News Summary
Bullies BBQ, a beloved restaurant on Hilton Head Island, will reopen on May 1 under founder Bob Sutton after a temporary closure. Known for its South Carolina-style barbecue, the eatery has a strong local following and will retain its signature menu items, including pulled pork and brisket. The reopening comes as locals reminisce about the closure of neighboring Stack’s Pancakes & More after two decades. Sutton returns to helm operations with the help of local entrepreneur Jeff Haines and his daughter, who will manage the day-to-day operations.
Hilton Head Island to Welcome Back Bullies BBQ on May 1
Bullies BBQ, a cherished eatery on Hilton Head Island, is set to reopen its doors on May 1 after a brief closure. The restaurant, recognized for its distinctive counter-service style and authentic South Carolina cuisine, is making a comeback under its original founder, Bob Sutton, who will resume operations after a period of retirement.
Founded in 2012, Bullies BBQ has built a loyal following in the Hilton Head community. The restaurant had been sold to new ownership at the end of 2022, transitioning to an employee-owned and operated model. However, the new owners have decided to return the restaurant to Sutton by the end of 2024, prompting him to pause his retirement to reopen the establishment for locals and tourists alike.
Sutton’s passion for French Bulldogs inspired the restaurant’s name, a theme that is reflected in the decor, featuring photos of these beloved pets. To assist in the reopening process, Sutton is partnering with local businessman Jeff Haines, who runs a painting and lapidary business. Haines’s daughter, Brisa Adame, will take charge as the operations manager.
Location and Offerings
Bullies BBQ is located at 3 Regency Parkway, occupying a former gas station situated across the street from Nectar, directly in front of the Red Roof Inn. The restaurant will offer a variety of dining options, including dine-in, delivery, and takeout services, to cater to the preferences of its patrons.
Known for its slow-smoked meats, Bullies BBQ is particularly famous for its South Carolina pulled pork recipe. The restaurant utilizes Hickory and Mesquite woods for smoking, resulting in meats that are rich in flavor; ribs are smoked for up to 6 hours, while pork and briskets are prepared for up to 14 hours.
Menu Highlights
The reopening will feature a selection of original menu items that have been staples for the restaurant, including:
- Brisket Sandwich
- Pork Sandwich
- Chicken Sandwich
- Pork slab dinner
- Soups
- Country sides
Additionally, Bullies BBQ is celebrated for offering a variety of sauces that range from sweet brown sugar options to spicier flavors, providing something for every palate.
Operating Hours
The restaurant’s operations will run from Monday to Saturday, operating from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Plans are also in place to open on Sundays, likely starting at noon, expanding access for customers seeking out their barbecue fix.
Closure of Neighbouring Business
In related news, a formal announcement regarding Stack’s Pancakes & More, the diner located next to Bullies BBQ, revealed that it has permanently closed after serving the community for two decades. While Bullies BBQ prepares for its revival, residents will reflect on the longstanding presence of Stack’s and anticipate the renewed culinary offerings from the barbecue establishment.
As Bullies BBQ prepares for its reopening, the community looks forward to the return of a local favorite that has become synonymous with flavorful barbecue and a welcoming atmosphere.
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HERE Resources
Hilton Head Island’s Bullies BBQ to Reopen on May 1, 2025
Additional Resources
- AOL: Beloved SC BBQ Restaurant
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Barbecue
- Island Packet: Food & Drink
- Google Search: Bullies BBQ Hilton Head
- Cleveland.com: Bullies BBQ, Burgers & Wings
