One Hot Mama's American Grille

One Hot Mama's is a Hilton Head institution for BBQ and Southern cooking, now in its new location near the Sea Pines gate. Chef and Food Network star Orchid Paulmeier runs the kitchen, so the BBQ legitimacy is real — this isn't tourist BBQ, it's the actual thing.

Big outdoor patio, full bar with strong cocktails, and an energy that picks up late. The mac and cheese is the kind of side dish that becomes the main event. The BBQ plates are properly smoked and properly sauced. And the Southern home cooking specials are the reason locals come back on repeat.

It's the south-end spot when you want something hearty, smoky, and fun rather than refined. The late-night energy is real.