Hippie Hen House Is A Popular Small Business In South Carolina

We’ve all imagined, at least once or twice, just packing it all up, slipping behind the wheel, and driving… maybe away from it all, perhaps toward a long-held dream. But the weight of life’s responsibilities often results in that daydream remaining little more than wistful thoughts that cross our minds every now and then. Sometimes, though, a driving passion helps quell the doubts, and the results are extraordinary. Shelly Frey and Steve Hock know a little something about chasing their dreams and, in doing so, creating something magical: Hippie Hen House, a barn-to-beach restaurant in Murrells Inlet, and one of the best businesses in South Carolina, that brings a scrumptious taste of Maryland to this southern state.

Interested to learn about other unique American small businesses? Our Small Business Spotlight series highlights the often-overlooked work of small business owners across the country, from Maine to Southern California.

One day in 2022, life partners Frey and Hock decided to take the plunge and follow their dream, selling their share in several Maryland restaurants, and journeying south. They didn’t necessarily have a specific destination in mind, but they knew what they were looking for and what they wanted to do.

“We were in search of a 'beach town' restaurant shell to craft our spin on Southern fare with a homage to our Maryland roots,” Frey says.

It turns out that beach town is Murrells Inlet, about a 20-minute, give or take, drive from Myrtle Beach, an ideal destination to attract locals and beckon tourists from one of South Carolina’s most popular vacation towns.

Hippie Hen House, which the duo defines as barn-to-beach dining, opened in early 2023 and effortlessly became a part of the community, gaining the attention of the local media and drawing crowds so big that the restaurant is consistently packed. Prepare for a wait, but if the feedback from previous guests is any indication, it will be well worth it.

While the menu is jam-packed with Southern favorites, this neighborhood hangout spot is known for its authentic jumbo lump Maryland crab cake. Even native Marylanders have proclaimed this classic one of the best they’ve ever had (but you really have to try it for yourself).

But that’s just a taste of the deliciousness that awaits at Hippie Hen House in South Carolina, which has crafted a menu that caters to meat eaters but also offers options for vegetarians and vegans. In addition to classic seafood entrees like lump crab stuffed flounder, the menu features a generous assortment of handhelds – from the vegan pulled barb “v” que to the build-your-own smokehouse.

The neighborhood eatery has also got you covered on those days when you’re craving an old-fashioned, home-style meal, dishing up hot pot roast beef, root-veggie pot pie, and fried chicken and biscuit, among others.

But Hippie Hen House, already established as one of the best businesses in South Carolina, is about far more than the scrumptious dishes it serves. Frey and Hock have worked hard to cultivate a relationship with both their staff and their customers. “We love the local feel,” says Hock, “and our friendships with our customers and our team.”

Priding themselves on offering good food at affordable prices, the Maryland natives also focus on giving back to the community that has welcomed them with open arms.

“We are all about community,” says Frey, “and provide family meals for some less fortunate families during the holidays or that are struggling to make ends meet.”

Many thanks to Hippie Hen House owners Shelly Frey and Steve Hock for sharing the Hippie Hen House history and story for our 2024 Small Business Spotlight. Learn more and support this iconic South Carolina restaurant by visiting the Hippie Hen House website or Facebook page.

Of course, Hippie Hen House is one of many amazing businesses in South Carolina that’s doing great things in the state. If you have another business you’d like to see profiled on Only In South Carolina, please nominate them for a chance to be featured. And be sure to follow Only In South Carolina on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the know on the state’s events, restaurants, local businesses, and hidden gems.

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Hippie Hen House, 3256 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, USA

Enjoy A Taste Of Maryland At Hippie Hen House, A Barn-To-Beach Restaurant In South Carolina

Beth Price-Williams

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