The Smokehouse on Hilton Head
“Ribs, Rhythm, and Brews”
The Smokehouse, a beloved BBQ restaurant on Hilton Head Island, has been serving mouthwatering meals since 1999. After a devastating fire in 2019, the restaurant has risen from the ashes at a new location off Palmetto Bay Road, continuing its legacy of providing unforgettable dining experiences.
Rebirth of The Smokehouse
On June 9, 2019, a fire caused by an electrical problem led to the total loss of the original Smokehouse building. Recalling the incident, owner Jerry Leonard told WJCL, “It was a frantic ride down here to find firetrucks in the parking lot, the building smoking, and my life going up in flames.”
The incident occurred just two weeks after the restaurant’s 20th anniversary.
Despite the setback, Leonard and his team embarked on a strenuous rebuilding process. The pandemic presented additional challenges, including supply chain issues, labor shortages, and increased material costs.
However, after exactly 800 days, The Smokehouse reopened its doors. Leonard expressed his excitement, saying, “We’re glad they’re coming back through the doors. Happy to see them again. A lot of old faces I haven’t seen since the fire. So it’s been great.”
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Menu Highlights
The Smokehouse offers a diverse lunch and dinner menu, with specialties like barbeque, ribs, wings, and chili. The happy hour menu features popular items like the $1 pork taco and new additions such as Steak Tacos, Fried Pickles, Fried Mac & Cheese Bites, and Bone-in Wings.
The Smokehouse’s menu is a BBQ lover’s dream come true, offering a wide array of mouthwatering options that cater to all tastes.
BBQ Specialties
At the heart of The Smokehouse’s menu are their BBQ specialties. The Pork BBQ Plate and Texas Brisket Plate are house favorites, slow-cooked to perfection and served with a side of their signature BBQ sauce.
The ribs, famous for their succulent and fall-off-the-bone tenderness, are a must-try. As one satisfied customer, Karen Kelley, told WJCL, “I love the ribs of course. They’re famous for their ribs. So that’s my favorite.”
Wings and More
If you’re a fan of wings, The Smokehouse has you covered. Their wings are known for their perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness, making them a favorite among patrons. Kelley also praised the wings, saying, “My second [favorite] is the wings.”
Happy Hour Delights
The Smokehouse’s happy hour menu is a treasure trove of delicious bites. The return of the popular $1 pork taco is sure to delight, while new additions like Steak Tacos, Fried Pickles, Fried Mac & Cheese Bites, and Bone-in Wings offer a variety of flavors to explore.
Online Ordering
The convenience of online ordering allows you to enjoy The Smokehouse’s offerings from the comfort of your home. From appetizers like Smokehouse Nachos and BBQ Shrimp to a variety of sandwiches, desserts, and sides, there’s something for everyone.
Atmosphere and Experience
The Smokehouse provides an atmosphere where patrons can watch their favorite sporting events and enjoy a selection of the country’s best brews. The restaurant is committed to creating memories and providing a consistent dining experience.
The new look of the restaurant, complete with its iconic fireplace, offers a fresh yet familiar ambiance. To top things off, their new rooftop bar provides an exciting addition to the dining experience.
Returning customers have been thrilled with the restaurant’s comeback. Kelley, shared her enthusiasm, saying, “Had to get out here quick as we could, absolutely. This is my third time here since their opening in, what, four days, maybe?”
Handcrafted Cocktails
The Smokehouse isn’t just about great food; it also offers an impressive selection of handcrafted cocktails that perfectly complement their BBQ offerings.
Whether you’re a fan of classic cocktails or looking to try something new, The Smokehouse has you covered. Their bartenders are skilled in crafting a variety of cocktails, each one a perfect blend of flavors designed to delight your palate.
From refreshing, citrusy cocktails perfect for a hot day to rich, warming drinks for a cozy evening, there’s a cocktail for every mood and occasion. In addition to their cocktail offerings, The Smokehouse also features a rotating selection of draft beers, making it a perfect spot for beer enthusiasts.
Whether you’re wrapping up your meal with a smooth, sipping cocktail or starting your dining experience with a crisp, cold beer on the rooftop bar, The Smokehouse ensures your drink is as memorable as your meal.
Final Words
The Smokehouse’s triumphant return from a devastating fire is a testament to its resilience and commitment to serving excellent BBQ. Both locals and tourists looking for a great dining experience on Hilton Head Island should consider The Smokehouse.
With its rich history, delicious food, and exciting future, it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the community and the power of good food to bring people together. This sentiment encapsulates the heart of The Smokehouse – a place of reunion, joy, and of course, fantastic BBQ.
What Folks are Saying about The Smokehouse
Google Review
Among the many Google Reviews, Local Guide Mike Reilly knows that The Smokehouse is even worth waiting for:
This is an excellent place to eat!
It’s a nice atmosphere and the staff were all very friendly. I got the sampler with the four meats and two sides. The ribs were perfect, the pulled pork was very good, the chicken was juicy and tender, and the brisket had great flavor but was a little dry.
The sauces were all flavorful. I got the mac and cheese and baked beans as my sides and both were good.
We went on Labor Day for dinner and didn’t have to wait for a table. I expect this place gets packed in peak season though. Even if there’s a long wait, I’d say it’s worth it!
Yelp Review
Over on Yelp, Mike S can spot a good thing when he sees it:
Found this gem after shooting for the restaurant next door and seeing the super long line to get in.
Had the chicken corn chowder and potato skins (stuffed with brisket!) along with the burnt ends meal with coleslaw and macaroni and cheese. All of it was delicious!
The mac ‘n’ cheese tastes like homemade, not super sharp cheddar, a more mellow cheesy flavor that was fantastic. It also had that burnt-cheesy “skin” you get from making a huge pan of it that was amazing.
My wife had the brisket sandwich that was moist and flavorful and came out with NO sauce on it, as good BBQ should – you can add your own from the selection on the table.
My (picky) 5-year-old had a burger with the mac ‘n’ cheese as well and he loved it. I tried a bite of the burger and it was fantastic too!
But the real star was the cornbread – I had a piece come with my meal and made the mistake of letting my wife and son try a bite. We had to order them pieces and get an order to go. Phenomenal!
Our waitress was super nice and kept the drinks flowing and even got us sweet teas to go as we left. Ask for Alexandria when you go, she’s awesome!
Menu for The Smokehouse on Hilton Head
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant for the most up-to-date information.
Location, Hours, Contact Info, and More
Map
Directions
Contact The Smokehouse on Hilton Head
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Hours of Operation
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Review Sites
Features
Cards and Cash, Heavy Tomato Sauce, Mustard Sauce, Vinegar Pepper Sauce