The Lowcountry is known for its delicious and fresh seafood dishes, but there’s another type of cuisine that may have gotten its roots right on Parris Island! Did you know that South Carolina is often called the Birthplace of Barbecue? Many people and regions have claimed to be the same, and there are certainly a wide variety of sauces and methods within that Southern Barbecue umbrella.
According to an article by Discover South Carolina, the Spanish and American Indians shared their traditions and ideas while they were on Santa Elena, which is now known as Parris Island. The Spanish had been raising pigs and the tribe used their method of cooking with an open flame…the outcome is considered to be the first time a pig was barbecued. Click here to read the article, “The Birthplace of Barbecue.”
Just as there are other guides for foodies to find their favorite dish, South Carolina has its very own Barbecue Trail. In the following list of places to find great barbecue on Hilton Head Island, we’ve specified that restaurants are stops along the Coastal section of the trail. Find the complete trail here.
Slowcountry BBQ & Grill–Now Open!
1 N Forest Beach Dr,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 341-3473
If you were wondering what was replacing Forrest Fire BBQ, you now have your answer! The restaurant has officially reopened as Slowcountry BBQ & Grill–same location, still delicious! Your group will get to chow down on tasty slow-smoked BBQ (since life is a little slower in the Lowcountry), with everyone finding their new favorite dishes! BBQ, burgers, and fried chicken are all on the menu, including classic Southern sides like Potato Salad and slaw, as well as starters to share with the table such as Boiled Peanut Hummus, Trash Can Nachos, Georgia Shrimp & Crab Gumbo, and so much more.
One Hot Mama’s American Grill
35 Office Park Rd,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 682-6262
On the BBQ Trail
Food Network Star, Orchid, has brought award-winning barbecue to the island, along with a family-friendly atmosphere at both Hilton Head Island and Bluffton locations. One Hot Mama’s offers a list of starters that might make you drool, featuring some award-winning chili, and other mouthwatering plates such as the fried, Stack A Mac, Chocolate BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Brisket Queso, and more. Not only does this spot serve up some seriously good hickory-smoked BBQ, but award-winning wings and other house favorite dishes.
The Smokehouse
34 Palmetto Bay Rd,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-4227
On the BBQ Trail
Once located near Coligny Circle, The Smokehouse is now in a beautiful new building off Palmetto Bay Road. As impressive-looking as the restaurant is, expect the barbecue to completely wow you. The award-winning BBQ plates are crowd favorites, but add on a large bar area to watch the game, a delicious happy hour menu full of deals, and an outdoor patio to relax in.
Bear Market BBQ
50 Pope Ave,
Hilton Head Island, SC 20029
(843) 715-3942
Located inside The Bank, Hilton Head Island’s only beer garden, this BBQ spot shares this venue with a few other types of cuisines from tacos at Mo’ Money Tacos, burgers from Bank Heist Burgers, pizza from Payday Pizza, and seafood sandwiches and baskets from All About the Benjamins. This is the perfect place if you’re traveling with a group who can’t decide what to eat! Bear Market BBQ’s menu is straight to the point and will have all you need if you’re craving pulled pork, brisket, and more. You’ll also have the option of sitting inside or outside in The Bank’s outdoor space that features various settings for guests to hang out, enjoy their food and drinks, and even listen to live entertainment.
