When you've had your fill of fried seafood, a plate of pasta hits the spot. These are the independent Italian restaurants on our map, from casual family places with big portions to quieter rooms for a night out. Spots we've checked by hand are listed first.
What kind of Italian restaurants are on the Grand Strand?
You'll find two main kinds: relaxed family places with big portions, and quieter date-night rooms. The Grand Strand has more Italian restaurants than you might expect at a seafood beach, and a lot of the local places lean toward hearty, red-sauce cooking with big portions, the kind of meal that's welcome after a long day in the sun.
Family places like Luigi's Trattoria, Angelo's Steak & Pasta and Crave Italian Oven & Bar are relaxed, kid-friendly and easy on a group budget. Date-night rooms like Toscana Italian Kitchen and Bar, Villa Romana, Travinia Italian Kitchen, Villa Tuscanna and Benny's Trattoria are quieter and better for a slow dinner with a glass of wine.
How do I choose an Italian restaurant in Myrtle Beach?
Choose by location first, then price, then the kind of night you want.
Start with location. The Italian spots are spread from North Myrtle Beach down to the Market Common, and summer traffic on Kings Highway can turn a short trip into a long one. Villa Tuscanna, Benny's Trattoria and Crave are in North Myrtle Beach, Travinia is at the Market Common, and the rest are in Myrtle Beach.
Check the price level. Each listing below shows dollar signs. One or two means a casual meal, and three means a nicer night out.
Think about the night you want. With kids or a big group, pick a family spot and order a few platters to share. For an anniversary, book one of the quieter rooms and ask for a corner table.
When are Italian restaurants in Myrtle Beach busiest?
Summer evenings from about 6 to 8 PM are the busiest, especially on weekends. Many places take reservations, and an early or late dinner makes a big difference.
In the off-season, some smaller spots close a day or two a week. Call or check online before you drive over.
Local tips
Many local Italian places do a lot of takeout. Ordering ahead is a good way to skip the summer wait.
Family-style platters can feed a whole group for less than ordering one plate each.
Some smaller spots close one or two days a week, often Sunday or Monday, especially in the off-season. Check hours before you go.
Ask about the specials. Local spots often have dishes that aren't on the printed menu.
Big group? Call ahead so the restaurant can set up a table for you.
Common questions
Where can I find good Italian food in Myrtle Beach?
For a nicer night out, try Toscana Italian Kitchen and Bar or Villa Romana in Myrtle Beach, or Travinia Italian Kitchen at the Market Common. For a casual family meal, Luigi's Trattoria and Angelo's Steak & Pasta are good picks.
Are there Italian restaurants in North Myrtle Beach?
Yes. Villa Tuscanna, Benny's Trattoria and Crave Italian Oven & Bar are all in North Myrtle Beach.
Is there a kid-friendly Italian restaurant in Myrtle Beach?
Luigi's Trattoria, Angelo's Steak & Pasta and Crave Italian Oven & Bar are relaxed family spots where kids fit right in.
Hours, prices and vibes change, and some listings are still being checked. Call ahead or check the restaurant's website before you go. Know a local spot we're missing? Tell us on our Facebook page.