The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood Buffet represents a quintessential Myrtle Beach dining destination, blending an extraordinary seafood experience with a remarkable nautical atmosphere. Situated in the heart of South Carolina’s coastal region, this restaurant offers an unparalleled buffet featuring over 170 items, including fresh seafood, classic Southern dishes, and an impressive collection of maritime artifacts that transport diners into a maritime adventure.
What Makes the Original Benjamin’s Unique?
The Original Benjamin’s stands out through its distinctive features:
Seafood Selection Highlights
- Calabash Style Cooking: Light, crispy batter technique
- Extensive Seafood Options:
- Crab Legs
- Jumbo Shrimp
- Fried Flounder
- Steamed Oysters
- Coconut Shrimp
Nautical Atmosphere
- Largest dry sea aquarium on East Coast
- Handcrafted model ships by master shipwright Jimmy Frost
- Immersive maritime decor throughout restaurant
How Diverse Is the Menu?
Loadmaster (David R. Tribble)
The buffet offers an impressive range of culinary options:
| Category | Number of Dishes | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Seafood | 20+ | Calabash-style preparations |
| Non-Seafood | 10+ | Ribeye, Chicken, Ribs |
| Desserts | 15+ | Cheesecake, Banana Pudding |
| Soups/Salads | 5+ | Crab Bisque, Fresh Salad Bar |
Signature Seafood Preparations
Calabash-style cooking represents the restaurant’s culinary philosophy – seafood lightly battered and deep-fried, preserving delicate flavors while creating a crispy exterior. This technique originated in nearby Calabash, North Carolina, and has become a regional culinary trademark.
What Can Guests Expect?
Dining Experience
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animal friendly
- Expansive buffet with continuous replenishment
- Panoramic maritime-themed environment
Special Dining Offers
- $4 off adult buffet during first hour
- Seasonal menu variations
- Potential group dining discounts
Why Choose Original Benjamin’s?
Beyond exceptional food, the restaurant offers:
– Educational maritime exhibits
– Generational family restaurant tradition
– Commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients
– Immersive dining environment that goes beyond mere eating
Practical Dining Tips
- Arrive early for best selection
- Consider weekday visits for potentially smaller crowds
- Check seasonal menu variations
- Explore the nautical exhibits while dining
The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood Buffet isn’t just a meal; it’s a comprehensive coastal dining experience that captures the essence of South Carolina’s rich maritime heritage.