Explore the culinary delights of Myrtle Beach alongside Clark Thomas, the protagonist of the Myrtle Beach Mystery Series. Curious about the best local dining spots, I surveyed my readers to uncover their favorite restaurants in Myrtle Beach. Discover the top 10 Myrtle Beach restaurants for 2024 based on their recommendations and make the most of your dining experience in this vibrant coastal city.
#1 – Sea Captain’s House
This oceanfront restaurant serves seafood favorites in a cozy cottage setting that offers warm southern hospitality. I For over 60 years, it has been a tradition for many friends and families to meet here and enjoy the seaside view during their Myrtle Beach visits. The Sea Captain’s House caters the ill-fated dinner in Death on the Golden Mile. I enjoyed their shrimp n’ grits.
#2 – Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts
House-made waffles, pancakes, and bread make Johnny D’s a standout stop for breakfast in Myrtle Beach. The laid-back family-owned restaurant also serves lunch and cocktails, and all their recipes are made from scratch. A scene at their Surfside Beach location takes place in Death on the Causeway. I’ve enjoyed each of my visits.
#3 – The Grumpy Monk
The Grumpy Monk’s Broadway location in Myrtle Beach is a local favorite, serving a wide variety of quality food. A wide selection of craft beers makes them a popular spot for happy hour, and visitors can dine on their lakefront patio. This local chain is one of my favorites. A scene in Death Washes Ashore takes place at their Broadway spot. Their Poutine Mountain is one of my favorite things I’ve eaten in the Grand Strand. They also have locations in Carolina Forest and North Myrtle Beach.
#4 – Chuck’s Steakhouse
A lodge-like atmosphere features three fireplaces, two waterfront decks, and a comfortable library. Chuck’s serves Certified Angus Beef steaks as well as chops, prime rib, lobster tails, chicken, and more. Chuck’s gets a mention in Death on the Back Nine.
#5 – Pier 14
This relaxed oceanfront seafood restaurant near the Sky Wheel has a lounge, bar, and a gift shop. Visitors can also fish at the pier, with fishing passes and supplies available to make your stop even more memorable.
#6 – Villa Romana
Since 1985, authentic Italian cuisine has been served in this festive restaurant space that features a fountain and statues. Traditional and original dishes include veal, chicken, and pasta. This is where Clark and Autumn used to have their anniversary dinners. I’ve taken my wife to Villa Romana for that same occasion. Loved the food and ambience.
#7 – Angelo’s Steak and Pasta
This family-friendly Italian restaurant recently celebrated its 44 year anniversary and is popular among locals for house-cut steaks, pasta, and an all-you-can-eat Italian buffet. This is one of my dad’s favorite restaurants.
#8 – Carolina Roadhouse
A bustling summer atmosphere year round makes for a fun dining experience. Specialties include giant seafood platters, thick-cut steaks, and lump Crab Dip with Old Bay pretzels.
#9 – J Peters Grill and Bar
Cocktails and tried and true American recipes like She-Crab Soup and Slow Roasted Prime Rib are served in a stylish and upscale publike setting. They have several locations in the Grand Strand. I enjoyed their Prime Rib Sandwich.
#10 – Socastee Station
This local favorite offers all-day daily specials, children’s options, and happy hour food. It is also a popular place to watch sports. Their Chicken Bog is a local favorite.
Those are some of the best spots to grab a meal in Myrtle Beach as picked by fans of the Myrtle Beach Mystery Series. I enjoy including mentions of real-life restaurants in my books, and readers have even told me they’ve discovered new restaurants from hearing about them in my books. Are there any restaurants you feel should have been on this list? Let me know in the comments!