Carolina Western Pub in Myrtle Beach: Barbecue, Live Music, and Low Country Sides
What Carolina Western Pub Offers
Carolina Western Pub is a barbecue restaurant in Myrtle Beach that combines smoked meat with live entertainment and a casual bar atmosphere. The menu centers on traditional barbecue — pulled pork, brisket, ribs — served with sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. The space itself has the feel of a honky-tonk, with wood interiors, neon signage, and a stage where local bands perform most nights.
The restaurant sits on North Kings Highway, in the heart of Myrtle Beach's entertainment district. It draws both tourists looking for a night out and locals who return for the combination of food and live music. The bar stocks beer, bourbon, and cocktails, and the dining room can get loud during performances — which is part of the appeal for people who want barbecue with a soundtrack.
Key Takeaways
- Carolina Western Pub serves traditional barbecue — pulled pork, brisket, and ribs — with Low Country sides like collard greens and mac and cheese.
- Live music happens most nights, with local bands performing country, rock, and blues in a casual bar setting.
- The restaurant is located on North Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach, within walking distance of other dining and entertainment venues.
- The space has a honky-tonk atmosphere with a full bar, making it a destination for both dinner and drinks.
The Barbecue Menu and Sides
The smoked meats are the foundation. Pulled pork comes as a sandwich or by the pound, and brisket is sliced thick. Ribs are available by the rack or half-rack. Prices vary by cut and portion size, so it is worth checking the current menu before you go — barbecue restaurants adjust pricing based on meat costs and availability.
The sides reflect Low Country tradition. Collard greens come seasoned and tender. Mac and cheese is creamy and substantial. Cornbread is served warm. Beans, slaw, and other vegetables rotate depending on what the kitchen has prepared that day. Most people order a meat with two or three sides, which gives you a full plate without overwhelming the table.
Live Music and Entertainment Schedule
Live performances are the draw for many regulars. Local bands play most nights, typically starting in the evening. The genre mix includes country, rock, blues, and classic rock covers — the kind of music that fits a bar atmosphere. The stage is visible from most of the dining room, though the bar area is where the energy concentrates during performances.
The schedule changes week to week, so calling ahead or checking their social media before you visit is the best way to know who is playing on your chosen night. Some nights are busier than others depending on the band's following. If you want a quieter dinner experience, a weeknight earlier in the evening is usually calmer than a Saturday night during a popular performance.
Atmosphere and Seating
The interior has a deliberate honky-tonk aesthetic — wood paneling, neon beer signs, and country memorabilia on the walls. The bar runs along one side of the space, and tables fill the dining area. The stage is positioned so that performers are visible from most seats, though sightlines are better from certain tables and the bar itself.
The noise level rises during performances, which is expected and part of the experience. If you are dining with people you want to have a conversation with, sitting away from the stage or coming on a quieter night makes that easier. The restaurant is casual — no dress code, no reservations required — so you can walk in as you are.
Location and Parking
Carolina Western Pub is located on North Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach, in an area with other restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance. The parking lot is on-site, which is convenient for the restaurant itself. North Kings Highway is a main thoroughfare, so the location is easy to find and accessible from most parts of Myrtle Beach.
The surrounding area has other dining options and entertainment venues, so you can make an evening of it — grab dinner here, walk to another bar, or explore nearby attractions. The location puts you close to the beach and downtown Myrtle Beach attractions as well.
Hours and What to Expect When You Arrive
Hours vary by season, as many Myrtle Beach restaurants adjust for tourism patterns. The restaurant is typically open for dinner and stays open late to accommodate the bar crowd. Calling ahead to confirm hours on the day you plan to visit is a good idea, especially during off-season months or holidays.
When you arrive, expect to order at the counter or at your table depending on how busy it is. The barbecue is prepared fresh, so there can be a short wait during peak times. The staff will direct you to a table once your order is placed. Takeout is usually an option if you prefer to eat elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
No. Carolina Western Pub operates on a walk-in basis. During busy times — weekend nights or when a popular band is playing — there may be a wait for a table, but you do not need to call ahead to secure a spot.
Can I bring children?
Yes, children are welcome during dining hours. The restaurant is a bar, so the atmosphere can be loud and adult-oriented, especially during live music. Earlier in the evening is typically quieter and more family-friendly than late night.
What if I want barbecue without the live music?
Visit on a night when there is no scheduled performance, or come earlier in the evening before the band starts. Calling ahead to ask about the night's entertainment schedule helps you plan accordingly.
Is there a cover charge for live music?
Many venues with live entertainment charge a cover, but policies vary. Call the restaurant to ask whether there is a cover on the night you plan to visit, and whether it applies to diners or only bar patrons.
What payment methods do you accept?
Most barbecue restaurants in Myrtle Beach accept cash and cards, but calling ahead to confirm their current payment options is always a safe choice, especially if you prefer a specific method.