Myrtle Beach offers a culinary paradise for seafood lovers, featuring an impressive array of restaurants that showcase the region’s coastal bounty. From traditional Calabash-style fried seafood to sophisticated seafood platters, these restaurants provide an unparalleled dining experience that captures the essence of South Carolina’s maritime cuisine. Visitors can indulge in fresh catches, local specialties, and innovative seafood preparations that highlight the area’s rich culinary traditions.
What Makes Myrtle Beach Seafood Unique?
Myrtle Beach’s seafood scene is distinguished by several key characteristics:
- Local Sourcing: Restaurants prioritize fresh, locally caught seafood
- Diverse Cooking Styles: From steamed to fried, grilled to raw
- Cultural Influences: Blend of Southern and coastal culinary traditions
Where Can You Find the Best Seafood Restaurants?
| Restaurant | Location | Price Range | Signature Dish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Captain’s House | 3002 N Ocean Blvd | $$ – $$$ | She-Crab Soup |
| Captain George’s | 1401 29th Ave N | $$$ | Seafood Buffet |
| Bimini’s Oyster Bar | 930 Lake Arrowhead Rd | $$ – $$$ | Steamed Local Oysters |
How to Choose the Right Seafood Restaurant?
When selecting a seafood restaurant in Myrtle Beach, consider these factors:
- Freshness of Seafood
- Check for daily catch specials
-
Look for restaurants with direct connections to local fisheries
-
Cooking Techniques
- Calabash-style (light, crispy batter)
- Steamed options
-
Grilled and raw preparations
-
Atmosphere
- Oceanfront dining
- Family-friendly environments
- Casual vs. upscale settings
What Are the Top Recommended Seafood Dishes?
Sea Captain’s House Highlights
The Sea Captain’s House offers an exceptional dining experience with dishes like:
– Award-winning seafood platters
– Classic shrimp and grits
– Creamy she-crab soup that captures coastal flavors
Captain George’s Seafood Experience
Known for its extensive buffet, Captain George’s provides:
– Unlimited crab legs
– Oysters Rockefeller
– Chesapeake Bay-style seafood selections
How to Navigate Dining Challenges?
Reservation and Timing Tips
- Make reservations during peak season
- Arrive early to avoid long wait times
- Consider off-peak dining hours for shorter waits
Parking and Accessibility
Most seafood restaurants offer:
– On-site parking
– Proximity to boardwalk
– Wheelchair accessibility
Budget-Friendly Seafood Options
Affordable Dining Strategies
- Look for lunch specials
- Check happy hour menus
- Consider shared platters
- Explore buffet-style restaurants
Local Insider Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early fall for optimal seafood and fewer crowds
- Price Range: Expect $$ to $$$ for quality seafood experiences
- Recommended Booking: Use platforms like OpenTable for reservations
Safety and Dietary Considerations
- Many restaurants offer gluten-free and vegetarian options
- Always inform staff about allergies
- Check restaurant websites for current menus and accommodations
Reference:
– The Caravelle Seafood Guide
– Bayview Resort Restaurant Recommendations
– The Strand Myrtle Beach Dining