, seapines.com/dining.

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HILTON HEAD COMEDY CLUB

Top of the Kingfisher - Great Food and Big Laughs

Dwight Slade

Kristen Key

Mark Klein

This October, on the spookiest day of the year, Kingfisher Seafood, Pasta, and Steakhouse celebrates its 20th anniversary. From the time management and staff opened the doors to the waterfront establishment, their enthusiasm for the business proves to make this an excellent place for fantastic food, enjoyable live entertainment, and dancing. Nonetheless, to enhance the entertainment variety they have added an uproarious element. Currently, taking up residence in the candlelit “Top of the Kingfisher” showroom is the Hilton Head Comedy Club. Co-owners John Biddle and Michael Paskevich, former Las Vegas residents with deep ties to the comedy business, are applauding the recent relocation. The duo opened the original Hilton Head Comedy Club in July 2008, presenting headlining comics fulfilling a dream of launching an exclusive venue. “The opportunity to move to such a great location was simply too good to pass up,” said Biddle, a stand-up practioner, who ran a successful comedy club on Sanibel Island, Fl.

“We’re very excited about the showroom and to join forces with such a well-established island mainstay as the Kingfisher.” A series of hurricanes forced Biddle to flee Florida for the desert air of Las Vegas in the late 1990s where he ran a comedy outlet in a major hotel-casino and met Paskevich, then the foremost entertainment critic for Nevada’s largest newspaper, the Las Vegas Review-Journal. They became friends and developed the concept for a club that caters to both comics and humor fans. “We knew we had to bring in a variety of the best touring comics in the country to make this work on Hilton Head,“ added Biddle, “and our mutual connections in the industry helped us to do just that.” In late 2007, after a location scouting trip to Hilton Head, the stars aligned, and early 2008, the duo packed their bags and headed to the resort island launching the Comedy Club. After the impending lease expiration at Pineland Station, the club owners experimented with a road

show version of the club that included a series of well-received stops at the Kingfisher. Ensuing negotiations between the two businesses quickly lead to a deal to bring the Hilton Head Comedy Club to the Kingfisher on a permanent basis. The club settled into the cozy showroom in March, offering a new top-touring comic each week. The club is located at 18 Harbourside Lane in Shelter Cove. Shows are at 9 p.m. every Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $12 per person. Tuesdays remain "Ladies Night", $6 admission. Full bar and a special menu of Kingfisher specialties are available. Doors open to the showroom at 8:30 p.m. The Kingfisher opens at 5 p.m. for dining. Seating is limited so reservations are recommended. Call (843) 681-7757 or check www.hiltonheadcomedyclub.com for more information. The allure of great food and the addition of big laughs gives guests fresh new reasons to check their worries at the door and celebrate the next chapter in the life of one of Hilton Head’s most popular attractions.

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REDFISH On the corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. 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 online at www.redfishofhiltonhead.com.

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

RUAN THAI HUT Located at 1107 Main Street. Serving Authentic Thai fare using the freshest ingredients available. Mild to very hot, you can choose the spice level of your meal. Appetizers, soups, salads, desserts and kids meals round out an extensive menu with something for all ages. Sit inside or outside on the

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comfortable patio. Open Monday thru Saturday for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 681-3700.

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

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

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

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

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

Visit us at our new location in Port Royal Plaza near Sam’s Club.

Chef/Owner Ardis Matthews has been featured in Bon Appetit Magazine!

Serving Dinner Nightly From 5 p.m. - til’ *Catering Available

Visit us at our new location in Port Royal Plaza Near Sam’s Club 95 Mathews Drive, Suite B5, Hilton Head, SC 29926

(843) 681-8590

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

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

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

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

Fr i e d G r e e n To m a t o e s • S a l m o n • C h i c k e n • Po r k • D u c k • Ve a l • Ti l a p i a ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

SAN MIGUEL’S MEXICAN CAFE Located at Harbourside III on Shelter Cove Harbour. Serving Hilton Head’s freshest Mexican food for over 25 years. Dine inside or out while enjoying breathtaking views of the marina. Burrito’s, enchiladas, fajitas, chimichangas, seafood and salads plus a full bar complete with the Island’s best margarita. Kid’s menu available. Serving dinner daily from 5 p.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Call (843) 842-4555.

SANTA FE CAFÉ Located at 807 William Hilton Parkway near the entrance to Palmetto Dunes. Our elegant yet casual, cozy atmosphere captures the spirit of New Mexico. Innovative southwestern cuisine features dinner favorites such as Tortilla Crusted Salmon, Wood Roasted Quail, Grouper, 30 oz. Ribeye and many more great selections including our all new vegetarian menu. Excellent wine list, imported beers and full bar. Takeout available. Reservations are “gladly” accepted. Open for dinner 7 nights a week from 5 p.m., and for lunch Monday thru Friday from 12 noon until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-3838 or www.santafehhi.com.

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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 6 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9990 or visit us online at www.seagrassgrille.com.

THE SMOKEHOUSE Join us in our larger and newly renovated location at 34 Palmetto Bay Rd. Serving up award-winning ribs and BBQ, our new expanded menu offers even more outstanding choices including fresh cut steaks, fantastic seafood, sandwiches, salads and a great selection of appetizers. Enjoy the large covered out-door deck complete with brick fireplace or sit at the expanded bar and enjoy an ice cold brew. Kids menu, convenient take-out and catering available. Serving continuously from 11:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 8424BBQ (4227) or visit us at smokehousehhi.com.

STEAMER SEAFOOD Located on the pond in Coligny Plaza. Featuring huge portions of fresh seafood, shellfish, pastas, sandwiches, soups, salads and desserts all served in a rustic Lowcountry atmosphere. Choose from over five fresh local catches daily. The most kid-friendly restaurant on the Island with seating (continued on page 40)

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inside or outside on the deck or patio. Seasonal live entertainment featuring Todd Cowart. Full bar and take-out available. Open from 11:30 a.m. until late, 7 days a week. Call (843) 785-2070.

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

THE STUDIO Located at 20 Pope Executive Park Rd., just off Pope Avenue. An artistic dining experience. Innovative cuisine with Chef Paul Colella and featuring a fine art gallery with artwork by Lunonia Colella and guest artists. Live musical entertain-ment Friday and Saturday evenings with Armand DeMille. Serving dinner Tuesday thru Sunday from 5:30 until 10 p.m. Call (843) 7856000 for reservations.

SURFSIDE OUTDOOR RESTAURANT & BAR Located at The Sea Pines Beach Club. Enjoy relaxing oceanfront views, as well as daily drink specials, a casual all-day menu and children’s menu. Featuring seafood, steaks, burgers, sandwiches and more. Live outdoor entertainment offered seasonally. Call (843) 842-1888, seapines.com/dining.

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

TOPSIDE WATERFRONT RESTAURANT Specializing in fresh fish and shellfish, great steaks and appetizers, this Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence” winner offers stunning views of Calibogue Sound, Harbour Town and Harbour Town Golf Link’s famous 18th green. Open daily for dinner. Reservations suggested. Call (843) 842-1999, opentable.com, or seapines.com/dining.

TRATTORIA DIVINA Located in Park Plaza, near Sea Pines Circle next to Harris Teeter. An epicurean, Italian-fusion dinner menu offering an array of Pasta, Poultry, Veal, Beef and the freshest local Seafood and culinary delights, all created by Executive Chef Hugo Lee (formerly trained under Thomas Keller at The French Laundry). One of the most extensive Italian wine lists available 40

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in the Lowcountry – with some one-of-a-kind vintages not offered anywhere else in the U.S. Special events and private parties are accepted. Call (843) 686-4442 for reservations or online at www.trattoriadivina.com. Serving dinner Sunday through Saturday, from 5 until 10 p.m.

TRUFFLES CAFE Located in Sea Pines Center, off Pope Avenue in Executive Park and Belfair Towne Village in Bluffton. Casual cafés featuring the freshest food and finest service for over 25 years. Fresh local seafood, Black Angus steaks, baby back ribs, homemade soups, fresh garden salads, Angus burgers, pasta, and excellent desserts. Outside seating available at Pope Ave. and Belfair locations. Full bar and fine wines by the glass or bottle. Reservations accepted. Private dining available for 6 to 100 people. Serving lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 671-6136, 785-3663 or 815-5551 or go to www.trufflescafe.com.

WILD WING CAFE Located at 72 Pope Avenue in Circle Center and just off Hwy. 278 in Bluffton. Celebrating over 20 years on the Island, Wild Wing is famous for serving “The Best Wings South of Buffalo” in 33 different flavors. With a huge menu, there's something for everyone including big beefy burgers, chargrilled chicken sandwiches, tender baby-back ribs, mountains of nachos, awesome salads and the original Bucket O’ Beer.

Wild Child Menu and take-out available. Live music and late night fun all week. Open Monday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., and Sunday 12 noon until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-9464 or 837-9453 or check us out online at wildwingcafe.com.

WORLD GAME BAR & GRILL Located in Park Plaza, near Sea Pines Circle next to Harris Teeter. Enjoy some of the Island’s best wood-fired pizza and an outstanding Happy Hour, from 5 until 7 p.m. with free pizza slices with a drink purchase, Monday through Friday. It's a place where you can unwind playing a game of pool or the latest video games and enjoy a great meal in a friendly atmosphere – all at the same time. Catch the latest sports action on several big screen televisions. It’s one lively location that is perfect for a night on the town or a family outing with plenty to do and play. Full menu and bar available, open daily from 11 a.m. until late. Call (843) 342-5000.

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

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Fresh and Local

From the Farm to the Table BY RISA WILLIAMS McMILLIAN • PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

Goodbye frozen and fast food. We won’t miss you! Hello to fresh, healthy, and local. Welcome! The trend has begun and it is collecting momentum. From restaurants to hospitals and school cafeterias, chefs and food service providers are jumping on the bandwagon of serving locally grown ingredients. From the farm to your table is as good as from the sea to your skillet. “It’s all good for everyone involved from the farmer to the restaurant to the consumer. Healthy is just so important,” said Pamela Ovens, 44

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president of the Hilton Head Farmer’s Market at Honey Horn. So what’s going on? “The consumer is getting smart,” explained Don Brant, owner of Brant Family Farm near Ridgeland. According to studies, the fresh produce market in the United States, particularly fresh vegetables, has been experiencing significant changes, on a national basis, driven primarily by consumer demand and the availability of the products. Local production of fresh fruits and vegetables sold directly to the grocery stores and food service providers is a recently emerging phenomenon.

Increasing gasoline and food prices, the demand for organically produced food, the demand for fresher and higher quality foods, the desire to support local farming economies, as well as the environmental movement and trends in horticulture research have all led to growing popularity of locally produced fruits and vegetables. “I think the trend is population driven. It’s the population as a whole that has become more educated and is gravitating toward fresh and local and organic. People want food that has been harvested within 24 to 36 hours,“ said Don.

But wait. There’s more. It’s good for you and it tastes amazing. So what’s the down side? There is none. In fact there is even a doctor out of the University of Nottingham in England that contends that eating a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables makes you better looking as your skin takes on redder tones. Want an extra helping? Pamela says to go ahead. “You can eat more because the locally grown produce is chemical free and you are not eating all of those added hormones.” Not surprisingly, all this focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients has changed the way that many chefs cook—the "back to the farm" philosophy has spurred a back-to-basics approach that favors simplicity and allowing the individual foods to shine. Locally grown are the freshest, which means a higher quality product with better color, taste, and texture, compared with foods that were picked too early or shipped from far away. Produce is moving center-stage, in everything from entrée accompaniments to full-fledged vegetable tasting menus. Katie Manley, marketing director for Red Fish, Old Oyster Factory, and Alexander’s, said that they are delving deeper into a “green” program with Red Fish on the forefront as their guinea pig. She explained that their food suppliers will give them a heads up as to what is fresh and then they will go to the local farmers’ markets and farms to get their produce. “The farmer’s market on the Island has been a really nice addition and asset for our chefs,” said Katie. With this new move toward local and fresh, the chefs are learning through a lot of trial and error. “We are lucky in South Carolina that we have a big variety to choose from.” Red Fish, especially, has experimented with different colors and different varieties of tomatoes or peppers, for example. “Whatever is fresh, we cater our specials to it,” said Katie. Their caprese salads at Red Fish will change with whatever was picked that day from asparagus to fried green tomatoes. When a restaurant serves a certain percentage of locally grown foods, they can put a certain notation on their menu that indicates local and fresh. “As the consumer continues to become more educated, they will seek out the restaurants that feature ‘locally grown’ which will in turn influence more chefs to buy locally,” said Don. The Sage Room has a sticker in their window indicating “Fresh on the Menu”. Carol Jording, who owns the restaurant with husband Matt, is an advocate of using local produce wherever possible. “You can’t get any fresher and it also keeps the money in the community,” Carol expressed. She said they will shop at the local farmers’ markets and that Matt’s father also has 8 garden plots in Hilton Head Plantation that they feed off of and procure a number of fruits and vegetables including fresh cabbage, strawberries, and onions. “We take what’s fresh and make our own thing. We do things like make a spicy beef spring roll with the cabbage and we will take the beautiful yellow flowers of the squash blossoms and stuff them with all kinds of things.” ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

“The customer is looking for variety and the more colorful the better. Chefs look for unique, colorful, different – anything they can put their own twist on that will put them in a better light than their competitors,” said Don. Reinforcing this sentiment, Carol explained, “You eat with your eyes so we want everything to look sensational.” Farmers’ markets are popping up all over the country. Pamela and friend, Gail Horvath, started the market at Honey Horn last year. “We wanted to start a farmers market for our community that did not take monies from grants or the town. The Farmers Market is like a family in many respects. Everyone watches out for each other. There is a lot of joy in this. Everyone has a story and they are extremely interesting.” Kenneth Shuler of Shuler Peach Company will tell you that it takes 3 years to grow the 1st peach on a new peach tree. Did you know that growing asparagus is a painstaking task as for every 1 seed planted only 1 stalk grows? Talk to Mary Connor, owner of Three Sisters Farm, and she will tell you that asparagus in the grocery store is typically shipped from abroad and arrives many days old. During this time, the sugars are converted to starch and the stalks continue to grow. Fresh asparagus, in contrast, is sweet and tender. Jamie Vidich started Bear Island Farm with his brothers last year. “I was always interested in farming and felt that not only growing food, but doing it naturally and organically, was a primary concern we had as humans.” Bear Island Farm can provide you with the fixings for a salad fit for a king. “We focus on salad greens and tomatoes, but we will try anything,” said Jamie. When Pamela first visited The Bear Island Farm last year she said they had a plot of dirt and a box of worms. Through hard work and determination the brothers are now in the process of doubling the size of their farm. Jamie will tell you that what you grow is all about your soil. “Farmers can lose the biodiversity in the soil if they don’t do everything naturally,” he described. Bear Island Farm goes all-out organic, using no chemicals, pesticides, or even irrigation with nitrogen. “The ultimate benefits are to the consumer in the health of the food as well as a better tasting and looking product.” What are the hot ticket farmer’s market items in the summer? Ask Don Brant and he will tell you eggplant and peppers. “Never in my wildest imagination would I have believed that the population of Beaufort County could consume so much. We sold bushel after bushel last summer. I think the hot selling point was our variety. Instead of selling one variety, we sell 4 different types and colors of eggplant and 4 to 6 different colors of peppers.” You can check out the Bluffton’s Farmers’ Market on Thursdays down on Calhoun St from 2 to 7 p.m. and the Hilton Head Farmers’ Market at Honey Horn on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aside from local farmers, there are booths featuring local artisans, fresh seafood, and grass fed beef.

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Smoothies Delicious Delicious and Healthy

BY LOUISE LUND • PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

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What is it about smoothies that everybody just loves? They are easy to make, taste delicious, and best of all they are healthy! As an easily consumed beverage, smoothies are an effective way to get several servings of fruits and vegetables in a single drink. When summer arrives and strawberries and other fruits, and vegetables are in season, the perfect way to enjoy them is in a smoothie. The two key components of a healthy diet are fruits and vegetables. Smoothies have become a great way to get extra fruits and vegetables into our diets. In a blender, whirl up berries or any fruit with yogurt for a creamy, refreshing snack or quick breakfast. Orange juice adds a sweet tang. Orange and banana are the perfect marriage of tart and creamy for a breakfast smoothie. A touch of brown sugar and almond extract add another level of flavor. Variety and great taste are the name of the game; the combinations are endless and so are the health benefits! In today's world, people live their lives in motion, leaving little time to sit down and enjoy every meal they eat. People who are always on the go often skip meals and make poor food choices as a result of eating out. This eating style impacts not only the food choices we make but also the way we feel. Fortunately, healthy smoothies can restore balance to a poor diet lacking in nutrition and fiber. Smoothies can be a delicious addition to your health plan. Since pulp and fiber are contained, smoothies help your body to maintain constant sugar levels. Drinking a healthy smoothie daily can increase energy and suppress hunger, effectively aiding weight-loss. As an added benefit, green smoothies can help to maintain constant insulin levels, a key factor for weight loss. The more insulin your body releases, the more stored fat you accumulate. What is the smoothie history? Smoothies are not a new concept.

According to The Complete Idiot's Guide to Smoothies, these delicious drinks originated on the west coast in the 1930's, when health food stores began selling pureed fruit drinks. But it wasn't until the 1960's that smoothies were more widely offered in healthfood stores throughout the country. Smoothie chains began to pop up in the mid 1980's, and today there are thousands of smoothie bars worldwide. Smoothies, no matter where they came from, are undeniably good for your health. They are typically rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants as well as dietary fiber. Green smoothies may not sound appetizing, but they're healthy fruit and vegetable drinks. Green smoothies combine leafy greens with different combinations of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats like almonds, hemp seeds, flax, and coconut. Drinking them makes it easy to eat well on a busy schedule. What you get from one of these tasty blends is an easily digested, high-fiber, nutritious snack or meal. Eating healthy can be difficult to plan and implement. You have probably heard how many daily servings of this or that we all need. The quantities needed to meet the guidelines would choke a horse. Juicing and blending are ways to concentrate all the nutrition from fruits and vegetable into smaller, manageable quantities. Having a healthy smoothie is a smart alternative and makes a good choice for a meal replacement. The original healthy smoothies started with juicing. Juicing refers to the process of extracting all the juice out of fruit or vegetables. People recognized that eating healthy meant getting back to basics. Since the juice is all natural, it contains a higher percentage of the nutrients your body needs than you could achieve by just eating the fruit. Juicing breaks the food down to its molecular level; however, it also removes the pulp and fiber, which contains nutrients and minerals.

Without the pulp and fiber, juice doesn’t satisfy as a meal replacement. In addition, juice has high concentrations of natural sugars which spike blood sugar and insulin levels. By leaving the pulp in, as is done when making a smoothie, blending breaks down the molecules in ingredients so that your body can more easily absorb the nutrients. Blending includes putting the whole food into the end product. The more "broken down" a food is, the easier it will be for your body to absorb all the nutrients from the food. With the right blender, the fiber's cell walls are broken down and trapped nutrients are released. Your body is able to assimilate more of the nutrients. Juicing and blending are ways to concentrate all the nutrition from fruits and vegetable into smaller, manageable quantities. Since you are using the whole food, you don't need a lot of fruit to produce a larger volume of smoothie. Also, frozen fruit can be easily used instead of ice, which can dilute the smoothie. You can make such a wide variety of smoothies with little fuss. Experiment with various fruit smoothies to kick-start your day - cleansing smoothies to recover from the night before, health boosters to ward off illnesses, and weight-loss smoothies to get you out exercising and feeling great. Enjoy!

Groovy Green Smoothie A great way to get your kids to eat greens! Experiment with different amounts or types of fruit and make your own." INGREDIENTS • 1 banana, cut in chunks • 1 cup grapes • 1 (6 ounce) tub vanilla yogurt • 1/2 apple, cored and chopped • 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach leaves • Blend and enjoy! ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

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, Mon.Sat. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Dinner, Mon.-Sat. 4 p.m.- 9 p.m., Brunch, Sat. 8 a.m.- 11 a.m., and Sun. 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) or visit us online at www.hhbackyard.com.

ASIAN BISTRO Located at 51 New Orleans Rd., just off the Sea Pines circle. Sleek contemporary style restaurant offering Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine as well as a nice selection of dim sum choices. A sushi bar, traditional bar and an all-you-caneat buffet (lunch only) highlight this magnificent Asian fusion location. Happy hour nightly from 5 until 8 p.m. and carry out is also available. Serving continuously from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily. Call (843) 686-9888.

AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE Located at 69 Pope Avenue. Liven up your day with lunch at Aunt Chiladas. A fun, festive atmosphere with great food and drinks. Featuring at least 5 daily lunch specials starting at $7 including meatloaf, fried chicken, fish ‘n chips and great Italian specialties served with homemade mashed potatoes and vegetables. You may also order your favorite Mexican fare from our regular menu as well as a wide variety of salads. Full bar and kid’s menu available. Serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 785-7700.

THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE Just steps from the beach, the Big Bamboo Cafe is located in Coligny Plaza on North Forest Beach Drive. Featuring great seafood, delicious salads and the legendary Big Bamboo burger, the Big Bamboo Cafe provides an all American menu in a laid back beach atmosphere. Thirsty? Try a famous margarita as you sit amongst the WWII memorablia and the Bamboo inspired island vibe. Full bar and kids menu available. Serving lunch Mon-Sat. 11.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (843) 686 3443.

BRITISH OPEN PUB Located in The Village at Wexford, Sheridan Park and Sun City. Authentic English fare served in attractive pub-style 50

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atmosphere with golf art, memorabilia, and the only bar by Titleist. Featuring our famous Sandwedges like the Aberdeen Burger, Clubhouse Classic, Wexford Reuben, French Dip and Crab Cake Sandwedge. Full bar and beers, ales, and stouts from around the world. Serving daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Sunday Brunch 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call Hilton Head (843) 686-6736, Bluffton 815-6736 or Sun City 705-4005.

THE CAFÉ Located in The Marriott Resort and Spa in Palmetto Dunes. Just steps from the beach, The Café offers an excellent selection of breakfast and lunch items, including a full breakfast buffet. Serving breakfast from 6:30 until 11:30 a.m., and lunch until 2 p.m. Call (843) 686-8488.

lunch, and 5:30 until 10 p.m. for dinner. Call (843) 681-4000.

CAPTAIN WOODY’S Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. A local favorite for 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. Dine inside or on the patio. Open daily from 11 a.m. until late. Call (843) 785-2400 or 757-6222 or online at www.captainwoodys.com.

CAROLINA CAFÉ Located at the Westin Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. A casual, family friendly café offering dining throughout the day, including breakfast featuring SuperFoods, an amazing Sunday Brunch (seasonally) and a fantastic seafood buffet. General hours are 6:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. for breakfast and

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 home-made 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. Patio seating now available. Dine-in or Take-out. Open for lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., and dinner Monday thru Saturday from 5:30 p.m. Call (843) 785-9277 or online at www.charliesgreenstar.com.

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

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

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

CRAZY CRAB Located in Harbour Town in Sea Pines and Hwy. 278 on Jarvis Creek. Fresh local seafood served in two picturesque settings on the water. Casual dining and great family fun. Enjoy local seafood favorites prepared anyway you like. Kid’s menu available. Serving lunch and dinner daily. Call (843) 363-2722 or 681-5021.

ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE Located at Shelter Cove Harbour. One of Hilton Head’s newest dining sensations offers some of the best water views on the island. Featuring Fresh Catch Seafood, Angus Steaks and Italian Creations. Extensive boutique wine collection and fantastic cocktails. Open Sunday thru Friday for lunch, 11:30 until 2:30 p.m. Call (843) 785-3030 or visit www.elasgrille.com.

FLATBREAD GRILL Located at Coligny Circle oceanside in the Beach Market Center. This upscale casual dining sensation is sure to be a 52

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favorite of both visitors and locals. Choose from Neopolitan pizza, fresh pasta, gourmet salads, or hearty sandwiches all cooked in our open hearth oven. Hang out in our friendly lounge and enjoy a nice selection of appetizers and cocktails while viewing your favorite sporting event on our HDTV’s. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 341-2225 or online at www.flatbreadgrillhhi.com.

THE HARBOUR TOWN BAKERY & CAFÉ Known for great home-cooked breakfasts, soups, salads, paninis and pastries, everything is baked fresh daily. Lunch served daily, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Dine in or grab to go. Across from Harbour Town Playground. Call (843) 363-2021, seapines.com/dining.

HARBOUR TOWN GRILL THE FROSTY FROG CAFÉ Located in Coligny Plaza, next to the Art Café. A comfortable, casual atmosphere offering a “web-footed lickin” menu and an enormous amount of frozen daiquiris by the glass or by the gallon. Our menu features a wide array of selections including our 10 oz. and 20 oz. Certified black angus burger, crab cakes, pizza, prime rib sandwich, salads, subs, wraps, appetizers and of course fried frog legs. 22 HD TV’s for great sports viewing and NTN Trivia is also available as well as a kid’s menu. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-FROG (3764) or online at www.frostyfrog.com.

HARBOURSIDE BURGERS & BREWS Located near Harbour Town’s famed Liberty Oak, this seasonal open-air café offers a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the Harbour Town Yacht Basin and specializes in tasty frozen drinks and a variety of sandwiches, burgers and salads. Call (843) 842-1444, seapines.com/dining.

Located at the Harbour Town Golf Links Clubhouse, the grill is open daily to the public for lunch. Enjoy fresh seafood, grill-fired pizzas, smoked turkey club sandwiches, delicious pastas, desserts, a children’s menu and more, indoors or out. Call (843) 363-8380, opentable.com, seapines.com/dining.

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until 2 p.m., Monday thru Friday and dinner from 5:30 until 10 p.m., Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9800.

HUDSON’S SEAFOOD HOUSE ON THE DOCKS Located on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. With 44 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 on the Food Network and in Bon Appétit. Open daily at 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.

HUGO’S Located at 841 William Hilton Parkway at South Island Square. Hugo’s Lunch features Signature Angus Burgers Fresh Wraps, Crisp Salads, Sandwiches, tempting entrees and more. A very broad menu with something for everyone. Check out Hugo’s 5.95 Lunch Days where Hugo features a different section of the menu each day for only 5.95! Enjoy Lunch at Hugo’s Mon. – Fri. from 11:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Call (843) 785-HUGO (4846) or click to HugosHiltonHead.com for the full lunch menu.

IL CARPACCIO Located in Pineland Station. Enjoy highly regarded, authentic

10% OFF 54

Entire Bill with this ad. Available at all locations No other discounts apply Expires 8-31-12.

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

KENNY B’S CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT Located in Circle Center, just off Pope Avenue. Enjoy Creole cuisine with a Lowcountry influence. Find an appealing choice of Cajun fare such as Shrimp Etoufee, Crawfish Etoufee, Jambalaya, N’awlins Po Boy’s, Red Beans & Rice and authentic Gumbos. Great soups and salads, as well as a kid’s menu and take-out service available. Also, cold beer and awesome desserts. Open Monday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday, 8:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. Call (843) 785-3315.

THE LAKEHOUSE GOLF PUB Located in the Plantation Club overlooking the Ocean Course and Heron Point by Pete Dye fairways, the pub serves breakfast daily, 7 – 11 a.m. Enjoy tasty omelets, breakfast sandwiches, Bloody Marys and more. Dine in or tee off. Call (843) 842-1441, seapines.com/dining.

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

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

PANERA BREAD Located at 1012 William Hilton Parkway, just before the Sea Pines circle and Bluffton at Tanger 1 Outlet. With the skill of ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

an Artisan, the heat of the oven and a few fine ingredients our bakers make bread that is simply delicious and baked fresh right here every day. Offering a wide selection of fantastic food including our signature sandwiches, hot paninis, delicious soups and signature salads. Catering also available. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Call (843) 686-3838 or 757-5611.

PATTY’S PIG ‘N’ PIT Located at 32 Office Park Rd. in the Courtyard Building, just before the Sea Pines gate. Succulent Wood Smoked BBQ featuring a variety of regional sauces. Hand-cut steaks, chops, and the finest fresh seafood and much more round out a delectable menu at the island’s newest must visit eatery. For the casual diner, sit at the comfortable bar or enjoy the patio. Carry out and catering available. Serving lunch Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and dinner Monday Saturday from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 842-5555.

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

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promise you will not leave hungry. Beer and wine available. Open for lunch Monday thru Saturday at 11:30 a.m., and Sunday brunch from 7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-9020 or 342-4472.

THE QUARTERDECK Harbour Town’s legendary Quarterdeck offers the island’s best sunsets, overlooking Calibogue Sound and the Harbour Town Yacht Basin, as well as an extensive lunch menu of salads, sandwiches, burgers and specialty drinks. Live entertainment offered seasonally. Call (843) 842-1999, seapines.com/dining.

REDFISH On the Corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. 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) 686-3388 or online at www.redfishofhiltonhead.com.

REILLEY’S Located in Reilley’s Plaza just off the Sea Pines Circle and Port Royal Plaza. A long running lunch destination, Reilley’s offers fish & chips, cottage pie, corned beef & cabbage, great

sandwiches, soups, salads, seafood and much more in a casual Island atmosphere. Dine inside or outside on our new patio. Full bar, take-out and kid’s menu available. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4414 or 681-4153 or online at www.reilleyshiltonhead.com.

THE SALTY DOG CAFE Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Enjoy the famous steamed shrimp, frozen drinks and casual atmosphere at the Island’s favorite outdoor cafe. Full lunch menu or try great pizza from Jake’s Pizza Parlor. Visit our ice cream shop for dessert. Truly something for the whole family. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233) for seasonal hours.

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

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

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 8 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 6 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9990 or visit us online at www.seagrassgrille.com. ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

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

with burgers, sandwiches and more. Call (843) 842-1888, seapines.com/dining.

THE TARTAN LOUNGE Situated within The Inn at Harbour Town, the sophisticated, yet inviting Tartan Lounge provides guests of the inn with allday room service and a deluxe continental breakfast buffet, including an omelet station, daily. Resort attire requested. Call (843) 363-8100, seapines.com/dining.

TRUFFLES CAFE

Located on the pond in Coligny Plaza. Fresh seafood, shellfish, sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts all served in a rustic Lowcountry atmosphere. Try one of our famous baskets with your choice of chicken, fish, shrimp or oysters. The most kid-friendly restaurant on the Island with seating inside or outside on the deck or the patio. Full bar and takeout available. Open for Lunch daily at 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 785-2070.

Located in Sea Pines Center, off Pope Avenue in Executive Park and Belfair Towne Village in Bluffton. Delicious homemade soups, fabulous salads, sandwiches, burgers, pasta and fresh local seafood. Casual Cafes featuring the freshest food and finest service for over 25 years. Full bar and fine wines available by the glass or bottle. Don’t forget to try one of our outrageous desserts. Outside seating available at Pope Ave. and Belfair locations. Reservations accepted. Serving lunch and dinner daily. Call (843) 671-6136, 785-3663 or 815-5551 or go to www.trufflescafe.com.

SURFSIDE OUTDOOR RESTAURANT & BAR

TURTLES BEACH BAR & GRILL

Located at The Sea Pines Beach Club. Just steps from the beach, enjoy relaxing oceanfront views, as well as daily drink specials, a children’s menu and casual all-day menu

Located at the Westin Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Enjoy lunch al fresco by the pool just steps from the beach. Lowcountry fare with a Caribbean twist sets the mood for a

STEAMER SEAFOOD

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refreshing afternoon. Sip on your favorite tropical drink as you enjoy the warm ocean breezes and seasonal live entertainment. Open daily from 10:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., weather permitting. Call (843) 681-4000.

Saturday, 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., and Sunday 12 noon until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-9464 or 837-9453 or online at www.wildwingcafe.com.

WORLD GAME BAR & GRILL WATUSI Located at 71 Pope Avenue, near Coligny Beach. Enjoy premium self serve frozen yogurt, 100% fresh fruit smoothies and specialty gourmet coffee in a casual and comfortable atmosphere. We are proud to serve famous Almond Croissants, Quiches and Pastries from The French Bakery. Enjoy free Wi-Fi inside or on the outside patio, or catch live music on the patio every Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m. Open daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. Call (843) 686-5200 or online at www.islandwatusi.com.

Located in Park Plaza, near Sea Pines Circle next to Harris Teeter. Enjoy some of the Island’s best wood-fired pizza and an outstanding Happy Hour, from 5 – 7 p.m. with free pizza slices with a drink purchase, Monday through Friday. It's a place where you can unwind playing a game of pool or the latest video games and enjoy a great meal in a friendly atmosphere – all at the same time. Catch the latest sports action on several big screen televisions. It’s one lively location that is perfect for a night on the town or a family outing with plenty to do and play. Full menu and bar available, open daily from 11 a.m. until late. Call (843) 342-5000.

THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Enjoy a casual and fun atmosphere in the same spirit as the Salty Dog Cafe. Fresh seafood, sandwiches, salads and soups all served with your favorite beverages. Enjoy spectacular waterfront views of Braddock’s Cove. Available for private parties. Call (843) 671-7327 for seasonal hours.

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A Date With

Stan Smith

WHERE THE LOCALS DINE OUT

Touring Pro, Sea Pines Racquet Club BY RISA WILLIAMS McMILLIAN • PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

For our summer issue of “Where the Locals Dine Out”, we had a chance to catch up with long-time local celebrity, philanthropist, businessman and, of course, Wimbledon and US Open tennis champ, Stan Smith. Not only has Stan had 40 years on the Island to figure out which are his favorite restaurants, his business and career take him all over the world and thus he is quite the seasoned pro not only at tennis, but also at eating out. What does Stan know that our readers do not? TASTE: How did you get to Hilton Head to begin with? STAN: After Charles Frasier brought the Heritage to the Island, he realized tennis was getting popular and so the Sea Pines Racquet Club was born and I was at the helm. I have been touring pro there for 40 years and I started the Smith Stearns Tennis Academy there with Billy Stearns 10 years ago where our goal is to take juniors to the next level and be their best on and off the court. TASTE: I know you wear many other hats on the Island and elsewhere. STAN: Locally, I was the capital campaign chairman for the Boys & Girls Club and I’m on the Heritage Classic Foundation. I am also President of the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport and Adidas has a tennis shoe named after me that is their highest selling shoe. My main thrust now is Stan Smith Events where 60

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we help corporations entertain their clients at major events around the world from Grand Slam tennis to Fifa to the golf majors to the Olympics. We take care of everything including event tickets, meals, hotels, activities, and one on one with athletes. TASTE: Wow! You’re busy. Let’s talk about where you get your sustenance after all that work. Where do you like to go for breakfast? STAN: I usually just eat at home, but occasionally I will go to the Sunrise Café for French Toast, bacon and grits or the Harbour Town Grill for a ham and cheese omelet. TASTE: Lunch? STAN: I like to walk over to the Harbour Town Grill which is next to the Sea Pines Racquet Club. My favorite is the Turkey Reuben. A long-time Islander named Happy invented it and it’s made of turkey and coleslaw instead of corned beef and sauerkraut. TASTE: You must be on the run a lot. Where do stop for a quick fix? STAN: I like to go to either Subway or Dunkin Donuts. TASTE: How about dinner with family or friends?

STAN: We like to go to Truffles Café in Sea Pines and I often stop at the Truffles in Bluffton on my way back from the Savannah airport. A typical dinner would be Meatloaf, string beans, and mashed potatoes complimented by one glass of Pinot Noir. My kids love to go to Mi Tierra and Amigos. TASTE: Where do you take your wife out for a special occasion? STAN: If we’re in the mood for Italian, we go to Michael Anthony’s where I enjoy the Osso Bucco. Our other favorite spot is The Sage Room where I order the Braised Beef Ribs. TASTE: Where do you like to take clients out? STAN: Again… the Harbour Town Grill. Their Prime Rib is excellent.

Scooping up Smiles for 30 Years PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Looking for the best ice-cream fix in town? Make your way to Hilton Head Ice Cream, where owner Creegan Edmonds has been scooping up smiles for over 30 years! Ice Cream, without argument, is a feel-good treat. Add the choice of over 30 homemade flavors and a spotless parlor draped with charm, ambiance, and conversation pieces, and you have found the award winning formula for Hilton Head Ice Cream. Creegan’s unforgettable flavors are made fresh every morning on the premises, including Mocha Pecan and Bananas Foster. He only uses the best and freshest ingredients: real vanilla, espresso, Oreos, pecan halves (not crumbs), whole

pistachios… If you walk into the store and hear whistling, they are making a batch of pistachio, as Creegan makes his ice cream elves whistle so he knows they are not eating the nuts. Fans of chocolate flock to HHIC for they serve the richest in town, made with Ghiardelli cocoa. Sometimes, they will spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper and Creegan proudly calls this flavor “hot chocolate”. Not only will the ice cream make you smile, but the décor is entertaining for all. License plates from back to the 1920’s adorn one wall, while postcards from around the world adorn another. Hanging from the ceiling is ET, riding in a milk carton on the handlebars of a vintage Kuwahara bike, a life-size pirate ready to swoop down, and the nose of a World War II P50 Mustang fighter plane, whose prop serves as a fan. While waiting in line for the free toppings bar, both children and adults will ogle over the hand-made doll house, so detailed it has everything from real china plates to popsicle stick shingles and a fly on the porch railing. New to the decor is a New Orleans Saints helmet signed by the 2010 Super Bowl champs. Creegan greets his usual customers by name, including one woman who drives in

regularly from Bluffton, who admittedly almost divorced her husband after he made her move so far away from her favorite ice cream store. This HHIC fan calls her orders in ahead of time and picks up her favorite flavors by the pint. So how do people find Hilton Head Ice Cream when it is tucked away in an office building on a secondary street and does virtually no advertising? “You have to be the best and you have to be different,” commented Creegan. “Then you can let word of mouth take over.” In its 30 years, HHIC has outlasted and oversold over 20 other ice cream shops including national chains like Baskin-Robbins. It has been written about in Southern Living and won every local award for ice cream. HHIC is located at 55 New Orleans Rd, Ste. 114 near the Sea Pines circle. For more information call (843) 842-6333 or visit www.hiltonheadicecreamshop.com. ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

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, Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.- 3 p.m., Dinner, Mon.-Sat. 4 p.m.9 p.m., Brunch, Sat. 8 a.m.- 11 a.m., and Sun. 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-YARD (9273) or visit us online at www.hhbackyard.com.

AROMAS Located at the Westin Resort and Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Let Aromas help kick start your day with your favorite morning beverage. Proudly brewing Starbucks coffee along with offering a variety of juices, on-the-go breakfast items and snacks make Aromas the perfect stop on your way to the beach, pool, golf course or meeting. Open from 6 a.m. until 1 p.m. (seasonally). Call (843) 681-4000.

AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE Located at 69 Pope Avenue. There’s no place like Aunt 62

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Chiladas for Sunday Brunch. Featuring omelets, made to order waffles, smoked bacon, link sausage, garlic hash browns, fruit salad, cheese grits, English muffins and more. Catch your favorite team on one of our 18 flat screen TVs screens, including 6 plasma’s while enjoying a Bloody Mary, Mimosa, Margarita or a wide variety of other beverages. Serving Sunday Brunch from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-7700.

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

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

baked fresh. Open daily, 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., breakfast is available all day. Dine indoors or outdoors, or grab to go. Call (843) 363-2021, seapines.com/dining.

HARBOUR TOWN GRILL Located at the Harbour Town Golf Links Clubhouse, the grill is open to the public daily for breakfast and offers a la carte brunch on Sundays. Enjoy delicious Southern-style breakfasts, omelets, pancakes, quiche, crab cake Benedict, mimosas, lattes and more. Reservations suggested. Call (843) 363-8380, opentable.com, or seapines.com/dining.

HUGO’S Located at 841 William Hilton Parkway at South Island Square. Hugo’s Brunch features Brunch classics and originals such as Crème Brulee French Toast, Omelettes, Crabcake Benedict, Bourbon Ribeye & Eggs, Honey Pecan Waffles as well as many of our lunch sandwiches and favorites from Hugo’s lunch menu. Complimentary mimosa provided and an endless Bloody Mary is available. Tableside flaming crepes and desserts also available! Enjoy Sunday Brunch at Hugo’s from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-HUGO (4846) or click to HugosHiltonHead.com for the full Brunch menu.

THE HARBOUR TOWN BAKERY & CAFÉ Located across from Harbour Town Playground. Great home-cooked breakfasts, such as quiche and corned beef hash, soups, salads, paninis and pastries – everything is

KENNY B’S CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT Located in Circle Center, just off Pope Avenue. Enjoy Creole cuisine with a Lowcountry influence. Our Sunday brunch

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buffet features beignets, scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, grits, fruit and a made-to-order omelette station with eggs benedict. For a sampling of our regular weekday menu, choose from french toast, crabcake benedict, Mississippi tall stack pancakes, café au lait, quiche and a creole omelette. Open Monday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday, 8:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m until 9 p.m. Call (843) 785-3315.

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.

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

PANERA BREAD Located at 1012 William Hilton Parkway, just before the Sea Pines circle and Bluffton at Tanger 1 Outlet. With the skill of an Artisan, the heat of the oven and a few fine ingredients our bakers make bread that is simply delicious and baked fresh right here every day. Offering a wide selection of hot breakfast sandwiches and freshly baked bagels. Choose from a variety of coffee drinks, smoothies, espresso drinks and more. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Call (843) 686-3838 or 757-5611.

PLANTATION CAFÉ & DELI Located South Island at 81 Pope Avenue in Heritage Plaza and North Island at Port Royal Plaza. An Island favorite since 1974. Offering fresh breakfast items such as omelettes, crab

cake benedicts, skillet dishes, pancakes, waffles, French toast, biscuits & gravy and much more, all at moderate prices. Also a wide variety of sides and beverages to complete any meal. Open for breakfast, Monday thru Saturday from 6:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and Sunday 7:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. for breakfast and brunch. Call (843) 785-9020 or 342-4472.

French Toast is sure to please with hearty slices of Texas toast battered and grilled served with bacon or sausage. Relax with a Bottomless Mimosa or Homemade Bloody Mary. Indoor or outdoor seating available. Open for Brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call (843) 842-4227.

TRUFFLES CAFE REILLEY’S Located in Reilley’s Plaza just off the Sea Pines Circle and Port Royal Plaza. Quite possibly, The Island’s longest running brunch. Our legendary brunch features Eggs Benedict, Omelettes, Steak and Eggs, as well as all of our regular lunch items. Champagne, Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s complement the casual Island atmosphere. Dine inside or on our new patio. Serving Brunch on Sunday from 11 a.m. Call (843) 8424414 or 681-4153 or online at www.reilleyshiltonhead.com.

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

WATUSI THE SMOKEHOUSE Located on 34 Palmetto Bay Road. You will find that in addition to award winning BBQ, The Smokehouse is now serving Sunday Brunch featuring a wide variety of Brunch entrees. Try our Huevos Rancheros with two eggs atop tortillas and refried beans, smothered with Pork Green Chili, chorizo sausage and blended cheese, or enjoy Filet Eggs Benedict with sautéed mushrooms and Hollandaise Sauce. If you are in the mood for something sweet, our

Located at 71 Pope Avenue, near Coligny Beach. Enjoy premium self serve frozen yogurt, 100% fresh fruit smoothies and specialty gourmet coffee in a casual and comfortable atmosphere. We are proud to serve famous Almond Croissants, Quiches and Pastries from The French Bakery. Enjoy free Wi-Fi inside or on the outside patio, or catch live music on the patio every Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m. Open daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. Call (843) 686-5200 or online at www.islandwatusi.com.

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Finding Your Inner Wine Critic!

BY GEORGENE MORTIMER

So you’re a newbie to wine tasting, and you’ve never set foot in a winery tasting room. Well worry not. A tasting room is an area set aside in a winery where visitors are encouraged to sample the various wines before purchasing. They can range from a grand space to an intimate, informal area set among casks of aging wine. Most tasting rooms keep regular hours so you can just show up whenever the wine sampling crave strikes. Most people who work behind the “tasting bar” are friendly and eager to help you find the wine you love. Tell them what flavors you like or if you like sweet drinks. They will pour a series of wines to suit your palette. There is no such thing as a dumb question in a tasting room, so don’t be shy about learning about the wines you are trying. The tasting room staff will typically give you a 1 fluid ounce of the wines you would like to taste. That’s about 20% of a regular glass of wine. Keep this in mind and be sure to pace

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yourself. You don’t want to be that guy or gal who has a little too much fun at the wine tasting. Most wineries have handy vessels where you can discreetly spit out your wine samples to prevent you from becoming intoxicated or if a particular wine does not agree with your tastebuds. Don’t be shy about using these vessels. Of course, don’t be shy about getting a full wine experience either and swallowing your wine as well, just know your limit if you are the designated driver. Once your wine is poured, hold your glass up to the light. Examine the color. Don’t worry if you can’t tell the difference between a ruby red and a garnet red, just note the color so you can learn to spot a great wine in the future. Different wines have a unique ideal color range. Looking at the color helps to make sure that there are no impurities, bits of cork, or insects sharing your wine. Next, give the wine a little swirl in the glass. Be gentle and get a little air in there. You look like a cool, savvy wine taster when you do this, so swish away like you own the place. Then, place your nose in the glass and inhale. Put your face right in there and try to get a good sniff. A great wine always smells fragrant. Smelling wine is a very personal affair and everyone detects different “essences” in their glass. “Hints of raspberry” and “new wood” are more descriptive than “grapey,” but in the end, the whole thing is subjective. Now, the movement of truth: the TASTE! Have just a little sip; don’t chug it like shot. You’re in a tasting room, not an ale house. Let the wine flow over every part of your tongue. A wine may be sweet or dry. Since sweetness is detected at the tip of your tongue, this may be the first thing you will note. Next, feel the wine roll to sides of the tongue. You taste sour notes here, so this is where you will detect any acidic notes. Finally, you taste bitter notes at the back of your mouth. This is where very young or over dry wines will leave you with an unpleasant aftertaste. You’ll feel any alcohol as a slight tingle in the back of your throat. Using these basic sensory inputs, you can then make a sophisticated analysis of a wine: “I tasted a semi-sweet, low acid wine with hints of a gentle, melon, after-taste.” After the tasting, you should have a sense of what you like and don’t like. Don’t expect to love all of the wines you sample, but a good tasting experience will leave you with at least one wine you’d like to purchase. If the winery you visit offers complimentary tastings, it is generally good etiquette to purchase at least one bottle of wine. If you were able to try twelve wines, the winery has poured the equivalent of a half a bottle of wine, so don’t taste and waste. Wine tasting for fun is far different than being a professional wine analyst for an auction house; so don’t worry about getting all formal wine tasting steps just right. The tasting room is a great place to get started on a wine tasting journey and a good tasting room staff will give you all the encouragement you need in finding your inner-wine critic.

VISIT VISIT

ISLAND WINERY

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

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

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

12A Cardinal Rd • Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 842-3141 • www.islandwinery.com ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

GORDON SOBEL

Manager of Corks Wine Bar on Hilton Head Island BY BY LOUISE LOUISE LUND LUND PHOTO PHOTO BY BY ROB ROB KAUFMAN KAUFMAN

Corks Wine Bar was created over the course of several years, by owners Josh Luman and Gabby Ferrell, pulling influence and inspiration from restaurants all over the world. Here is the perfect opportunity to “sip and sample” since there are more than 20 wines offered in the “blonde” category and more than 25 selections in the “red heads” list. Corks south end location opened in 2010, with Gordon Sobel as manager. Friendly, sincere, and conscientious are words that describe Gordon. He took a little time out of his day to sit down with Taste and tell us about Corks and why he loves what he does. TASTE: Tell us about Corks Wine Bar and what you have done to make it a great place. GORDON: Corks is the island’s only wine bar and restaurant featuring ‘BIG’ small plates, wines by the glass, craft beers,

and cocktails. The cool and dark atmosphere provides a good place to sit back, chat and enjoy a drink. We have created a warm, inviting atmosphere where patrons of all ages can sample wines, dine on a delicious meal and enjoy meeting friends in a warm, friendly environment. TASTE: How long have you been with Cork’s? GORDON: I’ve been with Corks since it opened this location on January 1, 2010. TASTE: What do you like best about your job? GORDON: I’ve been in this business for 36 years, beginning while I was in college. I like it because every day is different. You see a lot of people who are regulars as well as a lot who are visiting from all over. There’s rarely a dull moment. TASTE: Can you describe the most humorous situation you’ve encountered with a customer? GORDON: There are too many to describe the most humorous. TASTE: What does it take to be successful at your job? GORDON: You have to pay attention to service. In this business, you have to expect what the customer wants. We have a lot of regulars and I can usually recall what they like to drink. I’m not good at remembering names, but I usually remember what they drink, what they eat, and our last conversation. TASTE: How do you like to spend your time on Hilton Head when you’re not working? GORDON: I like to spend time with my family. I have a 15 year old son, and enjoy my time with him, doing anything. I play soccer with friends when we can find time. I like to fish and would do it more if I had more time. TASTE: If you could have any job in the world, what would it be? GORDON: This is it. I have always worked in this business, and this is what I enjoy. TASTE: What brought you to Hilton Head Island? GORDON: I vacationed for several weeks every summer with my family on Hilton Head since 1967. I finally moved here in 1986. TASTE: What do you like best about this business? GORDON: I take a lot of pride in making our customers feel comfortable, making sure they have a great experience, and seeing a smile on their faces. Corks is located at 11 Palmetto Bay Road, next to Staples. For information, call (843) 671-7783.

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A TASTE OF ISLAND RECIPES LOBSTER & MUSSEL PASTA by Hugo’s Seafood & Steakhouse INGREDIENTS 2 Lobster Claws from 1¼ lbs Live Maine Lobster 10 Fresh Mussels (approx ½ lb) Linguine (6 oz) Olive Oil 2 lemons (1 lemon in slices, 1 lemon in half) 1 Tablespoon Garlic Chopped ½ Teaspoon of Salt ½ Teaspoon of Black Pepper 1 Teaspoon of Dry Parsley ½ cup of Chardonnay ½ stick of butter PREPARATION Boil Linguine in hot water with salt to taste preference for 6 -7 minutes to cook the linguine al dente. Strain and hold aside. Boil Lobster Claws in hot water for 3½ minutes. Remove pot from heat, set aside. In a 10” pan, add 3 tablespoons olive oil over high heat.

Allow oil to heat. Once hot, add garlic and cook for 20 seconds. Add mussels and cook for 30 – 40 seconds. Add Chardonnay and reduce heat to medium-high. Cover pan and continue cooking for 1 minute. Add pasta, lobster claws, salt, pepper, parsley, butter and sauté stirring frequently until butter melts. Place linguine in bowl with sauce from pan. Place mussels on linguine around bowl evenly, bury lobster claws in linguine upright in center and garnish with lemon slice. Yield: One serving

DRIED BANANA AND MACADAMIA ENCRUSTED MAHI –MAHI WITH COCONUT CURRY SWEET POTATO SAUCE by Ela’s Blu Water Grille

INGREDIENTS 2 lbs. Fresh mahi filet (Skinless,boneless) Cut into 4, 8 oz. pieces 14 oz. unsweetened coconut milk 2 Tablespoon mild thai curry paste 2-3 sweet potatoes 1 Cup dried banana chips 1 Cup macadamia nuts (roasted and lightly salted) 2 Tablespoon vegetable oil Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper FOR THE SAUCE Peel sweet potatoes and cut into 2-3 inch cubes and boil in lightly salted water until tender and ready for mashing 70

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In a separate pan (prefably stainless steel) heat coconut milk and curry paste together and whisk mixture until all of the curry paste has dissolved. Strain potatoes and place into a blender, begin to puree while slowly adding coconut curry mix until desired consistency. FOR THE CRUST In a food processor add banana chips and macadamias and pulse to desired texture. FOR THE FISH Evenly season both sides of the mahi filets with salt and pepper. Add vegetable oil to a hot sauté pan and sear filets flesh side down on medium high heat until medium brown crust has formed on 1 side. Gently flip the mahi filets over and add crust to the seared side of the filet. Finish the fish in a hot oven (400°) for 5-7 minutes or until crust is evenly golden brown. FOR THE PLATE Place hot sauce on a warmed entrée plate. In the center of sauce place desired vegetable selection (recommend sauted root vegetables). Place fish on top of the vegetables and serve. Yield: Four Servings

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A TASTE OF NIGHTLIFE / LOUNGES

ASIAN BISTRO Located at 51 New Orleans Rd., just off the Sea Pines circle. Sleek contemporary style restaurant offering Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisine as well as a nice selection of dim sum choices. Enjoy happy hour daily from 5 until 8 p.m. featuring $2.99 house wines, wells and beers. Relax at the traditional bar or enjoy some amazing sushi at one of the island’s best sushi bars. Serving continuously from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily. Call (843) 686-9888.

AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE Located at 69 Pope Avenue. Voted the Island’s best Happy Hour. Awesome Happy Hour menu featuring special prices on steamed shrimp, chicken wings, tacos, Mexican pizzas and Alaskan Snow Crab Legs. Drink specials include a gold dollar back on any liquor drink and a Kennedy half dollar back on any beer or wine selection. Catch your favorite team on one of our 18 flat screen TVs, including 6 plasma’s while enjoying your favorite fare from our regular menu. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 785-7700.

BARONY LOUNGE Located at the Westin Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. The perfect place to relax and unwind with friends, The Barony offers pool tables, foosball and darts along with several TV’s to catch all your favorite sporting events. A great selection of beverages and a light bar menu are available. Open daily from 4:30 until late. Call (843) 681-4000.

THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE

CALLAHAN’S SPORTS BAR & DELUXE GRILL

Located upstairs at Coligny Plaza, Oceanside. The Island’s finest selection of imported and microbrewed draft beer in a unique 1940’s themed bar. Awesome happy hour with Margarita Madness and many other specials. Live music during dinner Friday and Saturday. Call for late night entertainment schedule. Full menu available. Open from 11:30 a.m. until 2 a.m., Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 686-3443.

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

BRITISH OPEN PUB

CAPTAIN JOHN’S GALLEY AT THE SALTY DOG CAFE

Located in The Village at Wexford, Sheridan Park and Sun City. Hilton Head’s first true golfer’s pub featuring the only bar by Titleist. A wide selection of beers, ales, stouts and wines from around the world. Awesome appetizer selections, brilliant martini list and full menu available. Blarney is invited, singing encouraged and good humor admired. Open daily from 11:00 a.m until late. Call (843) 686-6736, Bluffton 815-6736 or Sun City 705-4005.

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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 Located in Palmetto Bay Marina off Helmsman Way and in Bluffton at the Calhoun Street Promenade. A local favorite for 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 all while overlooking Palmetto Bay Marina. Happy Hour from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. daily with great prices. Open daily from 11 a.m. until late, food available until 10 p.m. Call (843) 785-2400 or 757-6222 or online at www.captainwoodys.com.

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

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

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

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. Dinner is available at the bar. Happy hour from 5 until 7 p.m. Non-smoking environment. Open Monday thru Saturday. Call (843) 785-9277 or online at www.charliesgreenstar.com. ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

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

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

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 DRYDOCK SEAFOOD GRILL & SPIRITS Located at 21 Office Park Rd. in the Sapelo building. Go where the locals go for fresh seafood, cold drinks and good times. Fantastic outdoor bar and deck is the perfect place to enjoy a cool cocktail and some of the island’s best seafood. Great happy hour specials and plenty of TV’s for all your favorite sporting events. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-9775.

ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE Located at Shelter Cove Harbour. One of Hilton Head’s newest dining sensations offers some of the best water views on the island. Featuring an extensive boutique wine collection and mixology collection. Local artist Dean St. Hillaire performs each Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 until 11 p.m. Call (843) 785-3030 or online at www.elasgrille.com.

FLATBREAD GRILL Located at Coligny Circle oceanside in the Beach Market 74

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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 HD TV’s. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 341-2225 or online at www.flatbreadgrillhhi.com.

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 on the Food Network and in Bon Appétit. Open daily at 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.

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

KINGFISHER SEAFOOD, PASTA, AND STEAK HOUSE Located at 18 Harbourside Ln. at Shelter Cove Harbour. Newly remodeled restaurant offers affordable casual dining in a 5 star setting with breathtaking waterfront views from inside or on the outside deck. Early Bird from 4:30 until 6 p.m. Best Island Happy Hour from 4:30 until 7 p.m. featuring incredible drink and raw bar specials. Live music and dancing with Pete Carroll on Wednesdays, classic soft rock with David Wingo on

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Thursdays, and jazz with Earl Williams on Fridays. Tableside magic shows on Sundays and Mondays. Call (843) 785-4442 for reservations and information or online at www.kingfisherseafood.com.

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 at 9 p.m. Enjoy Karaoke on Saturday Night. Happy Hour from 3 until 6 p.m. everyday. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 6862474 or 706-0800.

OCEANS Located at the Westin Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Enjoy the island’s finest seafood and oceanfront views at Oceans. Lowcountry style meets high cuisine in a casual, family friendly atmosphere. Catch up with friends over a bottle of wine or your favorite cocktail. Indoor and outdoor seating available. At Oceans, good times are as regular as the tide. Call (843) 681-4000 for seasonal hours.

OLD OYSTER FACTORY Located on the waters of the Broad Creek at 101 Marshland Road. Built on the site of an original oyster cannery on Broad Creek, the Old Oyster Factory is a delight for family and children of all ages. Enjoy superb, innovative seafood and steaks while taking in one of the Lowcountry's best panoramic views of the marshland landscape. Out door seating is available. Open nightly at 4:45 pm. Call or visit our website for details about our seasonal happy hour and summer entertainment. (843) 681-6040.

PATTY’S PIG ‘N’ PIT Located at 32 Office Park Rd. in the Courtyard Building, just before the Sea Pines gate. Succulent Wood Smoked BBQ featuring a variety of regional sauces. A comfortable and casual bar is the perfect place for some of the island’s finest cuisine and coldest beer. A full bar is also available as well as great service and fantastic viewing on our flat screen TV’s. Happy hour daily with awesome food and drink specials. 76

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Lunch, Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and Dinner, Monday thru Saturday from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 842-5555.

THE QUARTERDECK Head to Harbour Town’s legendary Quarterdeck for the island’s best sunsets, overlooking Calibogue Sound, and enjoy an extensive menu of beers, wines and specialty cocktails, as well as light evening fare and desserts. Live outdoor entertainment is offered seasonally. Call (843) 8421999, seapines.com/dining.

REDFISH On the corner of Palmetto Bay Rd. and Archer Rd. Our unique bar and retail wine shop offers a contemporary, yet casual atmosphere for the wine connisuer. Over 1,000 hand-selected wines from all over the world are available as well as a full bar selection. The wine shop is open Monday thru Saturday at 10 a.m. Dinner is available daily from 5 to 10 p.m. Call (843) 686-3388.

REILLEY’S

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

SAN MIGUEL’S MEXICAN CAFE Located at Harbourside III on Shelter Cove Harbour. Do Mexican on the marina while enjoying the Island’s best margaritas. The outdoor bar overlooking the marina is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Great happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m., seasonal live entertainment and panoramic views make this a must stop. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4555.

Located in Reilley’s Plaza just off Sea Pines Circle and Port Royal Plaza. An Island Tradition since 1982. Happy Hour from 4 until 7 p.m. featuring 50% off on all liquor, wine, beer and appetizers. Also, occasional live entertainment (call for schedule). Full menu and bar available inside or outside on our new patio. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4414 or 681-4153 or online at www.reilleyshiltonhead.com.

^ • OVER 40 TV’S!–Watch all the sports action. • GREAT FOOD OFFERING A FULL MENU

• BEST HAPPY HOUR ON THE ISLAND, MON-FRI 4-7

• MONDAY NIGHT FIESTA $3 Margaritas •LADIES NIGHT TUESDAYS • KARAOKE – Tuesdays & Fridays • TRIVIA NIGHT – Thursdays TGIF $2 Well Drinks • SAT $2.50 Vodkas all day SUN $2.00 Bloody Mary’s all day

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

37 New Orleans Road • Orleans Plaza • 785-2255 NOT A BAD SEAT IN THE HOUSE!

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margaritas, sangrias or an imported beer. Enjoy Happy Hour daily from 5 until 7 p.m. and live entertainment Wednesday thru Saturday. Open Daily for dinner from 5 p.m., and lunch Monday thru Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (843) 785-3838 or www.santafehhi.com.

THE SMOKEHOUSE Join us in our larger and newly renovated location at 34 Palmetto Bay Rd. The island’s newest nightlife destination for Rhythm and Brews! Offering 12 choices of ice-cold beer from our state of the art beer towers, full complement of premium liquors and wines, plenty of flat screen TV’s and an amazing sound system and occasional live entertainment to keep you rockin! For a more mellow evening you can chill out on our outdoor deck complete with a brick fireplace. Open daily at 11:30 a.m. Call (843) 842-4BBQ (4227) or visit us at www.smokehousehhi.com.

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

TURTLES BEACH BAR & GRILL Located at the Westin Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Enjoy lunch al fresco by the pool just steps from the beach. Lowcountry fare with a Caribbean twist sets the mood for a refreshing afternoon. Sip on your favorite tropical drink as you enjoy the warm ocean breezes and seasonal live entertainment. Weather permitting. Call (843) 681-4000 for seasonal hours.

STEAMER SEAFOOD Located on the pond in Coligny Plaza. Fresh seafood, amazing appetizers, raw bar delicacies all served with a wide variety of beverages. Over 250 beers from around the world, buckets of beer, frozen drinks, pitchers of cocktails and wine by the glass or bottle. Celebrating 21 years on the Island. Seasonal live entertainment featuring Todd Cowart. Open from 11:30 a.m until late, 7 days a week. Call (843) 785-2070.

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

THE TARTAN LOUNGE BAR Situated within The Inn at Harbour Town, the sophisticated, yet inviting Tartan Lounge Bar is open to the public, beginning at 3 p.m. daily. Enjoy delicious appetizers, desserts and a variety of beverages, including cordials, until 11 p.m. Resort attire requested. Call (843) 363-8100, seapines.com/dining.

TOPSIDE WATERFRONT RESTAURANT Enjoy a fabulous dinner, wonderful wines, signature cocktails and delicious desserts at Topside, amidst incredible sunset views, then head to the iconic Quarterdeck, just steps away, for live outdoor entertainment (offered seasonally.) Call (843) 842-1999, seapines.com/dining.

TRUFFLES CAFE Located just off Pope Avenue on Executive Park Road. Featuring a comfortable and contemporary atmosphere. 78

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WILD WING CAFE Located at 72 Pope Avenue in Circle Center and just off Hwy. 278 in Bluffton. When the sun goes down on Hilton Head, the night lights up at the Wing! Of course this legendary hot spot serves “The Best Wings South of Buffalo” in 33 different flavors, but there's a whole lot more as well. Known as one of the premier spots for live music, sports on the big screen and late night fun including karaoke and trivia. Enjoy the original Bucket O’ Beer, fantastic food, great service and more in this Island institution for over 20 years. Open Monday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., and Sunday 12 noon until 2 a.m. Call (843) 785-9464 or 837-9453 or check us out online at wildwingcafe.com.

WORLD GAME BAR & GRILL Located in Park Plaza, near Sea Pines Circle next to Harris Teeter. Enjoy some of the Island’s best wood-fired pizza and an outstanding Happy Hour, from 5 – 7 p.m. with free pizza slices with a drink purchase, Monday through Friday. It's a place where you can unwind playing a game of pool or the latest video games and enjoy a great meal in a friendly atmosphere – all at the same time. Catch the latest sports action on several big screen televisions. It’s one lively location that is perfect for a night on the town or a family outing with plenty to do and play. Full menu and bar available, open daily from 5 p.m. until late. Call (843) 342-5000.

THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Enjoy a casual and fun atmosphere in the same spirit as the Salty Dog Cafe. Great food and beverages while overlooking beautiful Braddock’s Cove. Crab, shrimp and food specials from 4 until 5:30 p.m. and drink specials from 4 until 6 p.m. Available for private parties. Call (843) 671-7327 for seasonal hours.

The Easy, Honest Diet Change BY CRAIG HYSELL

People ask me for nutritional advice quite a bit at my job. This is a tricky business. Diet (what people ingest on a relatively regular basis for sustenance or pleasure) is like religion or politics: there is no one right answer and yet people can get extremely touchy about their version of the right answer. Here are 3 quick pieces of advice. The first two are concise. The third one is a bit broader and just as important.

Don’t go on a diet. Yep, that’s right. Going on a diet is impossible. Your diet is your diet and that’s it. “Going” on something is temporary. “Going” somewhere is passive. “Make” change! Put yourself in the mindframe for success!

You’ve got to know what you’re eating. I mean exactly what you are eating. How can you fix something if you don’t know where it’s screwed up? Keep a food log for 5 days. Write down the time of every meal, every snack and exactly what you ate. For instance, if you had a bowl of cereal at 7 a.m., what kind of cereal was it? How much of it did you have? Did you use milk? What kind? How much? Etc. The more scientific you

are in your approach, the more you will understand where you need to concentrate on making change.

Clean out your cupboards of the junk you are trying to avoid BEFORE you change your diet. Donate it, if you can’t bring yourself to throw it out. Institute your change for 30 days straight with no cheat days (the first two weeks will be the most challenging) and don’t try more than one new diet at a time. Stay off that fiendish scale and let your clothes tell you what’s going on! Keep in mind, what works for one person might not work for you. Do not get discouraged. Always learn and persevere.

Lastly, you need to be around people you aspire to be like. If you want to be fit, get around fit people. If you want to be an artist, get around artists. If you want to be a positive, hard working person, don’t hang around negative, lazy people. Coupling your diet with a positive environment that allows you to be who you want to be helps tremendously. Where you go in life is up to you. Choose wisely! Be great! For more information contact Cross Fit Hilton Head at (843) 682-3600 or online at www.crossfithhi.com. ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

A TASTE OF ENTERTAINMENT/SERVICES HEAVENLY SPA BY WESTIN Located at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa in Port Royal Plantation. Amidst the palmetto lined boardwalks, winding through lush gardens, serene fountains and enchanting lagoons rests a heavenly oasis. The first Heavenly Spa by Westin in the continental United States includes a full service salon. We welcome you to experience pampering essences to soothe the spirit, rejuvenate the body and enrich the mind. Open daily 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (hours vary seasonally). Call (843) 681-1019 to book an appointment or visit us online at www.HiltonHeadHeavenlySpa.com.

HILTON HEAD ICE CREAM Located at 55 New Orleans Road, just off Pope Avenue. Hilton Head Ice Cream has received accolades from CNN, Warner Books, Southern Living magazine and voted best of Hilton Head in every local media poll. Even the U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain has touted Hilton Head Ice Cream. The shop has created many flavors: Girl Scout Cookie, Flower Power, Mocha Pecan, Banana’s Foster and Espresso. Salt air is our secret ingredient and there is love in each batch too. Call (843) 842-6333.

ISLAND FUDGE SHOPPE Located in Coligny Plaza. The best homemade confections

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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) 8424280 for more information or check us out online at www.islandfudge.com.

ISLAND WINERY Located at 12A Cardinal Rd. Island Winery presents a unique concept in fine wines, traveling the world’s vineyards to select the perfect grapes and handcrafting their wines in small batches right on Hilton Head. Also featuring Lowcountry specialty wines with unique recipes made from local fruit. Enjoy tastings Monday thru Saturday, from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., or join the wine and cheese happy hour each Monday thru Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Call (843) 842-3141 for directions and information or online at www.islandwinery.com.

OCEAN TIDES SPA Located at 23 Ocean Lane in Palmetto Dunes Plantation at the Hilton Oceanfront Resort. Spend the day being pampered from head to toe by the specially trained therapists. Choose from among an extensive massage menu,

facials, manicures, pedicures and wraps. Emerge renewed through an enchanting ritual of treatments and experience the soothing atmosphere of this ocean front spa. Offering the only beachside Cabana massages on the Island. Open daily with evening and sunrise appointments available. Call (843) 341-8056.

RITA’S ITALIAN ICE Located Oceanside at Coligny Plaza and off Burnt Church Road (Piggly Wiggly Shopping Center) in Bluffton. Featuring Ices, Shakes and Cones, all made fresh daily and available in over 10 flavors. 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 Custard you want, we have it in both Vanilla and Chocolate. For coffee lovers try one of our Ritaccino’s, Rita’s ultimate coffee drink. Open daily from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 341-5587 or 706-3227.

SEA PINES CATERING & WEDDINGS Hilton Head’s premier caterer offers award-winning service and cuisine, as well as incredible golf course, clubhouse, marina and beach venues, and can expertly accommodate groups of 2 to 500 guests. Special Events, Special Places, Special Memories. Call (843) 842-1495, seapines.com/meetings.

SPA SOLEIL Located inside the Marriott Resort & Spa in Palmetto Dunes. Relax and let us take care of you in our beautiful and tranquil European spa. An absolutely breathtaking relaxation room complete with amazing lighting, waterwall and fireplaces is the perfect atmosphere for you to enjoy a variety of spa treatments all served with a touch of southern hospitality. Open from 7:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. (hours vary with season). Call (843) 686-8420 or 686-8429 or online at www.csspagroup.com.

TOBACCO ROAD Located at 119 Arrow Road, Suite B. An impressive array of cigars, perfect humidification and a well trained staff will meet all your needs. Hilton Head’s oldest smoke shop has catered to locals and tourists alike for over ten years. Offering a complete selection of fine cigars, domestic and imported cigarettes, and a comfortable smoking lounge in which to enjoy them. Open Monday thru Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Call (843) 341-6265 or online at www.hiltonheadcigars.com.

YELLOW CAB The largest cab fleet on Hilton Head. All vehicles are radio dispatched, late model sedans or mini-vans. Serving all area airports. Service 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Providing great service and comfortable air-conditioned transportation. Call (843) 686-6666. ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

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ALEXANDER’S (843) 785-4991 A LOWCOUNTRY BACKYARD (843) 785-YARD (9273) AROMAS (843) 681-4000 ASIAN BISTRO (843) 686-9888 AUNT CHILADAS EASY STREET CAFE (843) 785-7700 THE BIG BAMBOO CAFE (843) 686-3443 BRITISH OPEN PUB (843) 686-6736, 815-6736 or 705-4005 THE CAFÉ (843) 686-8488 CALLAHAN’S SPORTS BAR & DELUXE GRILL (843) 686-POOL (7665) CAPTAIN JOHN’S GALLEY AT THE SALTY DOG CAFE (843) 671-CAFE (2233) CAPTAIN WOODY’S (843) 785-2400 or 757-6222 CAROLINA CAFE (843) 681-4000 CASEY’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL (843) 785-2255 CATCH 22 FRESH SEAFOOD & GRILL (843) 785-6261 CHARLIE’S L’ETOILE VERTE (843) 785-9277 CHART HOUSE (843) 342-9066 COCO’S ON THE BEACH (843) 842-2626 (COCO) CONROY’S (843) 686-8400 CORKS WINE BAR (843) 671-7783 or 815-5168 CRANE’S TAVERN STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD (843) 341-2333 CRAZY CRAB (843) 363-2722 or 681-5021 THE DRYDOCK SEAFOOD GRILL & SPIRITS (843) 842-9775 ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE (843) 785-3030 FLATBREAD GRILL (843) 341-2225 THE FROSTY FROG CAFÉ (843) 686-FROG (3764) ATASTEOFHILTONHEAD.COM

26. HARBOURSIDE BURGERS & BREWS (843) 842-1444 27. THE HARBOUR TOWN BAKERY & CAFÉ (843) 363-2021 28. HARBOUR TOWN GRILL (843) 363-8380 29. HINOKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR (843) 785-9800 30. HUDSON’S SEAFOOD ON THE DOCKS (843) 681-2772 31. HUGO’S (843) 785-HUGO (4846) 32. IL CARPACCIO (843) 342-9949 33. ISLAND FUDGE SHOPPE (843) 842-4280 34. ISLAND WINERY (843) 842-3141 35. THE JAZZ CORNER (843) 842-8620 36. KENNY B’S CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT (843) 785-3315 37. KINGFISHER SEAFOOD, PASTA AND STEAK HOUSE (843) 785-4442 38. KURAMA JAPANESE SEAFOOD AND STEAK HOUSE SUSHI BAR (843) 785-4955 39. THE LAKEHOUSE GOLF PUB (843) 842-1441 40. LAND’S END TAVERN (843) 671-5456 41. MANGIAMO (843) 682-2444 42. MELLOW MUSHROOM (843) 686-2474 or 706-0800 43. MICHAEL ANTHONY’S (843) 785-6272 44. OCEANS (843) 681-4000 45. OKKO (843) 341-3377 46. THE OLD OYSTER FACTORY (843) 681-6040 47. PALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE (843) 686-3232 48. PANERA BREAD (843) 686-3838 or 757-5611 49. PATTY’S PIG ‘N’ PIT (843) 842-5555 50. PLANTATION CAFE & DELI (843) 785-9020 or 342-4472

51. THE QUARTERDECK (843) 842-1999 52. REDFISH (843) 686-3388 53. REILLEY’S (843) 842-4414 or 681-4153 54. RUAN THAI HUT (843) 681-3700 55. SAGE ROOM (843) 785-5352 56. THE SALTY DOG CAFE (843) 671-CAFE (2233) 57. SAN MIGUEL’S MEXICAN CAFE (843) 842-4555 58. SANTA FE CAFE (843) 785-3838 59. SEA GRASS GRILLE (843) 785-9990 60. THE SMOKEHOUSE (843) 842-4BBQ (4227) 61. SPA SOLEIL (843) 686-8420 or 686-8429 62. STEAMER SEAFOOD (843) 785-2070 63. STELLINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT (843) 785-7006 64. THE STUDIO (843) 785-6000 65. SURFSIDE OUTDOOR RESTAURANT & BAR (843) 842-1888 66. TAPAS RESTAURANT (843) 681-8590 67. TOBACCO ROAD (843) 341-6265 68. TOPSIDE WATERFRONT RESTAURANT (843) 842-1999 69. TRATTORIA DIVINA (843) 686-4442 70. TRUFFLES CAFE (843) 671-6136, 785-3663 or 815-5551 71. TURTLES BEACH BAR & GRILL (843) 681-4000 72. WATUSI (843) 686-5200 73. WILD WING CAFE (843) 785-9464 or 837-9453 74. WORLD GAME BAR & GRILL (843) 342-5000 75. THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG (843) 671-7327