With hundreds of restaurants scattered throughout the Grand Strand, it can be easy to stick with the same familiar names. But some of the area’s best meals can be found at restaurants tucked away from the busiest tourist spots. From seafood and Southern comfort food to international flavors and local favorites, these hidden gems are worth seeking out during your next Myrtle Beach getaway.
Joe’s Bar & Grill
If you’re looking for a restaurant that truly feels like a local find, Joe’s Bar & Grill should be on your list. Located in North Myrtle Beach, this laid-back spot is known for its Lowcountry seafood, including shrimp, and its relaxed atmosphere. Local tourism sources even describe Joe’s as a “best-kept secret” of the Grand Strand.
It’s the kind of place to visit when you want to trade the busy tourist strip for a more relaxed meal and experience a restaurant locals have been enjoying for years.
Tidewater Grill & Bistro
Tucked into a plaza along Old Highway 17, Tidewater Grill & Bistro is another North Myrtle Beach restaurant that’s easy to drive past without realizing what’s inside. This locally oriented restaurant serves seafood, steaks, burgers, and other American favorites, making it a good option when everyone in your group wants something different.
Their shrimp and grits are a standout, making this a particularly good stop when you’re craving a taste of the coast. Tidewater Grill and Bistro
The Shack
For a true taste of Southern comfort food, head to The Shack in the Cherry Grove area of North Myrtle Beach. This casual, family-run restaurant has a relaxed beach-town atmosphere and serves everything from breakfast and Southern comfort food to seafood, steaks, and barbecue. The Shack
It’s a great choice when you want something that feels less like a traditional tourist restaurant and more like a neighborhood favorite.
Boulineau’s
You might not expect a grocery store to make a list of hidden restaurants, but Boulineau’s in Cherry Grove is much more than a place to pick up groceries. This longtime local landmark has a hot bar and deli serving fresh seafood, Southern cooking, barbecue, fried chicken, and other ready-to-eat favorites. It’s also known for its doughnuts, baked goods, and other sweet treats.
For an especially casual meal, grab something from the hot bar and enjoy a taste of one of North Myrtle Beach’s longtime local institutions.
Cape Fear Seafood Company
Seafood lovers should put Cape Fear Seafood Company on their list. Located on Highway 17 in North Myrtle Beach, this restaurant takes a slightly more elevated approach to coastal dining, with dishes like local seafood, shrimp and grits, pasta, and other chef-driven favorites.
It’s a great choice when you want fresh seafood but are looking for something beyond the traditional seafood buffet experience.
Bistro 90
For a hidden restaurant experience that feels a little more upscale, make the short trip to Bistro 90 in Longs. Located away from the main tourist areas, this restaurant is known for prime steaks, dry-aged beef, an award-winning wine list, and locally sourced ingredients. Its location off the beaten path is part of what makes it worth discovering.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable dinner, Bistro 90 is one hidden gem worth the drive.
Big Mike’s Soul Food
Sometimes you want something completely different from seafood, and Big Mike’s Soul Food is a great way to switch things up. Located in Myrtle Beach, this casual restaurant specializes in hearty Southern soul food and comfort dishes.
Think generous portions, fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and the kind of home-style cooking that makes you want to come back for seconds.
Caravan
If you’re looking to go beyond the typical beach-town menu, Caravan offers something completely different. This family-run Myrtle Beach restaurant specializes in Uzbek cuisine while incorporating Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Middle Eastern influences.
It’s the kind of hidden gem that’s perfect for adventurous foodies who want to try something they may not find at the average Myrtle Beach restaurant.
Make North Beach Resort & Villas Your Home Base
After spending the day searching for hidden dining restaurants, come back to North Beach Resort & Villas and relax. The resort itself also gives you convenient dining options, including 21 Main at North Beach and North Beach Pizza Co., which serves New York-style brick oven pizza. Book now and discover a hidden restaurant you’ll want to come back to every time!
