Get Carried Away Southern Market

If you’re cruising down the South Carolina coast and find yourself near 10126 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585, United States, it’s hard not to notice Get Carried Away Southern Market. I stopped in on a humid summer afternoon after a long beach walk, expecting a quick bite. Instead, I ended up lingering over shrimp and grits and chatting with locals who treat this place like an extension of their own kitchen.

The menu reads like a love letter to Southern comfort food. Think pimento cheese with just the right sharpness, buttery biscuits that crumble perfectly, and fried green tomatoes with a tangy remoulade. On my first visit, I ordered the crab cake sandwich-loaded with lump crab, lightly bound, and pan-seared so the edges crisped without losing that sweet coastal flavor. According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, blue crab is one of the state’s most valuable fisheries, and you can taste that freshness here. The seafood doesn’t feel shipped-in; it feels local, because it is.

What stands out most is the balance between a market and a diner. You can sit down for a full meal or browse shelves stocked with house-made casseroles, dips, and desserts to take home. I once brought their chicken bog to a family gathering, and even my uncle-who prides himself on his cast-iron cooking-asked where it came from. The staff explained that many of their prepared dishes follow traditional Lowcountry methods, slow-cooked and seasoned with simple ingredients. That commitment reflects what culinary experts like the Southern Foodways Alliance emphasize: regional authenticity and storytelling through food.

Service here is warm without being overbearing. During one visit, I watched a server patiently explain the difference between she-crab soup and regular crab soup to a first-timer. She mentioned that the roe adds richness and depth, which is exactly what culinary textbooks describe when discussing flavor layering. It’s that kind of knowledge-casual but informed-that builds trust. You feel like the team understands their ingredients and respects the recipes.

The reviews I’ve read online echo my experience. Many diners highlight the welcoming atmosphere, generous portions, and consistent quality. Consistency matters. The National Restaurant Association often notes that repeat business depends heavily on reliable service and food standards, and this spot seems to understand that well. I’ve visited during peak lunch hours and quieter midweek afternoons, and the food quality never dipped.

The location on Ocean Highway makes it convenient for both locals and visitors exploring Pawleys Island. After a morning at the beach or a round of golf at one of the nearby courses, it’s an easy stop. Parking is straightforward, and the space itself feels airy, with natural light pouring in. There’s a casual charm to the decor-wood accents, chalkboard menus, and the hum of friendly conversation-that reinforces the Southern market vibe.

One thing I appreciate is transparency. When I asked about allergens for a friend with dietary restrictions, the staff didn’t guess. They checked ingredients and explained preparation methods. That kind of openness builds confidence, especially when food sensitivities are involved. Of course, like any busy local favorite, there can be a wait during tourist season. If you’re planning a visit in peak summer months, going a bit earlier or later than the lunch rush helps.

Beyond the food, there’s a sense of community here. Regulars greet each other by name, and newcomers are welcomed just as warmly. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a place to gather, pick up dinner for later, or discover a new favorite dessert-like their rich pecan pie, which manages to be sweet without tipping into overpowering.

For anyone searching for Southern cuisine that feels both authentic and approachable in Pawleys Island, this market-style diner delivers more than just a meal. It delivers a slice of Lowcountry life, plated generously and served with genuine hospitality.