Like other tourist destinations, the Grand Strand is filled with literally thousands of restaurants. You’ll recognize many names, come across loads of less-than-great establishments, and crave something truly special during your next visit. That’s why I’ve pulled together a list of top restaurants in the Myrtle Beach area that will delight your taste buds and treat you to an elegant dining experience.
1) The Brentwood Restaurant & Wine Bistro
Photo: The Brentwood Restaurant & Wine Bistro
The Brentwood Restaurant & Wine Bistro is a small slice of France, just a few miles north in the quaint town of Little River, SC. Serving French favorites such as soufflés and confit, this top restaurant in Myrtle Beach has a phenomenal selection of food and wines.
As someone who enjoys an extraordinary dining experience, the tasting menu options are a pleasure. The Brentwood thrills diners with their vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus too. They’ve taken care to present their food to those with diet restrictions, without compromising taste.
Stay tuned to the Brentwood’s calendar. They offer wine-tasting events and you can even book a cooking class with the award-winning Chef Eric. Oh also, the place might be haunted (it’s just the kitchen though).
What you need to know
Brentwood Restaurant Menu
Phone: (843) 249-2601
Address: 4269 State Rd S-26-852, Little River, SC 29566
2) Aspen Grille
Photo: Aspen Grille
You might drive by Aspen Grille without noticing it. But what’s inside this strip mall storefront will blow you away! When I tell people about it, I like to use the word handcrafted.
The dining room at Aspen Grille shines because of its easy lighting and ideal table spacing. The layout allows you to enjoy the company of your dinner companions without feeling like you’re listening to the conversation of those seated behind you.
It’s all about the meat here! Try the Cedar Springs Domestic Lamb Rack with bacon braised brussel sprouts, or other cuts of their premium steak. You’ll want to try out their salt tray options, strongly consider one of the specials.
What you need to know
Aspen Grille Menu
Phone: (843) 449-9191
Address: 5101 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
3) Crady’s Eclectic Cuisine on Main
Photo: Crady’s Eclectic Cuisine on Main
Crady’s Eclectic Cuisine on Main started from humble beginnings as a local coffee shop in the historic town of Conway. Over the years the menu expanded, dish by dish, and the cuisine developed into pure decadence!
This limited-seating restaurant serves lunch, dinner, and brunch on Sundays. They put an interesting spin on Southern American classics, like Collard Green Wontons, and Fried Green Tomatoes drizzled in chipotle dressing. It’s mostly small plates, but for the hungrier crowd, try one of their hearty salads or main plates. Crab cake eggs benedict and shrimp and grits are two southern favorites that will have you whistling Dixie regardless of where you came from.
No matter what you do when visiting this top restaurant in Myrtle Beach, leave room for dessert. They’re all house made with love by Baker Barbara. They’re fresh. They’re rich. They’re unbelievable! Don’t miss the Cappuccino Chocolate Brownie. Ever.
What you need to know
Crady's Eclectic Cuisine Menu
Phone: (843) 248-3321
Address: 332 Main St, Conway, SC 29526
4) SeaBlue
Photo: SeaBlue
Modern, fresh, and delicious! SeaBlue restaurant is lit in soft blues and treats its guests to delights from the land and sea.
The bar is impressive and you’ll want to start your evening there with a specialty drink or something from their huge selection of wines and spirits. They’ve got single malt scotch, sipping rum, and a wine list a mile long.
The menu at this top restaurant ranges from casual with sliders made from house-ground beef short rib or local oysters with blackberry-basil mignonette, to selections such as chocolate chili dusted Maple Leaf Farms duck breast. If you’re looking for an experience that guides you through the essence of SeaBlue, opt for the tasting menu, which is available with many customizable options.
What you need to know
Seablue Menu
Phone: (843) 249-8800
Address: 503 Hwy 17 N, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
5) Frank’s and Frank’s Outback
Photo: Frank’s & Frank’s Outback
Frank’s and Frank’s Outback are two restaurants in one. If you’re looking for a classy, intimate fine dining experience with cozy lights and spectacular food, then Frank’s is your spot. If you’re up for something more casual but with equally amazing food, walk over to Frank’s Outback. The Outback section is an outdoor environment with open air and climate control.
Back inside, Frank’s small plate menu is considered one of the best in the area. Pork belly, tuna nachos, and fried goat cheese are some of my favorites at this top restaurant in Myrtle Beach. The entrees serve up fresh meats, seafood, and produce.
In the Outback, you’ll enjoy the same level of detail and service, just with more laid-back fare. You can still get delectable dishes, from appetizer to entrée, and their selection of wood-fired pizzas is incredible. On a side note, the enormous fireplace at the center of their outdoor dining room steals the show during the cooler months. In the summer you’ll enjoy coastal breezes.
What you need to know
Frank’s Menu
Frank’s Outback Menu
Phone: (843) 237-3030
Address: 10434 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
6) The Library
Photo: The Library
Intimate tables here are situated among bookshelves, chandeliers, and lamps. You may miss the exterior, but the interior is something special. The Library restaurant has been a top restaurant in Myrtle Beach since 1974. The menu is upscale with several table-side preparations by their excellent and experienced wait staff.
The Caesar salad is a favorite and their entrees are extremely delicious. The beer and wine lists includes some of the best offerings from around the world.
A stand-out detail about the Library is the experience. Reservations are strongly recommended and expect your meal to take approximately two hours, as courses are spread out.
What you need to know
The Library Menu
Phone: (843) 448-4527
Address: 1212 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
7) Croissants Bistro & Bakery
Photo: Croissants Bistro & Bakery
Bonjour, ya’ll. Croissants Bistro and Bakery offers French cuisine with a southern twist in the heart of Myrtle Beach.
Known for using locally grown ingredients, their specials include Espresso Rubbed Flat Iron, Shrimp and Grits, and Pan Seared Scallops. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So if you’re here during the day you have to get their HAB Sandwich with warm ham, apple, and brie cheese, or the Pork Belly Burger with fried egg and pickled red onion.
Beyond locally-caught fish and Horry county produce, Croissants is famous for their baked goods, including wedding cakes worthy of their own write-up. To finish your meal, be sure to try their artfully crafted desserts and specialty coffee.
What you need to know
Croissants Bistro Menu
Phone: (843) 448-2253
Address: 3751 Robert M Grissom Pkwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Photo: Long Bay Resort