The Okan Story

Located in the heart of Old Town Bluffton and coastal South Carolina, Ọkàn will locally source the best the region has to offer. Utilizing the vast resources of local farmers, fisherman, and other purveyors, Chef Bernard and Ọkàn aim to cultivate relationships honoring the pathways and history of the African-American heritage. 

Chef Bernard recognized as James beard foundation semifinalist

Okàn’s Executive Chef, Bernard Bennett is recognized as a 2023 Semifinalist for Emerging Chef by the James Beard Foundation. Chef Bernard Bennett helped formulate the concept for Okàn from his passion for learning how history and culture have shaped how we eat and where our food really comes from. The new restaurant will express the heart and soul of underrepresented cuisine by following the culinary journey of West African-rooted cooking.

As a non-profit organization, the James Beard Foundation’s mission is to celebrate, support, and elevate the people who are paving a better future for America’s food culture and a community where all can thrive. Considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, the James Beard Awards recognize exceptional culinary and food industry talent as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, and sustainability. Executive Chef Bernard Bennett has been named one of twenty semifinalists in the Emerging Chef category by the James Beard Foundation. 

Okàn’s menu showcases how ingredients originated, changed through the course of forced migration, and now celebrate an elevated pairing of cultures. The restaurant is NOW OPEN at The Bridge Collective in Bluffton, South Carolina!

Chef Inspired Menu

With the use of fresh local ingredients, Okàn tells the story of where those ingredients came from through thoughtfully prepared dishes

Hours

Monday - Tuesday 
Closed

Wednesday - Sunday
5:00 - 10:00 Dinner

Thursday - Friday
11:00 - 3:00 Lunch

Saturday - Sunday
10:00 - 2:00 Brunch

Location and COntact

Location 
71 Calhoun St, Suite 100
Bluffton, SC 29910

EXPERIENCE OKÀN

Okàn will craft a culinary journey through taste in a lively, welcoming environment that invites open dialogue, communal energy, and a unique sense of home.