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Taste 70+ Years Of Lowcountry Tradition At This South Carolina Seafood Kitchen

Since 1948, one family has been perfecting the art of Lowcountry seafood in the same Murrells Inlet location where it all began.

Lee’s Inlet Kitchen represents the last of the original Murrells Inlet restaurants still operated by the founding family, serving authentic Carolina coastal cuisine that helped establish Murrells Inlet as the seafood capital of South Carolina.

You’ll experience traditional preparation methods and family recipes that have been handed down through three generations, creating flavors you truly cannot find anywhere else.

Signature Seafood Specialties

Famous Shore Dinner: The legendary seafood platter includes shrimp cocktail, clam chowder, flounder fillet, oysters, scallops, deviled crab, and your choice of fantail or creek shrimp. This generous feast represents traditional Murrells Inlet cooking at its finest.

She-Crab Soup: Six-time winner of the Murrells Inlet Chowder Contest, this rich, creamy soup showcases the sweet flavor of local blue crab with traditional seasonings and techniques perfected over decades.

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Hand-Peeled Shrimp: You’ll taste the difference in their fantail shrimp, with up to 150 pounds hand-peeled daily using traditional methods. This labor-intensive approach ensures optimal texture and flavor.

Fresh Local Catches: Today’s fresh catch features locally sourced fish prepared using time-honored Lowcountry techniques. The menu changes based on what local fishermen bring in each day.

Deviled Crab: This coastal Carolina specialty combines local crabmeat with traditional seasonings and breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection in authentic style.

Oysters: Fresh Carolina coast oysters prepared fried or raw, showcasing the briny sweetness of local waters.

Family Recipe Traditions

Famous Hush Puppies: These legendary cornmeal fritters use recipes unchanged since 1948, creating the perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior. You’ll understand why guests rave about these complimentary additions.

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Homemade Sauces: Shrimp salad, cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, and Creole seasonings all follow original family recipes passed down through generations.

Traditional Sides: Coleslaw, baked potatoes, and house salads complement the seafood using preparations that have satisfied customers for over seven decades.

Onion Rings: The famous onion rings represent another family specialty that keeps customers returning year after year.

Early-Lite Menu Value

Afternoon Specials: Between 4:30-5:30 PM, you’ll find exceptional values on popular items, making this perfect for early diners seeking quality at lower prices.

Generous Portions: Even the lite menu items provide substantial servings that often satisfy two people, representing excellent value in today’s pricing environment.

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Complete Meals: Early specials include salad, sides, and hush puppies, providing full dining experiences at reduced prices.

Traditional Atmosphere

Historic Setting: The converted country store maintains its original charm while accommodating modern dining needs. You’ll feel the history in every corner of this authentic coastal establishment.

Waterfront Views: Dining rooms overlook the scenic inlet, providing peaceful water views that complement the seafood experience.

Family-Friendly Environment: The casual, welcoming atmosphere accommodates everyone from romantic couples to large family gatherings.

Local Institution: As the oldest family-owned restaurant on the Grand Strand, you’ll sense the deep community connections and local pride.

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Southern Hospitality

Experienced Service: Servers like Helen demonstrate extensive menu knowledge and genuine care for guest satisfaction, representing the Southern hospitality tradition.

Personal Attention: The family ownership ensures personal investment in every guest’s experience, creating service that feels genuine rather than corporate.

Military Discount: Active military and first responders receive special pricing recognition, showing community appreciation.

Other Considerations

Pricing: Expect mid-range pricing reflecting fresh, local ingredients and traditional preparation methods. The quality and portion sizes justify the investment in authentic coastal dining.

Reservations: They don’t accept reservations, so arrive early during peak summer season to avoid lengthy waits. The popularity speaks to the quality.

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Hours: Open Monday through Saturday, 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM, closed Sundays. Limited hours reflect the fresh seafood focus and family operation.

Parking: Ample parking available, though it can fill up during peak dinner hours and summer tourist season.

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with accommodations for guests with mobility needs.

Location: Convenient Highway 17 Business location makes this easily accessible for Myrtle Beach area visitors and locals.


Lee’s Inlet Kitchen
📍 4460 Highway 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Writer: Travis McClendon
Click to read bio

I’ve lived in Asheville for the past 12 years, but North Carolina has always felt like home. And I've always loved traveling! I enjoy taking the long way just to see what’s out there. When I’m not writing, I’m out with my old Nikon, digging through record bins, or planning my next road trip.