Landry's Seafood House in South Carolina — Fresh Catch and Lowcountry Tradition

What Landry's Seafood House offers

Landry's Seafood House is a casual seafood restaurant chain with locations across South Carolina that specializes in fresh fish, shrimp, and crab prepared in straightforward, unpretentious ways. The menu centers on fried and grilled seafood platters, po'boy sandwiches, and Lowcountry staples like shrimp and grits. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with nautical décor and a focus on generous portions at moderate prices.

The restaurant sources much of its seafood daily, which means the catch changes with the season and availability. Landry's doesn't aim for fine dining — it aims for the kind of meal you'd get at a working waterfront, with cold beer, cornbread, and enough fried shrimp to satisfy a table of four.

Key Takeaways

• Landry's serves fried and grilled seafood platters, po'boy sandwiches, and Lowcountry dishes like shrimp and grits in a casual, family-friendly setting.
• Most locations source fresh seafood daily, so the available catch and daily specials vary by season and what's in stock.
• Prices are moderate for seafood dining, with most entrées in the mid-range and platters designed to feed two people or more.
• The restaurant operates multiple South Carolina locations, each with similar menus but slightly different hours and local character.

Menu highlights and what to order

The fried seafood platters are the backbone of the menu — shrimp, fish, oysters, and scallops come battered and fried, served with two sides (typically hushpuppies, coleslaw, fries, or rice) and cornbread. The portions are large enough that two people can comfortably share one platter and a starter.

Grilled options include whole fish, fish fillets, and shrimp prepared with butter and seasonings. Shrimp and grits appears on most menus as a breakfast or lunch item — creamy stone-ground grits topped with shrimp in a light sauce. Po'boy sandwiches come stuffed with fried shrimp, fish, or oysters on a soft roll, dressed with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade or cocktail sauce.

Sides matter here. The hushpuppies are fried cornmeal balls, slightly sweet and crispy outside. Coleslaw is tangy and cold. If you're not splitting a platter, order a cup of she-crab soup or a shrimp bisque to start — both are Lowcountry classics that appear on most South Carolina seafood menus.

Where Landry's locations sit in South Carolina

Landry's operates multiple locations across the state, with restaurants in coastal areas and inland towns. Specific addresses and hours vary by location, so checking the restaurant's website or calling ahead is necessary before you go — hours change seasonally, and some locations may close for private events or renovations.

Coastal locations tend to draw tourists and locals alike, while inland restaurants serve as neighborhood gathering spots. Each location maintains the same casual, family-oriented atmosphere and similar core menu, though local specials and daily catches differ.

Pricing and what to expect to spend

Seafood platters typically run in the mid-range for casual dining — expect to spend between $15 and $25 per entrée, depending on what you order and which protein you choose. Shrimp and grits cost less than a full fried platter. Po'boy sandwiches fall on the lower end of the price range.

Sides, drinks, and dessert add to the bill. Beer and sweet tea are standard drinks. Hushpuppies or fried pickles make good starters and cost $5 to $8. Desserts like pecan pie or key lime pie run $4 to $6. A meal for two with drinks and a starter typically costs $50 to $70 before tax and tip.

Atmosphere and who goes there

Landry's is designed for casual meals — families with kids, groups of friends, couples on a weeknight out. The décor leans nautical without being kitschy: fishing nets, boat photos, and casual wood finishes. Noise levels are moderate to high during busy times, especially on weekends and during tourist season.

The restaurant welcomes walk-ins and takes reservations, though peak times (Friday and Saturday evenings, lunch on weekends) can mean a wait. The staff is friendly and accustomed to families, so bringing children is normal and expected.

When to go and what changes by season

Summer and early fall bring peak tourist season and the best availability of local shrimp and fish. Winter months are quieter, with shorter hours at some locations. Spring offers soft-shell crab season, when the menu often features this delicacy at a premium price.

Daily specials rotate and depend on what the restaurant receives from suppliers. Calling ahead to ask about the day's catch or any specials can help you plan your meal. Friday and Saturday evenings are busiest; weekday lunches are typically quieter and faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended for groups of six or more and during peak times like Friday and Saturday evenings. Call ahead to check wait times, especially during tourist season or holidays.

Are there options for people who don't eat seafood?

Most Landry's locations offer chicken and steak options alongside the seafood menu, though the restaurant is built around seafood. Call your local restaurant to confirm what non-seafood entrées are available.

Can I get fresh seafood to take home?

Some locations sell fresh fish and shrimp at a market counter, but this varies by restaurant. Call ahead to ask whether your nearest Landry's offers retail seafood sales and what's in stock that day.

What's the best dish for someone trying seafood for the first time?

Fried shrimp is a good starting point — mild flavor, familiar texture, and hard to dislike. Grilled fish is another gentle introduction. Avoid oysters and clams if you're unsure; they're an acquired taste and best saved for when you're more adventurous.

Is Landry's a good place for a special occasion?

It's casual rather than formal, so it works better for a relaxed celebration than an anniversary dinner. The food is good and the portions generous, but the atmosphere is neighborhood restaurant, not fine dining. Call ahead to ask about private dining or special arrangements if you're planning a group event.