Murrells Inlet's Best Seafood [Updated 2025]

As I dove into the flavors and hidden gems of this charming coastal town, I couldn’t help but be amazed by the variety of seafood spots that line the shore. After visiting 12 top locations, I've tasted everything from fresh-off-the-boat catches to mouthwatering lowcountry classics.

You can trust my palate—I’ve savored every crab cake, shrimp scampi, and oyster on the half shell to give you the scoop on where to find the freshest seafood that truly captures the essence of Murrells Inlet. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, get ready to embark on a delicious journey through this seafood lover’s paradise!

Drunken Jack's Restaurant & Lounge

Highlights
Waterfront dining experience
Amazing Steak Neptune
Sweet and delicious hush puppies
Outstanding service from staff
Quick food and drink service

Drunken Jack's Restaurant & Lounge is an absolute gem that boasts a fabulous waterfront dining experience. As I settled at my table, the gentle sound of waves instantly put me in the mood for a delightful meal. I heard whispers of their amazing Steak Neptune, and trust me, it lived up to the hype! Tender steak topped with succulent seafood was a match made in culinary heaven.

But that’s not all—let's talk about the hush puppies! These little bites of joy were sweet and delicious, perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. I found myself sneaking extra bites when no one was watching! The attentive staff made sure I never felt neglected, providing outstanding service that enhanced the overall experience.

If you’re in a hurry, don’t fret; the food and drink service here is impressively quick, allowing you to savor every moment of your meal without feeling rushed. Overall, my visit to Drunken Jack's reminded me why Murrells Inlet is renowned for its seafood. If you’re searching for a place that marries flavor with ambiance, this is it! So, what are you waiting for? Dive into this treasure by the water!

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Russell's Seafood Grill

Highlights
Knowledgeable staff
Delicious she crab soup
Awesome hush puppies
Treehouse-like atmosphere
Fresh, hot seafood dishes

Russell's Seafood Grill in Murrells Inlet is a delightful gem that captures the heart and palate of any seafood enthusiast. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted by the knowledgeable staff, whose passion for seafood is contagious. They helped me navigate the menu, and I couldn’t resist starting with their renowned she crab soup. Let me ask you, how can one’s taste buds say no to a creamy, rich concoction that dances on the tongue?

Next came the awesome hush puppies—crispy on the outside and fluffy within, they were just the right complement to my meal. The vibrant atmosphere felt reminiscent of a cozy treehouse, embodying the spirit of coastal life with wooden accents and a warm ambiance.

As I indulged in my selection of fresh, hot seafood dishes, I appreciated the attention to detail and quality in each bite. Every morsel was a delightful explosion of flavor, confirming that Russell’s has rightfully earned its reputation. If you’re searching for that perfect seafood experience in Murrells Inlet, I can confidently say that Russell's is the place to be!

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Hot Fish Club

Highlights
Not-overly greasy fried seafood
Delicious seared scallops
Flavorful blackened red snapper
Complimentary garlic butter bread
Popular and busy dining experience

I recently visited Hot Fish Club in Murrells Inlet, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering aromas that filled the air. This bustling spot is a local favorite for good reason. My culinary adventure kicked off with the complimentary garlic butter bread, an irresistible starter that set the stage for more delightful dishes.

Eager for a taste of the sea, I dove into the seared scallops. Each bite was a revelation: perfectly cooked, tender, and bursting with flavor. But the real showstopper? The blackened red snapper. This dish was seasoned to perfection, offering a delightful smoky finish that paired exquisitely with its crispy exterior.

What truly sets Hot Fish Club apart is its commitment to providing not-overly greasy fried seafood. Their offerings are light, fresh, and undeniably satisfying, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. Though the restaurant was delightfully busy, the energetic vibe only added to its charm.

In a town renowned for its seafood, Hot Fish Club stands out as a true gem, combining quality ingredients with a warm, welcoming ambiance. It's a must-visit if you’re craving an exceptional coastal dining experience!

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Graham's Landing

Highlights
Beautiful waterfront views
Delicious shrimp tacos
Helpful and friendly service
Great variety on the menu
Tasty homemade onion rings

At Graham's Landing, the moment you step inside, you are greeted by breathtaking waterfront views that instantly set the stage for a delightful dining experience. I indulged in their mouthwatering shrimp tacos, which were nothing short of a culinary revelation. Imagine perfectly grilled shrimp nestled in soft tortillas, accompanied by zesty salsa and a hint of lime—pure perfection!

The service here truly shines. The staff is not only attentive but also engages in conversation, making you feel like part of the family. I couldn't resist trying their homemade onion rings; they arrived piping hot and were a glorious explosion of crunch and flavor—definitely a must-try!

With a menu bursting with variety, each dish showcases the freshness of local seafood, promising something for everyone. Whether you're an avid seafood lover or a casual diner, Graham's Landing caters to all tastes.

So if you find yourself in Murrells Inlet, make sure to pop in for a plate of shrimp tacos and soak up those gorgeous views. You won’t just eat a meal; you’ll savor an experience that’s sure to leave ysalmon enthusiasts and seafood connoisseurs alike with a smile.

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Lee's Inlet Kitchen

Highlights
Award-winning She Crab Soup
Delicious hush puppies
Perfectly cooked flounder
Attentive and helpful staff
Homemade and tasty desserts

Lee's Inlet Kitchen is an absolute gem in Murrells Inlet, offering a delightful seafood experience that feels like a warm hug from the ocean itself. From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed by the scent of their award-winning She Crab Soup, which set the bar high for the rest of my meal. This rich, creamy concoction was simply divine, with chunks of fresh crab that made me savor every spoonful.

As a lover of all things fried, I couldn't resist trying their delicious hush puppies, which were the perfect balance of crispy and fluffy. They paired wonderfully with my main course: perfectly cooked flounder that was flaky and seasoned to perfection. The fish practically danced on my fork with flavor!

However, what truly made my visit memorable was the attentive and helpful staff who made me feel like a valued guest rather than just another diner. Their recommendations were spot-on, and their passion for the food was infectious.

To cap off my meal, I indulged in one of their homemade and tasty desserts, which provided the perfect sweet finale to a fantastic dining experience. If you're seeking top-notch seafood in Murrells Inlet, Lee’s Inlet Kitchen should be at the top of your list!

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Sloppy Jose's Cantina and Seafood Grill

Highlights
Great Atmosphere
Friendly and Attentive Staff
Generous Food Portions
Wonderful Dining Experience
Kid-Friendly Playground

Sloppy Jose's Cantina and Seafood Grill truly embodies the spirit of coastal dining in Murrells Inlet. From the moment I stepped in, the great atmosphere welcomed me like an old friend, filled with vibrant colors and the delightful hum of laughter. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back and feel the salty breeze in your hair.

The friendly and attentive staff made sure I was well taken care of from start to finish, effortlessly enhancing my experience. I opted for their renowned seafood platter, and wow, the generous food portions left me in awe! Every bite was a taste of the ocean, fresh and flavorful, and simply irresistible.

What stood out was not just the delicious food but also the place's ambiance — the perfect blend of fun and relaxation. I appreciated the kid-friendly playground, making it easy for families to enjoy a delightful meal while keeping the little ones entertained.

Overall, my visit to Sloppy Jose's was a feast for the senses and a reminder of why Murrells Inlet is a seafood lover's paradise. I can confidently say this lively eatery deserves a spot among the best seafood destinations in the area!

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The Quay Seafood Grille

Highlights
Fantastic sunset views
Delicious food and drinks
Affordable prices
Attentive and friendly service
Family-friendly atmosphere

The Quay Seafood Grille truly impressed me with its enchanting atmosphere and delectable offerings. Nestled in Murrells Inlet, this gem boasts fantastic sunset views that set the perfect backdrop for a delightful meal. As I settled in, the attentive and friendly service made me feel right at home. The staff was eager to share their recommendations, showcasing a passion for their craft that really elevated the experience.

Now, let’s talk about the food! The menu is a treasure trove of mouthwatering seafood at affordable prices, making it accessible for families looking for a memorable dining experience. I couldn't resist digging into their fresh catch, which was perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Accompanied by an exquisite cocktail, the meal was an absolute celebration of flavors.

The family-friendly atmosphere ensured that laughter and joy echoed around the tables, making it a lively place to watch the sun dip below the horizon. For anyone seeking a delightful seafood feast in Murrells Inlet, I wholeheartedly recommend The Quay Seafood Grille. Your taste buds will thank you, and who knows, you might just find your new favorite spot!

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On The Half Shell

Highlights
Friendly and welcoming staff
Great food and atmosphere
Popular local hangout
Casual bar setting
Positive customer experiences

On The Half Shell is a delightful gem tucked away in Murrells Inlet that captures the heart and palate of anyone who walks through its doors. The moment I arrived, I was greeted by the friendly smiles of the staff, creating an atmosphere that felt welcoming and warm. This spot is teeming with local charm, where the casual bar setting invites you to unwind with a cold drink and enjoy some truly impressive seafood.

The food? Simply superb! I indulged in their famous oysters, which were so fresh they seemed to have just whispered secrets of the sea. Pairing that with a heaping portion of shrimp and grits was a match made in culinary heaven—each bite bursting with flavor. There's no doubt that On The Half Shell has earned its reputation as a popular local hangout, attracting both seafood aficionados and casual diners alike.

With a vibrant atmosphere complemented by positive customer experiences, this eatery strikes the perfect balance of laid-back comfort and culinary expertise. If you’re in Murrells Inlet and craving seafood, take a seat at On The Half Shell; your taste buds will thank you for it!

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Hippie Hen House

Highlights
Exemplary Maryland crab cakes
Cheerful atmosphere
Excellent bacon cheeseburger
Delicious 3-soup appetizer
Attentive and friendly service

Hippie Hen House is a delightful gem nestled in Murrells Inlet, where every bite feels like a celebratory affair. As I settled into the cheerful atmosphere, I was immediately drawn to the exemplary Maryland crab cakes. They were a harmonious blend of flaky crab meat with just the right amount of seasoning, creating a dish that dances on the palate.

To start my meal, I indulged in a delicious three-soup appetizer—each spoonful was a comforting embrace of flavor that set a high bar for the main courses. I couldn’t resist trying a bacon cheeseburger as well, which surprisingly turned out to be equally spectacular, proving that their culinary prowess extends beyond seafood.

Throughout my visit, the attentive and friendly service made the experience even more enjoyable; the staff was genuinely enthusiastic about their menu, which added a lovely personal touch.

In a region brimming with options, Hippie Hen House stands out for its playful yet refined approach to dining. If you’re in Murrells Inlet and craving seafood with a side of good vibes, don’t miss out on this delightful spot!

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Fire To Table

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Clean and cool atmosphere
Homemade chips delicious
Excellent flatbread option
Large party ambiance

Fire To Table is a hidden gem in Murrells Inlet that offers a delightful seafood experience. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the friendly and attentive staff who immediately made me feel at home, which is always a great start. The atmosphere is refreshingly clean and cool, perfect for savoring a meal without feeling rushed.

One stand-out item from the menu was the homemade chips—crunchy, perfectly seasoned, and paired beautifully with their vibrant and zesty dips. I couldn’t resist trying their flatbread, an excellent choice for seafood lovers craving something a bit different. It was topped with fresh seafood that danced on my palate with every bite.

What I particularly loved was the ambiance; this is a great spot for large parties, making it an ideal venue for celebrations or family gatherings. Fire To Table truly caters to all, combining quality seafood with a laid-back vibe. If you're in Murrells Inlet and looking for something that captures the essence of coastal dining, this is the place to be! I left feeling delighted and already planning my next visit.

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Dead Dog Saloon

Dead Dog Saloon is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Murrells Inlet! The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between casual and lively, making it a great spot to unwind. I indulged in their famous crab cakes, bursting with flavor and served with a zesty remoulade that danced on my palate. The fried shrimp were perfectly crispy, showcasing the freshness of local seafood. Don’t skip the she-crab soup; it's rich and creamy with a hint of sherry that elevates its charming profile. The service was friendly and attentive, making this eatery a must-visit for seafood lovers in the area!

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Crab Daddy's Seafood Buffet Restaurant

When I stepped into Crab Daddy's Seafood Buffet, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of the ocean! The buffet boasts an extensive selection that had me in a seafood trance, from plump crab legs to succulent shrimp, all beautifully prepared. The juicy hushpuppies and perfectly seasoned sides complemented the star of the show.

What sets this place apart is the vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff, making every visit feel like a family gathering. For anyone eager for a seafood feast that caters to every craving, Crab Daddy's is a must-visit gem in Murrells Inlet!

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