Kenny B’s has permanently closed near Hilton Head. Here’s what we know
Kenny B’s French Quarter Cafe, a longtime Hilton Head restaurant known for its New Orleans–style cooking and festive Creole atmosphere, has permanently closed.
The restaurant first opened in January 1999 at 70 Pope Avenue, becoming a go-to destination for locals and visitors seeking Cajun seafood and Southern hospitality.
Owned and operated by husband-and-wife duo Ken and Lavern Ballard, Kenny B’s was the result of a concept the couple created together at their kitchen table.
While originally from Ohio, Ken worked as a chef in New Orleans before relocating to Hilton Head, bringing his own flair to the menu.
After nearly 25 years at the Pope Avenue location, Kenny B’s relocated in December 2023 to the Bridge Center Shopping Center at 1534 Fording Island Road. The move followed an extensive renovation of the former Thai Smile Cuisine building, which took nearly a year to complete.
.JPG "IMG_9950 (1).JPG")
Inside, walls were lined with framed mementos and posters honoring the restaurant’s original Hilton Head location.
Now, a different poster hangs taped on the front door: “Kenny B’s is permanently closed!”
What we know about the closure
In May of last year, Ballard sold the business due to personal health reasons and relocated to Lake Thurmond. Despite the change, he continued making the three-hour drive back each Sunday to assist with the transition under the new ownership.
“After all the investment we made to move to Bluffton from Pope Avenue, I felt the business deserved every opportunity it needed to continue on the path Lavern and I set in place for it almost 30 years ago,” he said.
But after about two years in the Bluffton location, the new owner made the decision to close the restaurant.
From Mardi Gras parties to fried Cajun turkey packages at Thanksgiving, the Bluffton location gave ample space for Ballard and his team to grow. It also made room for a vivid red “Dawghouse” room celebrating his beloved University of Georgia Bulldogs.
While the reason for the closure remains unclear, Ballard described it as “one of the most emotional days in my life.”
What’s next?
According to Ballard, a new tenant is already in place at the Bridge Center location, with plans to open sometime in April.
“The building deserves a new start and somebody who has that vision and energy to see it through,” he said.
The incoming operators are experienced restaurant owners, though the concept, name and details of what the space will offer have not yet been announced.
“Kenny B’s will always be a part of me,” Ballard said.
This story was originally published February 8, 2026 at 9:51 AM.
