From the Kitchen of Porter and Pig
Story and Photography by Lindsay Gifford
Take a look into the newest pub on Hilton Head Island. The warm atmosphere and unique
flavors make it a must visit.
Meet the Owner & Chef:
Ivy Burdick has lived on and off Hilton Head since '99 and has worked in the food and beverage industry for years.
After going to college for marketing, Ivy decided working behind a computer wasn't for her. She transferred her creative spirit to the kitchen and started creating great drinks and flavor profiles.
In November 2014, the dream of owning her own restaurant began to come to fruitition. After doing a revamp on a retail unit in Village at Wexford, Ivy opened Porter and Pig on December 31, 2014.
As chef, Ivy works to continually create a fun, fresh menu that keeps customers enjoying new flavors and unique offerings. She educated me in all things cheese and craft beer. Her impressive knowledge and pride in the quality of her product absolutely shined.
The Concept:
The idea behind Porter & Pig is to invite people to sit down and enjoy tastes of great food with great drinks. Their menu is created for people to share plates and even enjoy sample beers with their flight specials.
Ivy said that when she grew up, they always used small bites for social visits and celebrations. Now, she provides a great line up to celebrate with customers everyday!
The Chef's Favorites:
When asking Ivy her favorite cheese and beer, I stumped her for a little while. She said that her favorite cheese often changes daily, but her favorite beer is any porter. Hence, Porter & Pig. The menu favorite, for the day, was Ibérico Jamon. Pictured above (top left) this charcuterie is always on display and shaved fresh to order. It's simple nature is the epitome of craftmanship: this fresh ham needs no accompaniment.
On the Menu:
The Porter & Pig specializes in craft beer, proprietary cocktails, boutique wines, charcuterie, cheeses and tapas style share plates. Their menu is continually evolving with hand-selected quality ingredients. They also have sandwiches and inspired specials. I enjoyed a taste of the cuban grilled sandwich—-delectable—along with a selection of cheeses that put my average knowledge of cheese to shame. I also tried the bacon-chorizzo wrapped dates that were total goodness wrapped in an overdose of yum—Bacon, duh!
The Atmosphere:
The Porter & Pig has a warm and cozy atmosphere that invites people to group together and enjoy the company of others. With low lights and a gastropub feel, I can only imagine the hours that could easily slip away while having fun. Whether you visit for happy hour or hang out to appreciate the local musicians (Friday and Saturday), you are sure to leave ready to come back.
Chef's Tip:
Ivy says when you build a plate, always build up and color with sprigs and fruit. It will create a beautiful presentation.
Coming up this summer:
A new lineup is headed your way for the summer. Ivy is creating a summer-fresh menu with features that entice customers to try something new! Take a look at their ad on page 24 for weekly specials.
Check Them Out:
Porter & Pig is located in Village at Wexford at 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite J7C, Hilton Head Island. Call 843-715-3224, visit www.porter-pig.com, or check out their Facebook page for more information.