You could spend all afternoon soaking up the sun on palmetto-lined white sandy beaches, all evening stealing smooches under picturesque Atlantic sunsets, and all night getting lost in a nightlife full of live music and tropical bars. Yet, of all the incredible things to do in Myrtle Beach, SC, sampling the local restaurant scene is one of the most memorable!
This coastal paradise is home to a wide variety of eateries: laidback oyster bars on the beach, seafood buffets that give the Lowcountry its reputation, and everything in-between. However, if you consider yourself a diehard food enthusiast, you’ll only find what your refined taste buds crave at the fine dining restaurants. Get your culinary beachside getaway started with this exclusive review of our favorite entrées from Myrtle Beach’s most upscale restaurants.
1. Beef Wellington at The Brentwood
Nestled atop Little River’s highest point, The Brentwood is a 1910 historic Victorian estate and home to renowned French chef, Eric Masson. With its fusion of high-end French cuisine and southern fare, The Brentwood is one of the nicest places you can dine in the Grand Strand. We believe that the Beef Wellington is their standout dish. However, be advised that their menu changes daily, and this dish is not guaranteed to be available when you visit.
Beef Wellington is a center-cut filet mignon enveloped in mushroom duxelles and shaved prosciutto, served alongside potato mousseline, haricots verts, and a rich bordelaise sauce. Each component of this culinary masterpiece is perfectly executed, from the melt-in-your-mouth beef filet to the earthy-umami flavor of the mushroom duxelles. The prosciutto adds a salty, smoky note that complements the beef perfectly, while the potato mousseline provides a nice textual contrast, light and fluffy as a cloud. The haricots verts, or French green beans, add a crunchy texture and overall freshness to the dish.
However, it’s the bordelaise sauce that takes this entrée to the next level. Made with red wine, beef broth, and a blend of herbs and vegetables, this rich sauce adds a depth of flavor and a velvety finish to each bite. Tantalize your taste buds further, and pair this dish with your choice of red wine from Bordeaux, Rhône Valley, Napa Valley, or Tuscany.
2. Chestnut Hill
When it comes to the food, “fresh” and “homemade” are not just buzzwords, but a way of life at Chestnut Hill. The crab cakes, in particular, are a standout dish that should not be missed. Made with only the freshest and finest local lump crab meat, they are seasoned to perfection and coated in Japanese bread crumbs for a crispy exterior. One bite into the savory, flaky texture and you’ll know why they’re considered the best in the entire Grand Strand! The flavor is rich and buttery, with hints of Old Bay seasoning that will have even a Marylander’s taste buds dancing with delight.
Dining at Chestnut Hill in Myrtle Beach is an experience worth savoring. The warm and inviting ambiance of the restaurant, coupled with the attentive and friendly service, sets the stage for a delightful evening meal. Every dish is created with care and attention to detail, using the highest quality ingredients and scratch-made recipes. Remember to make reservations and request a table by the large bay windows overlooking the water.
3. Greg Norman Australian Grille
Greg Norman Australian Grille transports you to the Australian Outback with its authentic heritage decor and ambiance. The restaurant’s sophisticated and upscale yet family-friendly setting is located at Barefoot Landing. Spend your afternoon exploring this entertainment center’s shops and attractions before stopping at Greg Norman Australian Grille for a semi-formal dinner overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.
The menu features innovative creations, bold flavors, and exotic fare – Australian-style. You definitely don’t want to miss out on the restaurant’s most curious menu item, the Aussie Kangaroo appetizer. This wild Australian kangaroo is braised in bacon confit, rendering the typically gamey meat quite tender. A unique combination of fruit salsa, curried peanuts, and a delectable house balsamic glaze elevate the dish and complement the kangaroo meat’s natural earthy flavor. Eating at Greg Norman Australian Grille is truly a culinary adventure, with flavors so unique and delicious that you’ll savor every bite until the very end!
4. Aspen Grille
From the moment you step inside the stylish yet intimate setting at Aspen Grille, you are greeted with warm Southern hospitality to match an equally impressive menu. You know you’re in for a truly fine dining experience when their fresh catch of the day and dry-aged U.S.D.A Prime beef come straight from the boats and farms of South Carolina.
It was too tough a choice between the Bone-in Cowboy Ribeye topped with lobster tail, the Australian Rack of Lamb, and the Cabernet Braised Short Ribs. So, we went with the Seared New Bedford Scallops, and they did not disappoint. These U-10 scallops are cooked to perfection and served with a Chardonnay Lemon Beurre Blanc sauce that adds a touch of brightness to each bite. The truffle mushroom risotto provides a rich and creamy complement, while the sautéed spinach adds a refreshing pop of green.
Each ingredient in this dish is carefully thought out and executed flawlessly, resulting in a meal that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. With each bite, the flavors of the Atlantic Southeast’s seasonal ingredients transport you to the heart of Myrtle Beach.
5. Chive Blossom Restaurant & Bar
If you’re looking for a truly distinct culinary experience, you must try Chive Blossom Restaurant & Bar on Pawley’s Island. The knowledgeable staff is quick to assist in guiding you through an unconventional menu offering Southern classics with Mediterranean, French, and Asian influences.
The Cioppino is the perfect example of this diverse and delicious combination of flavors. This seafood stew is bursting with flavors and textures, featuring a mix of plump shrimp, sweet crab, tender scallops, fresh little neck clams, and flaky flounder, all served in a tomato saffron stew with a side of okra pancakes. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, with the grilled crostini adding a delightful crunch, and the lemon aioli balancing out the richness of the seafood.
It’s no wonder the Cioppino has quickly become a crowd favorite. Whether you’re looking for a fine-dining experience or a casual night out, Chive Blossom Restaurant & Bar is sure to treat you to flavor combinations you have never considered before.
In Conclusion
Is your mouth watering yet? Don’t miss out on all the culinary delights that make up one of the coolest restaurant scenes around! A food tour of Myrtle Beach is a must when the local restaurants combine unique regional flavors and fresh ingredients farmed from nearby coastal waters. When you’re ready for a break from the warm Atlantic waters and family-friendly entertainment, eat your way across the Myrtle Beach restaurant scene!