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This Rustic Awendaw Gem Serves Charleston’s Best Fried Seafood In A Historic 1920s General Store

Published: August 22, 2025

  • Attraction: Seewee Restaurant
  • Location: 4804 N Hwy 17, Awendaw, SC 29429
  • Industry: Seafood Restaurant
  • Website: seeweerestaurantinc.com

Sometimes the best meals come from the most unexpected places, and this converted 1920s general store on Highway 17 has been proving that point since 1993.

Step into Seewee Restaurant and you’ll immediately understand why it’s become a Charleston area institution – the building itself tells a story of old-school Lowcountry charm while the kitchen delivers some of the freshest, most flavorful Southern seafood you’ll ever taste.

Seafood Specialties

Fried Shrimp: The beer-battered shrimp here are enormous and cooked to golden perfection. Each piece delivers that satisfying crunch followed by sweet, tender shrimp inside. When prepared right, these are some of the best you’ll find along the coast.

Fresh Oysters: Being right on the coast means the oysters here are incredibly fresh and briny. Whether you order them fried to crispy perfection or go for the raw bar experience, you’re getting quality shellfish that showcases the best of Lowcountry waters.

She-Crab Soup: This Lowcountry classic is rich, creamy, and loaded with real crab meat. The soup has that perfect balance of sweetness from the crab and subtle spice that makes each spoonful warming and satisfying.

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Jerk Preparation: One of their standout cooking methods is the Jamaican jerk style, which adds bold, spicy flavors to any fish. The seasoning penetrates deep into the fish, creating a flavorful crust while keeping the inside flaky and moist.

Seewee Style: Their signature preparation combines Old Bay, garlic, lemon, and sherry for a uniquely Lowcountry flavor profile. This preparation method highlights the natural seafood flavors while adding just enough seasoning to make each bite memorable.

Southern Sides & Specialties

Hush Puppies: These complimentary golden nuggets are absolutely addictive – crispy outside, fluffy inside, with just the right amount of sweetness. They’re brought to your table warm and you’ll find yourself reaching for them throughout the entire meal.

Fried Pickles: A true Southern delicacy done right here. The pickles maintain their tangy crunch inside a perfectly seasoned, crispy coating. They’re an ideal appetizer that’ll have you wondering why more places don’t make them this well.

Collard Greens: These are slow-cooked Southern style with just the right amount of seasoning. They’re tender without being mushy, and have that authentic flavor that comes from traditional preparation methods.

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Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy comfort food at its finest. The pasta has the perfect texture and the cheese sauce is rich without being heavy – exactly what you want from Southern mac and cheese.

Atmosphere & Historic Charm

1920s General Store Building: The original structure gives this place incredible character – you can still feel the history in the walls and the layout. It’s like stepping back in time to when general stores were the heart of small communities.

Rustic Décor: The interior maintains that authentic old-store feel with nautical touches and vintage elements that create a genuinely unique dining atmosphere. It’s casual and comfortable without trying too hard to be trendy.

Outdoor Patio: The addition of outdoor seating lets you enjoy your meal al fresco while taking in the natural Lowcountry scenery. It’s particularly lovely during good weather and adds to the relaxed, coastal dining experience.

Live Music: On certain nights, they feature live acoustic music on the patio, creating a perfect soundtrack for your seafood dinner under the South Carolina sky.

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Other Considerations

Reasonable Pricing: For a coastal seafood restaurant, the prices here are surprisingly fair. You can get a filling meal with multiple sides for under $25, making it accessible for families and budget-conscious diners.

Location Benefits: Being just off Highway 17 makes this a perfect stop when traveling between Charleston and Myrtle Beach. It’s far enough from the tourist traps to maintain authenticity but easy enough to find.

Busy Weekends: This place can get packed, especially during peak dining hours and tourist season. The wait is usually worth it, but plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule.

Family-Friendly: The casual atmosphere and diverse menu make this an excellent choice for families. Kids will love the fried options while adults can enjoy more sophisticated seafood preparations.


Seewee Restaurant
📍 4804 N Hwy 17, Awendaw, SC 29429

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Writer: Travis McClendon
Contributor

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.