restaurants + bars

Hilton Head Island Travel Tips + Must-Sees!

October 27, 2019 by Rachel 45 Comments

My first trip to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina was just over 2 years ago. From the moment we returned home, we’ve been dreaming and planning our next trip to Hilton Head. Now considering myself a semi-pro at Hilton Head, I want to provide you with all of my go-to places and must-sees! Check out these Hilton Head Travel Tips!

One thing that was set well in advance was our condo for the week. We stayed at Seacrest Villas, directly on the North Forest Beach, and just steps away from Coligny Plaza.

Our condo was beautiful. It was three-bedrooms, 3-baths, and had a full kitchen and dining room — plus TWO balconies! It was truly gorgeous! And part of me — the super mom part of me — could have had just that and nothing else for an entire week. No responsibilities; not our house; no laundry and cleaning — just that for a week.

But there was so much to do!

Annie O’s Kitchen

We discovered this place by pure chance. We found ourselves upon a child-free evening and had not at all planned it out. Where would we go alone!? Well, a google search later and the results… showed a bunch of other places. But I happened to see the description of this restaurant — their meats, dairy, and eggs, are all-natural and cruelty-free. There are no antibiotics, no preservatives, no pesticides, and sustainable. Basically, totally our wheelhouse.

I had the Chicken and French Toast (what a fun play on chicken + waffles!) and Chad got the flash-fried whole flounder with collard greens.

We absolutely loved the atmosphere and the vibe from the staff. They were incredibly hands-on — the chef even came by to deliver our meals to the table. The cornbread? Bomb. The sweet tea? SO bomb. The desserts?! OMG I can’t even!

After our dining experience, we convinced the whole family to join us for a ‘last hurrah’ dinner at Annie O’s. And the whole extended family all said, hands down, the best food we had during the whole trip!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Join their VIP Club to receive special deals like BOGO 50% off entrees. And make a reservation before you go!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Somewhat. The atmosphere is less appealing to children, but the waitstaff and other employees were super friendly to the kids.

DETAILS: Annie O’s Kitchen. 124 Arrow Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 341-2664

Coligny Splash Pad

The beach, the pool… they can be… exhausting for parents. There’s just so much sand and ‘stuff,’ that kids need. This splash pad was a perfect break for all of us. Located near Coligny Plaza, the splash pad is just off the beach and easily accessible.

Our kids had a blast running in and out of the fountains — and even made a couple of friends! I suggest hitting the splash pad first thing in the morning before the sun really starts beating down on the kids. But, in case you find yourself there a little later, just know that it does have a little overhead shade, thanks to the awesome trees!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive first thing in the morning for the least amount of overcrowding.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: 100%!

DETAILS: Coligny Beach Park. 1 N Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

Skull Creek Boathouse

My sister insisted that we go here. We were having a rough day with the kiddos and I didn’t have even a second to check out the menu ahead of time. But I’m so happy that I put all of my trust in her with this restaurant decision!

When we arrived shortly after 5 PM, the place was already packed with an hour wait for outside seating. As much as we wanted to sit outside, we were also dealing with a time limit thanks to the kiddos bedtimes! Instead, we opted for an immediate high-top table inside. Believe it or not, they have highchairs for the high-top tables, so they could easily accommodate two infants.

Our meals were delicious! I ordered the fried fish and chips and a big side of hush puppies (because, yum!). And Chad ordered a lobster rice bowl that tasted amazing.

My sister and her husband loved the Lowcountry boil — and I had some serious food envy of them!

After our meal, we headed to the dock to check out the views. On the other side of the dock there is a beautiful outdoor beer garden with picnic tables, sandboxes for kids, and giant connect four games. The live music was a young guy playing guitar and singing up on stage. It was the perfect way to spend an evening!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive early and be prepared to wait if you are looking for outdoor seating. But also enjoy that time in the beer garden while you wait!
The restaurant will text you when your table is ready!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Really family-friendly! Each child will get to pick a prize from the treasure box after the meal. The outdoor beer garden is the perfect place for parents to spend a relaxing evening with young kids.

DETAILS: Skull Creek Boathouse. 397 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.
(843) 681-3663

Java Burrito

We stopped here, first and foremost, for the Java. But I was so impressed by the food setup that I had to come back later in the week to try it out. It’s nestled in a business park on William Hilton Parkway, so you almost have to go searching for it, but I promise it’s worth it!

Their coffee bar is definitely high-end, specialty coffee, with a huge clientele that prefers a pour-over (hello!? LOVE pour overs!). But they also offer cocktails for those customers who are going to hang out in the cool café for a bit!

As far as the food, they offer Mexican-style burritos and bowls with ingredients that are locally sourced, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Yep – they do breakfast burritos with farm-fresh eggs!

I opted for a burrito with chicken, rice, beans, queso, and guacamole. As someone that frequents other fast-casual burrito places, I can tell you that this was far superior to the rest of them. The freshness is something that you can taste!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Take a look at the menu online ahead of time so that you have an idea of what you want to order. Definitely order coffee, too!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Yes, for a quick family meal. But not for lounging around.

DETAILS: Java Burrito. 1000 William Hilton Pkwy Suite J6, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.
(843) 842-5282

Duck Donuts

So I realize that this is a franchise location and not a native Hilton Head Island thing… but for those of us who do not live near a Duck Donuts, checking this out while we’re on the island is KEY.

See, I have a love affair with donuts. I like them fancy and I like them plain — I don’t discriminate! Ha!

These donuts are served up fresh out of the fryer! We customized our order of a dozen and a half so that we could basically try all of them. Somehow a single plain old fashioned donut ended up in our pack. And I swear to you that is the best darn old fashioned, plain old donut, I have ever had!

(Good news, Ohio friends — there are several Duck Donuts locations open, including Polaris, Pinecrest, and soon-to-be, Summit Mall!)

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Prepare to wait in line — this place is popular!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very! The kids have fun watching the donuts being made.

DETAILS: Duck Donuts. 890 William Hilton Pkwy #70, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-3825

Frosty Frog

This little dive of a frozen cocktail bar is located in Coligny Plaza and features about 25 different frozen daiquiri combinations such as a Hurricane, Grape Danger, Sex on the Peach, Piña Colada, and Jungle Juice! Real Talk: They put all of their drinks, daiquiri or not, in styrofoam to-go cups — whether you’re eating in or taking food to go. Also, you’re allowed to walk with the open container anywhere within Coligny Plaza.

We took our daiquiris to go and walked around the plaza a few nights. They were so delicious! My favorites were Jump Start and Grape Danger.

After several visits, we decided to give their pizza a shot. And OMG it’s delicious! Like, really good and the slices are, as Ari would say, GINORMOUS!

HILTON HEAD TIPS: If there are more than 3 of you ordering daiquiris, save yourself a few bucks and order a gallon to-go. It’s the most cost-effective way to sip some frozen yummies!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Not very. We saw a lot of children with their parents, but it’s really more of a bar than anything else.

DETAILS: Frosty Frog Cafe. 1 N Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 686-3764

Lowcountry Backyard

Located in Palmetto Dunes, this gem of a restaurant serves up local cuisine with some serious Lowcountry flair! We arrived just before 4:30 PM, which is when they open for dinner service. We were quickly greeted with two other families awaiting the dinner ‘bell’! Great minds (and early bedtimes for babies — likely)!

The atmosphere in the outdoor seating area is awesome. There’s giant Jenga, a hillbilly golf set, a giant porch swing, and a stage for the nightly solo performances.

Our food did not disappoint. Between the fried green tomatoes, the shrimp and grits, crab dip, and grilled pimento cheese sandwiches, we left… ~~satisfied~~ very full.

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Arrive right when they open to avoid a wait. Sit outdoors.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very. There is so much to keep the kids entertained, between the games, the music, and the mason jars with lids as sippy cups!

DETAILS: A Lowcountry Backyard. 32 Palmetto Bay Road, #4A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 785-9273

Pirates of Hilton Head

My husband took our four-year-old on this adventure, just the two of them, as a special treat. The Pirates of Hilton Head is an excursion in Harbour Town (near the lighthouse!) on The Black Dagger! The kids, which range in age from 3-10, in groups of about 20 children (max), learn to speak like pirates, get tattoos, and takedown Stinky Pete with water cannons! Ari had such an amazing time and came home with enough gold doubloons to last him a lifetime! We will definitely be hitting this up with every visit.

HILTON HEAD TIPS: Check Groupon and other discount sites to see if they have any deals first (they did for us!). Also, make sure you plan to spend some time in Harbour Town because there’s a $6 fee to be in the area, but you will have in-and-out privileges all day. Final tip — wear a small backpack and bring plenty of water and snacks.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RATING: Very much so! Especially for kids 3 and up!

DETAILS: Pirates of Hilton Head. 149 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 363-7000

We will certainly be making Hilton Head our go-to vacation spot from here on out. I can’t wait to visit all of these places again! Make sure you pin this for later! xo

Grape Falls + Craft Brews

August 8, 2019 by Rachel 11 Comments

When I started my job at the Akron YMCA nearly 4 years ago, I was unaware of how much it would change me. I’ve always had a heart for my community, but I was never quite sure how to channel that energy into real change. To my surprise and excitement, I found a way to make a difference with the Riverfront YMCA.

In fact, my absolute favorite part of being involved with the YMCA is the outpouring of love, support, and funding for (and from) the local community through programs like our annual campaign.

Did you know that the YMCA offers income-based scholarships for any family, adult, or senior that wishes to participate in their programs? That’s right — you will not be turned away, regardless of your ability to pay the fee in question.

The biggest fundraiser that our Riverfront Family YMCA branch hosts each year to support this cause is Grape Falls + Craft Brews.

…

Explore Ohio // Family-Friendly Summer Fun at Pinecrest

June 9, 2019 by Rachel 14 Comments

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY PINECREST BUT THE CONTENT AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED HERE ARE MY OWN.

Summer may not ‘officially’ start for another couple of weeks, but our local schools have been out for a couple of weeks now and we are in full-swing Summer mode!

I purposefully adjusted my Summer work schedule to maximize the time that the kids and I can spend time doing things we enjoy the most — like visiting museums, hitting up the library, and exploring local events.

And we are VERY excited to check out all of the family-friendly events taking place at Pinecrest in Orange Village!

If you haven’t yet been to Pinecrest, you’re truly missing out. Between the shops and restaurants, it’s also an amazing community of vendors and Cleveland supporters. And the family-friendly Summer event schedule is jam-packed with incredible opportunities to visit, explore, and open doors to adventure!

If you visit today, there is a Give Gifted Summer Marketplace taking place in Pinecrest’s Central Park and it features small-shop vendors like Little Red Bird Custom Cookies and Art of Sucre (whose kid doesn’t love cut-out cookies and fancy cotton candy?!). And every Sunday through the Summer they will feature a free concert series called “Simple Summer Sundays,” which sounds like a great way to wrap-up the weekend.

Weekday events like this Tuesday’s Pinecrest Play Days with NEO Parent are just as easy to come by. My crew and I will be there to kick off the season with their inaugural event, which is conveniently themed Summer Camp Out. The event will feature crafts, games, prizes, snacks, balloon art, temporary glitter tattoos, and more. It’s sure to be a fantastic way to keep the kids busy and entertained!

Other family-friendly events include:

Outdoor Movie Nights (Weekly, Wednesday’s at 8:00 PM — to include Ralph Breaks The Internet, Frozen, and more!)
North Union Farmer’s Market (Weekly, Saturday’s from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Free Outdoor Yoga Classes (Weekly, Wednesday’s at 6:30 PM)

See below for a full schedule of Summer events!

Bonus Pro-Tip: While you’re there, treat yo’self (and your kids) to an extra special treat from Duck Donuts, Condado Tacos, or Pinstripes for Brunch! You won’t regret it.

What event

are you most excited

to attend?

Taking A Moment To Find Myself // My 3rd Postpartum Journey

May 13, 2019 by Rachel 13 Comments

I needed this Mother’s Day in ways that I cannot even convey to you. Just Saturday, I was a broken down mother — exhausted from the grind, full of self-doubt and self-pity. But late Saturday evening, I purchased a pass to Balance + Brews at Royal Docks in Canton.

Balance + Brews is a group of local yoga teachers that do pop up classes in craft breweries throughout Northeast Ohio. I’ve been meaning to show up for a class for years, but there was always a reason I couldn’t make it. In fact, this time I almost self-sabotaged — I almost decided not to go because I was afraid of going alone. But I bought the ticket anyway. I committed.

And as I was driving down the highway completely alone, blasting music from my college days, I realized… I needed this. I honestly cannot tell you the last time I went further than Target (which is about a half mile) in the car without a child.

And then to have a meal completely alone? It just sealed the deal for me.

Don’t get me wrong, I love my children. But the weight of always being “on” has really taken a toll lately. It took me until Sunday to realize just how much I missed being with my most authentic self. And in those moments of ~~screaming~~ singing Thursday songs at the top of my lungs, I made a vow to make myself a priority. Starting now.

So to all of the mama’s out there who are struggling to find their new identity, I see you. If you can, go ahead and take a drive, blast that music, and remember who you are.

And Happy (Belated) Mother’s Day.

7 Ohio Breweries to Visit on National Beer Day

April 5, 2019 by Rachel 30 Comments

Did you know that this Sunday, April 7th, is National Beer Day? Well, I for one am here for it, friends! Anyway, to celebrate my love of hops and local breweries is something I can get excited for. And here in Northeast Ohio, we have so many incredible craft brewers and micro-breweries! I’ve rounded up a list of my favorites. Perhaps you should give one (or two) a visit this Sunday!

HiHo Brewing Company //

This is the local fave of many. Homebrewers turned pro-brewers, Ali and Jon have transformed the local craft beer market. They offer a wide variety of rotating taps as well as local craft soda from local brand Norka.

They run a small kitchen, which currently features meat and cheese boards, salads, and bread options (like a brewery pretzel and pepperoni roll) from the local Brimfield Bread Oven.

Soon enough they will have a full-service wood-fired pizza oven to round out their food offerings.

Bonus? They are offering Yoga On Tap this Sunday, April 7th at 10:45 am. For $15, you’ll receive a 60-minute yoga class led by the instructors from the Yoga Lounge in Hudson plus a post-flow beer (or coffee from Akron Coffee Roasters).

Follow them on social: instagram | facebook | twitter | website

R. Shea Brewing //

In my humble brewery snob opinion, this is by far the best brewery around — and it is severely underrated. Ronald Shea is another home-brewer turned pro-brewer, operating out of a little spot on Merriman Road in the Valley of Akron.

They previously had partnered with local-legends of Diamond Deli to serve kitchen-fare, but have since spun off with their own homemade sandwiches and wraps. Truthfully, they are on par with the Diamond Deli sandwiches (and are well worth a visit to the brewery if beer isn’t your thing).

Ronald is currently documenting his journey at opening a second location in Downtown Akron on Facebook. As a previous employee of this area of Akron, I can tell you that this would be an incredible addition to the area. In the meantime, check out their taproom in the Valley and tell my favorite bartender, David, Rachel says hello.

Bonus? Compared to almost every other craft brewery, they are the most reasonably priced. They also offer a “sandwich of the week” for just $5.

Follow them on social: instagram | facebook | twitter | website

Sibling Revelry //

This gorgeous and open brewery, located in Westlake, not only is home to some incredible beers (such as Cherry Wit, Siblime, and Quiet Hero), but they frequently partner with food trucks so that they can deliver what they do best — make beer.

If you head to the taproom you’ll be able to get a delicious flight of beers and try a variety of local food options (from Barrio to Burning River Bagels), making each visit different from the last.

Bonus? Their patio is super inclusive for those of us with babies and fur babies!

Follow them on social: instagram | facebook | twitter | website

The Brew Kettle //

Want to try and make your own beer? There’s no better place to do it than the Brew Kettle in Strongsville. Not into brewing your own beer? Well, the good news is that they have their own lineup of awesome beers (I’m looking at you White Rajah).

They have two other locations — one in Amherst and one in Hudson — this brewpub is super accessible and a great way to dabble in craft beers for the first time.

Bonus? Their food menu is pretty good, too (try the smokehouse wings and the smoked turkey spinach salad — you won’t be sorry!).

Follow them on social: instagram | facebook | twitter | website

Akronym Brewing //

This relatively new brewery is nestled into the bottom of the building that houses the parking deck for the library and the Akron Art Museum. It may seem like a strange location, but it’s honestly perfect and absolutely beautiful.

It’s definitely not huge inside the brewery, but it is a really contemporary space. Also, the name Akronym and the story of the brewery (go read it here) speaks to my nerdy soul in a serious way.

For those non-word nerds, there’s still plenty for you to enjoy — including, but not limited to, a wide array of award-winning craft brews and a patio that makes other breweries envious.

Bonus? The brewery regularly partners with Akron Yoga and Wellness for classes and they offer food via Any Thyme Any Plate (a delicious food truck) for brunch on the weekends.

Follow them on social: instagram | facebook | twitter | website

Fat Heads Brewery and Saloon //

I feel like this should come with a disclaimer, but Head Hunter from Fat Heads is one of my favorite beers of all time. And the only thing better than a bottle of Head Hunter is getting it on tap at the brewery itself.

Established in 1992, the brewery exploded on the craft beer market. The original location has had to expand several times but is continuing to call Middleburg Heights home.

With the addition of their Canton location last year, you’re now able to enjoy Fat Heads Brewery whether you’re a “northerner” or a “southerner” in Cleveland!

Bonus? Catch the Balance + Brews team at the Middleburg Heights location monthly for a yoga class and post-flow brew!

Follow them on social: instagram | facebook | twitter | website

Royal Docks Brewing Co. //

Part craft brewery, part British pub, this cozy spot is perfect for the craft beer foodie! Stop in for a Backyard Crusher or a Dare IPA and get to know the staff of this ‘neighborhood’ pub.

While you’re there, try out some of their signature flatbreads like the Royal Scotch Egg or The Castro. And if you are feeling adventurous, visit their brewery and cannery for a behind-the-scenes look at the process (which just so happens to be housed in an old roller rink).

Bonus? You can book your next event in their roller rink/cannery! Such a cool setting.

Follow them on social: instagram | facebook | twitter | website

Wherever you find yourself on National Beer Day, make sure you bring a friend, relax and unwind, enjoy the flight, and always drink responsibly.

Bonefish Grill — 3-Course Date Night for Two!

April 1, 2019 by Rachel 9 Comments

Chad and I are rapidly approaching our 7th wedding anniversary. It’s hard to believe that nearly seven years have passed. And in the last seven years, we’ve only had a handful of evenings completely to ourselves. In fact, the last time we actually relaxed at a dinner out was probably two years ago.

Last week Mimi was in town to watch all three kids, so we were able to sneak out for a proper date night at Bonefish Grill. Chad and I were greeted by the friendliest staff at the North Canton location and promptly seated.

We were really excited to try Bonefish Grill’s O M G (Ocean Mixed Grill) 3-course dinner for two! Here’s what’s included in this special offer:

Course 1 // Bang Bang Shrimp

Course 2 // House or Caesar Salad

Course 3 // Potatoes Au Gratin, Seasonal Vegetables, and Jasmine Rice

Course 4 // Caribbean Cobia, Shrimp & Scallop Skewer, Atlantic Salmon and the Local Catch

All four courses for 49.00 with a bonus of select bottles of wine for $25.

I have to admit something, I’ve never had Bang Bang Shrimp before (I know, I know — pure craziness!). Well, friends, I am in love. I could eat Bang Bang Shrimp all day, every day!

You certainly can’t beat the cost of $49 for three courses for two people. It was more than enough food, for sure.

Recommended Add-Ons //

I highly recommend pairing your meal with a bottle of their $25 wines. With options of reds, whites, and rosé, there’s something for everyone!

I also cannot say enough about the Crispy Brussel Sprouts! They were flavored perfectly with the bacon and mayo. So, so, delicious!

And then we were greeted with dessert! First, it was the Molten Lava Carrot Cake (holy smokes — warm and gooey cream cheese in the middle!) followed by the Crème Brûlée

Not only was the food delicious and the service spectacular, but we were actually able to sit and enjoy one another’s company without the distraction of children talking at us for a change.

Hurry up and get a sitter because this special is only good through April 30th! Find your closest Bonefish Grill location here and be sure to sign up to become a Bonefish Insider!

What’s your favorite menu item

from Bonefish Grill?

Disclaimer: I was given a gift card to cover the cost of our meal in exchange for this post.
As always, all opinions herein are my own.