Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a sun-kissed stretch of coastline brimming with attractions, entertainment, and, of course, delicious food, is a quintessential vacation destination. But let’s face it: vacations can quickly become expensive, especially when you factor in dining costs. Between beachfront restaurants, seafood feasts, and tempting tourist traps, your food budget can vanish faster than a sandcastle at high tide. But don’t despair! Myrtle Beach offers a surprisingly diverse and affordable culinary scene, allowing visitors and locals alike to enjoy fantastic meals without emptying their wallets. This guide is your passport to navigating the Myrtle Beach food landscape on a budget, uncovering hidden gems and revealing where to find the tastiest cheap food Myrtle Beach has to offer. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch bite, or a satisfying dinner, prepare to discover a world of flavor that won’t break the bank. We’ll explore everything from local donut shops to casual seafood shacks, ensuring you have a culinary adventure as memorable as your beach days.
Starting the Day Right: Breakfast Bargains
A good breakfast is the foundation of any successful vacation day. Before hitting the beach, the golf course, or the amusement park, fuel up with these budget-friendly breakfast options. Forget the overpriced hotel buffets; Myrtle Beach is brimming with places where you can start your day without blowing your budget.
Local Donut Shops
Local donut shops are a fantastic option for a quick and sweet start. Places like *The Donut Man* (prices typically range from one to two dollars per donut) offer a wide variety of freshly made donuts, from classic glazed to creative specialty flavors. They’re perfect for grabbing a quick sugar rush before a busy day of activities.
Pancake Houses with Early Bird Specials
For those craving something a little more substantial, pancake houses with early bird specials are a lifesaver. Many local pancake houses, such as *Magnolia Pancake Haus* (check for specific times and pricing, but expect discounts before nine am), offer discounted breakfast plates during the early morning hours. You can often score a stack of pancakes, eggs, and bacon for a fraction of the regular price.
Bagel Shops
Bagel shops are another excellent option for an affordable and filling breakfast. A bagel with cream cheese, lox, or egg is a great way to start your day. *Bagel Port* (expect bagels in the two to five dollar range) is a popular local spot known for its delicious bagels and wide selection of toppings.
Breakfast Sandwiches at Convenience Stores
Don’t underestimate the convenience and affordability of breakfast sandwiches at local convenience stores. Many gas stations and convenience stores offer surprisingly tasty breakfast sandwiches for a few dollars. These are perfect for a quick and easy breakfast on the go.
For the truly budget-conscious, consider stocking up on breakfast items at a grocery store. A loaf of bread, some eggs, and bacon can provide several breakfasts for the price of a single meal at a restaurant. This is a great option for families or groups traveling together.
Lunch on the Go: Quick, Cheap, and Delicious
Lunchtime in Myrtle Beach often means you’re looking for something quick, affordable, and easy to eat on the go. Whether you’re taking a break from the beach or exploring the attractions, these lunch options will satisfy your hunger without draining your wallet.
Pizza by the Slice Places
Pizza by the slice places are a classic budget-friendly lunch option. Many pizza parlors in Myrtle Beach offer individual slices for a few dollars. Places like *Benito’s Brick Oven Pizza* (slices generally between three and five dollars) are great for grabbing a quick and satisfying lunch.
Sandwich Shops and Delis
Sandwich shops and delis are another excellent choice for an affordable midday meal. You can find a wide variety of sandwiches, from classic subs to creative wraps, at reasonable prices. *Dagwood’s Deli* (sandwiches typically range from seven to twelve dollars, but offer great value) is a local favorite known for its generous portions and tasty sandwiches.
Food Trucks
Don’t overlook food trucks! Myrtle Beach has a growing food truck scene, offering a diverse range of culinary delights at affordable prices. You can find everything from tacos and burgers to seafood and desserts. Food truck prices vary depending on the vendor and the menu, but you can generally expect to find options in the five to ten dollar range. Keep an eye out for food truck rallies and events for even more variety.
Casual Seafood Shacks
For a taste of local flavor, consider visiting a casual seafood shack. These unassuming eateries often serve up some of the best cheap food Myrtle Beach has to offer, especially when it comes to seafood. Look for places offering shrimp baskets or fish tacos for a delicious and affordable lunch. Expect to pay around ten to fifteen dollars for these types of meals.
Always keep an eye out for lunch specials or combo deals. Many restaurants offer discounted lunch menus or combo meals that include a sandwich, side, and drink. These deals are a great way to save money on your midday meal.
Dinner on a Dime: Affordable and Filling Feasts
Dinner is often the most expensive meal of the day, but it doesn’t have to be. Myrtle Beach has plenty of options for enjoying a satisfying and affordable dinner. You don’t need to break the bank to have a memorable dining experience.
Buffets
Buffets can be a tempting option for those looking for a lot of food for a reasonable price. Myrtle Beach has several buffets offering a wide variety of dishes, from seafood and meat to salads and desserts. Prices typically range from twenty to thirty dollars per person. *However, be mindful of the quality; sometimes, the lowest price means the lowest quality. Read reviews carefully.*
Restaurants with Early Bird or Happy Hour Specials
Many restaurants offer early bird or happy hour specials, providing discounted food and drinks during specific hours. This is a great way to enjoy a restaurant meal at a fraction of the regular price. Look for restaurants that offer these specials before six pm or after nine pm.
Casual Dining Chains with Value Menus
Casual dining chains with value menus are a reliable option for an affordable dinner. Many popular chain restaurants offer value menus with a selection of dishes priced under ten dollars. These menus often include burgers, sandwiches, salads, and other comfort food classics.
Ethnic Food Options
Ethnic food options, such as Mexican or Asian cuisine, are often known for their larger portions and affordable prices. You can often find delicious and filling meals at these restaurants for under fifteen dollars. Consider checking out local Mexican restaurants for taco Tuesdays or Asian eateries for affordable noodle dishes.
BBQ Spots
Barbecue spots are another great option for affordable family meals. Many barbecue restaurants offer family packs that include a selection of meats, sides, and bread for a reasonable price. These packs are perfect for feeding a family or group on a budget.
Consider sharing meals with a travel companion. Many restaurants offer large portions that are easily shareable. Splitting an entree is a great way to save money and reduce food waste.
Unearthing Culinary Treasures: Hidden Gems and Local Haunts
To truly experience the cheap food Myrtle Beach has to offer, venture beyond the main tourist areas and explore the hidden gems and local favorites. These unassuming eateries often serve up some of the most authentic and affordable meals in town.
Small Family Owned Diners
Look for small, family-owned diners. These diners often offer classic comfort food at incredibly reasonable prices. You can typically find breakfast plates, sandwiches, and burgers for under ten dollars.
Local Seafood Markets Offering Take Out Options
Don’t overlook local seafood markets offering take-out options. Many seafood markets sell fresh seafood and also offer prepared meals to go. This is a great way to enjoy fresh, local seafood without paying restaurant prices.
Unique Culinary Experiences
Explore any unique culinary experiences that are cheap and unique to Myrtle Beach. Perhaps there is a certain type of dish a certain area is known for. Find it and try it!
Consider visiting local farmers markets for fresh, affordable produce. Farmers markets are a great place to stock up on fruits, vegetables, and other local products at reasonable prices. This is a great way to save money on groceries if you plan to cook some of your own meals.
Budgeting Like a Pro: Pro Tips for Saving Money
Beyond choosing the right restaurants, there are several general strategies you can employ to save money on food while in Myrtle Beach. These tips will help you stretch your budget and enjoy more of what Myrtle Beach has to offer.
If your accommodation has a kitchen, cook some meals yourself. Preparing your own meals is almost always cheaper than eating out. Stock up on groceries and prepare breakfast, lunch, or dinner in your accommodation.
Pack snacks and drinks. Bringing your own snacks and drinks will save you from having to purchase them at inflated prices at tourist attractions.
Look for coupons and discounts online or in local publications. Many restaurants offer coupons and discounts in local newspapers, magazines, and online. Do a little research before you go out to eat to see if you can find any deals.
Take advantage of happy hour deals. Many restaurants offer discounted drinks and appetizers during happy hour. This is a great way to enjoy a pre-dinner snack and drink without breaking the bank.
Consider splitting entrees. Many restaurants offer large portions that are easily shareable. Splitting an entree is a great way to save money and reduce food waste.
Use cashback apps for restaurants. There are several apps that offer cashback on restaurant purchases. Sign up for these apps and use them whenever you dine out to earn a little money back.
Go during the off-season. Visiting Myrtle Beach during the off-season can save you money on everything from accommodation to food. Many restaurants offer discounted prices during the off-season.
A Taste of Paradise Without the Price Tag
Myrtle Beach is a fantastic vacation destination, and enjoying delicious food is a vital part of the experience. By exploring the suggested options and discovering your own favorite cheap eats, you can enjoy a culinary adventure without overspending. Remember to venture beyond the tourist traps, explore local favorites, and take advantage of money-saving tips. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience all that Myrtle Beach has to offer, one delicious and affordable meal at a time. Myrtle Beach offers a fantastic experience on any budget. Go out and explore!
