If your idea of a perfect meal involves endless plates, crackling fry baskets, and the comforting aroma of Southern-style seafood, Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood in Myrtle Beach is about to test your limits—in the best way possible. This iconic all-you-can-eat restaurant in South Carolina isn’t just a buffet; it’s a full-blown seafood marathon that has earned its reputation as one of South Carolina’s most indulgent dining experiences.
A Building at First Glance
The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood is as much an experience as it is a meal. The massive, 1,000-seat restaurant features 11 uniquely themed dining rooms, each decorated with nautical memorabilia that reflects the coastal character of Myrtle Beach. From rooms filled with crab traps and maritime décor to spaces designed around the restaurant’s bustling service hub, every area has its own personality. One of the most popular spots is the Waterway Room, where diners can enjoy views of the Intracoastal Waterway just outside, adding a scenic backdrop to an already memorable feast. The overall atmosphere is lively, family-friendly, and built to keep guests exploring long after their first trip to the buffet.
A Seafood Spread That Doesn’t Hold Back
Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood has been feeding hungry beachgoers and locals alike for decades, earning a reputation for excess done right. The highlight here is the legendary 170-item all-you-can-eat buffet, a sprawling spread that covers almost every corner of the sea and Southern comfort food. Diners can load up on Calabash-style fried seafood like shrimp, oysters, flounder, and scallops alongside steamed selections such as crab legs, clams, and peel-and-eat shrimp.
But the feast doesn’t stop at seafood—the buffet also features a carving station with roast beef or prime rib, Southern favorites like fried chicken, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and hush puppies, plus a fresh salad bar and hot sides galore. To cap it all off, there’s an in-house bakery and dessert station with cakes, pies, soft-serve ice cream, and more, making this buffet a must-visit for anyone hungry for variety and quantity alike.
Hushpuppies, Desserts, and Endless Refills
One of Benjamin’s most beloved traditions is the nonstop hushpuppies. Served hot and fresh to every table, these slightly sweet, golden bites arrive early and often, setting the tone for the feast ahead.
Dessert is just as over-the-top. The dessert bar features cakes, pies, cobblers, bread pudding, ice cream, and seasonal sweets—perfect for those who somehow find room after multiple buffet rounds. Coffee and tea help bring the meal to a satisfying close, though many guests opt to linger and savor every last bite.
What to Expect When You Go
Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood is popular, especially during peak tourist season in Myrtle Beach, so waits are common during dinner hours. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, geared toward families, vacationers, and anyone ready to eat seriously well. Pricing is higher than a standard restaurant meal, but the sheer volume and variety make it a strong value if you come hungry…