Seaside Bar & Grill in Myrtle Beach: Fresh Seafood and Casual Dining on the Water

A straightforward seafood spot with views and reliable cooking

Seaside Bar & Grill sits right on the Myrtle Beach boardwalk, serving fresh seafood and American classics in a casual, no-fuss setting. The restaurant focuses on what it does well: grilled fish, shrimp, and crab prepared simply, cold beer, and a view of the Atlantic. You're not paying for tablecloths or a wine list—you're paying for a seat where you can watch the ocean while you eat, and food that doesn't overcomplicate itself.

The space is open-air or semi-covered depending on where you sit, which means the salt air and sound of waves are part of the meal. On warm evenings, this is exactly what many visitors want. On rainy or very hot days, it can be less comfortable, so timing matters.

Key Takeaways

• Seaside Bar & Grill is located directly on the Myrtle Beach boardwalk, so parking and foot traffic are typical for that area during peak season.
• The menu centers on grilled seafood—shrimp, fish, crab, and oysters—with burgers and sandwiches for those who don't want seafood.
• Seating is mostly outdoor or semi-covered, so weather affects comfort; the restaurant does not take reservations, so expect a wait during dinner hours in summer.
• Prices are moderate for a boardwalk location, with entrees typically in the mid-range rather than high-end.

What's on the menu

The core of the menu is grilled seafood. You'll find shrimp, mahi-mahi, grouper, and flounder prepared simply—grilled with butter, lemon, and seasoning. Crab cakes, fried oysters, and shrimp platters appear regularly. The kitchen doesn't attempt fancy sauces or complicated presentations; the idea is to let the seafood speak for itself.

For people who don't eat seafood, the restaurant offers burgers, sandwiches, and chicken dishes. Sides are standard—fries, coleslaw, hush puppies. The bar serves beer, wine, and mixed drinks, with an emphasis on cold beer and frozen cocktails suited to a beach setting.

Portion sizes tend to be generous, and the food arrives quickly—this is not a slow-paced dining experience. The kitchen is built for volume, especially during the summer tourist season.

Boardwalk location and parking

Seaside Bar & Grill sits on the Myrtle Beach boardwalk, which means foot traffic, noise, and a lively atmosphere. In summer and on weekends, the boardwalk fills with tourists, families, and groups, and the restaurant is part of that energy. If you want quiet or privacy, this is not the place.

Parking near the boardwalk is limited and often requires paid lots or street parking. During peak season (May through August), arriving early or going during off-peak hours (lunch, early dinner, or weekdays) makes parking easier. The restaurant itself does not have a dedicated lot.

Wait times and reservations

Seaside Bar & Grill does not take reservations. Seating is first-come, first-served, which works fine during slower periods but means a wait during dinner hours in summer. On a Friday or Saturday evening in July, expect 30 minutes to an hour or more, especially between 6 and 8 p.m.

Lunch and early dinner (before 5:30 p.m.) typically have shorter waits. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. If you're visiting during peak season and want to avoid a long wait, plan accordingly.

Weather and outdoor seating

Most seating is outdoors or under a partial roof, which is part of the appeal on a nice evening but a drawback in bad weather. Rain, extreme heat, or high winds can make the experience uncomfortable. The restaurant does have some covered areas, but they fill quickly when weather turns.

In winter, outdoor dining is possible on mild days but not practical on cold ones. Spring and fall offer the most reliable weather for a full boardwalk dining experience.

Price range and what to expect

Entrees typically run from the mid-teens to the low thirties, depending on what you order. Seafood platters and grilled fish are on the higher end; burgers and sandwiches are lower. Sides, drinks, and appetizers add to the bill. For a boardwalk restaurant with ocean views, the pricing is reasonable rather than expensive.

This is casual dining, not fine dining. The focus is on fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking, not presentation or service formality. Tipping is expected, and the staff moves quickly to keep tables turning.

When to go and what to bring

Lunch is a good time to visit if you want shorter waits and a more relaxed pace. Weekday lunches are quieter still. Dinner in summer is busier and noisier, but the sunset over the water can be worth the crowd.

Bring sunscreen if you're sitting in direct sun, and a light jacket or sweater for evening, even in summer—the ocean breeze can cool things down quickly. If you're sensitive to noise or crowds, avoid peak dinner hours and summer weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

No. Seaside Bar & Grill operates on a first-come, first-served basis. During busy times, especially summer evenings, this means a wait. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you decide when to arrive.

Is there indoor seating?

Most seating is outdoors or semi-covered. There is some covered area, but it fills quickly during rain or extreme heat. If weather is a concern, call ahead to ask about indoor options or plan to visit during better weather.

Can I bring kids?

Yes. The restaurant is casual and family-friendly, with a menu that includes options for children. The boardwalk setting and outdoor atmosphere appeal to families, though the noise level and crowds during peak times may not suit very young children.

What's the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Lunch on a weekday is typically quieter than dinner. Early dinner (before 5:30 p.m.) has shorter waits than later evening service. Summer weekends are the busiest times; spring, fall, and winter are less crowded.

Is the food fresh?

The restaurant emphasizes fresh seafood and simple preparation. Because it's on the boardwalk and serves high volume, turnover is fast, which generally means fresher ingredients. The straightforward cooking style—grilling rather than heavy sauces—lets you taste the quality of the seafood.