Born on the Creek: The Story of Saltwater Cowboys
Nestled along the scenic shores of Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, Saltwater Cowboys is more than a restaurant. It's the culmination of culinary traditions, pioneering spirit and Southern hospitality. Owned and operated by Wade Boals, a fourth-generation restaurateur, Saltwater Cowboys is a testament to a family's rich culinary history and their vital role in shaping Shem Creek into the iconic dining destination it is today.
The Early Days of Shem Creek
It all starts with Ronnie "RB" Boals, whose entrepreneurial vision and unwavering dedication to the local community shaped Shem Creek’s dining scene. Born in 1944, RB Boals began his restaurateur career at Mount Pleasant’s Piggy Park (now Melvin’s BBQ). Driven by passion and determination, RB soon ventured out on his own. By 1967, Ronnie had established one of Shem Creek’s earliest and most beloved restaurants, The Trawler Seafood Restaurant, famously known for its lighthouse built by Wade’s grandfather. Today, it’s the site of Tavern & Table.
RB also opened other legendary establishments, including The Lorelei, situated directly across the creek; Reins, which later became Water’s Edge; the iconic RB’s Seafood Restaurant; and the local favorite Josie Joe’s. Each location helped turn Shem Creek into the renowned seafood and dining destination it is today.
But RB’s cultural impact was a labor of love…literally. His wife, Louise Bessinger (yes, of those Bessingers!), inspired further success. Renowned for introducing mustard-based barbecue to South Carolina in the 1930s, the Bessingers brought unique flavors and traditions into the Boals family’s culinary repertoire.
This union resulted in a delicious blend of classic Lowcountry seafood dishes paired with authentic Southern barbecue, creating a signature style that would define the family’s future restaurants.
Shem Creek Today
Now fast-forward to today…Church Street along Shem Creek is now renamed "Ronnie Boals Boulevard" to honor Ronnie’s profound contributions. Shem Creek is a lively destination for lunch, dinner and nightlife. And RB’s son, Wade Boals, is proudly continuing the family legacy as the owner of Saltwater Cowboys.
Opened in March 2017, Saltwater Cowboys embodies Wade’s vision of a welcoming, waterfront space that perfectly captures the spirit and traditions of Shem Creek dining. Wade’s experience, gained from working at Shem Creek establishments, has empowered him to craft a menu that honors his family's barbecue roots while showcasing the Lowcountry’s rich seafood dishes.
Wade partnered with longtime childhood friend Brett Yearout, and French entrepreneur Joel Olindo, to bring their collective vision to life. Together, this trio has cultivated an environment at Saltwater Cowboys that is vibrant, diverse and distinctly Lowcountry.
Saltwater Cowboys Today: A Living Legacy
Every plate served at Saltwater Cowboys is a tribute to the Boals family’s enduring heritage. Guests are invited not only to enjoy delicious meals and craft cocktails but also to help write Shem Creek’s story.
Saltwater Cowboys stands to offer both locals and visitors an authentic taste of Shem Creek. It's more than just great food. It's the continuation of a legacy built on community and a deep-rooted love for the Lowcountry way of life.
Next time you visit Saltwater Cowboys, remember you're not just dining out; you're joining a story that's been nearly a century in the making.
Bring the family and join ours!
From fresh local seafood and BBQ to live music, drinks and dancing, Saltwater Cowboys has you covered. View our events and explore our menus. Then, plan your visit and prepare to leave craving more. Our door is always open to those who love good food and good times.