Across South Carolina’s Lowcountry, some seafood kitchens are still doing things the old way — family-run, locally rooted, and centered on shrimp, oysters, fish, and recipes that haven’t rushed to change. These are places where the menus feel familiar, the welcome is genuine, and coastal staples arrive just the way locals expect.
Often tucked along marsh roads, docks, or small-town streets, these kitchens carry generations of know-how. Simple plates, steady crowds, and flavors tied closely to the coast keep them going year after year.
Bowens Island Restaurant, Charleston
Bowens Island Restaurant is a Charleston gem, famed for its laid-back charm and stunning marsh views. Family-run for decades, this spot treats guests to a menu brimming with fresh, local catches.
The walls adorned with decades of history tell stories of love for the sea. Its oysters, roasted over an open flame, are a must-try, embodying the heart of Lowcountry cuisine.
Each visit feels like a reunion with friends, where laughter mingles with the salty sea breeze.
The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene, Mount Pleasant
Named after a boat wrecked by Hurricane Hugo, this spot in Mount Pleasant is anything but a disaster. It serves up heaps of character and seafood straight from local waters.
The family-run establishment captures the essence of coastal living with its rustic atmosphere and simple yet flavorful dishes.
Don’t miss the shrimp and grits, a dish that encapsulates the spirit of Southern hospitality and culinary craftsmanship.
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, Hilton Head Island
Located on the picturesque docks of Hilton Head Island, Hudson’s is where tradition meets taste. This family-run kitchen serves seafood with a side of history.
The fish is so fresh, it feels like the ocean is right at your table. Their seafood platters are legendary, offering an authentic taste of the region’s bounty.
Generations gather here, sharing stories and savoring the flavors that make Lowcountry cuisine special.
The Sea Shack, Hilton Head Island
At The Sea Shack, the motto is simple: Good food, no fuss. It’s a place where the seafood does the talking, perfectly embodying the relaxed island lifestyle.
Family-owned, it’s beloved by locals and visitors alike for its fried seafood baskets. The bustling atmosphere is part of the charm, bringing together people from all walks of life.
The Sea Shack is proof that sometimes the best meals come from the most unassuming places.
Lee’s Inlet Kitchen, Murrells Inlet
Since 1948, Lee’s Inlet Kitchen has been serving up Southern hospitality along with its seafood specialties. This Murrells Inlet institution is a family affair, where recipes are passed down through generations.
Their fried shrimp is renowned, crispy yet tender, offering a taste of the ocean with each bite.
Stepping into Lee’s feels like coming home, surrounded by the warmth of a family intent on sharing their culinary heritage.
Hyman’s Seafood, Charleston
Hyman’s Seafood is a staple in Charleston, run by the same family for over a century. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and friendly service, it’s where memories are made over seafood feasts.
The menu is diverse, but the crispy flounder consistently earns rave reviews. Each dish is a testament to the family’s commitment to quality and tradition.
Hyman’s is more than a restaurant; it’s a Charleston experience that draws people back time and again.
Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood, Myrtle Beach
Original Benjamin’s is synonymous with Calabash-style seafood, a Myrtle Beach landmark teeming with flavor and history. This family-run buffet delights with a vast array of fresh catches.
Towering plates of crab legs and shrimp typify the hearty offerings. The nautical decor and warm atmosphere make dining here feel like a voyage through culinary history.
Original Benjamin’s is a celebration of family, flavor, and tradition.
The Crab Shack, Folly Beach
Folly Beach’s The Crab Shack is as welcoming as its name suggests. Family-owned, it’s a haven for seafood lovers, offering a relaxed setting with ocean vibes.
The crabs are the star here, seasoned to perfection and shared around communal tables. Each visit is a joyful feast, a testament to the enduring allure of family traditions.
It’s the kind of place where everyone feels like family.
Fishcamp on Broad Creek, Hilton Head Island
Nestled on Hilton Head Island, Fishcamp on Broad Creek offers more than a meal; it offers an experience. Family-owned, this spot is where nature and nourishment meet.
Signature dishes like the Lowcountry boil bring the community together, celebrating local flavors and traditions.
With live music and scenic views, every visit is a memory in the making.
The Shrimp Shack, St. Helena Island
St. Helena Island’s The Shrimp Shack is a beloved local treasure. Family-run, its no-frills exterior belies the culinary delights within.
The shrimp burger, a signature dish, encapsulates the essence of coastal cuisine, simple yet sublime.
This spot embodies the spirit of community, where each meal is prepared with love and tradition.