Mom wants sushi. Dad wants shrimp and grits. Kids want the burgers-dogs-chicken finger trifecta.
And you’re not making three stops.
Lucky you, dear visitor, since the South Strand seems to know what you’re up against. We’re listing five of our favorite local restaurants that have a little bit of everything to please all palates.
Here’s where to start, all within a short drive of your stay at Litchfield Beach & Golf.
1) Frank’s and Frank’s Outback: We — and just about every other one of their patrons —love this spot for celebrations and splurges, and rest assured, you really can get any number of delicious eats from their three menus. Frank’s Inside is continental with Lowcountry flair; the Chophouse has all your steakhouse faves; and the Outback menu has a bit more of a casual spin. Try an Asian-inspired seared tuna stack with crispy wontons, avocado cream cheese and spicy miso mayo; or Southern-style local shrimp and andouille with Tasso cream over fried green tomatoes; or even way out to the Mediterranean with shrimp saganaki in tomato sauce with onion, feta and oregano. And those are just from the “Small Plates”selections. Salads are creative and filling, entrees will knock your globe-trotting socks off, and the wood-fired pizzas are sure the please the pickiest eaters.
2) Quigley’s Pint and Plate: This is a great spot for eating with the whole family in mind, but without sacrificing any flavor or quality to the God of Bland Kids Food. The menu features lots of pub grub faves, such as burgers, a reuben, fish and chips and shepherd’s pie, but also showcases some fun out-of-the-box options like spicy blackened mahi tacos, pan-seared scallops over bacon cheddar grit cakes, or the naughty-but-heavenly chicken & waffles made with sweet potatoes and smothered in country gravy. Apps are plentiful and pleasing, salads can easily serve as a meal, and the kids menu goes well beyond the standard offerings. Did we mention the bar? Try a freshly brewed ale or lager for only $4, or a fun cocktail, like the Snicker-tini, for a few bucks more.
3) Bistro 217: Here’s another one worthy of a celebration and, it seems, a passport. The classic steak tartar with capers, shallots and Dijon is a nod to the French; Paella with shrimp, chorizo, mussels and more is a Spanish point of pride; the wedge salad is an American steakhouse staple; and the fried green tomatoes and oysters is all Lowcountry, all the time. Check out the bar menu for some lighter fare with even more far-flung influences —Bangkok chicken and crunchy Thai shrimp salad, anyone? We love that they have a children's menu, too, so you won’t hear any caterwauling out of the kiddos.
4) Hot Fish Club: In nearby Murrells Inlet, you’ll find this popular-for-a-reason spot. And yes, as the name suggests, it is heavy on the seafood, you will be pleased at the variety they offer, in addition to options for the landlubbers. Oysters Rockefeller to start is a garlicky bomb of decadence, and followed by either fancy-pants lobster tails or more casual fish and chips, will sate any and all seafood yens you may have. Steak here is solid, as are the chicken-fried chicken and the prime rib French dip. If you are hankering for something with a brighter taste, their Caprese salad with just a drizzle of balsamic and pesto is like a bite of summer. And then, of course, there’s the shrimp and grits Hot Fish style….
5) Wicked Tuna: Also in Murrells Inlet with an emphasis on seafood, Wicked Tuna is one of those places you’ll remember, and only for the best reasons. The space is big and impressive, the service friendly and prompt, and the food? Both exotic and approachable, expansive and well-honed, and indulgent with great healthy options, too. Hummus is followed by fried pickles on the appetizer menu, for what it’s worth. Loads of seafood, such as local flounder with shrimp and lump crab grits, salads, steaks and chicken, and of course, sushi pack the menu. Try the raw bar options for some one-of-a-kind local catches, and if all else fails with a companion who simply can’t go there, who could deny a bacon cheeseburger with shoestring fries?
They’ve all got a little bit of everything, and you’ve got a whole lot of happy kin.
Where do you like to go near Litchfield to find a variety of eats on one menu? Let us know!
(Posted: 3/25/15)
