Longtime golf fans remember "Swinging" Sammy Snead from the golden age of the game. The name may not ring a bell for newcomers to the game, but a new restaurant in the Carolina Forest section of Myrtle Beach also serves as a bit of a tribute to golf's first common man who was known for having the sweetest swing in the history of golf.
Lining the walls of Sam Snead's Oak Grill and Tavern are dozens of props from Snead's legendary career, donated decades before when his first restaurant opened on Restaurant Row. After a long successful run, the first one closed its doors and the items went into storage untouched for years. But when the new owners decided to go retro with another tribute to Snead, they had a museum of memorabilia to choose from in decorating the new building.
Swinging Sammy returns — Photo courtesy of Sam Snead's Oak Grill and Tavern
Warm colors and hardwood floors and fixtures welcome visitors to a classic clubhouse decor. The walls are filled with items from Snead's illustrious career, including old clubs he fashioned himself in his own workshop, signed scorecards from some of his greatest victories and photos of Snead with some of his contemporaries.
The food - like his career - is legendary. Using an oak-fired grill, Snead's serves up great steaks and chops with a unique wood flavor. Pork tenderloin and prime rib are among the many offerings, along with a full line of salads, sandwiches and starters. The bar offers a complete list of wine, beers and mixed drinks, and the outdoor patio has become a hot spot for golfers leaving the links just in time for happy hour.
