Myrtle Beach South Carolina, USA Travel Guide
Myrtle Beach cuisine is greatly shaped by its Atlantic coast location, meaning fresh seafood is abundant. The area also draws from traditional Southern comfort food.
The dining scene caters largely to tourists, offering many casual and family-friendly options. Quantity and value are considerations, especially in its famous seafood buffets.
Shrimp, oysters, crab, flounder, grouper, and scallops are prominent. Prepared fried (Calabash-style), grilled, blackened, or steamed.
Grits, cornmeal (for hushpuppies, fried green tomatoes), collard greens, okra, and sweet potatoes are common side dishes.
The cuisine generally includes savory flavors with some spice. Fresh, local ingredients and traditional Southern cooking methods are common.
Seafood (shrimp, flounder, oysters) lightly battered with cornmeal and fried to a crisp. The thin batter lets the seafood flavor shine.
Find at: Numerous seafood restaurants along the Grand Strand.
Creamy grits, often with cheese, topped with sautéed shrimp, bacon, sausage, or a rich gravy.
Find at: Many upscale and mid-range Southern-themed restaurants.
Small, savory, deep-fried cornmeal fritters, often slightly sweet. Universally served with seafood meals.
Find at: Most seafood restaurants.
Sweet candies made with pecans and sugar, a Southern confection.
A warm dessert with peaches and a biscuit-like topping, popular when local peaches are in season.
For an upscale dining experience with refined settings.
Offer comfortable sit-down dining with good value.
Inexpensive options for quick meals and fresh finds.
Myrtle Beach offers Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese (sushi), Thai, and Indian restaurants.
Available due to the diverse tourist base and local population.
Little River Waterfront features seafood markets for fresh catches. Purchase direct from fishermen for self-catering in vacation rentals.
A fresh option for home cooking.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options. Vegan choices are growing.
A growing number of restaurants are sensitive to dietary restrictions.
Certified Halal or Kosher restaurants are limited.
A growing number of restaurants offer gluten-free menus.
Clearly communicate any special dietary needs to restaurant staff. They are generally trained to handle requests.
Online resources like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and HappyCow can locate restaurants for specific dietary needs.
Many Myrtle Beach restaurants feature "early bird" specials.
A practical tip for saving money.
Online platforms can assist in locating restaurants catering to specific dietary needs in Myrtle Beach.
If you have very strict dietary requirements (e.g., Halal/Kosher), planning to self-cater for some meals may be the most reliable option.
Many Myrtle Beach restaurants offer "early bird" specials, which feature discounted meals or special menus.
Always check individual restaurant websites or local dining guides for current early bird hours and menu offerings.
An all-you-can-eat spread often including crab legs, shrimp, and various fried options.
Popular for families and large groups.
Venues like Pirates Voyage and The Carolina Opry combine a full meal with live entertainment for an evening of food and a show.
A distinctive Myrtle Beach offering.
Seek out restaurants that feature locally sourced seafood for the freshest experience.
Visit markets in Little River to buy direct from fishermen for an unique cooking experience.
Online reviews often mention the quality and freshness of seafood at various establishments.
Myrtle Beach features a casual dining atmosphere. Most restaurants welcome beachwear or comfortable clothing. Reservations are often not needed outside of fine dining or peak holiday periods.
