Bluffton, SC, February 13, 2026
Alchile Mexican Grill, a family-owned restaurant, is set to open in April, occupying the former Kenny B’s space in Bluffton, SC. The new eatery will offer authentic Mexican cuisine with influences from Texas and California. This opening not only adds diversity to the local dining scene but also supports Bluffton’s economic growth by creating jobs and enhancing consumer choices. With a menu featuring items like street tacos and signature burritos, Alchile aims to become a community staple in a town characterized by innovation and entrepreneurship.
Bluffton, SC
A New Culinary Chapter: Alchile Mexican Grill to Reinvigorate Former Kenny B’s Space
Bluffton’s vibrant economic landscape continues to evolve, demonstrating the resilience and innovative spirit that defines South Carolina’s entrepreneurs. A new family-owned venture, Alchile Mexican Grill, is set to open its doors this April, taking over the former Kenny B’s space in Bluffton. This transition marks an exciting development for the local dining scene, promising fresh flavors and contributing to the dynamic growth of the Beaufort County economy.
The arrival of Alchile Mexican Grill underscores a positive trend in Bluffton, a community increasingly recognized for its thriving business opportunities and supportive environment for new enterprises. Such private investments not only diversify consumer choices but also create jobs and foster a robust local economy, showcasing the benefits of a community that welcomes entrepreneurial innovation.
Alchile Mexican Grill: A Family Endeavor with Authentic Flavors
Alchile Mexican Grill, a family-run restaurant, plans to open in April, bringing authentic Mexican flavors with Texan and Californian influences to Bluffton. This establishment is part of a family tradition of serving communities, with its roots tracing back to Ridgeland, SC, where they have operated since November 2020. The family has been an active part of that community since 1998. The menu offers a diverse selection, including appetizers, nachos, steaks, burgers, burritos, various specialties, chicken dishes, and seafood options, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Patrons can look forward to dishes like street tacos, California burritos, and Texas fajitas, along with signature drinks such as frozen margarita pitchers. The restaurant also features specialties like the “Alchile Burrito” with steak and pork carnitas, “Arroz con Camaron” featuring jumbo shrimp, and “Tilapia Florentina”.
Kenny B’s Legacy and Bluffton’s Evolving Dining Scene
The space now being transformed for Alchile Mexican Grill was previously home to Kenny B’s, a restaurant known for its New Orleans-style cuisine. Kenny B’s held a significant presence in the area, having been a Hilton Head staple for 26 years. While Kenny B’s has permanently closed its former location near Hilton Head, the restaurant had planned a move in May 2023 to 70 Pope Ave. Suite A, Hilton Head, with intentions to reopen by Mardi Gras. The transition of this prominent Bluffton location to a new enterprise highlights the natural cycle of business in a growing area, where new ventures emerge to meet evolving community demands.
Bluffton’s Economic Momentum and Small Business Support
Bluffton, often dubbed a “Southern Dream Town,” is experiencing rapid growth, offering a unique blend of small-town charm and expanding business opportunities. The town actively fosters a welcoming environment for entrepreneurs, providing resources through organizations like the Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, which offers networking and support, and the Don Ryan Center for Innovation, which provides co-working spaces and business development services for startups. The local government also offers business resources, including information on permits and zoning. Hospitality, including restaurants, plays a significant role in Bluffton’s economy, catering to both residents and visitors. The influx of new businesses like Alchile Mexican Grill contributes to job creation, increased property values, and substantial tax revenue that supports local infrastructure, schools, and community services. Bluffton’s commitment to strategic economic development and streamlined permitting processes has made it an attractive location for businesses seeking to launch or relocate.
The Positive Impact of Culinary Innovation
New restaurants are integral to the revitalization of neighborhoods, often sparking investment interest from homeowners and real estate developers. By maintaining high standards of service and quality, establishments can become community staples, enhancing the overall desirability of an area. The success of local restaurants contributes to the local economy through increased business, revenue, and profitability, which in turn boosts property and sales taxes. Furthermore, restaurants provide essential employment opportunities, offering flexible work arrangements that attract a diverse workforce. Many successful restaurants also partner with local suppliers, such as farms, bakeries, and butchers, further strengthening the regional economy and promoting sustainable practices. This interconnectedness demonstrates how new ventures like Alchile Mexican Grill play a crucial role in the sustained economic health and vitality of communities like Bluffton.
The upcoming opening of Alchile Mexican Grill in Bluffton represents more than just a new dining option; it signifies the continuous dynamism of the local economy and the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship in the Lowcountry. As residents and visitors alike anticipate the fresh culinary experiences, it is a reminder of the power of private investment and small-business ingenuity to enrich our communities. Supporting these local enterprises is vital for Bluffton’s sustained economic growth and vibrant future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What new restaurant is replacing the former Kenny B’s space in Bluffton?
Alchile Mexican Grill, a family-owned Mexican restaurant, is set to replace the former Kenny B’s space in Bluffton.
When is Alchile Mexican Grill expected to open?
Alchile Mexican Grill plans an April opening.
What type of cuisine will Alchile Mexican Grill offer?
Alchile Mexican Grill will offer authentic Mexican flavors with Texan and Californian influences, including a diverse selection of appetizers, nachos, steaks, burgers, burritos, various specialties, chicken dishes, and seafood options.
What was Kenny B’s known for?
Kenny B’s was known for its New Orleans-style cuisine and was a Hilton Head staple for 26 years.
What is Bluffton’s reputation regarding business growth?
Bluffton is often referred to as a “Southern Dream Town” and is recognized for its rapid growth, blossoming business opportunities, and supportive environment for entrepreneurs.
Key Features of the New Restaurant and Former Occupant
| Feature | Alchile Mexican Grill (New Occupant) | Kenny B’s (Former Occupant) |
|---|---|---|
| Cuisine Type | Authentic Mexican with Texan and Californian influences | New Orleans-style cuisine |
| Ownership | Family-owned | (Not specified in provided context for former Bluffton location, but was a longtime staple) |
| Planned Opening/History in Location | April opening (Bluffton) | Former space in Bluffton (specific opening/closing date for Bluffton not detailed, but was a Hilton Head staple for 26 years) |
| Current Status (as per related facts) | Opening in Bluffton | Permanently closed its former location near Hilton Head, moved to 70 Pope Ave. Suite A, Hilton Head in May 2023. |
| Menu Highlights (if available) | Street tacos, California burritos, Texas fajitas, Alchile Burrito, Arroz con Camaron, Tilapia Florentina | (Not specified in provided context for menu highlights) |
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Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
