There’s something special about a shoreline seasoned with soul. In Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach, the salty breeze pairs perfectly with crispy fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and sides that taste just like they came from grandma’s kitchen. Whether you’re craving a loaded-up buffet plate, a classic meat-and-three, or a simple yet delicious local favorite, the Grand Strand is full of restaurants that serve up generous hospitality and portion sizes.
Here are a few of our favorite Southern comfort restaurants in the area, perfect for anyone searching for the best soul food Myrtle Beach has to offer:
Simply Southern Smokehouse
1913 Mr. Joe White Ave., Myrtle Beach
Simply Southern Smokehouse is one of the newest fix-your-own-plate buffet-style eateries in the Myrtle Beach area and a great example of simply southern Myrtle Beach charm. This barbeque and country buffet serves up quick, homemade meals just like grandma used to make. Guests love their affordable all-you-can-eat plates, typically ranging from $15-$18. For a little extra amusement, enjoy dinner and a show – staff members often stop by tables to sing traditional songs during your meal. They also offer daily lunch specials Monday through Saturday until 3pm. We recommend loading your plate up with seasoned butter beans, rich mac and cheese, and crispy, juicy fried chicken.
Magnolia’s at 26th
2605 N. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach
Magnolias at 26th is a must-visit Myrtle Beach restaurant known for their elevated take on Southern cuisine. Originally located in the basement of Anderson Inn, the restaurant was started by an 18 year-old farmer, Bobby Anderson, who continued farming while serving fresh vegetables on his homestyle buffet. This restaurant prides itself on fresh food and true Southern hospitality, offering daily buffet menus Monday through Sunday as well as a la carte dinner entrees. Be sure to try their “to-die-for” fried okra, fried squash, and collard greens, making it a standout for anyone seeking a refined southern grill Myrtle Beach experience.
Big Mike’s Soul Food
504 16th Ave N., Myrtle Beach
For authentic soul food Myrtle Beach locals highly praise, Big Mike’s serves generous portions of classic Southern staples. “Big Mike” is not only a business man and community servant, but also a husband, father, restaurateur, city councilman, real estate agent, and church deacon. Since opening in March 2012, his mission has been for people to enjoy a good meal like it was made at mama’s house. With the motto “Where your soul gets fed,” the menu offers everything from soups and salads to seafood baskets, sandwiches, grits, and desserts. Try Big Mike’s Special, which includes your choice of one meat, three homemade sides, and cornbread. Some of their top-rated favorites include fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, and candied yams.
Hoskin’s Restaurant
405 Main St., North Myrtle Beach
Located in North Myrtle Beach, Hoskins Restaurant is one of the Grand Strand’s most adored Southern dining spots, serving guests for over 70 years. Opened in 1948 when the Hoskins family moved from Murrells Inlet to Ocean Drive, it became one of the first restaurants on the Grand Strand. Still family-owned and operated for three generations, Hoskins delivers classic mom-and-pop charm. Guests come for breakfast, daily lunch specials, homemade biscuits, fresh seafood, steaks, and fried chicken. Don’t leave without trying one of their homemade cream pies or famous peanut butter pie. They source local and seasonal products as well as sustainable seafood, making this restaurant a place local families return to year after year.
Boulineau’s Foods Plus
212 Sea Mountain Hwy., North Myrtle Beach
Boulineau’s Food Plus is a unique, local, multi-purpose business that combines a cafeteria, deli, gift shop, and full grocery store. Located just one block from the beach, they offer causal seating with beautiful oceanfront views that pair perfectly with a fresh meal – think of it as a laid-back southern breeze Myrtle Beach dining stop. Family-owned and operated since 1948, they offer daily lunch specials and nightly dinner specials. Guests can choose from a variety of food choices, including a hot breakfast bar, the beach’s largest soup and salad bar, famous Southern fried chicken, and even fresh sushi. It’s an affordable and flexible option for those wanting something quick and easy. Locals especially recommend the fried okra, Wednesday meatloaf special, and rotating cobbler flavors.
The Shack Restaurant
1128 Sea Mountain Hwy., North Myrtle Beach
The Shack is a local favorite for affordable Southern comfort food in North Myrtle Beach. Some residents may remember it as “The Biscuit Shack,” and when new owners took over in 2010, they kept the original spirit alive. Known for great value and generous portions, The Shack offers daily lunch specials and classic Southern meat-and-three plates that offer a true taste of the South. In addition, they serve fresh Calabash-style seafood and all the traditional breakfast options. The Shack is particularly famous for its fried chicken, daily catfish specials, hush puppies, and chicken bog.
Mama Jean’s Restaurant
210 SC-90, Little River
Mama Jean’s Restaurant is a popular buffet-style eatery just over the swing bridge in Little River, near North Myrtle Beach. Since opening in 1994, it has been serving up “home cooking like yo mama’s” in a casual setting. They offer cafeteria-style lunch Monday through Friday and an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet Saturday and Sunday, making it a must-try soul food buffet Myrtle Beach guests should visit. This is a casual sit-down choice where locals genuinely return, a place where you feel more like you’re dining in a friend’s home rather than at a tourist spot. Mama Jean’s is especially known for their fried chicken sandwich and flavorful shrimp and grits.
Where to Stay
Condo-World’s stunning North Myrtle Beach condos are just a few minutes from many of these popular Southern-style restaurants. Your family can select large four-bedroom oceanfront condos or take a trip with friends and book at one of our fabulous Myrtle Beach resorts. Each property has a bevy of amenities including pools, water features, on-site fitness centers, and so much more right at your fingertips. You’ll love where you stay when you book with Condo-World!
