You can tell careful thought went into every detail at Salt Water Creek—from the recipes to the staffing of the kind of folks who make you feel comfortable when you visit. It was the mission (accomplished) of husband-and-wife owners Keith and Wendy Wolff. Everything at this café is kicked up a notch. Like the Coconut Shrimp. Sure, they’re hand-breaded, crunchy and delicious. But there’s something about these supple shrimp when they go swimming in their Thai chili sauce that will have you wondering where they’ve been all your life. 4660 U.S. 17 Bypass, Murrells Inlet, (843) 357-2433, www.saltwatercreekcafe.com
—AM