Grand Strand Restaurants Review

Cypress Room Restaurant

The reputation for quality food at the Cypress Room Restaurant on Ocean Boulevard  in Myrtle Beach is not something that was recently won.  It grew out of the fine reputation that was generated over many years by the restaurant in the former Sea Island hotel, a four story structure that stood on the beach, but at a considerable distance from other hotels.  Its restaurant became a favorite for locals as well as hotel visitors, but when it came time to demolish it and make way for the brand new building, which was merged with the Sandpiper  next door, the owners had to give up the Sea Island name because of a conflict with a hotel in Sea Island, Georgia.  The new hotel, which is state-of-the-art in every respect, is named the Island Vista and its restaurant is called the Cypress Room.

One of the more unusual aspects of  the restaurant is its ocean view.  Not just the ability to watch the ocean through floor to ceiling  windows, but the option to sit down outside the  windows and sliding glass doors on a roomy deck that is furnished with dinner-sized tables and chairs.  The deck is placed at second story level, a perfect place for  enjoying open-air dining in every sense of the phrase.

Mike McKinnon is the Master Chef at the Cypress Room and he  confirms that the restaurant is still a favorite among locals.  “Yeah, they know about us. We are a kind of secret place for the locals,” he  said.

The off-season is the favorite time for locals because it’s when the tourists go back home.

McKinnon describes the  menu at the Cypress Room as mostly New American Cuisine.  One of the advantages of that kind of menu is its requirement for absolutely fresh ingredients and McKinnon says he is able to find not only fresh local produce, but plenty of nearby dairy products and, of course, fish and seafood from local fishermen.  One of the more well-known items is Johns Island Tomatoes which come from the Charleston area and are used in McKinnon’s salads and other recipes. 

When it comes to main entrees, there’s no mystery.  “Anything that has to do with fish is going to be a good selection.  We feature a fresh Grouper, fresh Mahi, fresh Flounder, all locally caught, and we feature fresh Salmon.”

When it comes to seafood, there are many choices, but there is one standout…the big scallops which are brought in from northern waters and cooked in a very hot pan containing olive oil and butter.  “We sprinkle them with salt and pepper and sear them to get a nice crust,” said McKinnon.

Another favorite is soft-shell crab when they are in season.  They are sautéed in hot olive oil and butter to bring out the flavor although they can also be ordered deep fried. 

Also available is an extensive pool-side menu.  It’s called the Tiki Hut at the Sandpiper, which preserves the name of one of the original hotels.

CYPRESS ROOM
6000 North Ocean Boulevard
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
(843) 449-6406

Restaurant Type: Family, Fine Dining, Seafood
Meals Served: Breakfast, Dinner
Food Type: American
Features: Alcohol Served, Catering, Child Friendly, Early Bird Specials, Full Menu, Group Discounts, Group Seating, Handicap Accessible, No Smoking Area, Open Holidays, Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Smoke Free Facility, Take Out, Vegetarian Options
Avg Cost: Over $20. Location: Central