If you're planning a trip to the sunny shores of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, starting your day with a stack of fluffy pancakes might just be the perfect way to kick off your vacation. Enter National House of Pancakes Myrtle Beach, a local breakfast icon that's been serving up sweet and savory delights since 1973. This colorful diner-style spot has gained a cult following on social media for its Instagram-worthy presentations and family-friendly vibe, but does it live up to the hype? As someone who's explored countless breakfast havens across the Southeast—with years of taste-testing diners, cafes, and pancake houses under my belt—I'll share an honest, balanced take based on recent visits, diner trends, and real guest feedback. Whether you're craving classic buttermilk stacks or over-the-top waffles, here's everything you need to know about this Myrtle Beach staple.
A Quick Dive into the Pancake House Legacy
Pancake houses like National House of Pancakes are a beloved slice of American diner culture, specializing in all-day breakfast fare such as fluffy pancakes, golden waffles, hearty omelettes, and eggs Benedict variations. These eateries trace their roots back to the early 20th century, with pioneers like Beverly's in Oklahoma City flipping scratch-made pancakes since 1921. In Myrtle Beach, a hotspot for these spots with over 10 within a two-mile radius, National House of Pancakes stands out for its evolution under new ownership since 2015, blending traditional comfort food with photogenic twists that appeal to tourists. Think of it as a local riff on chains like The Original Pancake House, which has been dishing out specialties since 1953 using premium ingredients like fresh Grade AA eggs and 93-score butter.
Menu Highlights: From Classic Stacks to Showstopper Creations
At National House of Pancakes Myrtle Beach, the menu is a love letter to breakfast excess, featuring generous portions that could feed a family of four. Drawing inspiration from timeless pancake house favorites, expect a lineup of fruit-filled flapjacks, nutty variations, and savory surprises. Here's a breakdown of standout items based on recent diner reports:
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Buttermilk Pancakes ($18.99 for a short or full stack): Light and fluffy with a subtle sweetness, these are dusted with powdered sugar and served with hot syrup and whipped butter—perfect for purists. They're reminiscent of the buckwheat or wheat germ options at similar spots, but with a Southern twist of fresh local berries on the side.
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Coconut Goodness Waffle ($23.89): A crispy-yet-tender fried waffle topped with toasted coconut, bananas, Madagascar vanilla ice cream, and cream cheese frosting. It's a tropical escape in every bite, though some note the sweetness can overwhelm without a savory counterpoint like bacon.
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Crab Meat Omelette ($24.99): Fluffy egg whites stuffed with jumbo crab, sautéed shrimp, tomatoes, feta, and a Cajun remoulade drizzle, complete with an Alaskan crab leg garnish. This seafood-infused dish shines for its bold flavors and feels like a coastal upgrade to standard omelettes.
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Red Velvet Waffle ($26.89): An ambitious layered treat with strawberries, blueberries, vanilla icing, strawberry cream cheese, and cotton candy fluff. While the presentation is pure eye candy, execution can vary—aim for well-cooked batches to avoid a doughy texture.
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Drunk Bear Mimosa ($25.99): Not just for brunch; this fun cocktail arrives in a pineapple cup with Prosecco, orange juice, and fruit garnishes. It's a hit for its playful vibe, though non-alcoholic options like fresh-squeezed OJ ($10–$12) keep things family-friendly.
Portions are notoriously large, often justifying the higher price tags (which have risen about 30% in the last year), but sides like a fruit cup ($5.93) or biscuits and gravy ($17) add up quickly. Pro tip: Opt for the Egg Plate ($15.78) with crispy bacon for a more budget-friendly classic.
My Take: A Feast for the Senses with a Side of Reality
On a recent morning stroll down Ocean Boulevard, I popped into National House of Pancakes Myrtle Beach for what promised to be a Willy Wonka-esque breakfast adventure. The atmosphere hits you first: a glittery, balloon-filled space with coffered ceilings and the irresistible aroma of maple syrup and chocolate wafting through the air. Servers like the ever-cheerful Shemika bring a genuine warmth, treating kids to magical touches and locals to subtle discounts—creating that "vacation memory" magic.
I dove into the Coconut Goodness Waffle, which delivered on crunch and creaminess, paired with a silky cappuccino ($8.95) that boasted strong roast notes and latte art. The Crab Meat Omelette was a standout, with flaky seafood elevating it beyond typical diner fare. However, my French Toast Platter ($16.83) felt underwhelming—thick slices that tasted more like plain bread than cinnamon-spiced indulgence, even with fresh fruit and powdered sugar. And yes, the bill crept up fast: $320 for a group of four in one viral complaint echoed my own sticker shock at add-ons like a $7.99 fruit cup or $8 Coke.
Service is a bright spot—attentive and kind—but the real buzz (and backlash) comes from the pricing. While the food is "super mid" to some, with greasy fries and average pancakes, others rave about the "amazing" waffles and fun drinks that make it a group-pleaser. It's clear this spot thrives on social media hype, luring TikTok-scrollers who might walk out upon menu reveal, but for those who stay, the spectacle is half the fun.
Is National House of Pancakes Myrtle Beach Worth Your Morning
In the crowded world of Myrtle Beach pancake houses, National House of Pancakes earns points for its joyful energy and creative flair, making it ideal for families or social media enthusiasts seeking shareable moments. If you're after value-packed classics, head to a mom-and-pop alternative—but for a decadent, over-the-top experience, this spot delivers with trustworthiness in its hospitality and expertise in breakfast innovation. I'd rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars: fun for one visit, but not a daily haunt. Next time you're in town, pair it with a boardwalk stroll and call it a win.
Planning your own trip? Check current hours (open daily till late) and snag a reservation to beat the lines.
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