Hungry? Consider all these dining choices from seafood to barbecue

Jul 22, 2023

Dead Dog Saloon in Murrells Inlet is a popular spot.

Looking for something tasty in Georgetown County?

With culinary options as diverse as the folks who live and visit here, you will easily find a meal that strikes your mood. From fine dining to cafes and bistros, al-fresco eateries to a quick bite or an awesome breakfast — rest assured that you will be full and happy.

And don't forget the libations, happy hours and live music.

It's all here — and although fresh, local seafood is always a huge part of the equation, it doesn't end there. After a fun day of exploring the grandeur of the Lowcountry, check out what's cooking in Georgetown County.

GEORGETOWN

Founded in 1729, Georgetown is the third oldest city in South Carolina. While much smaller than Charleston, this charming seaport burg is steeped in history — and a short walk along and around Front Street reveals a treasure trove of culinary gems.

Andrea Johnson is owner of Aunny's Country Kitchen.

If it's down-home cooking you’re after, Aunny's Country Kitchen (926 Front St.) is a sure bet, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner at reasonable prices in a cozy setting. Think Southern staples like pork chops, meatloaf, chicken and waffles and sides running the gamut from okra to black eyed peas, mac and cheese to fried corn and more. Save room for Mama Jane's Sweet Potato Pie.

On the go and want a quick recharge? Drop into Urban Brew Coffee House (925 Front St.) for everything from a simple cup of java to handcrafted coffee drinks, frappes, cookies, cakes, pastries and more. Need something a bit more substantial? Urban Brew now offers a selection of sandwiches and other grab-and-go fare from Get Carried Away Southern Market and Catering.

When in season, grab a soft shell crab sandwich for lunch or try it for dinner — sauteed over Carolina Gold rice with charred lemon cream at SoCo Grille (619 Front St.). You’ll also find comfort foods like beer battered fish and chips, chicken pot pie, or a grilled pimento cheese sandwich. That's only a snippet of SoCo Grill's full-range menu. Enjoy happy hour or brunch in a laid back vibe.

The Oyster Tower from the River Room is a specialty.

For four decades, The River Room (801 Front St.) has been in operation at the historic J.B. Steele Building. With a dining room that extends 50 feet into the Sampit River with nautical and turn-of-the-century décor throughout, expect a treat for your eyes as well as your taste buds. Enjoy a lunch of shrimp and grits or shrimp creole or a dinner including chef specialties like herb-crusted grouper or twin fillets of beef with blue cheese butter. Pair your dishes with selections from a varied and impressive wine collection.

Let your hair down and enjoy "drinks with a view" at Buzz's Roost (911 Front St.). On the Harborwalk and featuring a two-level deck, take in the waterfront views with a cold craft beer or cocktail. Catch a game or rock out to live music. There's a little bit of everything on the menu — from wraps, sandwiches and salads to burgers, tacos, steaks, seafood and much more.

MURRELLS INLET

Murrells Inlet, home to Brookreen Gardens, Huntington Beach State Park and the MarshWalk, is widely known as the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina." Commercial and charter fishing abound, but so does every mode of recreational water sport — including boating, kayaking, standup paddleboarding and jet skiing.

The sheer number of eateries in Murrells Inlet Business is astonishing, and although seafood seems like a no-brainer, there are plenty of other options.

If you decide on seafood, Lee's Inlet Kitchen (4460 U.S. Highway 17 Business) has stood the test of time. Currently celebrating its 75th year in business in the same family and location, Southern Living magazine recently named it the number one seafood spot in South Carolina. Try the Fish Trio (flounder, salmon, and choice of fresh catch — broiled, grilled or blackened), broiled rock lobster tail, Shrimp Creole or a helping of shrimp and grits.

Lee's Inlet Kitchen in Murrells Inlet has long been a destination for seafood.

For the past decade, Barnacle Bill's Rum and Raw Bar (3552 U.S. Highway 17 Business) serves up "deliciously fresh seafood with a Cajun twist." Called a great little hangout with friendly bartenders and great food by one of its regular patrons, expect a laid-back atmosphere and a varied menu with starters including Slap Your Mama Shrimp or a Caribbean Quesadilla and dinner plates like the Bayou Bomb, Caribbean Pulled Pork Tacos and much more.

Once you start thinking about pizza or pasta, it's tough to change your mind. Never fear, though, because Uncle Mikey's Pizza (4378 U.S. Highway 17 Business) has you covered. With offerings like hand-tossed 18-inch thin crust pizzas and classic pasta dishes, eggplant, calzones, fried ravioli and more, you will have your fill. Enjoy a cold beer, a glass of wine or cocktail in a family atmosphere – and expect a table visit and a cordial greeting from Uncle Mikey himself, owner and Bostonian Mike Zalloum.

Get your sushi on and more at Shiki Sushi (11907 S.C. Highway 707). Located at the Shoppes at Tournament Boulevard, enjoy your favorites in a casual yet chic setting. The menu runs the gamut from classic and specialty sushi rolls, sashimi and tempura to hibachi, teriyaki and Pad Thai options. Don't forget the kitchen special Thai curry dishes.

The MarshWalk is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Featuring eight restaurants with distinct personalities along a half-mile wooden boardwalk offering stunning views of "The Inlet" any time of year.

One such restaurant is Dead Dog Saloon (4079 U.S. Highway 17 Business), offering a menu that can be best described as Americana with a Lowcountry flourish. From house-made BBQ, "two hand" burgers, tacos and wings to steam pots, golden fried seafood, steaks and more — you’ll find your jaw dropping as you salivate. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Long considered a local mecca for live music, the Dead Dog is transformed into a hopping night spot when the sun goes down. Also open early for breakfast.

WACCAMAW NECK: PAWLEYS ISLAND / LITCHFIELD

Known for crabbing, fishing, hammocks, unspoiled sand dunes and a laid-back vibe — the Waccamaw Neck exudes a solid sense of community, including restaurateurs who are passionate about what they do, no matter the cuisine.

Looking for an early breakfast in Pawleys Island? Applewood House of Pancakes (14361 Ocean Highway), open at 6:30 a.m., is ready to welcome you. Serving traditional breakfasts, omelets, pancakes, breakfast skillets and more (and a great kids menu), you’ll find everything you need to fuel up. Adventurous? Try the Hash Stack – hash browns topped with scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, gravy and cheese — served with cinnamon swirl toast. Brunch and lunch are also served.

Pan-seared scallops are one of the signature dishes from Austin's Ocean One.

When you want to go all-out, white tablecloth fine dining with a panoramic ocean view, look no further than Austin's Ocean One (1 Norris Drive), located inside The Oceanfront Litchfield Inn. Expect top-notch service, a comprehensive wine list, specialty cocktails and seasonal New American cuisine created by executive chef Bill Austin. Offering small plates like Angus Short Rib & Wild Mushroom Risotto and Shredded Korean BBQ Duck Confit — and main plates like Pan Seared Long Island Duck Breast and Pan Fried Lobster Milanese — and you’re only scratching the surface.

Traditional Mexican flavors presented in a modern way await you at Sol Cocina Mexicana (12036 Ocean Highway) with an open kitchen and a warm, welcoming vibe. You will see (and taste) enchiladas, street tacos and quesadillas in a different light with surprising flavor innovations by Chef Armando Cobian. Dinner specialties include Borrego en Mole Negro de Oaxaca (marinated lamb chops with black mole) Mojo de Ajo (shrimp in a garlic mojo sauce) and Diablo Shrimp (Camarones Diablo), a spicy sauteed shrimp.

Enjoy upscale Southern comfort food in a family-friendly setting with a patio and full bar at Rustic Table (10683 Ocean Highway). From-scratch meals include fresh interpretations of timeless classics by Chef Adam Kirby, from lunch items like the Pawleys Island Sandwich (Fried green tomato, pimento cheese, ham and bacon on Texas toast) to dinner entrees like Blackened Mahi over dirty grits, crawfish, sausage, tomato, corn salsa, French green beans and lime brown butter.

The ultimate meatloaf sandwich is a treat at Rustic Table.

ANDREWS

A small town straddling Georgetown and Williamsburg Counties, Andrews had a population of 2,550 in 2021. The birthplace of comedian Chris Rock, it was founded in 1909 and was once a thriving lumber town. Andrews hearkens back to a bygone Main Street USA era — with logging lines set in place by what became the Seaboard Air Line Railroad. Railroad enthusiasts and fans of Americana will enjoy the Old Town Hall Museum and the Andrews Train Depot.

When it comes to barbecue in South Carolina, a whole hog cooked low and slow is the way to go — and Moree's Bar-B-Que (677 Morrisville Road) has been upholding that tradition since 1964. Get your meat fix – mild or hot pulled pork, chicken — and a South Carolina specialty, BBQ hash (mild or spicy), essentially a ground meat gravy served over rice. Complement your barbecue with baked beans, sweet potatoes and coleslaw (of course).

Try the BBQ hash at Moree's Bar-B-Que in Andrews

Whiting, croaker, deviled crabs, shrimp baskets, wings and more await you at Fatz Fish to Go (111 West Main St.). A mainstay in Andrews since 2009 and founded by Thermin and Queen Nesmith, it's also a seafood market and home of Q's Famous Fatz Sauce. And if all that doesn't grab you, check out the catfish special, chicken and waffles, crab legs, tilapia and more.

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Georgetown County Dining 2023 – Tidelands

"Dining Options Abound in Georgetown County"

By Roger Yale

Looking for something tasty in Georgetown County?

With culinary options as diverse as the folks who live and visit here, you will easily find a meal that strikes your mood. From fine dining to cafes and bistros, al-fresco eateries to a quick bite or an awesome breakfast – rest assured that you will be full and happy.

And don't forget the libations, happy hours and live music.

It's all here – and although fresh, local seafood is always a huge part of the equation, it doesn't end there. After a fun day of exploring the grandeur of the Lowcountry, check out what's cooking in Georgetown County.

GEORGETOWN

Founded in 1729, Georgetown is the third oldest city in South Carolina. While much smaller than Charleston, this charming seaport burg is steeped in history – and a short walk along and around Front Street reveals a treasure trove of culinary gems.

If it's down-home cooking you’re after, Aunny's Country Kitchen (926 Front Street) is a sure bet, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner at reasonable prices in a cozy setting. Think Southern staples like pork chops, meatloaf, chicken and waffles and sides running the gamut from okra to black eyed peas, mac and cheese to fried corn and more. Save room for Mama Jane's Sweet Potato Pie.

On the go and want a quick recharge? Drop into Urban Brew Coffee House (925 Front Street)for everything from a simple cup of java to handcrafted coffee drinks, frappes, cookies, cakes, pastries and more. Need something a bit more substantial? Urban Brew now offers a selection of sandwiches and other grab-and-go fare from Get Carried Away Southern Market and Catering.

When in season, grab a soft shell crab sandwich for lunch or try it for dinner - sauteed over Carolina Gold rice with charred lemon cream at SoCo Grille (619 Front Street). You’ll also find comfort foods like beer battered fish and chips, chicken pot pie, or a grilled pimento cheese sandwich. That's only a snippet of SoCo Grill's full-range menu. Enjoy happy hour or brunch in a laid back vibe.

For four decades, The River Room (801 Front Street) has been in operation at the historic J.B. Steele Building. With a dining room that extends 50 feet into the Sampit River with nautical and turn-of-the-century décor throughout, expect a treat for your eyes as well as your taste buds. Enjoy a lunch of shrimp and grits or Shrimp Creole or a dinner including chef specialties like herb-crusted grouper or twin fillets of beef with blue cheese butter. Pair your dishes with selections from a varied and impressive wine collection.

Let your hair down and enjoy "drinks with a view" at Buzz's Roost (911 Front Street). On the Harborwalk and featuring a two-level deck, take in the waterfront views with a cold craft beer or cocktail. Catch a game or rock out to live music. There's a little bit of everything on the menu – from wraps, sandwiches and salads to burgers, tacos, steaks, seafood and much more.

MURRELLS INLET

Murrells Inlet, home to Brookreen Gardens, Huntington Beach State Park and the MarshWalk, is widely known as the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina." Commercial and charter fishing abound, but so does every mode of recreational water sport, i.e., boating, kayaking, standup paddleboarding and jet skiing.

The sheer number of eateries in Murrells Inlet Business is astonishing, and although seafood seems like a no-brainer, there are plenty of other options.

If you decide on seafood, Lee's Inlet Kitchen (4460 U.S. Highway 17 Business) has stood the test of time. Currently celebrating its 75th year in business in the same family and location, Southern Living magazine recently named it the number one seafood spot in South Carolina. Try the Fish Trio (Flounder, salmon, and choice of fresh catch – broiled, grilled or blackened), broiled rock lobster tail, Shrimp Creole or a helping of shrimp and grits. Plenty of menu choices for landlubbers too.

For the past decade, Barnacle Bill's Rum and Raw Bar (3552 U.S. Highway 17 Business) serves up "deliciously fresh seafood with a Cajun twist." Called a great little hangout with friendly bartenders and great food by one of its regular patrons, expect a laid-back atmosphere and a varied menu with starters including Slap Your Mama Shrimp or a Caribbean Quesadilla and dinner plates like the Bayou Bomb, Caribbean Pulled Pork Tacos and much more.

Once you start thinking about pizza or pasta, it's tough to change your mind. Never fear, though, because Uncle Mikey's Pizza (4378 U.S. Highway 17 Business) has you covered. With offerings like hand-tossed 18-inch thin crust pizzas and classic pasta dishes, eggplant, calzones, fried ravioli and more, you will have your fill. Enjoy a cold beer, a glass of wine or cocktail in a family atmosphere – and expect a table visit and a cordial greeting from Uncle Mikey himself, owner and Bostonian Mike Zalloum. Outside seating available.

Get your sushi on and more at Shiki Sushi (11907 S.C. Highway 707). Located at the Shoppes at Tournament Boulevard, enjoy your favorites in a casual yet chic setting. The menu runs the gamut from classic and specialty sushi rolls, sashimi and tempura to hibachi, teriyaki and Pad Thai options. Don't forget the kitchen special Thai curry dishes.

The MarshWalk is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Featuring eight restaurants with distinct personalities along a half-mile wooden boardwalk offering stunning views of "The Inlet" any time of year.

One such restaurant is Dead Dog Saloon (4079 U.S. Highway 17 Business), offering a menu that can be best described as Americana with a Lowcountry flourish. From house-made BBQ, "two hand" burgers, tacos and wings to steam pots, golden fried seafood, steaks and more – you’ll find your jaw dropping as you salivate. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Long considered a local mecca for live music, the Dead Dog is transformed into a hopping night spot when the sun goes down. Also open early for breakfast.

WACCAMAW NECK: PAWLEYS ISLAND / LITCHFIELD

Known for crabbing, fishing, hammocks, unspoiled sand dunes and a laid-back vibe – the Waccamaw Neck exudes a solid sense of community, including restaurateurs who are passionate about what they do, no matter the cuisine.

Looking for an early breakfast in Pawleys Island? Applewood House of Pancakes (14361 Ocean Highway), open at 6:30 a.m., is ready to welcome you. Serving traditional breakfasts, omelets, pancakes, breakfast skillets and more (and a great kids menu), you’ll find everything you need to fuel up. Adventurous? Try the Hash Stack – hash browns topped with scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, gravy and cheese – served with cinnamon swirl toast. Brunch and lunch are also served.

When you want to go all-out, white tablecloth fine dining with a panoramic ocean view, look no further than Austin's Ocean One (1 Norris Drive), located inside The Oceanfront Litchfield Inn. Expect top-notch service, a comprehensive wine list, specialty cocktails and seasonal New American cuisine created by executive chef Bill Austin. Offering small plates like Angus Short Rib & Wild Mushroom Risotto and Shredded Korean BBQ Duck Confit – and main plates like Pan Seared Long Island Duck Breast and Pan Fried Lobster Milanese – and you’re only scratching the surface.

Traditional Mexican flavors presented in a modern way await you at Sol Cocina Mexicana (12036 Ocean Highway) with an open kitchen and a warm, welcoming vibe. You will see (and taste) enchiladas, street tacos and quesadillas in a different light with surprising flavor innovations by Chef Armando Cobian. Dinner specialties include Borrego en Mole Negro de Oaxaca (marinated lamb chops with black mole) Mojo de Ajo (shrimp in a garlic mojo sauce) and Diablo Shrimp (Camarones Diablo), a spicy sauteed shrimp.

Enjoy upscale Southern comfort food in a family-friendly setting with a patio and full bar at Rustic Table (10683 Ocean Highway). From-scratch meals include fresh interpretations of timeless classics by Chef Adam Kirby, from lunch items like the Pawleys Island Sandwich (Fried green tomato, pimento cheese, ham and bacon on Texas toast) to dinner entrees like Blackened Mahi over dirty grits, crawfish, sausage, tomato, corn salsa, French green beans and lime brown butter.

ANDREWS

A small town straddling Georgetown and Williamsburg Counties, Andrews had a population of 2,550 in 2021. The birthplace of comedian Chris Rock, it was founded in 1909 and was once a thriving lumber town. Andrews hearkens back to a bygone Main Street USA era – with logging lines set in place by what became the Seaboard Air Line Railroad. Railroad enthusiasts and fans of Americana will enjoy the Old Town Hall Museum and the Andrews Train Depot.

When it comes to barbecue in South Carolina, a whole hog cooked low and slow is the way to go – and Moree's Bar-B-Que (677 Morrisville Road) has been upholding that tradition since 1964. Get your meat fix – mild or hot pulled pork, chicken – and a South Carolina specialty, BBQ hash (mild or spicy), essentially a ground meat gravy served over rice. Complement your barbecue with baked beans, sweet potatoes and coleslaw (of course). Open Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. Cash and check only.

Whiting, croaker, deviled crabs, shrimp baskets, wings and more await you at Fatz Fish to Go (111 West Main Street). A mainstay in Andrews since 2009 and founded by Thermin and Queen Nesmith, it's also a seafood market and home of Q's Famous Fatz Sauce. And if all that doesn't grab you, check out the catfish special, chicken and waffles, crab legs, tilapia and more.

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