Meet Charlie

Charlie Sternburgh
Executive Chef/Owner

Charlie Sternburgh, executive chef /owner of Bluffton’s May River Grill, moved to Hilton Head Island in 1983. A Michigan native, Charlie started in the restaurant business under the watchful eye of Ed Murray, who Charlie graciously credits as his mentor and teacher. Charlie learned every aspect of the restaurant industry, from serving to managing.

Prior to opening May River Grill, Charlie’s most notable kitchen appointment was as head chef at Hilton Head Island’s Jazz Corner. At the Jazz Corner, Charlie refined his cooking skills and explored his culinary creativity. Over his seven-year tenure, Charlie enjoyed a meteoric rise through the kitchen’s ranks and carved out a reputation as one of Hilton Head Island’s finest chefs.

Charlie dreamed of one day opening his own restaurant. He aspired to serve truly memorable food featuring fresh ingredients culled from the local rivers and farms. With the backing of the community and the gracious patronage of his regulars, Charlie was able to realize his dream in 2007 with the grande opening of May River Grill.

The years since have been kind to Charlie. In addition to growing his list of regulars, May River Grill has earned the accolades of Wall Street Journal, South Carolina Living, Taste Magazine, and Bluffton Today. Thankful for the communities’ continued support, Charlie keeps an eye toward the future and a frying pan to the fire.