Bluffton Bids Farewell to Grooby’s Too Deli
Bluffton, a charming town known for its warm community and vibrant culinary scene, is preparing to say goodbye to a beloved establishment. Grooby’s Too, the local deli that brought a taste of New York City to the southern Lowcountry, is closing its doors after three years of serving up delicious meals and creating cherished memories. The heartfelt news was delivered by restaurant owner Stacy Gruber, who has been a beacon of culinary joy in the region.
A Slice of New York in Bluffton
Stacy, who grew up in the Bronx, settled in Bluffton after her family moved to the Lowcountry in the 1980s. The absence of a classic New York deli in their new home sparked a desire to recreate that familiar atmosphere. In 1986, the Gruber family opened the original Gruby’s on Hilton Head Island, where Stacy honed her skills for over 30 years before branching out into Bluffton with Grooby’s Too in 2021. Her passion for food and community shone through in every sandwich, stuffed cabbage, and mouthwatering dessert served.
Known for its hefty sandwiches — “more meat than your mouth can handle,” as some regulars would humorously describe — Grooby’s Too provided a menu that delighted locals and visitors. Customers often raved about the deli’s stuffed cabbage and chicken parmesan for dinner, while the display of decadent dessert cakes, including flavors like Almond Joy and Key Lime, left patrons in awe.
Turning the Page: A New Chapter Awaits
While the decision to close Grooby’s Too at Sheridan Park Circle was a tough one, it’s not quite the end of the story. Stacy remains hopeful about re-establishing her deli in a new location. She shared her vision of potentially opening a new site in the next six to eight months in a retail complex off Okatie Highway, just six miles from where Grooby’s Too thrived.
“One of my favorite parts of owning a restaurant is watching people light up when they take a bite of our food,” Stacy said, adding that the community has been incredibly supportive throughout her time in Bluffton. Her dedication to delivering delicious meals is matched only by her commitment to creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels like family.
Support from the Community
The closing of Grooby’s Too certainly brings a wave of nostalgia for locals who found comfort in its homey atmosphere and hearty meals. While change is often bittersweet, the community is rallying behind Stacy and her team, expressing gratitude for the wonderful experiences they offered. Many look forward to the new chapter in this culinary journey, hopeful for the future of Grooby’s.
As Bluffton bids farewell to this treasured deli, locals can appreciate the impact Grooby’s Too has had on the community, bringing a piece of New York to the Lowcountry and nurturing relationships through food. Whether it was a quick bite during lunch or a cozy dinner with loved ones, Grooby’s Too held a special place in many hearts.
Looking Forward
As the days move on, the anticipation of a possible new location sparks curiosity and excitement among the followers of Grooby’s. While we may need to say goodbye for now, the promise of reopening keeps the spirit of this beloved deli alive. Keep your forks ready and your taste buds tingling; the experience of Grooby’s may just be a road trip away in the near future.
In the meantime, here’s to celebrating the memories, the flavors, and everything that Grooby’s Too brought to Bluffton — a true testament to the heart of a community.
