Posted on Sep 03, 2010 - 08:49 AM

Divine Fish House: Gracefully Natural

By Becky Billingsley

After couples stroll the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk and take in the idyllic view of Murrells Inlet, they often stop and have dinner at Divine Fish House so they may continue enjoying the natural beauty.

The interior of Divine Fish House complements the inlet, because it has a breathtaking and dramatic decor. An expansive two-story dining room features silver and blue with jewel-tone accents, sweeping sleek lines, suspended stained glass sea creatures, waist-high stone walls, and a battered but glossy blonde wood floor.

Blues in the decor merge with the colors of the inlet. Diners gaze at the view and marvel at a world full of so many shades of blue and green where egrets and other herons are enjoying their fresh-caught dinners. This is one of the best seats in the world to see an indirect sunset where ethereal light turns the water into a shimmering pool of diamonds dotted by marsh grass.

While enjoying the view, guests can dine on appetizers such as Prosciutto-wrapped Scallops with fruit salsa and basil-infused oil; Sautéed Prince Edward Island Mussels; Lobster Dumplings with boursin cheese and sweet Thai chili sauce; Crab Dip; and Fried Green Tomatoes with chevre cheese.

Photo Gallery

The Crab, Tuna and Avocado Stack with chili and basil oils is an occasional special that may be added to the fall 2010 menu.Photo Credit: Becky Billingsley

The decor at Divine Fish House features jewel toned accents.Photo Credit: Becky Billingsley

Mahi Mahi is simply seared and served with Prince Edward Island Mussels and baby carrots.Photo Credit: Becky Billingsley

Seared Scallops with roasted red pepper coulis is visually pleasing and tastefully unforgettable.Photo Credit: Becky Billingsley

Fishing boats dock behind Divine Fish House in Murrells Inlet.Photo Credit: Becky Billingsley

Every seat in Divine Fish House offers a waterfront view.Photo Credit: Becky Billingsley

At the long and elegant sushi bar a locally legendary sushi chef, Takashi Saito, makes tempting delicacies like Yellow Tail and Scallion Roll, or Eel and Avocado Roll. If you are a sushi fan, this is a great place to tell Saito, "Feed me," and let his nimble fingers roll their way into your fish-loving heart.

Divine Fish House is known for it s soups such as Shrimp and Lobster Bisque, and for fresh salads such as Beefsteak Tomato and Basil with prosciutto, house-made mozzarella and olive oil.

Senior Executive Chef Bradley Walton and Chef de Cuisine Sean Thomas make a formidable culinary team who produce fresh fish specials and specialties of the house. Their ever-changing repertoire offers dishes such as Mahi Mahi simply seared and served with PEI Mussels and baby carrots; Crab, Tuna and Avocado Stack with chili and basil oils; Seared Scallops with roasted red pepper coulis; Pesto Stone Bass with tomatoes gratin, roasted red potatoes, balsamic reduction and strawberry salad; and the Inlet Carpet Bagger where twin beef tenderloin medallions are served with fried oysters and Cajun Hollandaise.

Outside at the lively and tropical Wahoo’s Raw Bar, diners relax with some of the same dishes available inside at Divine Fish House. The Wahoo's menu also offers fare such as Wild Caught American Fried Shrimp and a Southern Oyster Fry.

Special cool weather treats include Divine’s lavish monthly wine dinners, and live music every weekend at Wahoo’s.

Divine Fish House is at 3979 U.S. 17 Business in Murrells Inlet, and the number is (843) 651-5800. It opens at 5 p.m. daily.