22 Unique Restaurants in Myrtle Beach: Extraordinary Foodie Gems Unveiled

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Myrtle Beach isn’t just about sun and sand—it’s got a killer food scene that’s packed with surprises. From beachfront seafood shacks to upscale bistros serving Southern comfort with a twist, this place has something for every vibe. Think buttery shrimp and grits at Croissants Bistro, fresh oysters at Hook & Barrel, or giant burgers at River City Café.

The city’s food scene blends coastal classics with bold, creative flavors that are perfect for any foodie. Picture waterfront dining at Wicked Tuna or digging into lobster mac and cheese at Aspen Grille. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a more refined experience, Myrtle Beach hits the mark.

In this guide, I’m highlighting 22 one-of-a-kind restaurants you won’t want to miss. Let’s explore Myrtle Beach’s tastiest spots!

👉 Pro Tip: The Polynesian Fire Luau is a total vibe! Dive into the buffet for some delicious island-inspired eats, then sit back and enjoy an epic show filled with fire tricks and traditional dances. Make sure to show up early to grab the best seats, and don’t forget to snap some pics—this is a night you’ll be talking about long after your Myrtle Beach trip!

Unique Restaurants in Myrtle Beach: 22 Incredible Myrtle Beach Eateries

Exploring Myrtle Beach’s unique restaurants is like going on a treasure hunt for your taste buds. Each spot has its own story, serving up dishes you won’t find anywhere else. Get ready to uncover the dining gems that make Myrtle Beach a foodie’s dream destination.

1. Polynesian Fire Luau

• 📍 Location: St John’s Inn
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $75 per person (Dinner & Show)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Polynesian / Buffet / Dinner Show
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic luau experience, Samoan fire knife dancing, buffet dinner.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families and themed dining enthusiasts.

Get ready to be transported to the South Pacific at the Polynesian Fire Luau. You’re greeted with island music, and the air smells of plumeria and roasted pork. It’s a full luau experience, complete with a buffet of island-style food.

The buffet features kalua pig, poi, and tropical fruits. The highlight is the show; the Samoan fire knife dancing is intense, with warriors twirling actual fire knives. The hula dancing is also beautiful. It’s a dinner show that’s different.

2. Big Mike’s Soul Food

This is a real-deal hidden gem for soulful Southern cooking in Myrtle Beach. Big Mike’s packs a homey, bustling vibe and is super popular with locals (which is always a good sign). Don’t visit without getting the famed fried chicken – insanely crispy outside, juicy inside, and perfectly seasoned. Their collard greens and macaroni and cheese have a cult following, too. The place has no-frills decor with sports memorabilia and family photos, so you know it’s all about comfort here. It’s the perfect spot after a day at the beach or walking around the nearby Family Kingdom Amusement Park. I can honestly say their “Blue Plate Specials” remind me of family reunions and Sunday suppers. Portions are massive, so come hungry!

3. Hurricanes Daiquiri Bar & Grill

• 📍 Location: Broadway at the Beach
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Bar Food / Daiquiris
• 🔥 Standout Features: Large daiquiri selection, casual vibe, outdoor seating.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Daiquiri lovers, groups seeking fun and casual bites.

If you’re thirsty, Hurricanes Daiquiri Bar & Grill at Broadway at the Beach has a literal wall of colorful, swirling daiquiri machines. The vibe is super casual and party-like, with music pumping and people spilling out onto the patio.

A Hurricane mixed with Piña Colada is dangerously smooth. For food, the fried pickles with ranch are perfectly tangy, or share a basket of their loaded nachos. You’re here for the drinks and the fun atmosphere. It’s a great spot to kick back.

• 👉 Personal Recommendation: Dinner. Drinks. Murder. Welcome to the funniest crime you’ll ever witness. 🍝🔍 Step into a 1930s speakeasy for this interactive murder mystery dinner show in Myrtle Beach. Solve the mystery while enjoying Italian comfort food, over-the-top mobster antics, and hilarious audience participation. Perfect for couples, families, friend groups, and anyone who loves a good laugh with their lasagna.

4. Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts, North Myrtle Beach

This breakfast hotspot is a local legend, especially for early risers. Johnny D’s is quirky, lively, and always humming with energy. Their red velvet waffle, loaded with cream cheese icing and fresh berries, is basically Instagram-famous. Don’t miss the shrimp and grits eggs Benedict if you love a Southern twist. The seating is bright and breezy with coastal art on the walls, and there’s always upbeat tunes playing. Pro tip: Go midweek to avoid weekend lines. After brunch, you’re minutes from Barefoot Landing shops. I still dream about that waffle – it seriously raises the bar for breakfast.

5. Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Ocean Boulevard
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Seafood / American / Beach Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Oceanfront views, boardwalk location, casual beach vibe, live music.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Beachgoers, casual seafood lovers, and sunset views with a drink.

You can’t beat the view at Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant; it’s right on the boardwalk, and the waves are practically crashing at your feet. It’s got that classic, laid-back beach bar feel, with sandy floors and salty air. They have live music.

Their famous fish tacos, loaded with fresh fish and a zesty chipotle sauce, are a great choice. The fried shrimp basket or the classic Sharkey’s Burger are also popular. Snag a table on the deck and watch the sunset.

6. Drift

Packed with sleek, modern energy, Drift is where you go when you want brunch with style (and a great mimosa). The restaurant rocks floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light and a cool minimalist design, making it feel way trendier than standard breakfast joints. You have to try their crème brûlée French toast, which honestly looks too pretty to eat. Another showstopper: their avocado toast topped with a mountain of microgreens and perfectly poached eggs. There are cozy booths and a spacious outdoor patio if you prefer sunshine and people-watching. Glenmark Centre and several boutiques are nearby if you want to wander afterward. The food’s as beautiful as the crowd here – I felt like I was on a little Soho detour right by the beach.

7. DinoLand Cafe

• 📍 Location: South Kings Highway
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $45 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Themed Restaurant
• 🔥 Standout Features: Life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, themed decor, kid-friendly.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families, dinosaur enthusiasts, and a playful meal.

Walking into DinoLand Cafe is like stepping onto a movie set – giant animatronic dinosaurs are everywhere, roaring and moving, and the whole place is decked out like a prehistoric jungle. Kids will be thrilled. A staff member in a dinosaur costume interacts with tables.

The “Tyranno Burger”, a beast of a burger with all the fixings, is a popular choice. Their chicken tenders (“Pterodactyl Wings”) or the mac and cheese (“Lava Mac”) are also kid-friendly hits. If you have little ones who love dinosaurs, this place is great.

8. Blueberry’s Grill

Blueberry’s Grill is a brunch lover’s paradise tucked inside a stylish, airy space surrounded by gardens. This spot is famous for its over-the-top signature dishes, like the Cinnamon Roll French Toast or Myrtle Beach Omelette stuffed with local seafood. Their outdoor patio is a delight on sunny mornings, and the contemporary rustic vibe inside just screams ‘Instagram me.’ They sling specialty mimosas and bloody marys, making it a go-to for laid-back, boozy weekends. Located just behind Broadway at the Beach, it’s ideal for fueling up before a day of shopping or exploring. The balance of energetic atmosphere and chill service is perfection – I always leave here wondering how breakfast can be this fun.

9. Hook and Barrel

• 📍 Location: North Kings Highway
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Seafood / Southern / Farm-to-Table
• 🔥 Standout Features: Sustainable seafood, local flavor, nautical decor.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Seafood connoisseurs, special occasions, and eco-conscious diners.

Hook and Barrel feels different – it’s got a cool, modern nautical vibe with interesting light fixtures. They are serious about fresh, sustainable seafood, and you can taste it. The open steam galley adds a bit of theater to the meal.

Starting with their bourbon bacon appetizer, dramatically hanging on a mini clothesline, is a must; it’s smoky, sweet, and melts in your mouth. The pan-seared scallops with seasonal risotto or their fresh market fish prepared grilled or blackened are also fantastic.

10. LuLu’s North Myrtle Beach

If your idea of fun is waterfront dining mixed with non-stop beachy energy, Lulu’s is a must. This sprawling, colorful restaurant sits right on the Intracoastal Waterway and channels casual Key West vibes, hammocks included. The menu is a playful mashup of Southern and Gulf Coast favorites – try the Crazy Sista’s Crab Dip and fresh catch sandwiches. There’s a massive outdoor playground and live music most nights, so it’s perfect for families and big groups. Afterward, you can wander the shops and arcades at Barefoot Landing. I left way too full after demolishing their seafood basket, but lounging in the outdoor chairs watching boats go by is therapy in itself.

11. The Grumpy Monk

• 📍 Location: Multiple locations
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Gastropub / Sushi / American
• 🔥 Standout Features: Extensive craft beer list, creative sushi rolls, diverse menu.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Beer lovers, sushi fans, and groups with varied tastes.

The Grumpy Monk is a triple threat: great beer, inventive sushi, and solid pub food. The beer list is huge, with tons of local and craft options. The atmosphere is lively and pub-like, with a slight monastery-meets-sports-bar decor.

The sushi is surprisingly good – trying the “Monk on Fire Roll” with spicy tuna and jalapeño is a great idea. Their Grumpy Monk Burger with bacon and pimento cheese, or the crispy fish and chips, are also crowd-pleasers.

12. Crepe Creation Cafe

Boutique bistro mood meets European sidewalk charm at Crepe Creation, right in the heart of The Market Common. Sweet or savory, these crepes are next-level – the Nutella banana is pure happiness, and the smoked salmon Florentine brings brunch to new heights. They also make killer espresso drinks and mimosas if you’re planning a slow morning. Decor is French-inspired, with cozy tables, art on the walls, and a steady hum of locals chatting. When it’s nice out, snag a sidewalk seat for prime people-watching. I love starting my Market Common days here before browsing the local shops or catching an indie film across the street.

13. Jerusalem Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar

• 📍 Location: North Kings Highway
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Mediterranean / Middle Eastern / Kosher options
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Mediterranean decor, flavorful dishes, belly dancing on select nights.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Fans of Middle Eastern cuisine and adventurous palates.

Stepping into Jerusalem Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar feels like you’ve been whisked away. The decor is rich with colorful fabrics and lanterns, and the air is filled with exotic spices. They have belly dancers on select nights.

Sharing the Jerusalem Platter appetizer, with amazing falafel, kibbeh, hummus, and Moroccan cigars, is a must. For entrees, the tender lamb shank slow-cooked with vegetables, or the flavorful chicken shawarma plate, are fantastic.

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14. Cafe Old Vienna

Cafe Old Vienna is a slice of Austria in the middle of Myrtle Beach. This family-owned spot is as authentic as they come, serving up hefty schnitzels, bratwurst, and perfectly poured German beers. The restaurant is decked out in alpine decor – think wood paneling, beer steins, and cheerful folk music – and the vibe is pure Gemütlichkeit (cozy comfort). The sausages with sauerkraut are a personal favorite, but don’t skip the apple strudel for dessert. There’s a hidden beer garden out back with twinkle lights, which feels like a secret patio party. You’re just a block from the beach, so it’s easy to pair with an ocean stroll. The staff treats every guest like family – I always leave smiling (and stuffed).

15. Art Burger Sushi Bar

• 📍 Location: Ocean Boulevard (near the Boardwalk)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Gourmet Burgers / Sushi / Gastropub
• 🔥 Standout Features: Creative burger and sushi combinations, liquid nitrogen cocktails, ocean views.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Burger and sushi lovers, adventurous eaters, and cocktail enthusiasts.

Burgers and sushi? Art Burger Sushi Bar makes it work. They have creative gourmet burgers named after famous artists and an equally inventive sushi menu. The liquid nitrogen cocktails come out smoking like a science experiment! It’s a fun, modern spot with ocean views.

Trying The Dalton burger with pimento cheese and fried green tomato is a good plan. For sushi, the “Starry Night” roll or the “Picasso” roll are popular inventive choices. The liquid nitrogen cocktails are a unique spectacle.

16. Crave Italian Oven & Bar Myrtle Beach

If you crave wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and a genuine Italian vibe, Crave is the place. The restaurant feels sleek yet welcoming, thanks to leather booths, marble accents, and an open kitchen showcasing their artisan pizza oven. The prosciutto-and-arugula pie is a standout, and the homemade meatballs melt in your mouth. Don’t pass on their craft cocktails – the Limoncello martini is dangerously good. There’s a buzz here at night with music and an energetic crowd, making it ideal for date night or group dinners. The nearby Grande Dunes Marketplace is a bonus stop. I could eat that pizza crust every day and not get bored – pure amore.

17. The Library Restaurant

• 📍 Location: North Kings Highway
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic European / Fine Dining / Steakhouse
• 🔥 Standout Features: Old-world elegance, tableside preparations (Caesar salad, Steak Diane, Bananas Foster), extensive wine list.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic dinners, milestone celebrations, and a traditional fine dining experience.

The Library Restaurant is a true Myrtle Beach institution, like stepping back into a bygone era of fine dining. It’s all dark wood, plush seating, and tuxedoed waiters. They’re famous for their tableside service.

Having the Steak Diane, prepared right next to you with leaping flames, is a must. Their classic Caesar salad, also prepared tableside, or the rich lobster bisque, are excellent starters. For dessert, the Bananas Foster is a showstopper.

18. Thai-Lao Restaurant

Dive into international flavors at Thai-Lao, a true family-run gem tucked away in a nondescript shopping strip. The vibe is low-key and welcoming, with decor packed with Southeast Asian artifacts and artwork. The pad Thai is the best I’ve had in Myrtle Beach—perfectly balanced, a hint of sweetness, and just the right kick. Their Lao sausage appetizer is a table-pleaser, and plus, nobody does sticky rice better. Prices are reasonable for the giant portions, too. It’s close to shopping centers and a few local parks, so easy to pop in before or after errands. Service here feels like dining with friends—every recommendation was spot on. I left plotting my next visit.

19. Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse

• 📍 Location: Kings Highway
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $70 per person (All-you-can-eat)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Brazilian / Churrascaria / Steakhouse
• 🔥 Standout Features: Continuous tableside service of various grilled meats (gauchos), extensive salad bar.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Meat lovers, big appetites, and an interactive dining experience.

Come hungry to Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse, because it’s an all-you-can-eat meat extravaganza. Gauchos in traditional attire continuously circle the dining room, carving different cuts of perfectly grilled beef, lamb, pork, and chicken right onto your plate.

The Picanha (top sirloin) is a favorite, tender and flavorful. The garlic steak and bacon-wrapped filet mignon are also must-haves. They also have a massive salad bar, but pace yourself! It’s a performance and a feast.

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20. Mr. Fish Seafood Market & Grill

If you love seafood, Mr. Fish is a can’t-miss staple just off 79th Avenue North. It’s a hybrid seafood market and grill, so you can grab fresh catches to cook at your condo or settle in for a feast. Their fish tacos and spicy fried shrimp baskets are top-tier, and the sushi bar is surprisingly legit. The space is casual, kind of like a funky coastal roadhouse, with nautical decor everywhere and a constant, lively buzz. There’s plenty of parking, and you’re a block from the beach if you want to walk off your meal. I love watching staff filet fish right in front of the counter – this place knows its seafood, no question.

21. Fire and Smoke Gastropub

• 📍 Location: 79th Ave North
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Gastropub / Upscale Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Wood-fired grill, creative dishes with unique meats (elk, wild boar), extensive bourbon and wine list.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Foodies, adventurous eaters, and those seeking upscale pub fare.

Fire and Smoke Gastropub takes pub food to a whole new level. It’s a bit off the main tourist drag, and they’re serious about their food. The menu features interesting items cooked with a focus on smoky, wood-fired flavors. The place has a sophisticated but relaxed vibe.

Trying their crispy pork belly appetizer with a maple-bourbon glaze is a great idea; it has an amazing balance of rich meat and crackling skin. The wild boar meatloaf or their seasonal elk chops are also fantastic.

22. River City Cafe

• 📍 Location: Socastee, Surfside Beach, Oceanfront
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Burgers / Casual
• 🔥 Standout Features: Peanuts on the floor, rustic and eclectic decor, build-your-own burgers.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Casual family meals, burger enthusiasts, and a laid-back, fun atmosphere.

River City Cafe is a Myrtle Beach classic – super casual, loud, and fun. You can throw your peanut shells right on the floor, which kids love. The decor is a mishmash of license plates and old signs covering every inch. Their burgers are the main event.

Building your own burger with all sorts of toppings is a must. The nacho crunch burger with tortilla chips piled right on it, or a classic cheeseburger with chili and slaw, are also popular. It’s not fancy, but it’s a quintessential beach vacation eatery.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Myrtle Beach

Got questions? Our FAQ section in this Myrtle Beach restaurant guide has all the answers you need.

What food is Myrtle Beach best known for?

Myrtle Beach is famous for its seafood. The coastal location means fresh fish, shrimp, crab, and oysters are often on the menu. You’ll find everything from casual seafood shacks to upscale dining spots serving up these ocean delights. Besides seafood, Myrtle Beach also loves its barbecue and Southern comfort food, offering a taste of true Southern hospitality in one of the top places to live and visit in South Carolina.

Who owns River City Cafe in Myrtle Beach?

River City Cafe, owned by a local restaurant group that specializes in creating unique dining experiences, is one of the unique places to visit in the Southeast US. This group is passionate about serving high-quality, delicious burgers in a fun, casual atmosphere. They focus on fresh ingredients and a memorable customer experience, making River City Cafe a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Does Myrtle Beach have a lot of restaurants?

Yes, Myrtle Beach boasts a wide variety of restaurants. From Myrtle Beach’s unique restaurants offering seafood and steak to international cuisines like Italian, Mexican, and Asian, there’s something for every palate. The area is also known for its buffet dining, with numerous options that cater to families and large groups looking for variety and value.

Where can I find cheap eats in Myrtle Beach?

Cheap eats in Myrtle Beach are easy to find if you know where to look. Many local diners and cafes offer delicious meals at affordable prices. Look for happy hour specials at bars and restaurants for deals on food and drinks. Fast food and pizza places also offer budget-friendly options, and don’t forget about food trucks for unique, inexpensive eats.

What are some fine dining options in Myrtle Beach?

For those seeking fine dining in Myrtle Beach, the city offers several upscale restaurants that feature gourmet cuisine in elegant settings, making it one of the best things to do in the Carolinas. These establishments often serve fresh local seafood, prime steaks, and exquisite international dishes. Many fine dining restaurants in Myrtle Beach also boast extensive wine lists and expertly crafted cocktails, making them perfect for special occasions.

Can you recommend any hidden gem restaurants in Myrtle Beach?

Hidden gem restaurants in Myrtle Beach can be found off the beaten path. These spots might be tucked away in quieter neighborhoods or might not look like much from the outside but offer incredible food and a cozy atmosphere inside. From quaint cafes serving homemade dishes to international eateries with authentic flavors, these hidden gems in South Carolina are worth seeking out for a unique dining experience.

What types of international cuisine can I find in Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach is home to a diverse range of international cuisines. You can find Italian, Mexican, Japanese, Thai, and Mediterranean restaurants, among others. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, pasta, tacos, or curry, Myrtle Beach has a restaurant to satisfy your cravings. This variety reflects the city’s cosmopolitan vibe and its popularity with tourists from all over the world.

Are there any waterfront dining options in Myrtle Beach?

Yes, there are numerous waterfront dining options in Myrtle Beach. Many restaurants are located along the Grand Strand, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. These establishments range from casual seafood spots to upscale eateries, allowing guests to enjoy a meal with a view. Waterfront dining in Myrtle Beach is perfect for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the coast while indulging in delicious food.

Is Myrtle Beach a good place for vegetarian and vegan dining?

Yes, Myrtle Beach is becoming increasingly friendly for vegetarian and vegan diners. Many restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus, catering to the growing demand for plant-based meals. From dedicated vegan cafes to traditional eateries adding more meatless dishes, finding vegetarian and vegan dining in Myrtle Beach is easier than ever. These options not only include salads but also creative and satisfying entrees that appeal to everyone, not just vegetarians and vegans.

Final Thoughts On Unique Myrtle Beach Restaurants

We hope you enjoyed exploring our Myrtle Beach restaurant guide. This guide aimed to show you the wide variety of dining options available in this vibrant coastal city. From seafood to burgers, fine dining to hidden gems, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone, making it one of the top things to do in the Southeast US.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a luxurious meal with ocean views, you’ll find it here. Remember, the best way to experience Myrtle Beach on vacation is to try something new and dive into the local flavors. So next time you’re in town, use this guide to find your next favorite meal.