If you’ve ever visited Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, you’ll know that it’s one of those places that effortlessly merges natural beauty and tantalizing cuisine. Lined with scenic boardwalks and surrounded by shimmering waters, the best Shem Creek restaurants add to the region’s appeal.
Whether you’re in the mood for Southern comfort food or fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone in Shem Creek. So let’s start exploring!
Saltwater Cowboys
Expect the power-packed combo of seafood, BBQ, drinks, and happiness at Saltwater Cowboys. Situated at the mouth of the creek, the place arguably has the best view in Shem Creek.
Stunning sunset views with signature dishes like smoked prime rib or local catch of the day prepared in various styles make for a fascinating meal.
Saltwater Cowboys opened in Shem Creek in 2017. Although relatively new in the area, it managed to captivate the food scene. Seating options include a large outdoor deck and a small rooftop with an even better view.
Recommendations: Trash Can Nachos, Ahi Tuna Poke, Cowboy Burger, and Southern Shrimp & Grits.
Two things that they’ve got right are the BBQ and Fried items. Whether it’s flounder, grouper, oysters, or shrimp, it’ll have that typical Southern fried crunch. As for their house-smoked BBQ, relish on their 2-meat or 3-meat plate for the signature BBQ flavor.
They also have an impressive selection of beers, wines, frozen cocktails, and Creek cocktails to go with the delectable food.
- Saltwater Cowboys, 130 Mill St, Mt Pleasant, SC
Tavern & Table
Great views, great food and drinks, great decor, and great ambiance; that’s Tavern & Table for you. This is a place where tradition meets innovation.
If you’re craving Southern specialties like Oysters, Cornbread, Shrimp and Grits, Fish Tacos, Wood-Fired Pizzas, and Pimento Cheese (not just any pimento cheese, but some of the best in the city), Tavern & Table is your go-to place.
The waterfront deck makes the perfect setting for cozy, romantic date nights or even drinks with friends.
They take pride in using local ingredients to craft modern dishes, symbolizing South Carolina’s rich culinary history.
Recommendations: Nashville Hot Wings, T&T Charcuterie Board, and Flat Iron Steak.
Their craft cocktails are a game-changer. Sip on some T&T Old Fashioned or Watermelon Daisy Fresno while soaking in the view.
- Tavern & Table, 100 Church St, Mt Pleasant, SC
Vickery’s Bar & Grill
If you want great views, good times, and the best sunset, head to Vickery’s Bar & Grill.
Walk along Shrimp Boat Lane, and you’ll find this charming place at the end of the lane. It offers waterfront views and an extensive menu featuring burgers, steaks, and crab cakes. The menu has Cuban-influenced dishes blended with Southern flair.
For a casual dining experience, you can opt to sit upstairs. Or, you could take your shoes off and head to the beach bar to enjoy a drink while the kids play in the sand.
Recommendations: Down South Pork Loin, Shrimp Linguine, and Seafood Jambalaya.
With an impressive beer selection, it’s the perfect place for those lazy days when you only want to watch the world go by while relishing good food and sipping a beer.
There’s never a bad table at Vickery’s; there are stunning views of the iconic creek everywhere.
- Vickery’s Bar & Grill, 1313 Shrimp Boat Ln, Mt Pleasant, SC
Water’s Edge
If you’re looking for an excellent waterfront dining experience, the name says it: head to Water’s Edge. And where there’s waterfront dining, you’ll find fresh seafood.
One of Shem Creek’s more sophisticated spots, Water’s Edge offers an upscale experience. However, you can head downstairs to Cabana Bar for a more casual setting and a full-service menu.
Their lunch and dinner menus feature a variety of fresh fish and steak options in addition to salads, sandwiches, pasta, and wraps. It’s also a great place to grab brunch, especially Southern staples such as Biscuits and Gravy or Smoky Prime Rib Hash.
Recommendations: Oysters on the Half Shell, Grilled BBQ Salmon, Shrimp and Grits, and Pasta Gumbolaya.
Water’s Edge’s fame is mainly from its comprehensive wine collection, with over 450+ wine selections from some of the best around the globe.
They also have a Kids Menu, so the little ones won’t be disappointed.
Don’t fill up with the starters, salads, and entrees, for the dessert menu has some mouthwatering delicacies, including Raspberry White Chocolate Cheesecake, Key Lime Pie, and Creme Brulee.
- Water’s Edge, 1407 Shrimp Boat Ln, Mt Pleasant, SC
The Mill Street Tavern
This is a cozy place right next to the Greenwich Mill, by the banks. Look for the mill replica; it’s the signature of the place.
The indoor dining space, with wall-to-wall windows, provides an impressive view of the creek and fascinating mill artifacts. No matter where you sit, you’ll be treated to an incredible view of Shem Creek as well as the marshes; the best view is when you dine on the rooftop space.
From sandwiches and burgers to sushi, the menu here is a blend of different culinary influences. Yet, the Southern specialties manage to shine through.
Recommendations: Smoked Korean Fried Chicken Wings, The Mill Street Smash Burger, Spicy Tuna Roll, and Smoked & Fried Chicken.
Try their Lavender Sunset (a specialty cocktail) or your choice of drink; the views, the food, and the drinks will make it a splendid experience.
- The Mill Street Tavern, 504 Mill St, Mt Pleasant, SC
Red’s Ice House
A laidback beachfront restaurant that may seem like a bit of a dive, this is the perfect spot to cheer on your favorite sports team with a beer and a burger.
The place is known for its casual atmosphere and sumptuous seafood dishes, like oysters on the half-shell and fried shrimp baskets. They even have a special Football Menu to do the game right. The menu highlights include Korean Kickoff Tacos, The Stinger, and Red’s Giant Meatball Sub.
Sit atop a two-story-tall deck or eat downstairs on the enormous outdoor patio; Red’s will provide you with good food and drinks.
Recommendations: The Bubba, BBQ Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Smoked BBQ Pork Nachos, and Red’s Fantastic Shrimp Po’Boy.
Pair your food with drinks from their range of beers, wines, margaritas, or cocktails.
- Red’s Ice House, 98 Church St, Mt Pleasant, SC
The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene
This may seem odd in the list of the best Shem Creek restaurants, but it isn’t called “The Wreck” without reason. There’s nothing fancy about the decor; it’s the food that steals the show here.
Looking into the history behind the name, on the ill-fated day in 1989, the ferocious Hurricane Hugo destroyed the trawler, ‘The Richard & Charlene.’ While it never sailed after that day, The Wreck keeps its memory alive.
This family-owned place serves fresh local seafood. And they aren’t kidding with the “fresh.” Everything from fish, crabs, scallops, oysters, and shrimp is sourced locally.
Recommendations: Fried Seafood Platter, She Crab Soup, and Triple Combo.
Their platters are the absolute best. Grilled or fried, the shrimp or scallops served with coleslaw, red rice, fried hominy square, and hush puppy will make a filling meal. There’s also Fried Oysters and Deviled Crab platters.
Save some space for their Southern-favorite dessert choices, like Banana Pudding, Key Lime Bread Pudding, and Key Lime Pie.
Take your pick from cider, beer, or wine to pair with your hearty meal.
- The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene, 106 Haddrell St, Mt Pleasant, SC
Things to Keep in Mind
- Make reservations in advance, especially during peak times or weekends, when these restaurants tend to get crowded.
- Prices at the restaurant may vary; check menus or reviews beforehand whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a budget-friendly option.
- Parking may be limited near popular spots along Shem Creek. It’s advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transportation options such as ridesharing services.
Final Thoughts
The best Shem Creek restaurants offer a range of fantastic dining options. Drop by Tavern & Table, Red’s Ice House, Water’s Edge, or any other place from the list for a delightful experience. These establishments offer mouthwatering seafood dishes, waterfront views, and a vibrant atmosphere that will definitely satisfy your culinary cravings.
From gourmet delights to those delightful hidden gems, every restaurant here will provide an experience as memorable as the delicious food.
So, don’t forget to cruise down to Shem Creek when in Mount Pleasant. Bon Appetit!