Myrtle Beach is synonymous with sun-kissed beaches, thrilling attractions, and a vibrant vacation atmosphere. But beyond the captivating coastline and entertainment options, lies a culinary landscape brimming with delectable delights. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a gastronomic adventure as we uncover Myrtle Beach’s best food, a collection of restaurants and eateries that will leave you craving more long after your vacation ends. This guide isn’t just about finding a place to eat; it’s about discovering unforgettable flavors and creating lasting memories, one delicious bite at a time.
Myrtle Beach truly offers something for everyone, from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to comforting Southern classics and a diverse array of international cuisines. Whether you’re seeking a romantic fine-dining experience with ocean views or a casual, budget-friendly meal after a day of fun in the sun, you’ll find it here. Forget the tourist traps and generic chain restaurants; we’re diving deep into the heart of Myrtle Beach’s culinary scene to bring you the best-kept secrets and local favorites. So, loosen your belts, grab a fork, and get ready to experience Myrtle Beach’s best food!
Seafood Sensations: Diving into Coastal Delights
Being a coastal gem, it’s no surprise that Myrtle Beach boasts an impressive array of seafood restaurants. From casual crab shacks to elegant waterfront dining rooms, the options are plentiful. The key to finding the best seafood is focusing on freshness and preparation. Here are a few standouts that consistently deliver exceptional seafood experiences:
First up is Sea Captain’s House, a Myrtle Beach institution that has been serving up fresh catches for generations. Perched right on the oceanfront, this restaurant offers breathtaking views alongside its exceptional cuisine. The ambiance is classic and refined, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. While the entire menu is worth exploring, the She Crab Soup is a must-try – a creamy, flavorful concoction that perfectly embodies coastal comfort. The Shrimp and Grits is another popular choice, featuring plump, perfectly cooked shrimp served over creamy grits with a rich, savory sauce. What makes Sea Captain’s House a standout is its commitment to using the freshest local ingredients and preparing them with skill and care. The result is simply unforgettable Myrtle Beach best food that will satisfy your seafood cravings.
Next, let’s explore Bimini’s Oyster Bar and Seafood Cafe, a more casual and lively option that’s perfect for families and groups. The atmosphere is vibrant and fun, with colorful décor and a friendly staff. The focus here is on fresh, locally sourced seafood prepared with a Caribbean flair. The steamed oysters are a must-try, served hot and succulent with a variety of dipping sauces. The conch fritters are another popular appetizer, crispy and flavorful with a hint of spice. For your main course, consider the grilled mahi-mahi or the fried shrimp platter. Bimini’s Oyster Bar and Seafood Cafe captures the essence of the coast with its lively atmosphere and simple yet delicious dishes that perfectly capture the essence of Myrtle Beach best food.
Finally, we have to mention Drunken Jack’s, situated a short drive from Myrtle Beach proper in Murrells Inlet. This spot is known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina” and Drunken Jack’s lives up to the name. Its located right on the water and has views of Goat Island. You can often spot wild goats roaming around. Drunken Jack’s is a place to kick back and enjoy the atmosphere, and the raw bar is the star of the show. Here you can find every type of seafood that comes straight off the boat and into the restaurant.
Beyond the restaurants, consider visiting a local seafood market to pick up fresh catches and prepare your own seafood feast. Many markets offer a wide selection of fish, shrimp, crab, and other shellfish, and the staff is often happy to provide tips on how to cook them.
Southern Comfort Food: A Taste of Southern Hospitality
No trip to the South is complete without indulging in some good old-fashioned Southern comfort food, and Myrtle Beach certainly delivers on this front. From crispy fried chicken to smoky barbecue and creamy shrimp and grits, the options are endless. These restaurants offer not just food, but an experience of genuine Southern hospitality:
Magnolia’s at 26th is a refined eatery that celebrates Southern cuisine with a touch of modern flair. The ambiance is elegant and inviting, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. The menu features a variety of classic Southern dishes prepared with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The fried green tomatoes are a must-try appetizer, crispy and tangy with a creamy remoulade sauce. The shrimp and grits are another standout, featuring creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp and a rich, flavorful gravy. For your main course, consider the slow-cooked ribs or the pan-seared chicken. Magnolia’s at 26th elevates Southern comfort food to a new level, showcasing the best of the region’s culinary heritage. It’s a true gem in the Myrtle Beach best food scene.
For a more casual and down-to-earth experience, head to Prosser’s BBQ. This restaurant has been serving up authentic Southern barbecue for decades, and it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, with picnic tables and a friendly staff. The focus here is on the barbecue, which is slow-smoked over hickory wood to achieve a tender, smoky flavor. The pulled pork sandwich is a classic choice, piled high with juicy, flavorful pork and topped with coleslaw and barbecue sauce. The ribs are another popular option, tender and meaty with a crispy bark. Don’t forget to try the sides, such as the mac and cheese, collard greens, and baked beans. Prosser’s BBQ is the real deal, offering a taste of authentic Southern barbecue that will leave you wanting more.
Lastly, consider Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, located at Broadway at the Beach. It’s a chain restaurant, but a great experience, and the price is hard to beat. Paula Deen is known for her Southern-inspired dishes, and Family Kitchen serves all the best hits. With all-you-can-eat family-style serving of all your favorites, it’s hard to go wrong.
International Flavors: A Global Gastronomic Journey
While Myrtle Beach is known for its seafood and Southern cuisine, the city also offers a surprising array of international flavors. From authentic Italian trattorias to vibrant Mexican cantinas and exotic Asian eateries, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Venture beyond the familiar and explore the world of culinary delights that Myrtle Beach has to offer:
For a taste of Italy, head to Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. This restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. The menu features a variety of classic Italian dishes, from homemade pastas to wood-fired pizzas and grilled entrees. The lasagna is a must-try, layered with rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese. The margherita pizza is another popular choice, featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce. For your main course, consider the grilled salmon or the chicken parmesan. Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar transports you to Italy with its authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
If you’re craving Mexican food, Abuelo’s is an excellent choice. This restaurant features a vibrant and festive atmosphere, with colorful décor and a lively staff. The menu offers a wide variety of traditional Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and burritos. The guacamole is a must-try, made fresh tableside with avocados, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. The carne asada is another popular choice, featuring grilled steak served with rice, beans, and tortillas. Don’t forget to try the margaritas, which are made with fresh lime juice and tequila. Abuelo’s is a fiesta for your taste buds, offering a delicious and authentic Mexican experience.
For an Asian-inspired meal, visit Art Burger Sushi Bar. While the name might sound strange, the food is amazing, and it’s a local favorite. They offer an amazing selection of unique burgers as well as the most delicious sushi. They also do custom milkshakes that are Instagramable and taste great.
Sweet Treats and Desserts: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Myrtle Beach has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From classic ice cream parlors to charming bakeries and unique dessert spots, you’ll find something to tempt your taste buds. Here are a few places to indulge your sweet tooth:
Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor is a must-visit for ice cream lovers. This old-fashioned parlor offers a wide variety of classic ice cream flavors, from vanilla and chocolate to strawberry and mint chocolate chip. They also have a selection of specialty sundaes, milkshakes, and malts. The atmosphere is nostalgic and charming, with vintage décor and friendly staff. Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day and enjoy a classic ice cream treat.
For baked goods and pastries, head to Croissants Bistro & Bakery. This charming bakery offers a wide variety of croissants, pastries, cakes, and cookies, all made fresh daily. The almond croissant is a must-try, flaky and buttery with a sweet almond filling. The chocolate chip cookies are another popular choice, soft and chewy with plenty of chocolate chips. Croissants Bistro & Bakery is the perfect place to grab a sweet treat for breakfast, lunch, or dessert.
If you’re looking for a unique dessert experience, visit The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar. This spot offers outrageous milkshakes that are piled high with toppings like cookies, candy, and cake. The shakes are Instagram-worthy and taste just as good as they look. The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar is a fun and indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Budget-Friendly Bites: Delicious Eats Without Breaking the Bank
Eating out in Myrtle Beach doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable options that offer delicious food at reasonable prices. Here are a few places to grab a budget-friendly bite:
River City Cafe is a popular burger joint with several locations throughout Myrtle Beach. This casual restaurant offers a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and salads at affordable prices. The burgers are juicy and flavorful, and the fries are crispy and salty. River City Cafe is a great place to grab a quick and easy meal without spending a fortune.
For a taste of the ocean on a budget, visit Hook & Barrel. Their slogan is “Fresh Catch Comfort,” and that’s exactly what you get! They are located a little out of the way from the main tourist attractions, which helps with the price. You can get a great lunch or dinner for a reasonable cost and enjoy a pleasant atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal, consider visiting one of the many food trucks in Myrtle Beach. These mobile eateries offer a variety of cuisines, from tacos and barbecue to sandwiches and salads. Food trucks are a great way to try different types of food without breaking the bank. Look for food truck events and gatherings throughout the year for a fun and affordable dining experience.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Myrtle Beach’s best food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From fresh seafood and Southern comfort food to international flavors and sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. Whether you’re a foodie looking for a gourmet experience or simply seeking a delicious and affordable meal, you’ll find it here. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the familiar and explore the hidden gems that Myrtle Beach has to offer. You might just discover your new favorite restaurant or dish. Myrtle Beach is a culinary paradise waiting to be explored, so come hungry and get ready for a delicious adventure. Embrace the local flavors, savor every bite, and create unforgettable memories as you discover the best food Myrtle Beach has to offer. So, pack your appetite and get ready to embark on a delicious journey through Myrtle Beach’s best food! You’re guaranteed to find something that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves you wanting more.
