Top 5 Places for Sushi Near Litchfield Beach

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The seafood scene on the South Strand is one of the best on the East Coast. From the waterfront restaurants along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk to the “arrogantly shabby” seafood shacks of Pawleys Island, guests at Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort are surrounded by can't-miss, fresh-catch options. But for those who prefer their seafood on the rare side, as in tasty sushi and sashimi, you need to know where to go. Here the top five places to find great sushi near Litchfield Beach:

* Cera Sushi: Recently opened at the Hammocks Shops Village in Pawleys Island, this new-age Asian eatery specializes in sushi. Based on the creations of Chef Saito, Cera Sushi features a full menu of rolls and plates that incorporate fresh local ingredients, including the Spicy Blue (lump crab meat, cucumber and spicy mayo) and the Usuzukuri (fresh, locally caught fish in citrus ponzu). The house pressed-sushi special Pawleys Prime Specialty features a unique combination of tuna, salmon, yellowtail and spicy tuna. Enjoy the modern decor indoors or sit on the outdoor deck and catch live music at the Porch at Prime.

* Indo Thai: This Pawleys Island Pan-Asian bistro boasts one of the most unique sushi menus on the Strand. Owned and operated by Indonesian-born chef Laura Smith, this Indo Thai specializes in sushi and dishes from the far reaches of the Far East, including Thailand, Korea, Vietnam and, of course, Indonesia. Indo Thai literally serves sushi by the boatload, as patrons can choose from a variety of rolls to be served in a large, wooden model boat. The Dancing Shrimp Roll features tuna, avocado and crab with shrimp on top, while the Sea Witch Roll includes soft shell crab, spicy tuna, asparagus and cucumber. Non-sushi fans can order entrees like the house special Thai curries or Pad Thai.

* Shiki: This new Japanese sushi bar offers great food and a great atmosphere, with a large aquarium filling the fireplace and cozy furnishings serving as “tables” for large parties. For a summertime treat, try the Pink Lady Roll with shrimp and tuna topped with cream cheese and a strawberry sauce, or any of the other artistic rolls on the menu. Shiki also offers traditional Japanese dishes and a wide selection of beer and sake.

* Wahoo's Fish House: Located on the north end of the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, this upscale seafood restaurant serves the best sushi on the waterfront. Innovative creations include the Wahoo Chicken Roll with blackened chicken, cucumber, teriyaki and wasabi ranch sauce, while the Surf and Turf Roll includes Seared beef tenderloin, lobster, asparagus, scallions, and black and red caviar on top. Throw in a raw bar with tasty local oysters, shrimp and more, a full menu of seafood favorites, an extensive wine list and an outdoor waterfront deck with live music, and you've got one of the most popular spots on the MarshWalk.

* Wicked Tuna: Located on the opposite end of the MarshWalk at the Crazy Sister Marina, this restaurant’s stilted structure overlooks Murrells Inlet and the many boats moored in the harbor. Many of those same boats deliver seafood directly to the docks, and Wicked Tuna incorporates local ingredients into many of its rolls, such as the house special Wicked Tuna Roll with tempura shrimp and spicy tuna. The Lobster Roll is another favorite among lobster lovers, and the expansive menu offers more traditional seafood dishes. Wicked Tuna has one of the best combinations of food and views on the Strand.

After a nice night out for fresh sushi, come back to Litchfield Beach and let the sea of flavors settle in your stomach. Or, for those who prefer wood-fired food to raw, check out the on-site Webster's Lowcountry Grill for some land food and drinks. Whether you prefer surf or turf, you are sure to find excellent option for both when you stay at Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort.