10 South Carolina Restaurant Chains Locals Love For Fried Fish
South Carolina has perfected the art of fried fish, and these restaurant chains are proof.
Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, each plate delivers the kind of comfort and satisfaction that keeps locals coming back for more.
From classic seasoning to perfectly cooked fillets, these spots know how to make fried fish unforgettable.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, prepare to taste why South Carolina takes this dish so seriously.
1. Long John Silver’s
Fast food fish doesn’t get more nostalgic than Long John Silver’s crispy battered fillets. The chain’s signature crumbly bits (those delicious fried batter pieces that collect on your tray) have cult-like status among SC seafood lovers.
While not fancy dining, their consistent quality and affordable prices make them a go-to for families craving a quick seafood fix. Many South Carolina locations have been serving communities for decades.
2. Red Lobster
Those famous cheddar biscuits might get all the attention, but South Carolinians know Red Lobster’s fried fish deserves equal praise. Their hand-battered fish and chips bring families together for special occasions and casual Friday dinners alike.
Local franchises often feature regional catches alongside standard menu items. The chain’s staying power in South Carolina speaks volumes about its ability to satisfy seafood cravings without breaking the bank.
3. Bonefish Grill
Upscale without being stuffy, Bonefish Grill wins hearts with its tempura-style fish and chips. The light, airy batter creates a delicate crunch that seafood purists appreciate.
Charleston and Greenville locations draw regular crowds seeking something a bit fancier than fast food fish. Their Bang Bang Shrimp might be the headline act, but savvy diners know the fried fish deserves spotlight status too.
4. Charleston Crab House
Locals swear the Charleston Crab House serves fried flounder so fresh you can taste the ocean. With multiple locations across the Lowcountry, this homegrown chain captures authentic coastal flavors in every bite.
Watching boats drift by while munching on perfectly fried fish makes for an iconic South Carolina dining experience. Their cornmeal-dusted fish brings tourists and locals together at communal tables, creating the friendly atmosphere that defines southern hospitality.
5. The Crazy Crab
Hilton Head wouldn’t be the same without The Crazy Crab’s legendary fried seafood platters. Their signature fish fry features local catches prepared with old-school Lowcountry techniques that respect tradition.
Tourists might discover it by accident, but locals plan special trips just for their perfectly seasoned fish. The waterfront views complement the seafood experience, making even a simple fried fish sandwich feel like a celebration of coastal living.
6. Landry’s Seafood House
Southern hospitality meets Gulf Coast inspiration at Landry’s locations throughout South Carolina. Their fried fish comes with a distinctive seasoning blend that separates them from competitors.
Myrtle Beach visitors often stumble upon Landry’s and leave as devoted fans. The generous portions satisfy hearty appetites, while the crisp coating maintains its crunch from first bite to last, a technical achievement any fish fry aficionado can appreciate.
7. Joe’s Crab Shack
Quirky atmosphere and serious fried fish make Joe’s Crab Shack a favorite among South Carolinians seeking fun with their food. The chain’s beer-battered fish delivers that perfect balance of fluffy interior and crunchy exterior.
Staff dancing between tables might seem gimmicky, but the quality of their fried seafood is no joke. Charleston and Columbia locations pack in crowds during summer months when the craving for casual seafood hits its peak.
8. Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar
Born in Carolina Beach, NC, Shuckin’ Shack quickly won South Carolina hearts with their no-frills approach to excellent seafood. Their beer-battered fish sandwiches have developed cult status among college students and professionals alike.
Small but mighty, these local chain spots focus on quality over flashiness. The casual vibe encourages lingering over cold beers and hot fish, creating the laid-back coastal experience that defines South Carolina dining culture.
9. Crab Du Jour
Relatively new to the South Carolina scene, Crab Du Jour quickly established itself as a fried fish destination. Their Cajun-inspired seasoning gives traditional fried fish a spicy kick that sets them apart from milder competitors.
Weekend crowds spill onto patios at Columbia and Greenville locations. The chain’s rapid expansion throughout the state proves South Carolinians can’t get enough of their distinctive take on fried seafood classics.
10. Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant
The massive buffet at Captain George’s features fried fish prepared multiple ways, making it the ultimate destination for indecisive seafood lovers. Their North Myrtle Beach location serves as a pilgrimage site for fried fish enthusiasts.
Family celebrations often happen around their tables, where multiple generations bond over perfectly crispy fish. The all-you-can-eat concept allows sampling various preparations, though most locals have their favorite station they head to first.