The Palmetto State is home to a host of outstanding restaurants on the coast where you can get anything from a world-class meal with a perfectly paired bottle of wine to a bucket of lightly roasted oysters served with a local craft beer. Whatever you desire, you’ll find it here. But with so many to choose from it can be a daunting task to pick the absolute best ones, right?
We can help! Roll up your sleeves and loosen your belt, South Carolina. These 18 eateries make up the all-important list of coastal restaurants in South Carolina you must try before you die. P.S. For easy reference, they are in order from the northern-most part of the coastline to the southern-most.
- The Brentwood Restaurant & Wine Bistro - Little River
TripAdvisor.com/Cat B
TripAdvisor/Susan H The Brentwood’s talent for infusing Lowcountry favorites with French flair doesn’t go unnoticed with locals or tourists. You’ll also find traditional French dishes on the menu at this French restaurant. The Brentwood Restaurant is located at 4269 State Rd S-26-852, Little River, SC 29566.
- Umberto’s - North Myrtle Beach
TripAdvisor/Kanish_11
TripAdvisor/kellandrich Umberto’s is old-school Italian. Head over to Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach for generous portions of Italian standards made just the way you love them. Umberto’s is located at 4886 N Kings Hwy, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582.
- Aspen Grille - Myrtle Beach
Yelp/Rob W
Yelp/Aspen Grille
Yelp/Aspen Grille Aspen Grille is chef-owned and operated and features Carolina cuisine. If you’re looking for fresh seafood and prime steak cuts prepared to a creative culinary perfection, then this is the eatery for you. Aspen Grille is located at 5101 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.
- The Original Valentino’s Italian Restaurant - Surfside Beach
TripAdvisor/OSProfiler
TripAdvisor/OriginalValentino The #1 Restaurant in Surfside dishes up authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic and intimate setting. With or without the excuse of a “special occasion,” you’ll find the original Valentino’s in Surfside is perfect. Open seven days a week beginning at 12 noon. (The Original) Valentino’s Italian Restaurant is located at 323 US-17 BUS, Surfside Beach, SC 29575.
- Gulfstream Cafe - Garden City Beach
Google Maps [streeteview]
Yelp. S K
Facebook/Gulfstream Cafe Mix up your amazing meal with incredible views. Gulfstream Cafe overlooks picturesque Murrells Inlet on one side and the Atlantic on the other. It’s easy to see why they were voted Best Restaurant With A View by the Sun News! Gulfstream Cafe is located at 1536 S Waccamaw Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.
- Hot Fish Club - Murrells Inlet
Yelp/Hot Fish Club
Yelp/Aimee C
Yelp/Hot Fish Club This waterfront seafood and steak restaurant will not disappoint. With their casual atmosphere, friendly waitstaff and reasonable prices the Hot Fish Club is a favorite among locals and visitors! For a seafood combo you’ll love try the Seafood Cioppino shown here! Hot Fish Club is located at 4911 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.
- Perrone’s - Pawley’s Island
TripAdvisor/TravelingBillbury
TripAdvisor/Vito E Perrone’s in Pawleys Island is lauded for their extensive wine list and their craft liquors. But their food is also first-rate and takes a Mediterranean influence to the max. Perrone’s is located at 13302 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585.
- Alfresco Bistro - Georgetown
TripAdvisor/Kristina K
TripAdvisor/nadine-bettina This just may be one of the best little bistros in the South. In season, enjoy dining outside at one of the charming tables. Alfresco dishes up unforgettable seafood and Italian renditions of your favorites - and your soon-to-be-faves. Alfresco Bistro is located at 812 Front St, Georgetown, SC 29440.
- T.W. Graham & Co. - McClellanville
TripAdvisor/SwimRoetter
Facebook/TW Graham & Co This iconic restaurant in one of South Carolina’s oldest fishing villages focuses on local-caught fresh seafood. If you’re lucky, they’ll have crispy Whole Fried Flounder when you go. But don’t worry, everything on the menu here is outstanding! T.W. Graham & Co is located at 810 Pinckney St, McClellanville, SC 29458.
- Seewee Restaurant - Awendaw
Yelp/Nate B
Yelp/Ko V No article featuring coastal South Carolina restaurants would be complete without including the iconic Seewee Restaurant in Awendaw. A favorite among locals and tourists, the Seewee is more than just food, it’s a destination. If you haven’t tried the Seewee, now is the time. Seewee Restaurant is located at 4808 N Hwy 17, Awendaw, SC 29429.
- Vickery’s (on Shem Creek) - Mount Pleasant
TripAdvisor/Rialbtraveler
Yelp/Pam W Vickery’s is as much of a Shem Creek institution as most of the eateries on the famed channel of water in Mount Pleasant. But for all the times I’ve been to Vickery’s I’ve never had a bad experience. The food, the service and the view (oh that view!) are outstanding. Vickery’s is located at 1313 Shrimp Boat Ln, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464.
- Sea Biscuit Cafe - Isle of Palms
Facebook/Sea Biscuit Cafe
Facebook/Sea Biscuit Cafe
Yelp/Keith M Only steps from the Atlantic Ocean, the Sea Biscuit Cafe serves breakfast and lunch seven days a week. Get there early and just know if there’s any kind of wait…it’s totally worth it. Breakfast, especially, is tempting with specials like the one shown here, a delicious Fried Green Tomatoes Bacon and Eggs Benedict, served with a side of Shrimp Gravy. Whoa! Sea Biscuit Cafe is located at 21 J C Long Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC 29451.
- The Obstinate Daughter - Sullivans Island
The Obstinate Daughter
Yelp/Derek C
Yelp/Christine M Hip, romantic, fashionable and most of all, delicious! The Obstinate Daughter is a creative mix of eclectic American fare. Plus, you’ll love the decor. The Obstinate Daughter is located at 2063 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482.
- Lana Restaurant - Charleston
Facebook/Lana Restaurant
Facebook/Lana Restaurant Located in the heart of Historic Charleston’s trendy Cannonborough neighborhood, Lana Restaurant & Bar is the manifestation of Chef and Proprietor John Ondo’s daring tendency to challenge traditional Italian dishes by adding his own brand of outrageously creative Mediterranean-infused flair. At Lana, your tastebuds are in for the ride of their life in this cozy, yet classy, uptown eatery. Lana Restaurant & Bar is located on the corner at 210 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403.
- Taco Boy - Folly Beach
TripAdvisor/cheryl h
Facebook/Taco Boy Tacos are the name of the game at this upbeat and quirky eatery on Folly Beach. After just one visit to Taco Boy, you’ll never view Mexican food the same way again. Be sure to get the world’s most unforgettable nachos for an appetizer or you’ll just end up envious of the next table over when theirs arrive. Taco Boy is located at 15 Center St, Folly Beach, SC 29439.
- Capt Jimmy Bell’s Right Off The Boat Seafood Joint - Hollywood/Younges Island
TripAdvisor/Susan D
TripAdvisor/Mcdanfam The crab cakes at Jimmy Bell’s are unrivaled in the Lowcountry! If you’re not exactly into seafood, then try the fresh-from-the-smoker pulled pork and ribs. Delish! Capt Jimmy Bell’s Seafood Joint is located at 8072 Little Britton Rd, Yonges Island, SC 29449.
- Griffin Market - Beaufort
TripAdvisor/citallwic
TripAdvisor/management Griffin Market in Beaufort features a seasonal menu from Northern Italy. There aren’t many places on the South Carolina coast where you can get a fish with the head on, and it’s a delicacy. Other specialties include lamb, duck, baby octopus and of course, pasta! Griffin Market is located at 403 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC .
- Skull Creek Boathouse - Hilton Head
TripAdvisor/SavantII_11
Facebook/Skull Creek Boathouse Sunset views at Skull Creek go hand-in-hand with amazing fresh seafood creations, including a sushi menu. In season, which is practically all year, enjoy panoramic water views from outdoor waterside seating. Skull Creek Boathouse is located at 397 Squire Pope Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.
This list is sure to send you on your way to discovering some of the best restaurants in South Carolina. Is your favorite coastal spot on this list? You can always feel free to add it in our comments!
TripAdvisor.com/Cat B
TripAdvisor/Susan H
The Brentwood’s talent for infusing Lowcountry favorites with French flair doesn’t go unnoticed with locals or tourists. You’ll also find traditional French dishes on the menu at this French restaurant. The Brentwood Restaurant is located at 4269 State Rd S-26-852, Little River, SC 29566.
TripAdvisor/Kanish_11
TripAdvisor/kellandrich
Umberto’s is old-school Italian. Head over to Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach for generous portions of Italian standards made just the way you love them. Umberto’s is located at 4886 N Kings Hwy, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582.
Yelp/Rob W
Yelp/Aspen Grille
Aspen Grille is chef-owned and operated and features Carolina cuisine. If you’re looking for fresh seafood and prime steak cuts prepared to a creative culinary perfection, then this is the eatery for you. Aspen Grille is located at 5101 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.
TripAdvisor/OSProfiler
TripAdvisor/OriginalValentino
The #1 Restaurant in Surfside dishes up authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic and intimate setting. With or without the excuse of a “special occasion,” you’ll find the original Valentino’s in Surfside is perfect. Open seven days a week beginning at 12 noon. (The Original) Valentino’s Italian Restaurant is located at 323 US-17 BUS, Surfside Beach, SC 29575.
Google Maps [streeteview]
Yelp. S K
Facebook/Gulfstream Cafe
Mix up your amazing meal with incredible views. Gulfstream Cafe overlooks picturesque Murrells Inlet on one side and the Atlantic on the other. It’s easy to see why they were voted Best Restaurant With A View by the Sun News! Gulfstream Cafe is located at 1536 S Waccamaw Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.
Yelp/Hot Fish Club
Yelp/Aimee C
This waterfront seafood and steak restaurant will not disappoint. With their casual atmosphere, friendly waitstaff and reasonable prices the Hot Fish Club is a favorite among locals and visitors! For a seafood combo you’ll love try the Seafood Cioppino shown here! Hot Fish Club is located at 4911 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576.
TripAdvisor/TravelingBillbury
TripAdvisor/Vito E
Perrone’s in Pawleys Island is lauded for their extensive wine list and their craft liquors. But their food is also first-rate and takes a Mediterranean influence to the max. Perrone’s is located at 13302 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585.
TripAdvisor/Kristina K
TripAdvisor/nadine-bettina
This just may be one of the best little bistros in the South. In season, enjoy dining outside at one of the charming tables. Alfresco dishes up unforgettable seafood and Italian renditions of your favorites - and your soon-to-be-faves. Alfresco Bistro is located at 812 Front St, Georgetown, SC 29440.
TripAdvisor/SwimRoetter
Facebook/TW Graham & Co
This iconic restaurant in one of South Carolina’s oldest fishing villages focuses on local-caught fresh seafood. If you’re lucky, they’ll have crispy Whole Fried Flounder when you go. But don’t worry, everything on the menu here is outstanding! T.W. Graham & Co is located at 810 Pinckney St, McClellanville, SC 29458.
Yelp/Nate B
Yelp/Ko V
No article featuring coastal South Carolina restaurants would be complete without including the iconic Seewee Restaurant in Awendaw. A favorite among locals and tourists, the Seewee is more than just food, it’s a destination. If you haven’t tried the Seewee, now is the time. Seewee Restaurant is located at 4808 N Hwy 17, Awendaw, SC 29429.
TripAdvisor/Rialbtraveler
Yelp/Pam W
Vickery’s is as much of a Shem Creek institution as most of the eateries on the famed channel of water in Mount Pleasant. But for all the times I’ve been to Vickery’s I’ve never had a bad experience. The food, the service and the view (oh that view!) are outstanding. Vickery’s is located at 1313 Shrimp Boat Ln, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464.
Facebook/Sea Biscuit Cafe
Yelp/Keith M
Only steps from the Atlantic Ocean, the Sea Biscuit Cafe serves breakfast and lunch seven days a week. Get there early and just know if there’s any kind of wait…it’s totally worth it. Breakfast, especially, is tempting with specials like the one shown here, a delicious Fried Green Tomatoes Bacon and Eggs Benedict, served with a side of Shrimp Gravy. Whoa! Sea Biscuit Cafe is located at 21 J C Long Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC 29451.
The Obstinate Daughter
Yelp/Derek C
Yelp/Christine M
Hip, romantic, fashionable and most of all, delicious! The Obstinate Daughter is a creative mix of eclectic American fare. Plus, you’ll love the decor. The Obstinate Daughter is located at 2063 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482.
Facebook/Lana Restaurant
Located in the heart of Historic Charleston’s trendy Cannonborough neighborhood, Lana Restaurant & Bar is the manifestation of Chef and Proprietor John Ondo’s daring tendency to challenge traditional Italian dishes by adding his own brand of outrageously creative Mediterranean-infused flair. At Lana, your tastebuds are in for the ride of their life in this cozy, yet classy, uptown eatery. Lana Restaurant & Bar is located on the corner at 210 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403.
TripAdvisor/cheryl h
Facebook/Taco Boy
Tacos are the name of the game at this upbeat and quirky eatery on Folly Beach. After just one visit to Taco Boy, you’ll never view Mexican food the same way again. Be sure to get the world’s most unforgettable nachos for an appetizer or you’ll just end up envious of the next table over when theirs arrive. Taco Boy is located at 15 Center St, Folly Beach, SC 29439.
TripAdvisor/Susan D
TripAdvisor/Mcdanfam
The crab cakes at Jimmy Bell’s are unrivaled in the Lowcountry! If you’re not exactly into seafood, then try the fresh-from-the-smoker pulled pork and ribs. Delish! Capt Jimmy Bell’s Seafood Joint is located at 8072 Little Britton Rd, Yonges Island, SC 29449.
TripAdvisor/citallwic
TripAdvisor/management
Griffin Market in Beaufort features a seasonal menu from Northern Italy. There aren’t many places on the South Carolina coast where you can get a fish with the head on, and it’s a delicacy. Other specialties include lamb, duck, baby octopus and of course, pasta! Griffin Market is located at 403 Carteret St, Beaufort, SC .
TripAdvisor/SavantII_11
Facebook/Skull Creek Boathouse
Sunset views at Skull Creek go hand-in-hand with amazing fresh seafood creations, including a sushi menu. In season, which is practically all year, enjoy panoramic water views from outdoor waterside seating. Skull Creek Boathouse is located at 397 Squire Pope Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.
Bonus location: The South Carolina Restaurant In The Middle Of Nowhere That’s So Worth The Journey.
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