After a million-dollar makeover and May grand opening from new owners, Wicked Tuna, in the same building that was once home to Spuds Waterfront Dining on the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, is a treat for the eyes, ears and taste buds.
Adjacent to the Crazy Sister Marina and pier at the southern end of the MarshWalk, Wicked Tuna is the creation of the same restaurant partners behind Enso, an upscale Asian bistro in Charlotte.

Besides a dizzying variety of sushi, the full menu offers some 13 appetizers, including the exotic-sounding yet very approachable Vietnamese Beef Sliders, oysters, mussels and even fried pickles. I tried the New England Clam Chowder and counted eight whole clams in a light white cream soup, not the heavy, thickened version so common elsewhere.
The entrees include wonderfully creative seafood options like pan-seared scallops served on cous cous with zucchini, squash, arugula and a balsamic reduction with sweet tomato chutney. Also on the menu are crab-stuffed jumbo shrimp, a fried seafood platter, grilled fresh catch, stir-fry lobster and even fish and chips.

From the grill you can choose from a 12-ounce rib eye, hanger steak, braised short ribs, pork, filet mignon and surf and turf. You’ll find creative chicken dishes, many with an Asian flare. Burgers, sandwiches and tacos round out the diverse menu.

The interior design includes ancient cypress and pine harvested from the Waccamaw River and a one-of-a-kind stainless steel sculpture by Robert Sadlemire. With three full bars, including a large outside tiki bar and entertainment stage, Wicked Tuna has already positioned itself as a contender along the MarshWalk.

Wicked Tuna
4123 U.S. 17 Business
Murrells Inlet
(843) 651-9987
Open daily for lunch, dinner and late-night. www.thewickedtuna.com