Myrtle Beach is packed with places to eat, from laid-back diners to fancier spots. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there’s something for just about every craving and wallet size. The city’s especially proud of its seafood, southern favorites, and the sheer variety on offer.
The best restaurants in Myrtle Beach don’t just serve good food—they make you want to stick around. Craving something classic? Want to try something new? There’s a place for you. Honestly, exploring where to eat is half the fun of being here.
1) Sea Captain’s House
Sea Captain’s House sits right on the oceanfront, tucked inside a cozy 1930s cottage. It’s got a homey vibe and a killer view of the waves. If you’re in the mood for seafood, this place is a must.
Try their She Crab Soup—it’s won awards for a reason. Other standouts? Pappardelle Pasta with shrimp and chorizo, plus a rotating lineup of lunch specials. Starters like fried oysters and crab dip are crowd-pleasers too.
The staff here are genuinely friendly, and there’s live music on weekends. Outdoor seating lets you catch that salty breeze while you eat.
Location: 3002 N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
2) Hook & Barrel
Hook & Barrel is all about seafood, served in a laid-back, nautical setting. The vibe is casual but modern, and the menu leans heavily on fresh, local catches.
They’ve got a nice selection of wines and spirits, and the happy hour deals are worth checking out. Sunday brunch draws a good crowd, too. It’s the kind of place that works for date night or just a chill dinner with friends.
Folks rave about the food and the staff. The dishes let the seafood shine—no need for anything fussy.
Location: 8014 N Kings Hwy B, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
3) National House of Pancakes
National House of Pancakes is a breakfast and brunch favorite in Myrtle Beach. Everything’s made from scratch—think pancakes, French toast, and a big menu that covers both sweet and savory. The place is family-friendly with a big, welcoming dining room.
They use fresh ingredients, and the kitchen does a solid job for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Service is quick and friendly, which is always a plus when you’re hungry.
It’s right on Highway 17, so it’s easy to get to. Besides the usual breakfast fare, they serve locally roasted coffee and teas, which just feels right with a stack of pancakes.
Location: 211 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
4) Blueberry’s Grill
Blueberry’s Grill is a go-to for breakfast and brunch in a modern, casual space. The menu is a mix of American and Southern classics—pancakes, grilled plates, and a few surprises. It’s great for families and casual diners who just want a relaxed meal.
The place looks sharp inside, and there’s a patio if you want to eat outdoors. People love the creative twist on breakfast and the upbeat service. It’s a solid pick for brunch, honestly.
You’ll find it on North Kings Highway. It manages to be both family-friendly and a little upscale, which isn’t easy to pull off.
Location: 7931 N Kings Hwy #140, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
5) RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar
RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar is right on the Boardwalk, and yeah, it’s huge—space for 500 people. There’s an outdoor patio and a rooftop bar with ocean views that are tough to beat.
The menu covers seafood, steaks, and American favorites, with a focus on fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and fun, perfect for groups, parties, or just grabbing a drink and watching the waves.
At over 17,000 square feet, it’s one of the biggest spots on the Boardwalk. People come for the views, the big menu, and the good energy. If you want a place that feels like Myrtle Beach, this is it.
Location: 1210 N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
6) Drift
Drift is all about brunch and breakfast done right. They use fresh, local ingredients and take pride in their menu—omelets, grilled plates, sandwiches, all made with care.
The décor is something special. Tables are crafted from 100-year-old hardwoods by a local family business, and the walls are decorated with wood slices and a wine display that’s a conversation starter.
They pay attention to the little things, like custom mugs and how the food looks on the plate. If you care about details and want a cozy spot to eat, Drift is worth a visit.
Location: 980 Cipriana Dr A-6, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
7) The Hangout
The Hangout is a family-friendly spot that’s all about comfort food and having fun. There’s a big outdoor courtyard with a sand pile, foam pit, and games for the kids.
Live music is a staple, and there are little shops and stages for performances. It’s not just a place to eat—it’s somewhere for families to hang out and keep everyone entertained.
Honestly, if you’ve got kids and want to relax while they play, The Hangout is a winner.
Location: 1181 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC
8) Carolina Roadhouse
Carolina Roadhouse is a lively, casual place with a big wraparound bar and a lodge vibe. The menu’s loaded with American classics and plenty of seafood, like giant seafood platters and their crab dip with old bay pretzels.
They serve up thick steaks and all the comfort food you’d expect. Groups fit right in here, with tables for eight and flexible seating if you’ve got a crowd. This place has been around since 1995 and it’s still a local favorite.
The mood is always upbeat, with music playing and a palm tree centerpiece that’s hard to miss. Takeout is available if you want to enjoy your meal elsewhere.
Location: 4617 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
9) Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant
Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant has a laid-back, nautical vibe and is famous for its all-you-can-eat seafood buffet—crab legs, shrimp, oysters, scallops, you name it. There are plenty of sides and even steaks if you want something different.
People like the easygoing atmosphere and the staff is usually quick and attentive. The buffet is fresh, with lots of variety, including salads and desserts.
They do special buffets on holidays like Easter and Mother’s Day, and gift cards are available if you want to treat someone. It’s a popular spot for anyone craving a big seafood meal.
Location: 1401 29th Ave N, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
10) Margaritaville Restaurant – Myrtle Beach
Margaritaville Restaurant in Myrtle Beach serves up American-style dishes in a bright, island-inspired space. It’s the kind of place where you can sip tropical drinks and just relax. The vibe is lively, and it’s a favorite for both low-key dinners and bigger get-togethers.
There’s a boat-themed deck for seating—definitely adds to the whole island feel and makes it a bit more memorable than your typical chain. You’ll also find a sports bar atmosphere if you’re in the mood for a game, so it works for lots of different crowds.
Hours are daily, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Sometimes you’ll catch stilt walkers and other fun events, especially if you’re there on a weekend or holiday. If you’re planning to come with a group, booking ahead is smart since it gets busy.
Location: Broadway at the Beach, 1114 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Cuisine Diversity in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach has a pretty broad food scene, thanks to its coastal spot and all the different folks who visit. You’ll find fresh seafood, international eats, and classic Southern cooking. There’s honestly something for just about every craving.
Seafood Specialties
Seafood is a big deal here. Lots of places serve up shrimp, crab, oysters, and local fish. Hook & Barrel is one spot people talk about for its fresh, well-made seafood.
Fried seafood is everywhere too—think shrimp baskets and fish and chips. Oceanfront views are a big part of the draw, making the meal feel even more coastal. It’s hard to forget you’re right by the ocean with all the fresh catches.
International Flavors
You won’t have trouble finding food from around the world in Myrtle Beach. Mediterranean spots like Jerusalem Bar and Grill serve up kebabs and hummus.
If you’re in the mood for something different, there’s Dominican food at Punta Cana Bar and Grill and German dishes at Café Old Vienna. It’s a nice change of pace if you want to branch out from the usual.
Southern Culinary Influences
Southern food still has a strong presence here. You’ll see soul food classics—slow-cooked meats, biscuits, collard greens—on lots of menus.
Barbecue is big too. Swig & Swine is known for smoked ribs and pulled pork. The flavors are bold and hearty, just like you’d expect from Southern cooking.
Dining Experience Tips
A little planning can make eating out in Myrtle Beach way easier. Knowing when to go and how to get a table saves you from waiting around when it’s crowded.
Best Times to Dine
Honestly, early evenings between 4:30 and 6:00 p.m. are your best bet to avoid crowds. Weekdays, especially Monday through Thursday, are usually quieter.
Lunch, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., tends to be pretty mellow too, though it depends on the place. If you’re visiting in January or February, it’s even more chill—tourist numbers drop way off.
During summer and holidays, restaurants fill up fast after 6:30 p.m. Expect to wait unless you’re a planning pro.
Reservation Recommendations
If you’ve got your heart set on a popular spot, make a reservation. It’s almost a must during peak times or if the place is known for something special.
Try to book at least a week ahead if you’re coming during busy months. Online reservations make it easy, but calling is smart for big groups or special events.
Walk-ins do work sometimes, but you’ll probably be waiting longer when it’s packed. Double-checking your reservation the day before never hurts.
Frequently Asked Questions
There’s no shortage of restaurants in Myrtle Beach for every mood—ocean views, kid-friendly menus, or something a little fancier. You kind of have to pick what fits your night.
What are the top-rated restaurants in Myrtle Beach for a scenic oceanfront dining experience?
Sea Captain’s House and RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar are top picks if you want to eat by the water. Both are known for fresh seafood and great views.
Which fine dining establishments in Myrtle Beach are recommended for special occasions?
Hook & Barrel is a go-to for special nights out. The menu is upscale, and the service is solid—good spot for a celebration or when you just want to treat yourself.
Can you recommend family-friendly restaurants in Myrtle Beach that cater to children?
National House of Pancakes and Blueberry’s Grill are both super family-friendly. The menus are broad, and the vibe is relaxed—kids will be happy here.
Where are the best hidden gems for dining in Myrtle Beach?
If you’re up for exploring, check out some local diners or seafood shacks away from the main drag. They’re less crowded and you’ll get more of that authentic flavor.
What are the most popular casual dining spots in Myrtle Beach?
Blueberry’s Grill and National House of Pancakes pull in folks looking for easygoing meals. Both are great for breakfast or lunch, with a laid-back feel.
Which restaurants in North Myrtle Beach are known for their exceptional food and service?
RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar really gets people talking. The food’s great, and the staff actually seem to care if you’re having a good time. Locals show up, tourists wander in, and everyone seems to leave a little happier—plus, you can’t beat that ocean view.
