Christmas was wonderful but after a month of celebrating with family and friends, Bunny and I were ready for a relaxing New Years Eve at the beach.  Saturday morning after a quiet breakfast we loaded the car and headed for our home away from home at Garden City Beach.  It was quiet, and a great time for reading, walking on the beach, watching movies, and going to some of our favorite places to eat.  Saturday afternoon Bunny and I discussed making reservations somewhere since it was New Years Eve as well as a Saturday night.  
However, we just kept putting off making a decision until about 5:00 when we decided if we did not eat early we would never make the 7:15 showing of “War Horse.”  At 5:30, knowing there would be long waits at some restaurants, we headed to our favorite seafood restaurant in Murrells Inlet.  When we arrived at Russell’s Seafood Grill, there was only a 20 minute wait and we chose to have New Years Dinner with Russell.
Many years ago, our friends Connie and Steve told us about this local eatery at Murrells Inlet that had good food, good service, and a very pleasant owner that went from table to table talking to his customers.  Even though we had eaten at Murrells Inlet all our lives we had never heard of Russell’s, but each time Connie and Steve came to the beach, they visited this restaurant for the local ambiance as well as the good food.  Finally after hearing about this restaurant for years we dropped in on Russell’s Seafood Grill and became real supporters.  For sure, there are restaurants that are larger, have better views of the inlet and even more beautiful, but none can compare with the hospitable, friendly, cozy atmosphere at this Murrells Inlet Marvel.  To be honest, Russell has the perfect recipe for success.
As you arrive at the restaurant among the Giant Oak Trees, someone is there to open the door and welcome you to the restaurant.  You may have to wait for a table, but you never have to wait for someone to greet you at the door…its instantaneous.  As you are seated the waiter arrives momentarily with delicious hush puppies and a menu and if it’s a person that has served you before, they always welcome you back.  
The wait staff is very attentive and the bartender is always fun and lively. Sometime during the meal Russell will come by to talk with you, inquire about the food, and thank you for coming.  As you leave, Russell or his wife will join you at the door; shake your hand, and again thank you for coming. It is just amazing. In fact, one night Bunny and I took his mom to dinner and as we were leaving, Russell took Mrs. Spivey’s arm and personally walked with her down the steps.  You just don’t get southern hospitality like that everywhere. If you think I am showing partiality, go to Trip Advisor and Russell’s Seafood Grill is usually #1 for restaurants in Murrells Inlet. It’s always interesting to read the reviews that include the personal service, friendly atmosphere, and the handshake from the owner. Russell grew up in the local seafood industry working at his family’s Restaurant, Wayside, which was always a family favorite.  To make it even more interesting, Russell’s Seafood Grill was at one time the second floor of Nance’s Restaurant until Hurricane Hugo placed it at its present site.
 It is without a doubt a classic old time seafood diner with a homey feel and good food. It is also fair to say that most of the people at Russell’s are those who have found this little jewel and return time and again.
Russell understands how fortunate he is to have such a successful business in the heart of Historic Murrells Inlet among the many- million dollar restaurants. He is quick to say he knows how many restaurants his customers passed to get to his… all of them...  And with his location near the end of the Inlet, you actually pass many other restaurants to get to Russell’s.
As I think about our local businesses it’s usually those who practice their own recipe for success that remain financially strong even in depressed economic times.  Customers and clients want to be appreciated and will usually find a business where they feel valued and wanted.
 So, with a new year, uncertain of what the economic future holds, we can all practice with gusto Russell’s recipe for success as we greet our clientele, visitors, and neighbors.  Williamsburg County may not be the most affluent community in South Carolina but by having a reputation for being the friendliest and most welcoming, who knows how many towns and businesses visitors might pass to come here.  When you find a recipe that works, it’s always good to try it, until you get it perfect!