Name: Blue Elephant Thai Cuisine
Price range: $$

Blue Elephant Thai Cuisine Information

Tucked along the bustling stretch of US-17 Business in Murrells Inlet, Blue Elephant Thai Cuisine stands out as a go-to spot for anyone craving authentic Thai flavors without the fuss. The location is easy to find, and there’s something inviting about the casual exterior that makes it feel approachable whether you’re stopping in after a beach day or heading out for a relaxed dinner.

Stepping inside, the atmosphere strikes a balance between cozy and vibrant. Subtle Thai decor adds character without feeling overdone, and the dining area tends to buzz with a steady flow of locals, which is always a good sign. During my visit, the service felt genuinely attentive without being intrusive. Staff were quick to offer recommendations from the menu and seemed knowledgeable about spice levels, which is helpful if you’re not sure how bold you want to go.

The menu itself is where this place really shines. It covers all the Thai classics you’d expect-Pad Thai, Drunken Noodles, Green Curry-but also includes a few lesser-seen dishes that hint at a more traditional approach. The Pad Thai arrives generously portioned, with a well-balanced mix of tangy tamarind, sweetness, and just enough heat. The curry dishes, especially the Panang, lean rich and aromatic, with a creamy consistency that pairs perfectly with jasmine rice. You can tell the kitchen isn’t cutting corners; the flavors taste layered rather than rushed.

One detail that stood out was the flexibility in customizing dishes. Whether adjusting spice levels or swapping proteins, the kitchen seems accommodating, which adds to the overall dining experience. For those who enjoy variety, the appetizers-like fresh spring rolls and crispy dumplings-offer a good way to sample different textures and flavors before diving into the main course.

Reviews from other diners often mention consistency, and based on this visit, that reputation feels well-earned. The food arrives hot, portions are fair for the price, and the overall experience feels reliable, which is something many diners prioritize. While it’s not a high-end, white-tablecloth setting, that’s not really the point here. It’s about flavorful, comforting Thai cuisine served in a welcoming space that feels part of the local fabric.

Parking can get a bit tight during peak hours, and the dining room isn’t huge, so there might be a short wait if you arrive at a busy time. Still, the steady crowd speaks to its popularity, and once you’re seated, the pace of service keeps things moving smoothly.

Business Info

What People's Say About Place

My wife and I had a great experience last night at the Blue Elephant. The food was excellent!! We had the spring rolls appetizer, the Pad Ka-Prow with beef and the Pad Thai with chicken& shrimp as entrees. Dr. Paul is the owner/chef/server of the restaurant (one man show) and he didn't disappoint. We had a nice conversation with him and his recommendation of Pad Ka-Prow was spot on. Even though we were the only customers, you should make reservations since he is the only person working there and he also handles take-out orders.

Overall a great experience. The proprieter is a very unique individual, it's amazing how he runs the entire show himself. Food was really good. Only thing is he should really be more considerate of dietary restrictions. If you have any specific restrictions, just be sure to stress them to him. We will definitely come back!

As an appetizer, I wanted the Calamari but it was unavailable. So I opted for soft wontons stuffed w chicken and swimming in a delicious liquid. My wife had the fried veggie spring rolls tht had a vinegar peanut sauce. As an entree I had the highly recommended crispy duck. The sauce was out of this world fantastic with ginger and pineapple dominating. It included broccoli, mushroom, bamboo shoots and peas that were to perfection and served with white rice. I thought the duck was over cooked but I ate every morsel. My wife had Thai shrimp fried rice. It was nothing spectacular but good enough. The shrimp needed cooked a bit more. They were soft and rather flavorless. The chef was the waiter as well. This place accepts cash only and requires a reservation for dine in. There is Togo available with call in orders. With two beers and a green tea the bill was $95. There's a bit of a lack of attention to detail. Spots on the table cloth and a chipped water glass... Small dining area, only one employee/owner, no credit card acceptance. We were too full for desert. Ambiance was quiet. No music. Nice ornate woodwork. I'd dine here again.

The decor and everything else was absolutely beautiful! The food was amazing! Truly authentic Thai food! By reservation only. Very expensive but worth every penny!!!! Made to order by the chef and owner, Doc. He is a very sweet man and an amazing chef! A definite must visit if in Murrell's inlet! I had the Crispy Duck Pad Tai(I think). I got it Medium, very spicy! Got even more spicy after sitting in the fridge for a few days. More food than we could eat in one sitting!!! Warning Authentic spice level will beat even the most stout person! If you ask they will let you try the spice before you order so you can judge how spicy you want it. Ten times hotter than any 'authentic' Thai restaurant I have ever been to! But it's a sneaky heat so you get to taste all the flavor before the heat kills your taste buds lol. Warning the duck dishes are real duck so keep an eye out for bones! Doc is the only person in the kitchen so be patient!

Wonderful freshly and perfectly prepared Thai cuisine. Dr. Paul is a one man wonder and we can't wait to join him again for another one of his Chef specialties! Thank you for a memorable Birthday dinner!

So, you must call ahead and reserve a spot. Do not expect fast dining. However, you can expect fantastic dining. Chef Paul is so courteous and kind and the food he prepares so lovingly for his customers is nothing short of amazing. The atmosphere is unmatched and decorated very well. I would absolutely come here again to make it a yearly tradition. If you are having doubts, I urge you to try it. The quality of the food and the service will not disappoint.

We had an unforgettable dining experience at Blue Elephant Thai Cuisine in Murrells Inlet, SC as always! From the vibrant flavors to the beautiful presentation, this place will exceed all expectations. The pineapple fried rice with salty pork floss was a tasty revelation, elevating the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. When I’m telling you that this dish is 100/10 highly recommend, I’m not exaggerating. But that's not all! The green curry was bursting with flavor once I added a little bit of the salty pork floss. It needed salt but it’s not readily available on the table. Some key notes/takeaways: -Reservation only -Cash only The owner is usually the only person running the show here so reservations are a must. No walk ins unfortunately. The food is a work of art and a culinary adventure for the taste buds for sure. The dishes can be spicy so please note if it says spicy on the menu it’s gonna be hot. This isn’t the place where you want to go all out and order a spice level higher than two. My husband and I love spice and found out years ago this one tip can ruin your evening. With that being said it is a must try if you live or are visiting the Grand Strand. Don’t try to dine here if you are in a rush. Plan a nice date night and enjoy each others company. If you're in the area, I highly recommend giving this gem a try. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! #BlueElephantThaiCuisine #MurrellsInletSC #FoodieParadise #FlavorfulDelights #MyrtleBeachFoodieBabe #ThaiFood

Dr. Paul who is a local retired Physician running the restaurant in Murell’s Inlet (Myrtle Beach) for many years out of his passion for quality and fresh food. Dr. Paul is the cook and best in town. You need to call for table reservation. The food was really authentic Thai, fresh and delicious. Worth the wait time.

Blue Elephant Thai Cuisine