Amanda Cifaldi

CH2 / CB2 Magazine | August 2023

Photography by Summer Pagatpatan

If there’s one question you don’t need to ask Amanda Cifaldi, chef and owner at Pomodori, it’s “What’s new with you?” Because the answer to that question has already been blazing across Bluffton, riding a tidal wave of excitement over the fact that Pomodori is now coming across the bridge.

“It’s going to be right in Old Town on May River Road”, Cifaldi said of her new location. “Bluffton has grown so significantly, we’re grateful to grow right alongside it!” The Bluffton location of Pomodori will have one slight difference from its Hilton Head counterpart. While the island location is renowned for a dine-in ambiance that perfectly complements the heavenly Italian cuisine, the mainland branch will be more of a takeout/fast casual concept, where you order at the counter and your food is brought to you. “Bluffton has such a youthful and hip vibe, we’re hoping to build on that feeling!”

“During COVID, we pivoted toward take-out only, and it went so well, I realized we could have a very good second business on our hands if we could only find the right spot,” Cifaldi said.

That right spot wound up being the adorable cottage on 46 just next to the old Pepper’s Porch building (soon to be Ma Daisy’s Porch). Right in the heart of Old Town, it represents possibly the best location Cifaldi could have asked for. “The little place is so special; it feels like you’re picking up food from your grandmother’s house. We couldn’t be more excited.”

For Cifaldi, it’s another chapter in her culinary career, from kitchens on Hilton Head Island to Italy and now in Bluffton.

“I’m really looking forward to this next leap of faith, especially since I’m taking it with a staff who have been with me for so long. It’s been amazing to see their growth alongside the restaurant’s. Bluffton, here we come!”