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When visiting Myrtle Beach, tourists often flock to the boardwalk or the nearest seafood buffet. But if you want to experience the city the way locals do, it starts with where you eat. The best meals here are often found in cozy cafes, family-run kitchens, and tucked-away gems where the food speaks louder than the decor. This guide highlights some of the top spots locals return to week after week, and for good reason.
Big Mike’s Soul Food
Big Mike’s isn’t flashy. It doesn’t need to be. Tucked away in a small building off 16th Avenue, this no-frills soul food joint is all about comforting, stick-to-your-ribs meals made with love. You’ll find classics like fried chicken, pork chops, meatloaf, and turkey wings, paired with sides like cabbage, rice and gravy, sweet potatoes, and cornbread. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and everything tastes homemade. For locals, Big Mike’s is that dependable spot when you’re craving something hearty and real.
Winna’s Kitchen
Winna’s Kitchen is the kind of place you discover once and then tell everyone you know about it. It has the charm of a neighborhood café but a menu with serious culinary vision. Located downtown, the restaurant offers a rotating menu that draws inspiration from Southern roots while blending in creative, modern flavors. Think bourbon-glazed salmon, loaded breakfast sandwiches, or crispy fried chicken atop creamy grits. The intimate setting and attention to detail make it a favorite among locals who want a meal that’s both satisfying and a little unexpected.
J-Mike’s Flavor Station
J-Mike’s is a low-key treasure that delivers on its promise: bold flavors in every bite. It’s the kind of place you could drive past a dozen times without noticing, but once you’ve eaten there, you won’t forget it. The menu is a mix of soul food and casual American classics, all done with care and personality. Favorites include the shrimp burger, spicy chicken wraps, and their signature flavor wings. There’s a strong emphasis on homemade seasonings and sauces, which elevate every dish. J-Mike’s isn’t just about feeding you, it’s about making sure you leave happy and full.
Sea Captain’s House
With a prime location right on the ocean, Sea Captain’s House has been a go-to for locals and loyal visitors since the 1960s. While the view alone would be enough to warrant a visit, the food is what keeps people coming back. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner all deliver Southern coastal charm in every bite. Their award-winning she-crab soup is practically a rite of passage, and seafood entrees like the shrimp and grits or grilled mahi-mahi are consistently fresh and flavorful. The dining room feels like a cozy beach cottage, making it perfect for a relaxed meal that still feels special.
Nirvana Indian Cuisine
In a town better known for seafood and Southern staples, Nirvana Indian Cuisine stands out in all the right ways. It’s one of the few Indian restaurants in the Myrtle Beach area, and it does not disappoint. The food here is deeply flavorful, with rich curries, aromatic rice dishes, and freshly baked naan. The butter chicken, lamb vindaloo, and saag paneer are particular standouts. Whether you go for the lunch buffet or a full dinner, the food is consistently fresh and full of authentic spice. Locals appreciate Nirvana for its warm hospitality and its ability to deliver a different kind of comfort food.
Dagwood’s Deli
For a casual bite that doesn’t sacrifice quality, Dagwood’s Deli has been a longtime local favorite. With locations in Myrtle Beach and Surfside, this laid-back sandwich shop is known for overstuffed subs, homemade chips, and friendly service. It’s the kind of place where the regulars know each other and the staff remembers your order. Favorites include the “Dagwood’s Dipper” with roast beef and au jus, or the classic Reuben piled high with corned beef. The portions are big, the ingredients fresh, and the vibe completely unpretentious. It’s an ideal lunch stop after a morning on the beach or a quick dinner when you’re craving something satisfying and simple.
Strong Waters Craft Cocktails & Kitchen
Located just off Ocean Boulevard, Strong Waters offers an elevated take on Southern flavors with a laid-back, speakeasy-style atmosphere. This isn’t your average tourist stop, it’s a spot where locals gather for inventive craft cocktails and high-quality food. Their menu is to die for and offer small bites, The bar program is also top-tier, featuring house-infused spirits, creative cocktails, and a strong local beer selection.
Stay Like a Local with MBResorts
Exploring Myrtle Beach through its food is just the beginning. When you stay at an MBResorts property, you’re not just getting a room, you’re getting a true local experience. With comfortable, oceanfront accommodations and locations close to the city’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions, you can enjoy Myrtle Beach the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Book your stay with MBResorts today and experience the flavors, views, and hospitality that make this destination unforgettable.