HAVE FOOD, WILL TRAVEL

BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

Twelve years ago, they were the hottest new culinary trend sweeping the nation.

Six years ago, they had been written off as a fad.

Today, food trucks have become more than just a trend or a fad. They are a vital part of the culinary offerings in towns across the country, even in small-town Bluffton.

You’ll see them all over town: Chef B’s Eatz with its vibrant urban paint scheme and delectable Lowcountry fare. ‘Murican Border with its distinctive monochromatic truck dispensing mouth-watering tacos. Even high society has gotten in on the act, with Big Carol’s Food Truck serving up gourmet fare to the sophisticated folks at Palmetto Bluff.

Even the brick-and-mortar restaurant industry, once mortal enemies to their more mobile cousins, have gotten in on the act. And as people clamor for more variety in outdoor dining, whole cottage industries have sprung up around the simple idea of parking a kitchen in the middle of a party.

Take a look inside the distinctive tealand-black Pizza Co. truck, with its wide pizza oven dangling off the back, and you’ll find Marshall Sampson, co-owner of both Pizza Co. and Santa Fe Café. Having one foot firmly in fine dining and one in food trucks has given Sampson a unique perspective on their growing profile over the bridge.

In fact, when Pizza Co. expanded, adding the new Burnt Church Distilleryadjacent shop to its flagship Main Street Hilton Head store, it was the truck that led the way.

“When we got into Main Street and started looking at it, we started thinking we wanted to get our foot in Bluffton (before opening full time),” said Sampson. “Once we saw how this model works on the island, I thought, ‘I can definitely make this portable.’”

It came at just the right time. With the shutdowns and uncertainty that plagued 2020, a little bit of comfort food right on your doorstep was just what the doctor ordered. And with Pizza Co.’s food truck offering the exact same 90-second perfection as its brick-and-mortar counterpart, people ate it up.

“Right when the pandemic started, I started calling all the HOAs to set up in different neighborhoods. People were afraid of going out, so I’d just come to them,” said Sampson. “That became our business model – we did that the whole last year.”

And don’t think that with a smaller footprint comes a smaller workload.

“It’s definitely more involved,” said Sampson, noting that a food truck requires extra steps in cleaning, preparing, loading and unloading. “And then you’re in food truck with an 800-degree oven when it’s 110 outside,” he said with a laugh. “You lose the pounds pretty quick.”

Even with restrictions lifted and more people venturing back out into their favorite restaurants, the novel concept of outdoor dining wherever you feel like it has caught on. You’ll find numerous examples, like Savannah’s eccentric Starland Yard, where a dizzying array of food trucks dot the calendar. Closer to home, Lot 9 Brewing Co. has made their daily rotation of food trucks a major part of the appeal, assuring that no two visits are the same.

The latest food truck park can be found just on the outskirts of Old Town Bluffton on May River Road. Called “Backyard State of Mind,” this self-described hangout offers a space where food trucks could have a reliable spot to build a crowd of regulars.

“It’s a little bit free-flowing,” said David Meeder, who founded Backyard State of Mind with his wife Shelley. “Something inclusive, diverse and safe. The deal is, you want to break down the barriers for why people say now. It’s just easy to come in, grab what you want and either hang out for a while or take it to go.”

Plans at Backyard State of Mind will eventually include a beer garden and live entertainment, but for the time being it’s providing a regular home for food trucks and a place where patrons can try out everything from Thai food and slowsmoked BBQ to ice cream and coffee.

“Ultimately what we want here is variety,” said Meeder.

Don’t we all?

Once dismissed as a fad, they’ve proven their staying power. Once maligned by restaurants, they’re now being embraced by savvy restaurateurs. Food trucks have opened up new avenues for hungry diners, and have become an integral part of our culinary experience.

HEALTHY HABIT Located in Park Plaza just outside of Sea Pines Resort. Voted Hilton Head’s Best lunch, takeout, counter service and salads every year since 2017! This local favorite serves up award winning bowls, salads, wraps, smoothies, juices and more. Fast casual dining with a modern design offers inside and outside seating. Online ordering, catering and takeout are available. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Call (843) 686-5600 or visit us online at HealthyHabitHHI.com.

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 HOUSE ON THE DOCKS Located on the Intracoastal Waterway off Squire Pope Rd. With 50 years of casual dining experience and spectacular views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Hudson’s is one of the Island’s most recognized landmarks. Featuring the freshest, local seafood in the area as well as pasta, steaks, chicken and more. Kids menu available. Featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today and Bon Appe´tit. Open daily at 11 a.m. Call (843) 681-2772.

THE JAZZ CORNER Located in the “corner” of The Village at Wexford. One of the top “100 Great Jazz Rooms” in the world, Downbeat Magazine 2011-20. Our intimate, elegant atmosphere is the perfect setting to enjoy an evening of world class entertainment enhanced by our innovative southern flavors menu and impeccable service. The Jazz Corner offers a signature martini menu, extensive wine list, full bar and late-night menu. Open nightly from 6 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Call (843) 842-8620 or check us out online at www.thejazzcorner.com.

KENNY B’S CAJUN SEAFOOD HUT Located in Circle Center, just off Pope Avenue. Enjoy Creole cuisine with a Low country influence. Find an appealing choice of Cajun fare such as Shrimp Etoufee, Crawfish Etoufee, Jambalaya, N’awlins Po Boy’s, Red Beans & Rice and authentic Gumbos. Great soups and salads, as well as a kid’s menu and take-out service available. Also, cold beer and awesome

LAND’S END TAVERN Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Featuring great seafood, steaks, sandwiches and salads. A casual atmosphere with a pirate theme ensures fun for the whole family. Great kid’s menu and desserts. It’s a bounty of treasure waiting to be plundered. Serving all day, every day starting from 8 a.m. Call (843) 671-5456 for seasonal hours.

LUCKY ROOSTER KITCHEN + BAR Located at 841 William Hilton Parkway in South Island Square. An American bistro with Southern soul serving refined comfort food to please all palates. Our menu changes and evolves with seasons, tides and our inspirations. Dine inside or enjoy the island breeze on our spacious outdoor patio. Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 4 until 10 p.m., and Sunday brunch from 10:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Enjoy Happy Hour 4 - 6 p.m. Reservations and more information at luckyroosterhhi.com or call 843-715-3215.

MANGIAMO Located at 2000 Main Street. A comfortable and cozy atmosphere featuring outstanding pizza, subs, salads and pasta. Beer and wine, kid’s menu, and daily specials offer something for everyone. Enjoy half price cheese pizza from 3 until 4 p.m. Dine inside, on the patio or take it to go. North Island delivery available. Your home away from home for The Ohio State Buckeyes. Open Sunday thru Thursday from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 682-2444.

MELLOW MUSHROOM Located in Park Plaza on Hilton Head and at 878 Fording Island Rd. in Bluffton. If you’re looking for a fun and lively place for the whole family, this is it. Specializing in great pizza and calzones, monumental hoagies and fresh salads all in a comfortable and casual setting. Kid friendly and affordably priced menu for both lunch and dinner. Over twenty-four beers on tap, fifty more by bottle and a full bar available. Dine inside or outside on the patio. Open daily from 11 a.m. Call (843) 686-2474 (HHI) or (843) 706-0800 (B-Town).

MICHAEL ANTHONY’S Located at 37 New Orleans Road in Orleans Plaza. Offering classic Italian cuisine. Homemade gnocchi, succulent veal dishes and creative fish preparations are offered nightly. The versatile wine list offers a broad selection designed to satisfy the novice or seasoned enthusiast. Reservations are suggested. Weekly cooking classes offered in the Tuscan inspired

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Lunch and Dinner daily 11 a.m. Until 10 p.m. • Sat. Brunch 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sun. Brunch 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. • Happy Hour Daily from 4 until 7 p.m. Hilton Head Island, Village at Wexford: 843.686.6736 • Bluffton, Sheridan Park: 843.815.6736 Voted Islands Best All Around Restaurant 2012 Best Bar/Tavern 2015 and Best Fish & Chips 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019!!!

demonstration kitchen. The adjacent Italian Market offers a wide array of Italian wines and gourmet foods. Open Monday thru Saturday beginning at 5:15 p.m. Call (843) 785-6272 or visit www.michael-anthonys.com.

NUNZIO RESTAURANT + BAR South Carolina’s best new Italian restaurant is located at 18 New Orleans Road. Nunzio’s classic & contemporary Italian dishes perfectly portray the harmony and the simplicity of southern Italian food combining locally sourced ingredients. Nunzio’s menu features house-made pasta, fresh fish & seafood, and choice cut meats. The collection of wines have strong Italian influences with notable international selections. Reservations are suggested. Open daily from 4 p.m. with Happy Hour until 6 and Dinner from 4:30 p.m. Early Dining from 4:30 until 5:15 p.m. Call (843) 715-2172 or visit www. nunziohhi.com for more information.

THE OLD OYSTER FACTORY Located at 101 Marshland Rd. This iconic waterfront dining destination has stunning views of the low country off Broad Creek. Serving fresh local seafood for 32 years, now adding Chef’s creations of low country cuisine to the menu. With the addition of the expansive raw bar and Brunch on Sundays you will see why this is a local staple. The back deck with an outside patio bar offers intimate sunset views while dining on the water. From families, date-nights to large parties there is an amazing dining experience for everyone. Open for lunch at 11 a.m. through dinner daily and Brunch on Sundays. Call (843) 681-6040 or visit us www.oldoysterfactory.com. @theoldoysterfactory & @oldoysterfactory.

THE PEARL KITCHEN & BAR Located at 55 Calhoun Street in the historic art district of Bluffton. The Pearl brings a fresh approach to dining focusing on a complete sensory experience offering fresh “clean eating”. Contemporary food preparations utilizing the best fresh catch seafood, certified steaks and local produce available. Live music Thursday thru Saturday. Lunch Thursday thru Saturday. Open for dinner daily at 5 p.m. Reservations recommended, call (843) 757-5511.

REDFISH Located at 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.

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REILLEY’S GRILL & BAR Located in Reilley’s Plaza, just off Sea Pines Circle. This local favorite, family-owned & operated establishment has been serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches on Hilton Head Island since 1982. With a sophisticated warm ambiance, family-friendly atmosphere, this Island institution is where you can enjoy nightly specials, mimosas at Sunday brunch or casual drinks and bar menu with friends over a game on one of the many TVs. (Voted Island’s Best Sports bar) Lunch and dinner served seven days a week. Their dining options include indoors, outdoor (heated, covered areas available), as well as online ordering and curbside pick-up. Happy hour from 4 until 7 p.m. Take-out, curbside, catering or drop off services available. A member of The Coastal Restaurants and Bars family of restaurants. Call (843) 842-4414 or visit reilleyshiltonhead. com @reilleyshhi.

ROCKFISH SEAFOOD AND STEAKS @BOMBORAS Located a at 5 Lagoon Road across from Coligny near the beach. Rockfish, a Seafood Destination, offers fresh oysters, fresh shrimp, local seafood, steaks and much much more. Featuring a fun and inviting indoor or outdoor dining experience. The owners are from Cincinnati so they have an intriguing “Cincinnati” section to their menu featuring Montgomery Inn Ribs, Big Boy Burgers and more. Extensive craft draft list, wine and creative cocktails. Want a date night? Drop your kids off at the Art Cafe (a paint your own pottery studio located just above Rockfish) during their Kids Night Out and enjoy a night out alone! Happy hour starting at 4 p.m., Early Bird menu available between 4 - 5:45 p.m. and dinner 7 days a week. Make your reservation on Opentable, Call (843) 689-2662 or visit online at rockfishhhi.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 comfortable patio. Open Monday thru Saturday for lunch and dinner. Call (843) 681-3700.

SAGE ROOM Located at 75 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.

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Hilton Head’s “Little Italy” New York/New Jersey Italian Cuisine Family owned since 1989

15 Executive Park Drive (off Pope Avenue) • 843.785.7006 Serving from 5 pm • Monday - Saturday THE SALTY DOG CAFE Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Great food, frozen drinks and live entertainment from the island’s favorite outdoor cafe. Enjoy beautiful waterfront views overlooking Braddock’s Cove in a fun and casual atmosphere. Happy Hour daily with a full menu available, plus an outdoor cookout, Salty Dog Ice Cream and Jake’s Pizza during the season. Call (843) 671-CAFE (2233) for seasonal hours.

THE SANDBAR Located at 101 Pope Avenue in historic Coligny Plaza just steps away from Coligny Beach. The Sandbar always has something delicious cooking. With its beach inspired decor, comfortable seating and laid back atmosphere, they are serving up signature dishes such as Hurricane Shrimp, Jamaican Jerk Tacos and Parmesan Crusted Grouper. The Sandbar is a great place for families and friends to enjoy the outdoor bar and patio and share amazing foods and drinks. Children will also feel welcome with their own menu and special children’s table. Call (843) 342-SAND (7263) or visit us online at www.sandbarhhi.com.

SANTA FE CAFÉ Located at 807 William Hilton Parkway near the entrance to Palmetto Dunes. Our elegant yet casual, cozy atmosphere captures the spirit of New Mexico. Innovative southwestern cuisine features dinner favorites such as Tortilla Crusted Salmon, Wood Roasted Quail, Grouper, 30 oz. Ribeye and many more great selections including vegetarian items. Excellent wine list, imported beers and full bar. Early dining menu from 5 until 6 p.m. Live entertainment Tues. thru Sat. Take-out available. Reservations are “gladly” accepted. Open for dinner Tuesday thru Saturday from 5 until 9 p.m. Call (843) 785-3838 or www.santafehhi.com.

SKILLETS CAFE Located just off the beach in Coligny Plaza. An excellent choice for the whole family since 1994. Wonderful selections including burgers, jambalaya, grilled, broiled and fried seafood and build your own pasta dishes or our extensive salad bar. Gluten Free menu as well as vegan dishes available. Full bar and wine list available. Kids menu and take-out. Dine inside or on the patio (Dog Friendly). Open daily from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 785-3131 or check us out online at www.skilletscafe.com.

STEAMER SEAFOOD Located at 8 Executive Park Rd. just off Pope Avenue. Featuring huge portions of fresh seafood, shellfish, sandwiches, soups, salads and dessert all served in a casual Lowcountry atmosphere. Fresh catch specials daily. The most kid-friendly restaurant on the island offers inside seating or outside on the covered patio. Live entertainment, full bar and take out available. Open Mon.–Fri., 4 until 10 p.m. and Sat. and Sun., 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Call (843) 785-2070 or visit us online at www.steamerseafood.com.

STELLINI ITALIAN RESTAURANT Located at 15 Executive Park Dr., just off Pope Avenue. Celebrating 32 years! Voted the Island’s best Italian restaurant, Stellini features popular menu items from the Little Italy section of New York and northern New Jersey. Choose from items such as Clams Casino, Veal Saltimbocca, Zuppa di Pesce, Osso Buco, Lasagna and more. Chefs specialties created nightly. Extensive wine list, Early Bird specials, children’s menu and take-out available. Serving dinner Monday thru Saturday from 5 p.m. Call (843) 785-7006 for reservations.

STREET MEET Located in Port Royal Plaza. This Family Tavern & Restaurant is HHI’s Ohio Bar and Home of the HHI Browns Backers. Kitchen serving food from 11:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. 7 days/week. Offering a wide range of homemade, from scratch American food at reasonable prices and have been voted Island’s Best Wings, Best Fish and Chips, Best Burger and Best Hotdog (“Hofmann from Syracuse, NY). Featuring a complete Healthy Menu that includes GlutenFree, Paleo, & Vegetarian options plus more. Full bar with daily drink specials and happy hour as well as indoor & outdoor seating plus a new dining room that is great for large parties or groups. Kids pay what they weigh on Saturday! Call (843) 842-2570 or online at www.streetmeethhi.com.

SUNSET GRILLE Located on the Intracoastal Waterway at Hilton Head Harbor, 43 Jenkins Rd. The Grille offers a casual fine dining experience with breathtaking sunset views. The creative menu features house specialties such as Hugh’s famous hot smoked salmon, shrimp & grits, grilled sea scallops & braised lamb shank all prepared to perfection. An extensive wine list, craft beer selection and full bar available. Call (843) 689-6744 for reservations or visit sunsetgrillehhi.com. Dinner is served Tues.-Sat. 6 p.m. until.

TRUFFLES CAFE Located in Sea Pines Center and Belfair Towne Village in Bluffton. Enjoying our 38th year of offering casual upscale dining in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Our menu features fresh seafood, Black Angus steaks, baby back ribs, homemade soups, fresh and flavorful entree salads, house ground burgers, delicious pasta, and amazing homemade desserts. Outside seating is available at both locations. Full bar and fine wines by the glass or bottle. Private dining available for 6 to 100 people. Serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week from 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Call (843) 671-6136 (Sea Pines) or (843) 815-5551 (Bluffton) or go to www.trufflescafe.com to make reservations.

THE WRECK OF THE SALTY DOG Located at South Beach Marina in Sea Pines. Enjoy a casual and fun atmosphere in the same spirit as The Salty Dog Cafe. Serving a full bar with excellent food and waterfront view overlooking South Beach Marina and Braddock’s Cove, The Wreck offers excellent Happy Hour drink and appetizer specials. Available for private parties. Call (843) 671-SEAS (7327) for seasonal hours.