There's a chef in Murrells Inlet crafting great dishes under the radar, but those who visit Barking Dawgs Tavern know just what those servings are. And, they'll tell you each one served is better than the other. 

Joshua Gregory is an executive chef who's passion can be told in presentation alone. However, he'll do you far better with the flavor profiles. 

Located at 761 Pendergrass Avenue, Barking Dawgs Tavern has quickly become a locals favorite in Murrells Inlet. But, tourists who ask about the greatest food in the area find themselves here too.

Why?

Chef Gregory, that's why. 
​

And, here's another dish that's perfect for Winter.

Plan a trip to this dog-friendly restaurant and enjoy some great food from a talented chef. Click on each image below to see their menu. 

A new eatery opened up this year in Murrells Inlet with little fanfare, but even with the pandemic, it's built a loyal, local clientele that walk away with taste buds satisfied.

Mojo's Marina Bar and Grille, part of the Wicked Tuna restaurant family, took over the former Marshview Seafood Kitchen and Bar and has rolled out a great, flavorful menu relying on local seafood and fresh ingredients. 

Plus, it inherited one of the best inlet views in the area. It truly encompasses a panoramic view that will leave you in awe of nature's beauty while enjoying some great food.  

While the outside is divine, the inside is spacious and has a great bar area. With comfortable chairs and a relaxing setting, this "magical" eatery will provide just the relaxation you need to browse the menu and try many items. ​

More importantly, the restaurant has the ability to allow for mass air flow. This should be comforting for those weary about dining inside a restaurant. 

Let us get to the food, shall we?

A great way to start your meal is with these Korean BBQ Fries. We were split between these and the Smothered Gravy Fries, but the flavorful pop from the sauce and garlic aioli were so satisfying. We were told these were a customer top pick. Can't argue with that.

OK, so you see the Peach Mai Thai. Yes, it was as good as it looked. It's one of many they have available - and working on more flavors - alongside their freshly made mojitos and mules. They truly are going for an island feel and these drinks really help solidify the concept. 

​Speaking of island, these tacos below were doing their best to leave others on one. 

Both the Blackened Fish and Braised Short Rib taco dishes came in threes. The short rib was fresh. Prepared the day we dined in. You could smell it from the kitchen, with the help of the breeze pushing it. 

The fish was fresh and cooked well. Short rib was so tender it melted in our mouths. They're both a must-taste item.

But, the main course of the meal was SUPER!

This Super Steam Pot came with a WHOLE lobster, cut in half. Piled in the pot were potatoes, shrimp, clams, oyster clusters, andouille sausage (with great flavor) and a crab leg cluster. It was enough for three people. 

Fresh seafood from Seven Seas Seafood Market helped create this dish. 

The oysters were cooked perfectly, not overdone. The boiled shrimp were amazing. Loved the lobster. 

You can't end a meal, however, without some delectable dessert. Pastry Chef Tricia Greene has found herself with a bigger area to work in, and with that, my friends, comes more pastry creations. 

Three desserts were presented. All three were different in profiles and tastes. 

The Boston Cream Cake was a legit hit. Heavenly fresh cake and the chocolate ganache was just superb. The Blackberry Cobbler was super moist and rich in flavor. Got you all in the Thanksgiving feels. But, the Peanut Butter Chocolate Pie was out of this world. For those looking for a great one, you must stop in and have this pie. It'll have you craving for one to take home. To enjoy for yourself, not to share. 

Stop in at 4139 US-17 Business in Murrells Inlet and tell them we sent you. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Serving brunch Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

I enjoy the culinary adventures taken to many areas in South Carolina. You'll find great food with great people creating and serving it. But, the visit to Franco's NY Pizza at 3120 South Highway 17 Business in Murrells Inlet took me to another level.

Was it the unexpected uniform greeting we (my wife and I) received when we walked in the door? The consistent smiles? The hospitality? The bombardment of full-size pies to photograph without asking? I'd say all of it played a part.

But, it was the heartwarming welcome from Richard Franco, owner of Franco's NY Pizza, that sealed the deal.

Known for giving to the community, I expected a pleasuring visit, but including his staff we met, the atmosphere here was really culinary heaven.

Let's get to the pizza pies, shall we?

The Balboa was the first pizza we tasted. Made with Homemade Meatballs, Pepperoni, and Italian Sausage, it sure didn't disappoint. Matter of fact, I think I heard Rocky up front ordering his pie to go. The cheese pizza was just Richard and his crew showing off, giving us just the cheese to taste to solidify it's top-notch. The Apple Pie pizza, one of a few dessert pies they are trying out, walked away from us without being tasted, teasing us with that smell you can relate to being at Grandma's house for the holidays. Speaking of holidays...

What you see above is not an illusion. It's a Thanksgiving Pizza pie, full of gravy, Franco’s homemade stuffing, turkey, cheese, and cranberry dressing.

If you wanted a pizza that had all the flavor and fulfillment of Thanksgiving dinner without having to cook it or dive into multiple pots to serve it, here's your superb alternative. It's a tasty masterpiece, for sure. 

One of my favorites of the day were the Franco's Pizza Bawls. Made with A Blend of Franco's Homemade Meatballs, Pepperoni, and Cheese Wrapped in Dough and Deep Fried, these were surely a treat. And the homemade marinara sauce just sent them into outer-culinary space. 

​But's the best is saved for last. 

Yes, folks, Franco's NY Pizza and their chicken wing game is in the upper tier. And on this day, I was the first to try these wings pictured. 

Maple Bacon Bourbon BBQ Wings.

I kept going back for more and more. These were some of the best I'd ever had. 

When the food tasting was done, Ricard and his staff cleaned up and made sure we knew how appreciated we were. We responded back by saying it was our pleasure. They said we know.

Again, everyone we meet are truly nice people and show you the best culinary hospitality, but it's rare you meet people who make you genuinely feel you're part of the family. The folks at Franco's NY Pizza are in that list set. 

Go by and see Richard, Stacy, Robert, Tim and all the friendly people at Franco's NY Pizza for some great, made-from-scratch food, served with love. Not only from the love for what they do, but from the love of knowing you chose them for your meal. 

Given the pandemic situation, many restaurants that featured buffets have had to adapt rather quickly to survive. A few haven't. Others have implemented safer serving techniques to push through. For example, staff would prepare plates or to-go boxes for customers as they pick the items from the buffet they want.

Admiral's Flagship at 4664 US Hwy 17 in Murrells Inlet decided to venture in a direction that saw a complete change in the menu. And, from the photos, you'll see the offerings look pretty spectacular. 

Owner Bean Beaver enlisted the services of Chef Henry Friese Mills to craft a "Biergarten" themed menu and setting. Known as a beer garden, it's an outdoor area where beer and local food are served. 

A few months past and Mills decided to make it full time, saying he loved the concept so much he wanted to lead the charge and Admiral's Flagship to the next level of culinary greatness. 

We dined in and quickly asked for the outside area. It was pleasant. They have fans set to the side to keep air moving and make it as comfortable as they can. With Fall temperatures coming, those fans won't be needed as much as the cool air will provide an even greater feel.

​Let's take a look at the appetizers we ordered. 

The three favorites were the Blacked Beef Tips, Beer Cheese Fries and the Crazy Chicken Salad Sliders. Talk about a flavorful punch to the mouth. Wow.

But, there was a appetizer that hit the mark for me and should be noted, too. It's the Reuben Spring Roll and it's on their regular appetizer menu. Think of a Reuben sandwich packed inside a spring roll. Yes, the concept is awesome. I loved it. The Rye bread encrusted shell of the spring roll provided great texture and a superb crunch. 

We ordered the Flagship Burger, pictured at top, and it was loaded with deliciousness. The beer cheese on it sent it to top-tier status. In my top five burgers for sure. 

We ordered the special, too. It was a Blackened 12 oz. Rib Eye Steak over bleu cheese Risotto and sautéed vegetables, topped with blackened scallops and creole cream. I'll let the picture utter the 1000 words. 

While enjoying the tastes, we were served by a waitress who had her mask on and the hostess was seating folks according to social distance guidelines. It was truly a safe experience. 

Our dessert was as equally impressive. It's their signature dessert on the menu, homemade waffles with ice cream, drizzled with caramel and chocolate sauce.

If you are seeking something different in Murrells Inlet, this is definitely the spot for you. You will enjoy the food and the scenery. 

Mills told me the menu will see some slight changes to reflect Fall, so be sure to click the button below for their Facebook page for menus and updates. 

​#EatItUpGeorgetown 

If you remember Debra Guglielmi of Bagel Cafe in Pawleys Island, you'll flash back to that warm smile and great food she served. Well, she has moved on from there and opened up a location in Garden City, still serving great food, but with focusing on catering.

Yes, there's still a way to get what she and her staff cook.

Since opening in late April 2020, there's been one service she and chef Tracy Knox have been consistently hosting during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Free lunches and dinners.

They have been serving free meals at Camp Baskerville and Precious Blood of Christ. Talk about giving back to the community. 

Visit their Facebook page for more information on free meals, catering questions, and take out options. Call (843) 945-0737 or (843) 299-2222.

The parking lot of Uncle Tito's in Murrells Inlet was packed with people who came for one thing... Chicken bog. And there were 24 chefs (and their teammates) who graciously provided the superb dish.

What could bring these fine folks together on such a marvelous Sunday? The Surf Dreams Foundation, of course. 

Phil Jackson, founder of the non profit, provides local children with surf gear and skills to become something most kids living on the ocean dream of - a surfer.

This is the fourth chicken bog challenge for the Surf Dreams Foundation. This year, however, saw quite a few first-timers. R'way Pizza and Family Tavern and Southern Comforts, Southern Dining & Seafood Shack were among them.

About 1,600 people came out to support the non profit and help provide funds to keep Jackson's dream of giving kids a chance a reality. They also enjoyed quite a few variations of chicken bog. 

But, they also enjoyed a heart-felt rendition of the national anthem, sang by J-Mike's Flavor Station owner Jaesen Moore, that brought tears to the eyes of many there. It also sank in more knowing that one of the chef's competing has a son deploying to the Middle East.

​For a person who used to skate and surf, seeing what Jackson and the Surf Dreams Foundation has been able to accomplish is a blessing (and puts a smile on my face). For kids out there in the scene to know such an organization exists is huge, especially if they think cost is a barrier.

For that, I thank Surf Dreams Foundation for doing what they do. More, I thank all the chefs and restaurants who participated today and have participated annually. 

Take a look at the gallery below for more from this great event.

There's been a spot in Murrells Inlet the locals have traveled to for fresh produce and Italian specialties since 1997 with no disappointment. And, since that year, the crowd of customers continues to grow. 

Why? The consistency in service and value are a couple of reasons. Another would be the dependability.

These traits can only come from a family-owned business. That business is Lee's Farmer's Market.

Tradition runs through the staff. 

And so do the smiles and commitment to helping both locals and tourists.

So, what brings the folks out to Lee's Farmer's Market in Murrells Inlet, you ask? 

A fresh, homemade tomato pie, for starters. 

About 200 tomato pies go out the door daily. And, yes, these taste buds can vouch for the deliciousness. So worth picking up one to at least try, if you have not had one.

Another staple in the market's arsenal of food flavor are the made-in-house crab cakes. 

Looking to impress your friends this Summer? Grab some of these and cook them for the high-five at the end of dinner. You can keep the secret to yourself. 

Not only do you find friendly faces here, but the inside design is similar to traveling through culinary tunnels. All sorts of pleasant nooks to find great produce and tasty offerings. You'll even find Skeeter or Scott restocking or bringing a customer something good.

Hundreds of people showed up at a restaurant's ribbon cutting March 29th and thought they were celebrating the 4th of July.

American Steak & Oyster Bar set off culinary fireworks from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. in front of a excited and hungry crowd.

And, if you want to experience Independence Day throughout the year, this restaurant serves the food that'll bring those familiar smells and tastes you've come to enjoy. 

But, before we get to the food, I must tell you about their patriotic way of giving back to the community. 

How sweet is that? 

They plan on changing charities from time to time to spread the caring and love to as many as they can.

Look, this place even has red, white and blue mascots. Would be cool if they brought out the dishes from time to time. Speaking of dishes, let's get to the grub.

Want more photos? Go visit their website by clicking the button below or their name hyperlinked in the story.

We visited the recently opened Hayashi Sushi, located at 5341 Highway 17, Unit G, H, and found ourselves to be the only customers there for a while. The reason for this, however, is the secret isn't out. Yet.

Formerly known as Charlie's Studio Cafe, this place now has a husband-and-wife team crafting fresh, picture-perfect sushi rolls to order. Sorry, there's no hibachi here. Straight sushi menu. But as you will see, these offerings are superb and worth your dining in for the night. Or lunch. They offer their satisfying creations from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

For appetizers, we had the Gyoza (deep fried pork dumplings served with gyoza sauce) and the Money Bag (cheese, crab meat and vegetable wrapped in wonton skin, deep fried with sweet chili sauce). Both were fresh, fried perfectly and tasted great. 

The sushi roll menu is extensive. There's something for every sushi lover here. 

Our choices were Tuna Roll, Alaska Roll (salmon, avocado, cucumber), Philadelphia Roll (smoked salmon, avocado, cream cheese), California Roll (crab stick, avocado, cucumber), Foxy Lady Roll (spicy tuna, avocado, topped with tuna, served with chef's special sauce), Volcano Roll (tuna, salmon, yellowtail, crab meat and avocado inside and chef's special sauce on top), Samurai Roll (salmon, tuna and yellowtail topped with avocado) and the Rainbow Roll (tuna, white fish, salmon, white tuna and avocado on top of a California Roll).

These rolls were presented in fine detail and came in two portions, the biggest presented in a "Titanic" sized ship. 

Enjoy the photos and stop by. You'll enjoy the tastes and the service. And then the secret will be out.

You have to drive straight to where the water meets the end of Wachesaw Road in Murrells Inlet to find Deck 383. But, you'll relate it to finding the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.

Owners Craig and Ariane Lieberman have had to bounce back from extensive flooding in September of last year. You can see by the video they received a lot of water.

True to form, however, Deck 383 came back stronger than ever. 

​We were fortunate to dine in on a slow night due to the cold temperature. Ariane said the night before saw a huge crowd. Their loss. We enjoyed some great dishes.

We had their Keel Hauled Wings (10 Applewood smoked jumbo wings, fried to a golden, crispy brown, tossed in your choice of traditional Buffalo sauce, Thai chili, BBQ, Teriyaki or Garlic Parmesan) and the Waccamaw Fry (A generous portion of our all natural French fries smothered in rich brown scratch gravy and topped with delectable hickory smoked pork belly) as appetizers. Loved both. Make sure you get the cheese added to the Waccamaw Fry. It makes a huge difference. We got one with and without to show the difference. 

The first top entree we enjoyed was The Big Water Burger (which is a one half pound custom grind of chuck, short rib and brisket cooked to your liking. or a portabella mushroom for the veggie lovers).  Served naked or on a brioche bun. Added the avocado and caramelized onions. So good. 

The second was the Decked Out Pig, a fried pork tenderloin on a toasted brioche bun with fried green tomato and our lemon pesto aioli. Loved the fry on the tenderloin. Not overdone. The aioli was perfect. 

​Here's some more photos of what we had and urge you all to go check out the renovated and revitalized Deck 383. You'll love the warm welcome and good food. 

This year's Taste of the Marshwalk was held Saturday and Sunday, January 26 and 27, and brought out a huge amount of people both days. Also held during the event was the  3rd Annual Bloody Mary Showdown at The MarshWalk sponsored by Tito’s Vodka. Here are a few photos from that Saturday's portion of the event.

New restaurant to the Marshwalk Catfish Johnny's had an increasingly significant crowd at their location due to the shrimp & grits and fried catfish. They took over the location formally known as Capt. Dave's Dockside. Their "original buffet on the Marshwalk" has been a huge hit amongst locals and tourists alike. 

Local favorite Dead Dog Saloon offered their famous she crab soup and tender bites, but the fried shrimp and grit balls stole the show. As I was taking photos in the 10 minutes I was at their location, they brought out at least five refills of the cherished golden tastes. It was a real crowd pleaser.

The Wicked Tuna also saw huge crowds flock for their creative sushi rolls as usual, but the award-winning crawfish mac & cheese wowed, too. Flavored well and excellent portions of crawfish made the taste worthy of any award that day. 

Considered the sleeper that day, The Claw House's shrimp and artichoke bruschetta quickly awoken those who had it, and in return, told others to come grab it. People also enjoyed their clam chowder. 

Offering a fried and grilled version, the mahi mahi tacos from Creek Ratz were flying out as fast as they could prepare the fish. People could sauce their tacos as they liked, but the flavors for some were more than enough. Their fried shrimp was also a huge hit. 

Here's a shot of one of many bloody mary offerings. Each restaurant had their own version of the world-known drink. This year's winner was Creek Ratz.

Drunken Jack's offered their version of a crab cake (pictured above) and a BBQ pork slider to compliment their famous hush puppies with honey butter. That's right, compliment. Those hush puppies are to die for and the long lines proved it. But, people grabbed the sliders, too, and were super pleased. The crab cake was a huge hit as well. 

Walking towards the end of the Marshwalk, Bovine's was drawing people with their BBQ baby back ribs and pork loin gumbo. The ribs were a huge favorite and the gumbo was a great compliment offering. They also served hush puppies. 

Sadly, I was not able to get to Wahoo's Fish House due to time constraints. I sincerely apologize to them for not snapping a few photos of their offerings, but I heard from a few people there the fried flounder was awesome. 

​Here are more photos below of Saturday's portion of the event. 

You might have noticed the sign while driving by in Murrells Inlet. Have you stopped in, though?

Salt Water Creek Cafe is serving up some good food on a daily basis since 2008. Located at 4660 Highway 17 Bypass, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 and looking small, don't let the size fool you. Flavors cannot be contained.

Let's learn more.

Here are some restaurant-provided photos below to entice further into coming by. Enjoy.

This one is just a bit outside Georgetown County, but damn well worth the mention on Georgetown Foodland. And, yes, you can blame your gut on them.

Open since May 2018, Beer Belly Deli Owners Jason Keefer, Jeremy Keefer and Bryan Kaufman have been slinging out fresh deli sandwiches with their unique touch. Jason and Jeremy are brothers and they'll be familiar to you if you have patronized O'Keefe's Irish Pub. The deli is located at 830 Inlet Square Drive in Murrells Inlet, right beside the pub. 

Jason told me he wanted a nonsmoking restaurant to compliment the pub. With Beer Belly Deli, he accomplished that and more. 

The decor is clean and trendy. Really cool people running the show and construction the craft sandwiches. 

I had them build my own. The roasted pork on toasted white bread with BBQ sauce, honey mustard sauce and a slice of Swiss cheese hit the mark. The "Get in my Belly" is a corn beef craft sandwich and is what flavortown would die for! Guy Fieri, I honestly enjoyed each bite knowing you'd be jealous (hint: You really need to check this out). Boar's Head is the only meat they use and their touch makes it shine.

Jason came across as a passionate dude about his deli and where he'd like to see it; Georgetown. Whether it be in the city, Pawleys Island, Andrews, he has his eye on expanding the concept. 

Much love to you folks at Beer Belly Deli. Got a real awesome gig going. Folks, these sandwiches are fresh, made to order and will most definitely pack the weight on you. Portion sizes are excellent. 

Go by and tell'em we sent you.

What a way to end 2018. 

Mike Zalloum at Uncle Mikey's Pizza in Murrells Inlet treated guests not only to his speediness in getting pizza out, but to a buffet offering of spaghetti with meatballs, lasagna and chicken alfredo. It was all you could eat, too!

The $45 special for two included a bottle of Mercer wine and dessert.

The dining room was packed with people ringing in the new year. A great time was had by all. 

​Here are some photos capturing the moments from the last night of 2018. Enjoy.