There are an estimated 1,700 restaurants on the Grand Strand, but that number is drastically reduced on Christmas Eve and Day. While it’s understandable that restaurant owners would want to close for the holidays and spend time with their families, it’s also nice for locals and visitors that some of the best eating establishments along the Carolina coast are open for business on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening of fine dining or a casual gathering with family and friends, here are five of our favorite local restaurants to hold your holiday feast:
- Carolina Roadhouse: This family/casual regional chain is popular among locals and visitors, particularly for special occasions like Christmas Eve and Day. The extensive menu offers a wide selection of dishes so everyone in your party can find what they want – from the slow-roasted marinated prime rib with the fresh catch of the day surf-and-turf feast to burgers, sandwiches and salads that are big enough to serve as a meal. Along with sister restaurant California Dreaming, which has locations in Surfside Beach and North Myrtle Beach, Carolina Roadhouse is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve and from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Christmas Day.
- Damon’s Oceanfront Grill: You can’t beat the view for a Myrtle Beach Christmas feast, and it’s hard to find a better variety of food to please a large party. Located in a stilted beach home on the south end of Ocean Boulevard, this regional chain boasts the best barbecue baby back ribs this side of St. Louis, and great steaks that are prepared on the same wood-fired grills. A number of seafood and Southern cooking dishes and sides are on the menu, as well as lots of starters, soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts. The large pane-glass windows offer spectacular views of the ocean, and if the weather permits you can even enjoy Christmas dinner on the patio. Damon’s is open for lunch and dinner both days.
- Greg Norman’s Australian Grille: The famed golfer known as “The Shark” is now gaining a reputation from bringing the flavors of his homeland to Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach. Located just across the Intracoastal Waterway from the course he designed, Norman attracts more than golfers to his fine dining restaurant. The Christmas dinner menu includes Cider-Glazed Swordfish, Roasted Goose with Cranberry Dressing and the Wood-Grilled Filet. An extensive wine list and upscale environment make this a great place for a formal gathering or a romantic dinner for two.
- The Brentwood House: You will feel like at home at this Little River establishment, partly because it is located in a house. This century-old Victorian home welcomes guests to one of the best full-service restaurants on the Grand Strand. Featuring French-inspired, four-course feasts with table-side service and a prix fixe menu, The Brentwood House has private rooms available for formal parties as well as general seating, but you will need reservations to enjoy the most popular upscale holiday dining experience on the North Strand.
- Thoroughbred’s: This Restaurant Row establishment is a Christmas tradition for many locals, and that’s high praise in a place with so many options. Known for their award-winning steaks and chops, Thoroughbred’s puts out a special spread for the holidays that goes beyond the regular horse racing-themed menu. Slow-roasted prime rib, roast duck and rack of lamb are among the many options, and seafood dishes are available for those with a taste for some surf and turf. Have the Kentucky Derby Pie or the Kentucky Bourbon Bread Pudding for dessert. Thoroughbred’s is open for dinner on Christmas Eve and Day. Reservations are recommended.
There are lots of places to enjoy a holiday feast on the Grand Strand, but there’s only one place to stay for the best that Myrtle Beach has to offer. Bay View Resort is walking distance to the downtown district and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, making it the perfect place for you and your family to spend the Christmas season.
