A vacation to Myrtle Beach means the chance to try new things, and that includes restaurants you haven’t visited before. Why come all the way to Myrtle Beach if you’re going to dine at the same chain restaurant you go to all the time back home?
Given the Grand Strand’s status as a national vacation destination, you will find restaurants that you won’t see anywhere else in the region. Here’s a list of the top 10 chain eateries in Myrtle Beach:
* Bonefish Grill: With so many great local seafood restaurants to choose from in Myrtle Beach, it's hard to bypass them for a national chain. But if you are going to, this is the place to do it. An incredible spread of seafood selections, like the house favorite the Bang Bang Shrimp and Ahi Tuna, highlight a creative lineup of seafood dishes.
* Carrabba's: This Italian chain has been successful with its “family” concept, giving diners a great value and experience. The menu is extensive and well-executed, offering traditional Italian classics with its own distinct spin. The portions are large, so look forward to bringing a doggie bag back to the room for a next-day treat.
* Five Guys Burgers & Fries: How special can a simple burger be? Enough to transform this Washington, DC joint into a national phenomenon. Started by “five guys” looking to fill the demand for a unique burger experience, this chain has spread like a wildfire for its huge selection of toppings and Cajun-spiced, hand-cut fries.
* House of Blues: Many theme restaurants are known more for their theme than their food, but that's not the case at the HOB. Southern-style comfort food, such as shrimp and grits, fried catfish and pulled-pork barbecue, make up the meat of the menu. Check out the Sunday Gospel Brunch for some great food for the body and music for the soul.
* Margaritaville: The mythical place from Jimmy Buffett's hit song really does exist, in multiple locations, starting at his old haunt in Key West and moving north with restaurants in many vacation destinations. The Caribbean-themed eatery offers a tasty menu and a fun-filled atmosphere, including an outdoor patio deck overlooking Lake Broadway.
* P.F. Chang's: This Chinese chain opened a store in Market Common and people keep coming to try the California-based restaurant. A wide variety of Asian cuisine is on the menu, including Japanese, Mongolian and Vietnamese dishes. The crab rangoon is to die for.
* River City Cafe: This locally owned and operated burger joint is a chain for good reason: the burgers are awesome. Thick, juicy, hand-patted burgers come with an array of topping options, including off-beat items like the Peanut Butter Burger. Drop your peanut shells on the floor at this family-friendly establishment.
* Ruth's Chris: This New Orleans-based favorite takes fine dining to the next level. Serving prime cuts of beef in a flavorful blend of seasonings that melt in your mouth, the a la carte choices include giant baked potatoes and mushrooms. A full meal can be pricy, but well worth it for steak lovers.
* The Melting Pot: This fondue restaurant offers an experience that transcends a normal night out for dinner. Patrons can prepare their own meals by cooking four courses in a variety of broths and sauces. Dinner becomes a fun activity, especially dessert, which allows guests to dip a mix of fruits and pastries in melted chocolate.
(Posted: 2/12/15)
