Myrtle Beach, February 19, 2026
Sun City Cafe, a beloved restaurant in downtown Myrtle Beach, is set to reopen after extensive renovations. This reopening signifies the resilience of local entrepreneurs and the ongoing revitalization efforts in the area. Renowned for its unique ‘Myrtle-Mex’ cuisine, the cafe’s return highlights the importance of small businesses in enhancing the local economy and community spirit.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What major news is happening for downtown Myrtle Beach?
Celebrate the reopening of Sun City Cafe, a beloved “Myrtle-Mex” restaurant, on February 19, 2026, marking a significant step in downtown’s economic revitalization.
Where is Sun City Cafe located and what type of food do they serve?
Find Sun City Cafe at 801 Main St in downtown Myrtle Beach, serving its unique “Myrtle-Mex” cuisine, which blends Mexican, Tex-Mex, and Lowcountry flavors.
Who owns Sun City Cafe and what are their popular menu items?
Owned by Tracey Rae Palmer and Carry Boyles, the cafe is famous for its signature cheese dip, fresh guacamole, shrimp tacos, and creative burritos, alongside acclaimed margaritas.
How does Sun City Cafe’s reopening contribute to downtown Myrtle Beach?
Supports broader downtown revitalization efforts by attracting private investment and serving as an anchor establishment, thereby fostering economic growth and a vibrant urban core.
What makes Sun City Cafe a special place for the community?
Offers a welcoming atmosphere with eclectic decor and local art, establishing itself as a “local treasure” that fosters community camaraderie through its distinctive culinary experience.
Myrtle Beach: Sun City Cafe Reopens, Bolstering Downtown Revitalization
The entrepreneurial spirit of Myrtle Beach shines brightly as a beloved local establishment, Sun City Cafe, prepares to reopen its doors in the heart of downtown following extensive renovations. This event marks a significant moment for the local culinary scene and underscores the resilience and innovation that characterize small businesses in our community. The commitment shown by proprietors to invest in their ventures not only enhances the vibrant offerings for residents and visitors but also plays a crucial role in the ongoing economic revitalization of downtown Myrtle Beach.
The return of Sun City Cafe exemplifies the determination of South Carolina entrepreneurs to adapt and thrive, contributing directly to the vitality of the Myrtle Beach SC business landscape. Such private investments are often catalysts for broader economic growth, demonstrating how individual initiative can align with community development goals to foster a flourishing environment for commerce and culture.
A Culinary Gem Returns to Main Street
Myrtle Beach, SC – Sun City Cafe, a popular restaurant lauded by Southern Living as one of the best in Myrtle Beach, is officially set to reopen its downtown location on February 19, 2026, at 5:00 AM. Located at 801 Main St, the restaurant temporarily closed last year to undergo significant renovations.
Owned by Tracey Rae Palmer and Carry Boyles, Sun City Cafe first opened its doors in 2001 and has since become a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its unique culinary offerings and a welcoming atmosphere that fosters community. The restaurant is celebrated for its distinctive “Myrtle-Mex” cuisine, a creative blend of Mexican flavors with a Tex-Mex and Lowcountry influence, delivering comfort food with a Southern twist.
The “Myrtle-Mex” Experience and Its Appeal
Sun City Cafe has carved out a unique niche in Myrtle Beach’s diverse dining landscape. Its menu, while rooted in Mexican tradition, is known for its fresh, homemade dishes that offer a distinctive taste. Popular items include their signature Sun City cheese dip, freshly prepared Holy Guacamole, flavorful shrimp tacos, and substantial burritos, some even featuring mashed potatoes. The restaurant also caters to various dietary preferences, offering vegan and gluten-free options. Beyond the food, Sun City Cafe is particularly known for its signature margaritas, crafted with fresh ingredients and a Grand Marnier topper.
The establishment’s eclectic and warm decor, adorned with local art, creates an inviting and vibrant dining environment that has been described as a “local treasure” and a “secret club for locals”. This unique ambiance contributes significantly to the overall appeal, fostering a sense of camaraderie among patrons and making each visit a memorable experience.
Key Features of Sun City Cafe
| Feature | Detail | Geographic Scope |
| Restaurant Name | Sun City Cafe | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Location | 801 Main St, Downtown Myrtle Beach | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Reopening Date | February 19, 2026, at 5:00 AM | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Cuisine Style | “Myrtle-Mex” (Tex-Mex meets Lowcountry, comfort food with Southern twist) | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Recognition | Named among the best by Southern Living | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Owners | Tracey Rae Palmer and Carry Boyles | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Established | 2001 | Myrtle Beach, SC |
| Key Offerings | Cheese dip, guacamole, shrimp tacos, burritos, margaritas, vegan/gluten-free options | Myrtle Beach, SC |
Downtown Myrtle Beach: A Hub for Economic Growth
The reopening of Sun City Cafe aligns perfectly with broader efforts to revitalize downtown Myrtle Beach. The city’s Economic Development Office is actively engaged in facilitating the revitalization of the Central Business District, focusing on initiatives such as the Arts & Innovation District, promoting Opportunity Zones, and enhancing public infrastructure like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. These strategies are designed to attract private investment and foster a dynamic environment for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Furthermore, the city implements economic incentive programs and provides education to the business community, aiming to streamline processes and encourage strategic development. The launch of ZoomProspector, an online platform, assists businesses and developers in identifying prime real estate opportunities, reflecting Myrtle Beach’s commitment to cultivating a vibrant business environment. The Downtown Master Plan, adopted by the Myrtle Beach City Council in December 2020, serves as a comprehensive framework for this ongoing revitalization, emphasizing the importance of planned development and private sector engagement.
Small Business Resilience and Community Impact
The culinary sector is a significant driver of the local economy. The Myrtle Beach area boasts over 2,000 restaurants, contributing substantially to the region’s appeal and economic health. Tourism, the largest industry in the Grand Strand, relies heavily on these local businesses, with 24% of Horry County jobs being hospitality-based. Visitors also account for a substantial portion of local tax revenue, further demonstrating the critical role businesses like Sun City Cafe play in sustaining public services and community improvements.
The decision by Sun City Cafe’s owners to undertake renovations and reopen signifies a belief in the future of downtown Myrtle Beach and the power of local enterprise. This commitment reinforces the idea that strategic private investment, coupled with a supportive local government keen on fostering a business-friendly climate, can lead to sustainable economic growth and job creation. The resilience of Myrtle Beach small business owners and their dedication to enhancing the local experience are vital components of the Grand Strand’s ongoing prosperity.
A Brighter Future for Downtown
The reopening of Sun City Cafe is more than just the return of a popular dining spot; it is a symbol of entrepreneurial success and a positive indicator for the continued revitalization of downtown Myrtle Beach. It highlights the collective impact of private initiative, strategic community planning, and consumer support in building a robust local economy. As downtown Myrtle Beach continues its transformation, establishments like Sun City Cafe serve as anchors, drawing people in and creating a lively, prosperous urban core.
We encourage everyone to support local businesses like Sun City Cafe. By patronizing these establishments, you directly contribute to the economic well-being of our community and help shape the vibrant future of Myrtle Beach small business and economic growth. Stay engaged with the latest developments and be a part of Myrtle Beach’s unfolding success story.
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
