Selecting a seafood restaurant along the coast can be daunting, especially in a bustling tourist hub like Myrtle Beach, known for its abundance of dining options. With seafood establishments on nearly every corner, finding a standout can feel overwhelming. However, one place that consistently rises above the rest is The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood, a frequent recipient of the “Best of the Beach” award from local publications The Sun News and Myrtle Beach Herald. Not only is it acclaimed, but it also holds the title of the largest restaurant in South Carolina—a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
The Original Benjamin’s plays a pivotal role in popularizing Calabash-style seafood in Myrtle Beach, a cooking technique that hails from Calabash, North Carolina. This culinary style features seafood that is lightly battered and deep-fried, creating a crispy yet tender dish. For those who might not be in the mood for seafood, fear not—this impressive eatery also serves a wide range of traditional Southern dishes. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop before you leave, where you can find a variety of keepsakes to remember your visit!
Each of the eleven dining areas features a distinct theme and atmosphere.
The Fish Camp Room stands out as one of the most distinctive spaces, adorned with crab traps, marine-themed decor, and even a full-sized school bus.
If you dine in The Waterway Room, you can savor beautiful views of the Intracoastal Waterway right from your table, enhancing your meal experience.
In the lounge, you’ll notice a stunning display: a dry sea aquarium suspended from the ceiling!
You could find yourself enjoying a meal next to a large aquarium, where you can watch the fish swim gracefully as you eat.
The restaurant boasts an impressive collection of model ships, making it one of the largest of its kind across the globe. Patrons can admire a diverse array of vessels, ranging from historic cruise liners and elegant schooners to military models and even a few airplanes scattered throughout the establishment.
Master Shipwright Jimmy Frost, affiliated with the restaurant, is responsible for creating and restoring each of the models on display.
Now, for the highlight of the experience—let’s talk about the food! The Original Benjamin’s features an extensive all-you-can-eat buffet boasting more than 170 delicious options to choose from.
The buffet features an array of stations, such as a fresh crab station, a carving station for savory meats, a delightful pasta bar, and a vibrant salad bar.
Additionally, the establishment features an in-house bakery that produces fresh bread and delicious desserts made from scratch on a daily basis.
If you’re in the mood for cocktails and crab legs, you can enjoy those delightful options at the bar!
For more details, head over to The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood website or check out their Facebook page. Don’t forget to explore the Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum as well, a fantastic retro arcade that’s sure to provide plenty of entertainment!