This was my first visit to Dagwood's in North Myrtle Beach. I stopped in after 8 p.m. on a Monday,…read moreso I realize late evenings on a weeknight can feel a little different from peak hours.
I was greeted quickly and directed to a seat at the bar. The same staff member soon brought me water and poured a 10-ounce Dirty Myrtle IPA, a local double IPA on tap. She made sure I knew it was a smaller pour, which I appreciated. The beer itself was very good.
After getting a menu, I ordered the fish and chips, which is usually my go-to when trying a pub for the first time.
The plate looked great when it arrived: four large pieces of fried cod (enough for two people, really), fries, a big pickle spear, two cups of tartar sauce, and coleslaw.
The coleslaw deserves special mention. It was excellent--honestly one of the best I've had anywhere. Fresh, balanced, and really flavorful.
The fish arrived hot and the first bite was very good: flaky cod with a crisp exterior. As I worked further into it, though, I realized the batter was thicker than I personally prefer. Instead of a light, crispy coating, it was heavier and softer underneath the crust, and as the fish cooled that became more noticeable.
The fries were decent but seemed like they had been sitting under heat for a bit. Not bad, just not as hot and crisp as they could have been.
The atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable, and it seems like a good place to meet friends or catch a game.
Service at the bar was polite but fairly minimal, and my total was just over $27 for the beer and fish and chips, which felt a little high for the overall depth of the meal.
Overall, it was a mixed experience: good vibe, great coleslaw, decent fish, but not quite a standout meal for me.
I'll likely give Dagwood's another try and explore other items on the menu. And when I do, I'll definitely order that coleslaw again.