By Administrator A Taste of Heritage: Understanding Soul Food
The Myrtle Beach sun, the crashing waves, the endless stretch of sand – these are the images that spring to mind when you picture a South Carolina vacation. But beyond the beach towels and souvenir shops lies a culinary scene brimming with hidden gems, a world where traditional flavors meet Southern hospitality. And if you’re craving a taste of true Southern comfort, look no further than the soul food restaurants sprinkled throughout Myrtle Beach. Forget the seafood buffets for an evening and prepare your taste buds for a journey to a land of slow-cooked collard greens, crispy fried chicken, and melt-in-your-mouth macaroni and cheese. Myrtle Beach has excellent soul food restaurants that offer an authentic and heartwarming dining experience, a chance to savor the traditions and heritage woven into every delicious bite.
Before we dive into the specific restaurants that are making waves in Myrtle Beach’s soul food scene, let’s take a moment to appreciate the culinary art form that is soul food. More than just a collection of recipes, soul food represents a rich tapestry of African American history and culture. It’s a cuisine born from necessity, ingenuity, and a deep connection to the land. Originating from the limited resources available to enslaved African Americans in the South, soul food transformed humble ingredients into dishes that nourished both body and soul.
Key elements of soul food include slow cooking, the use of flavorful seasonings, and an emphasis on using every part of the animal. Think of tender, slow-braised collard greens seasoned with smoked ham hocks, or perfectly seasoned and golden-fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Macaroni and cheese, often creamy and decadent, is a staple alongside candied yams, black-eyed peas, and cornbread. The preparation of soul food is often a labor of love, passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique touch to cherished recipes. Soul food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a connection to the past, and a celebration of Southern culture. It’s food that feeds the soul.
Benjamin’s Original Calabash Seafood and Soul Food
Don’t let the name fool you. While Benjamin’s Original Calabash Seafood in Surfside Beach is known for its extensive seafood buffet, it also has a significant and delicious soul food section that is well worth exploring. This isn’t your typical buffet offering. The soul food dishes are cooked with genuine care and attention to detail, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to providing a well-rounded Southern dining experience.
One of the standout items is their fried chicken. It’s seasoned perfectly with a blend of herbs and spices, fried to a golden crisp, and remains juicy even when sitting on the buffet line. Many customers rave about their collard greens, which are slow-cooked with smoked meat, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish that’s a true taste of the South. Their macaroni and cheese is rich and cheesy, using real cheese and a creamy sauce that is comforting and satisfying.
“The soul food here is surprisingly good,” says a recent reviewer on Google. “I came for the seafood, but the fried chicken and collard greens were the stars of the show. Definitely worth a visit if you’re craving some Southern comfort food.”
Benjamin’s offers a casual and family-friendly atmosphere. While the price is a little higher than other soul food establishments due to the buffet format, the variety and quality of the food make it a worthwhile splurge. Benjamin’s Original Calabash Seafood offers a unique twist, combining the best of seafood and soul food under one roof. You can find them located on Highway Seventeen South, Surfside Beach, South Carolina, and reach them during business hours by telephone.
Big Mike’s Soul Food
For a truly authentic and down-to-earth soul food experience, Big Mike’s Soul Food in Myrtle Beach is a must-visit. This unassuming restaurant is a local favorite, known for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and home-style cooking. Big Mike’s is the kind of place where you feel like you’re eating a home-cooked meal prepared by your favorite auntie.
Their menu features all the classic soul food staples, from fried chicken and pork chops to smothered steak and baked ham. However, it is their sides that truly shine. Their mac and cheese is legendary, a creamy and cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. The collard greens are cooked with smoked turkey, giving them a deep and smoky flavor. Don’t miss out on their candied yams, which are perfectly sweet and spiced.
“Big Mike’s is the real deal,” says a Yelp reviewer. “The food is delicious, the portions are huge, and the prices are unbeatable. I always leave feeling full and happy.”
The atmosphere at Big Mike’s is casual and welcoming. It is not fancy, but the focus is on the food. Located on Mr. Joe White Avenue, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, this hidden gem is a testament to the power of simple, well-prepared soul food. The friendly staff and the comforting aroma of Southern cooking create an experience that will leave you feeling satisfied and nurtured. They are reachable by telephone and offer takeout options for those looking to enjoy their soul food at home.
E-N-J’s Eatery
While perhaps a little more contemporary in its approach, E-N-J’s Eatery offers a take on soul food that blends traditional flavors with a modern sensibility. This restaurant strives to use fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, elevating the classic soul food dishes to a new level. It offers more than just the classics.
Their fried chicken, for instance, is brined for hours before being perfectly fried, resulting in an incredibly juicy and flavorful piece of chicken. They offer innovative sides like roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and a sweet potato casserole with a pecan crumble topping. While staying true to the essence of soul food, E-N-J’s adds their unique touch to create dishes that are both familiar and exciting.
“E-N-J’s is a cut above the rest,” says a reviewer. “The food is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. It is a perfect combination of traditional soul food and modern cuisine.”
The restaurant’s atmosphere is stylish and inviting. The décor is modern and the service is attentive. While the prices are slightly higher than those at Big Mike’s, the quality of the ingredients and the innovative menu options make it a worthy indulgence. E-N-J’s Eatery is proof that soul food can be both comforting and sophisticated. Located on Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, E-N-J’s provides a refined soul food experience. Check online for updated business hours or to make reservations.
Honorable Mentions
While the restaurants mentioned above are definite standouts, there are a few other places in Myrtle Beach that deserve a mention for their contributions to the soul food scene. Look up these restaurants for more options:
The Dirty Donut: Offers a selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. Caters to large groups.
Mama Jean’s Restaurant: An excellent choice with great reviews. Offers a buffet of soul food items for breakfast and lunch.
Tips for Finding the Best Soul Food
Finding the best soul food in Myrtle Beach requires a little bit of research and a willingness to explore beyond the typical tourist traps. Start by reading online reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor. Pay attention to what other diners are saying about the quality of the food, the service, and the atmosphere.
Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations. They are often the best source of information about hidden gems and family-run restaurants. Look for restaurants with a long history or family ownership. These establishments often have a deep connection to Southern traditions and are passionate about preserving the authenticity of their food.
Consider the atmosphere of the restaurant. Does it feel welcoming and authentic? Does it evoke a sense of Southern hospitality? Finally, don’t be afraid to try something new. Soul food is a diverse cuisine with a wide range of flavors and dishes. Step outside of your comfort zone and discover a new favorite.
A Culinary Journey of Comfort and Tradition
Myrtle Beach may be known for its beaches and entertainment, but its soul food scene offers a unique and rewarding culinary experience. From the classic comfort of Big Mike’s to the innovative dishes at E-N-J’s, there’s something for every palate. The soul food restaurants in Myrtle Beach provide a taste of Southern tradition and hospitality that’s sure to leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
So, next time you’re in Myrtle Beach, skip the usual tourist traps and treat yourself to a taste of Southern comfort. Explore the back streets, venture beyond the main drag, and discover the hidden gems that are serving up some of the best soul food you’ve ever tasted. You won’t be disappointed! It is a culinary journey that will fill your belly and warm your soul.
