Renovations proposed to turn vacant Carrabba’s location into new restaurant on Hilton Head
A new restaurant is planning to open in the space left vacant when Carrabba’s closed on Hilton Head Island in June 2020.
Carrie Leffew of Hilton Head, who owns Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar with husband David Leffew and family member Tom O’Brien, confirmed that they purchased the vacant building at the intersection of Folly Field Road and U.S. 278.
“We will share more details as our plans develop,” she said.
The Leffews and O’Brien bought Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar from founder and chef Clayton Rollison in early 2021 and put their own stamp on what was already a Hilton Head fixture, adding more brunch and menu items.
The new location would be called Lucky Beach Bar + Kitchen, according to plans submitted to the Town of Hilton Head by Charleston architect David Thompson, representing the owners.
Members of the town’s Design Review Board discussed the plans at its meeting Jan. 12.
Along with adding wood siding on parts of the exterior, changes include a new dining porch, fire pit and activity area, more windows and awnings.
During the meeting, Thompson described the new restaurant as family-friendly and designed to appeal to both seasonal tourists and locals.
“It’s a critical intersection, a very exciting corner, and that’s where we’re putting a lot of emphasis,” he said.
After feedback from board members requesting more detail about landscaping, colors and other issues, Thompson withdrew the plan before a vote. It will be resubmitted to the Design Review Board at a later date.
At a previous Design Review Board meeting. on Dec. 14, the board gave conditional approval for paint changes and a new awning on the patio at Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar, along with the addition of an outdoor bar.
