Damon's specializes in ribs - big, meaty ribs char-grilled and slathered in a tantalizing sauce. Not a fan of ribs? Well, Damon's obliges, with a well-rounded menu of prime rib, steaks, barbecued chicken, juicy burgers and tasty salads. Even the kids menu will satisfy the pickiest little eaters this side of the Mississippi, with corn dogs, popcorn shrimp, and chicken fingers among the favorites. A great oceanfront location outdoor seating make for a sublime experience any time, and take out is available all day. Damon's is also located on a fairly secluded stretch of beach if you want to walk off ribs after dinner.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Damon's has lots of room for big groups both inside and outside on the oceanfront deck.
Terry's expert tip: Ask your hostess for a table on the outdoor oceanfront deck and experience the ocean breeze and view. It's worth a slightly longer wait.
A huge favorite among the locals, this restaurant features baby-back ribs and grilled steaks, along with a good variety of seafood. An open kitchen and great atmosphere make this a must on your casual dining list. Steaks are front and center on the menu, featuring a wide variety of cuts, seasonings and toppings, like sauteed onions and mushrooms. The prime rib is tender and juicy and served with a spicy au jus. The menu also features a wide selection of chicken, pork and pasta dishes. Due to its popularity, you should probably call ahead or be prepared to endure a long wait during the summer months.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Nothing fancy; just great food and service in a family/casual atmosphere.
Terry's expert tip: Try the house special sirloin marinated in citrus juices and seasoned in an array of spices.
The name may say Italian, but the sign out front says "Greatest Steaks in the Universe," and there are many repeat customers who will testify to that statement. Hand-cut Grade A steaks are cooked and served on a cast-iron skillet, sizzling their way all the way to your table and drawing the envy of those around you who wish they hadn't ordered the linguini. The Italian menu is vast and tasty, so this is a good place to come if you have folks with differing tastes in your party. But the steaks are what make this such a popular place among locals and tourists alike.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: The recently relocated and up-sized dining room has plenty of space for private affairs.
Terry's expert tip: A great spot for people with children in their party. Kids eat free from the Italian buffet with a paid adult.
The best Italian food in town comes in an unlikely location - a strip mall just off the beaten path of Restaurant Row. But once you enter the door it's like entering your Italian grandmother's home, with great food and friendly service that keeps locals and vacationers coming back time and again. Offering all the traditional Italian favorites, such as lasagna, linguini and clam sauce and ossobucco, Rossi's also specializes in nice cuts of beef and other meats that are seasoned and grilled to perfection. Rossi's also is a great place to make a full night out on the town by visiting the 88s Piano and Cigar Bar before or after dinner.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Rossi's spacious dining area and festive atmosphere is perfect for private functions.
Terry's expert tip: After 31 years on Restaurant Row, Rossi's has relocated a couple of miles south to Northwoods Plaza.
Once a privately-owned family beach cottage, this picturesque oceanfront restaurant serves up some of the best seafood in Myrtle Beach. But Sea Captain's House also serves one of the best and most underrated breakfasts on the Grand Strand, especially with the beachfront restaurant's spectacular view of sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean and reputation for Southern hospitality and fine dining. Sea Captain's House offers one of the best views in town, and just as awe-inspiring are some of the unique dishes on the breakfast menu, highlighting Southern and coastal cuisine. Try the shrimp and grits, the quail and eggs or the fresh-fruit filled crepes.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: One of the few private dining room with an ocean view can be found in the back of the Sea Captain's House.
Terry's expert tip: Often on a long wait during the tourist season, guests can relax on the back porch in swings overlooking the Atlantic Ocean - not a bad place to watch the sun rise while waiting to be seated.
Known for its outstanding American fare and charming atmosphere, this restaurant tops many "favorites" lists. All of the fish and seafood they serve are fresh — How fresh? Try this on for size: The upscale restaurant owns and operates its own fishing boat. But for those with more terrene tastes, there are delicious steak, chicken, lamb and veal selections, helping Chestnut Hill stand as one of the Strand's most versatile dinner choices. Perhaps the best meal of the week is Chestnut Hill's Sunday brunch, which features Eggs Benedict, peel-and-eat shrimp, Southern fried chicken and a wide selection of house-made desserts.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Chestnut Hill's decorative private dining room can accommodate more than 50 guests.
Terry's expert tip: Request a seat in the back of the house with a window view of the small lake.
This hidden gem has been drawing loyal, repeat customers since 1974. Offering traditional European and Continental cuisine, The Library has a classic atmosphere with a menu to match. Try the house-favorite Steak Diane, Strip Au Poivre or Sweetbreads, served by tuxedo-clad maitre d's providing excellent tableside service. With a menu that offers some old classics and some new, creative cuisine, everyone in your party will find something they love on this menu. Best of all, the service at the Library is second to none, giving customers the royal treatment with every visit.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: The private dining room in the back of the restaurant is cozy but formal.
Terry's expert tip: This is one of the few restaurants in town where reservations are highly recommended.
Part art museum and part restaurant, Collector's Cafe serves classic American cuisine worthy of a work of art. Fresh seafood and chops are the centerpieces on a diverse menu that includes lobster, yellow fin tuna, and filet medallions topped with lump crab meet and a creamy bernaise sauce. Creative dishes and daily specials allow patrons to try some artistic twists on traditional menus. Making use of fresh seafood and cuts of prime beef, Collector's makes it tough to choose just one dish from an extensive menu. Doubling as an art gallery, Collector's also offers a romantic atmosphere for those looking for a nice night out.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: Collectors Cafe has as many as five seating areas available for art shows and private events.
Terry's expert tip: Before or after dinner, take in the works of local artists in the coffee shop and art gallery.
Set in a beautiful white Victorian in Little River, The Brentwood certainly necessitates a wise departure from the Strand's busier drags. This historic abode dates from 1910, features a wrap-around porch and retains its time-tested charm. And it isn't all about appearances at The Brentwood. Guests savor such well-done classics as steak au poivre, prime rib, grilled ostrich, baked lobster tail and veal saltimbocca. Upstairs from the main dining room, there is a classy lounge area that features a full bar. For an area filled with seafood shacks and casual/family options, this award-winning establishment is about as upscale as it gets.
Recommended for Group Friendly because: The Brentwood is an old boarding house so it has several private rooms of varying sizes available.
Terry's expert tip: Reservations are highly recommended, especially if you plan to try the famous Sunday brunch.