24 Feb 4 Popular Restaurants Not On the MarshWalk Murrells Inlet is celebrated as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina, and the MarshWalk is at the heart of that reputation. But wander a little off that well-beaten and much-beloved boardwalk and you’ll find more restaurants serving not only seafood but traditional classics, too: think Lowcountry flavors, pub fare, steakhouse classics, seasonal menus, and inventive coastal cuisine. Below are four local restaurants that showcase the Hammock Coast’s hospitality and culinary variety. Pull up a chair and dig in. Lee’s Inlet Kitchen Open since 1948, Lee’s Inlet Kitchen is the Hammock Coast’s oldest family-owned restaurant. It’s the kind of place that still feels like sitting down to Sunday supper at a relative’s house. Wood-trimmed porches, friendly servers who know your name, and a dining room where generations of locals gather give the place a warm, lived-in charm that pairs perfectly with the inlet views. Food here is comfort with a coastal pedigree. Lee’s offers classic Lowcountry plates built on fresh catches and recipes handed down through the decades. Don’t miss Lee’s signature shrimp salad or one of its Creole preparations, and expect simple, well-executed sides that let the seafood shine. Named one of Southern Living’s best seafood restaurants in South Carolina, Lee’s is where history and home-cooked flavor meet. Experience this true Murrells Inlet must-visit. Russell’s Seafood Grill This establishment feels like a beloved local seafood shack where the day’s catch sets the menu. The rustic, fish-cabin atmosphere offers warm wood, familiar faces, and the hum of easy conversation. It invites families and regulars alike to linger over plates piled high with fresh, locally sourced fish. Expect seasonal specials such as grouper Creole when it’s available, straightforward executions that let the seafood sing, and generous portions meant to be shared. The burgers give the seafood a run for the money, too. If you want an authentic Murrells Inlet meal, Russell’s is the kind of spot that keeps folks coming back. Experience an atmosphere that’s casual, reliably fresh, and full of local flavor. Austin’s Harvest Restaurant at Brookgreen Gardens Just a short drive from the MarshWalk, Austin’s Harvest brings a chef-driven, farm-to-table sensibility to Murrells Inlet dining. Nestled within one of America’s premier gardens, Brookgreen Gardens, the restaurant pairs refined cuisine with a serene, garden-inspired atmosphere. Its warm, polished setting — complete with delicate accents, intimate lighting, and both indoor and outdoor seating — makes it a favorite for date nights and special occasions. Focused on locally sourced seafood and thoughtfully prepared proteins, the menu evolves with the seasons, featuring daily specials inspired by the bounty of Bethea’s Garden, located just steps away. Pair your fresh, homemade dish with a craft cocktail or a carefully curated wine for a meal that’s as beautiful as its surroundings. Make a reservation for lunch or dinner to experience flavor, creative artistry, and genuine hospitality that keep guests returning time and again. Outriggers Bar & Grill Located at Wacca Wache Marina, Outriggers Bar & Grill is perfectly perched at marker #383 of the Intracoastal Waterway. Outriggers is the kind of place where the menu is authentic and delightful, and the view does the heavy lifting, leaving the opportunity for everyone to go home a little happier. Weathered decks, nautical touches, and wide-open sightlines to the Waccamaw River create a breezy, come-as-you-are vibe that’s perfect for casual lunches, sunset dinners, and low-key celebrations. Food here is honest: fried platters piled high, perfectly grilled fish, and coastal staples that let the day’s catch take center stage. With friendly, unfussy service and a front-row seat to the Waccamaw River, Outriggers is an easy pick for visitors who want fresh seafood, fresh air, and an unhurried Hammock Coast meal. Explore More Murrells Inlet Restaurants While the MarshWalk is a must-visit destination in Murrells Inlet, these off-boardwalk restaurants remind visitors that great dining happens all over. Whether you’re chasing the best seafood, looking for family-friendly spots, or searching for a local hangout with character, the Hammock Coast delivers. TIP: Hours and menus can change seasonally, so check restaurant pages or call ahead for specials and current hours before you go. Want more ideas? Browse the full Hammock Coast dining directory for even more great places to eat and drink in Murrells Inlet and beyond. 0 Hammock-All, Georgetown
