For foodies seeking the ultimate comfort dish, Pawleys Island offers a sophisticated coastal culinary scene where you can order the best braised short ribs in South Carolina.

Moving beyond standard steakhouse fare, these local, independent kitchens specialize in slow-cooked, bone-in tenderness that practically melts away.

Whether you want to book a romantic dinner under the live oaks or reserve a table at a high-end bistro, the non-chain restaurants in this Lowcountry gem prioritize artisan techniques and rich, red-wine reductions that national franchises simply can’t match.

From traditional Southern preparations to globally-inspired Asian-fusion glazes, these 25 locations are the premier choice for diners who want to experience authentic island flavor.

Supporting these homegrown establishments ensures a high-quality, memorable dining experience. Explore these top-rated short rib destinations today!

  1. Bistro 217 – 10707 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  2. Chive Blossom Restaurant  – 85 N Causeway Rd, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  3. Frank’s and Frank’s Outback – 10434 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  4. Perrone’s Restaurant – 13302 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  5. Rustic Table – 10683 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  6. Austin’s Ocean One – 1 Norris Dr, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  7. Caffe Piccolo – 9428 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  8. Local Eat – 10880 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  9. Gio’s Italian Kitchen – 10008 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  10. Hanser House – 14360 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  11. Gezellig Pawleys – 10880 Ocean Hwy Unit 1, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  12. Andomiro – 12036 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  13. Habaneros Mexican Cantina – 11151 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  14. Coastal Wine – 10880 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585

  15. Costa Coastal Italian – 4606 US-17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

  16. Gulfstream Café – 1536 S Waccamaw Dr, Garden City, SC 29576

  17. Nance’s Creekfront Restaurant – 4883 US-17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Pawleys Island’s independent restaurants offer immense value by combining slow-cooked culinary traditions with the freshest Lowcountry ingredients.

Choosing these local favorites ensures you enjoy a world-class short rib dish while supporting the unique small-business community of the Grand Strand.