Hilton Head Island, SC, January 14, 2026
Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge, a cherished family-owned restaurant on Hilton Head Island, will close its doors on January 17 due to new investor plans for the building. Despite the sudden closure, owners Ezron and Lakesha Daley are determined to find a new location on the island while continuing operations at their Bluffton restaurant. This change reflects the evolving business landscape in Hilton Head and the resilience of local entrepreneurs committed to serving the community.
Hilton Head
Hilton Head’s Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine & Lounge Prepares for Closure
A beloved local family-owned Caribbean restaurant on Hilton Head Island, Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge, is set to close its doors at its island location on January 17, as investors plan a new vision for the building. Despite this unexpected development, the restaurant’s ownership remains committed to its culinary mission and actively seeks a new Hilton Head home. The closure highlights both the dynamic nature of the island’s business landscape and the enduring spirit of local entrepreneurship.
The Lowcountry, including Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, thrives on the resilience and innovation of its small businesses. These enterprises are often the heartbeat of our communities, reflecting the entrepreneurial drive that underpins economic vitality. While changes in the business environment, such as property redevelopment, can present challenges, they also underscore the importance of adaptability and community support in fostering sustained economic growth and opportunity.
Sudden Closure and Future Ambitions
A New Vision for the Atrium Location
Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge, which has been a popular culinary destination on Hilton Head Island since its opening on July 30, 2020, will officially cease operations at its Hilton Head location on January 17. The owners, Ezron and Lakesha Daley, received notification on December 23 that they needed to vacate the premises by February 1. The reason cited for this abrupt change is that investors have a “different vision” for the building where the restaurant is located, leaving Red Stripes to scramble for a new site.
A Commitment to Continue Serving the Community
Despite the unexpected nature of the closure, the Daley family has emphasized that the business itself is not ending. Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge will continue to operate its original Bluffton location at 8 Pin Oak St. The team announced the Hilton Head closure on January 10 via Facebook, assuring patrons that they are actively searching for a new location on the island. This determination exemplifies the resilience often seen among South Carolina SC entrepreneurs, who navigate market shifts with a resolve to continue contributing to the Beaufort County economy.
The Hilton Head Business Environment: Opportunities and Challenges
Economic Growth and Small Business Contributions
Hilton Head SC business activity continues to be robust, with the island experiencing significant economic growth driven by tourism and new business ventures. In 2024, Hilton Head Island saw an influx of 2.8 million visitors, generating $2.8 billion in tourism revenue. Furthermore, 160 new businesses opened in 2024 alone, increasing the total active businesses to 2,514. Small businesses are particularly vital to the state’s economy, employing approximately 45.3% of the total workforce across South Carolina and representing 99.4% of all firms.
Navigating Operational Hurdles
While economic indicators point to growth, local businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, often face various operational challenges. These can include workforce shortages, which have impacted restaurants in Beaufort County, leading to reduced hours or increased prices in some instances. The cost of living on the island has also been cited as a factor affecting hiring. Supply chain issues, which gained prominence during recent global challenges, have also led to temporary closures for some establishments seeking innovative solutions. These factors highlight the complex environment in which Hilton Head small business owners operate, requiring continuous adaptation and strategic planning.
Supporting Local and Sustaining Entrepreneurial Spirit
Community Engagement and Resources
The dedication of businesses like Red Stripes to find a new home underscores the strong entrepreneurial spirit prevalent in the Lowcountry. Resources such as the Town of Hilton Head Island ATax Grant program aim to support cultural and heritage tourism-related activities, events, and programs, contributing to the community’s economic vitality. Organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and SCORE SC Lowcountry provide platforms for networking, business development, and mentorship, aiding local entrepreneurs in navigating the competitive business landscape.
The Path Forward for Hilton Head’s Economy
The temporary disruption for Red Stripes is a reminder that even in a thriving economic environment, businesses encounter unforeseen circumstances. The focus on local innovation and leadership in Hilton Head economic growth is crucial. By fostering a supportive ecosystem for small businesses—through community engagement, access to resources, and policies that encourage development—Hilton Head can ensure its economic future remains dynamic and robust, allowing local favorites to continue to flourish.
Conclusion
The upcoming closure of Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge’s Hilton Head location, though prompted by external factors, showcases the tenacity of its owners and the broader spirit of Hilton Head small business. As the Daley family actively seeks a new location, their commitment to their customers and culinary tradition remains steadfast. This situation serves as an important moment to reflect on the importance of local businesses to the Beaufort County economy and the collective responsibility to support the entrepreneurs who enrich our community. We encourage our readers to continue supporting local businesses across the island and in Bluffton, and to stay engaged with the ongoing developments that shape Hilton Head’s economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Hilton Head location of Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge closing?
The Hilton Head location of Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge will officially close on January 17.
Why is Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge closing its Hilton Head location?
The owners were notified that they had to vacate the space because investors had a “different vision” for the building.
Is Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge closing permanently?
No, the business itself is not ending. The owners emphasize that Red Stripes will continue to operate its original Bluffton location.
Where is the original Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge location?
The original Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge location is in Bluffton, at 8 Pin Oak St.
When did Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge first open its Hilton Head location?
Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge first opened its Hilton Head location on July 30, 2020.
What kind of cuisine does Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge offer?
Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge offers Caribbean-inspired dishes with bold flavors, including customer favorites like jerk wings, oxtails, vegan items, and seafood.
Key Details of Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge Closure
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Restaurant Name | Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine and Lounge |
| Location Closing | Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Official Closure Date | January 17 |
| Reason for Closure | Investors have a “different vision” for the building, leading to an abrupt vacate notice. |
| Original Opening Date (Hilton Head) | July 30, 2020 |
| Status of Business | Hilton Head location closing; Bluffton location remains open, seeking new Hilton Head site. |
| Bluffton Location | 8 Pin Oak St, Bluffton |
| Cuisine Style | Caribbean-inspired, featuring bold flavors, jerk wings, oxtails, vegan options, and seafood. |
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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.
