January 4, 2025

New Upscale Dining Options Open Amid Legal Challenges in Myrtle Beach

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News Summary

Myrtle Beach welcomes new upscale dining establishments including Uptown Bistro, Flavor Hills, and LAVA Korean Steakhouse, amidst a backdrop of legal turmoil involving local labor disputes. As food enthusiasts look forward to diverse culinary offerings, challenges in the hospitality sector raise critical questions about labor practices.

New Upscale Dining Options Debut in Myrtle Beach Despite Legal Turmoil

In a culinary boom that promises to invigorate Myrtle Beach’s dining scene, two new steakhouses and a modern southern comfort restaurant have opened their doors amidst a backdrop of legal challenges at a local resort. As food enthusiasts eagerly await the chance to indulge in prime cuts and unique flavors, the ongoing labor lawsuit filed by servers at North Beach Resort adds a dramatic twist to the local hospitality landscape.

Uptown Bistro to Elevate Dining Experience

Prominent restaurateur Sam Lauren is poised to launch his upscale steakhouse, Uptown Bistro, at 6901 N. Kings Highway, aiming to establish a vibrant dining destination for residents and tourists alike. The new bistro is set to offer a menu that includes breakfast, lunch, and prime steak dinners, topped off with a bakery to delight patrons with fresh pastries.

As construction progresses, the restaurant is designed with an upscale aesthetic featuring large windows to maximize natural light, a patio for al fresco dining, and a balcony with picturesque views of the water. Illuminated by black pendant lights and accented with soft colors and wooden ceiling beams, Uptown Bistro is sure to provide a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. Lauren, who has previously made waves in the local dining scene, also recently opened a new location for the popular breakfast destination, Toasty on Restaurant Row.

Flavor Hills Brings Southern Comfort to the Coast

Just recently opened at 1410 N. Ocean Blvd, Flavor Hills is the latest venture aimed at satisfying the local craving for southern comfort food. Situated in the former location of Bandito’s Cantina, this restaurant promises to offer an expansive brunch, lunch, and dinner menu that includes enticing dishes like Hot Honey Pimento Chicken Sandwich, classic fried catfish, and crispy fried green tomatoes.

The creators of Flavor Hills, who operate a similar establishment in Raleigh, North Carolina, noticed a significant gap in southern comfort food options within Myrtle Beach. With their latest venture, they are set to fill that need and provide a delightful dining experience for both locals and visitors.

LAVA Korean Steakhouse: A Unique Dining Experience

Adding to the diverse culinary offerings in Myrtle Beach is the recently opened LAVA Korean Steakhouse, set in a renovated bank building next to Myrtle Beach Mall. This interactive dining concept revolves around the experience of cooking at the table, where diners can select from an array of meats and vegetables to grill themselves. This unique twist not only enhances the overall dining experience but also encourages guests to engage in a fun and communal atmosphere.

LAVA is not limited to tabletop grilling; it also includes a full selection of meats, seafood, and sushi for those who prefer not to take the reins at the grill. The restaurant’s bright and welcoming decor is designed to complement the energetic vibe, making it a perfect spot for friends and families to gather.

Labor Lawsuit Casts Shadow over Local Hospitality

Despite the flurry of new restaurant openings, the local dining industry is facing turbulent waters due to a federal lawsuit filed by servers from North Beach Resort. Claiming they were not compensated fairly, the suit addresses issues related to minimum wage and overtime violations, as well as improper application of tip credits. Named plaintiffs William Fortner and Autumn McManus allege significant wage law violations, creating a ripple effect of concern within the local hospitality sector.

The lawsuit encompasses various dining venues within the resort, including the well-known 21 Main Prime Steakhouse, and raises serious questions about labor practices in the restaurant industry. As the case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by workers and the complexities of restaurant operations.

As Myrtle Beach embarks on a fresh chapter of culinary exploration, the allure of new dining experiences is tempered by the realities of labor rights issues. The new establishments are not only a testament to the local appetite for diverse and exciting dining options but also highlight the ongoing struggle for fair treatment in the restaurant workforce.