Morgan River Grill Welcomes New Owners

Since 2020, Morgan River Grill owners Evan Hallihan and Amy Schmitt have worked tirelessly to revive the marina restaurant and establish what is now an icon on the Morgan River. Having expanded onto Dataw after the great success of their first restaurant, Madison’s (named for their daughter), members and locals have come to love the consistent high quality and the amazing views at the MRG.
 
After five wonderful years, the family has decided to return to their Texas roots and sell the establishment, a decision not made lightly. “We really value the relationships we’ve built here on Dataw and in the Beaufort community, and wanted to be confident that a new owner would operate to our standards, and continue to provide a destination for upscale casual dining. We have loved being a part of Dataw and we know that the new owners will both continue to grow Morgan River Grill and be a benefit to Dataw.”
 
Enter Maria Hargett and Donnie Young – a duo with a long history of individual culinary successes and an incredible story of enduring friendship. To rightfully tell the story of the future successes awaiting them, you must first rewind the arc of their relationship of about 35 years.

At that time, Donnie was the Sous Chef at the Brazilian Court Hotel, a 4-Star, 4-Diamond boutique hotel in Palm Beach Fl. One day, Donnie saw some Polaroid photos of some catering work done by Maria, who was working banquets at the hotel and who also did some catering on the side.

Donnie, clearly impressed, offered Maria – who had no formal culinary training – a job in his kitchen. Donnie had noticed something extraordinary about Maria, who brought exacting attention, a diligent attitude and a methodical approach to her new position as an assistant Garde Manger Chef in his kitchen. A year later, she asked him to write her a letter of recommendation to become the general manager at Wall Street Deli in West Palm Beach. Donnie did so without hesitation.

And, as they say, the rest is a history packed with individual successes in their careers and a special relationship that remained true, strong and enduring.

Their resumes, references and experience speak for themselves. Throughout their respective careers, from executive chef positions to nationwide franchise operations and franchise development stints, the two have achieved individual accolades and successes well beyond even their own aspirations.

Perhaps the most integral part of their successes remains the single thread that binds their stories together – a trusting, ever-platonic and heartfelt friendship that meandered through their personal worlds of successes, moving all over the country, tragedies and heartbreak.

No strangers to the area, Maria and her husband fell in love with Beaufort a few years ago and purchased a home and a few rental properties. Donnie came up for a visit shortly after Maria and her husband moved in.

Donnie’s reaction – “This is where I need to be.”

Today, on Dataw, they face an opportunity that fuses all their talents – spectacular culinary experience, marketing expertise, business acumen and perhaps most importantly – a shared passion for the art of creating masterful
dishes, providing incredible customer service and – most of all – taking care of the community in Beaufort S.C. Add a garnish of friendship and loyalty, and you have the perfect plate.

We are excited to welcome Donnie & Maria as the new owners of the Morgan River Grill as we send sincere well—wishes to Amy & Evan on their new ventures. Thank you Amy & Evan for creating a wonderful place to gather! We are confident that Donnie & Maria will continue the tradition.