New England-style restaurant set to open soon in Bluffton. Here’s when & where
A familiar space in Bluffton’s Moss Creek Village is getting a fresh start later this summer, geared for local New England food lovers and visitors alike.
The former home of Uncorked, known for its curated wine selection, lively music and bar atmosphere, officially closed its doors this spring.
Taking its place is a blend of Northeastern cuisine and flair with Maine Cafe, set to open Aug. 1, located at 1533 Fording Island Road, Suite 296, near Olive and Fig Mediterranean Kitchen, Align Pilates and the second Santa Fe Cafe location.
The new restaurant is the brainchild of Donna Mello, a passionate food lover with New England roots and family ties to the Boston area and restaurant scene.
After visiting Hilton Head for over 14 years and living in the Lowcountry for the last three, Mello noticed many of her friends (and herself) missed the New England dining options, which led her to bring this culinary dream to life.
A taste of New England down South
Maine Cafe will launch with breakfast and lunch service, aiming to blend unique Northeastern dishes with seasonal, local ingredients.
Mello describes the menu as “quirky and unique,” offering a thoughtful mix of traditional favorites and unexpected delights.
Some early highlights include:
Tiramisu pancakes
Lobster rolls with white truffle butter
Blueberry cake
Orange fennel rosewater salad
Dandelion salad
Chicken Parmesan
Scratch-made bread
A full Bloody Mary bar and mimosa towers
Mello also plans to offer weekday specials that include a Sunday brunch, pasta nights and clam bakes.
A finalized menu and opening hours are still in the works.
What’s changing?
Mello is giving the former beloved space of Uncorked an entirely new makeover. From the wall color to the decor, she is giving the space an interior transformation.
The dining space will feature 89 indoor seats, with outdoor seating space coming by mid-fall to take advantage of the mild Lowcountry climate and create more space for guests.
While locals miss the energy and atmosphere of Uncorked, the transition to Maine Cafe is bringing an emphasis on fresh ingredients, inventive flavors and a warm, welcoming space for locals and visitors alike craving New England-focused cuisine.
Mello sums up her anticipation for this new restaurant addition best, saying “It’s a dream come true.”
This story was originally published July 8, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
