Only on Hilton Head: Spirit of Jump & Phil’s lives on

During Hilton Head Island’s early years, resident families felt something lacking in their surroundings - as perfect as those surroundings were and still are - but couldn’t quite define it.

As time went on, that lack was replaced with plenty. And those of us who grew up here looked upon the creation of the Town of Hilton Head, its dog parks, pristine beaches, and abundance of wildlife, and we were pleased.

However, it was hard to establish small-town legacies, when average bricks and mortar businesses opened and closed with a disturbingly high frequency as newcomers learned the fickle nature of seasonal, resort growth.

And then, along came John Griffin, and Phil Henry - Jump & Phil - bartenders extraordinaire, who, for 21 years, pursued and succeeded in their dream of owning their own business.

I’ll repeat that last part: for twenty-one years, a bar on Hilton Head remained open, successful, and under the same management. You may need a moment to let that one soak in.

And if that were all to the story, it would be a success. But it’s not the end, but merely the beginning of a business legacy usually associated with Small-town USA.

A second generation of the extraordinary bartender - embodied by Lawrence Powell - has taken over Jump & Phil’s after working for them for ten years.

Originally from Greenwood, Powell moved to Hilton Head following college, and spent a few summers learning the ropes in a major restaurant chain.

Islanders will be glad to know that the flame will keep burning - as it has and with few changes - under the very perceptive and amiable Powell, who already knows everyone’s name. He doesn’t have to reinvent the wheel - merely keep it rolling along.

In keeping with the partnership philosophy of Jump & Phil, who alternated days running the show, Powell has partnered with his wife, Lauren, who manages the kitchen output. Lauren also has years of experience working in restaurants locally, including Jump and Phil’s. That’s where she and Lawrence met.

If our meal the other night was any indication of her efforts, they may not be able to keep up with the business. Together, Lawrence and Lauren have Lola, who’s two.

We’ve finally hit the big-time of Small-town, USA - a family man, who lives in the neighborhood – close enough to walk to the family business in five or so minutes. Rest easy Jump & Phil’s Regulars.

“I’m very pleased that Lawrence bought the business. He was a pleasure to have working for us, and brings that 100 percent energy to the business Phil and I had,” said Jumpy during a phone interview.

Jumpy Griffin made the best use of what Hilton Head has to offer while rearing his own family. For those islanders who have been living in a tree stump for the past thirty years, a brief synopsis of the Jump and Phil legend follows.

They began their careers and long-time friendship as young bartenders at the first Reilley’s in the Gallery of Shoppes. Later, they bought a bar together across the street that already had its own history, beginning as Casablanca, then Ko-Ko Reef.

Jump & Phil’s became a mainstay of the island’s nightlife landscape, with both local regulars, and repeat customers from afar, who were steady island visitors.

Sadly, Phil Henry passed on suddenly in 2015, leaving a gaping wound at Jump & Phil’s. At this point, Jumpy’s family had increased from two children to two grandchildren, and the fun of running a business 24/7 had begun to fizzle. Who can blame him?

Then, with perfect knight-like timing, Lawrence swooped in almost on horseback wielding his sword (and a nod from the bank) to relieve Lord Griffin of his business. Wait. Sorry, wrong legend.

Powell rode in on his bicycle, reporting for work, and made an offer Jumpy couldn’t refuse. Soon all was well again at Jump & Phil’s.

So congratulations to Mr. Powell and family are in order.

My apologies for neglecting the other major characters of this tale which would have to be the patrons. They have buoyed the business during good times and bad, and helped make it what it is today - a successful, cheery neighborhood business where everyone knows your name.

One can’t ask for much more than that from one’s clientele.

This story was originally published March 31, 2016 at 4:08 PM with the headline "Only on Hilton Head: Spirit of Jump & Phil’s lives on."