The Tie-Dyed Coffee Bean — Restaurant in Surfside Beach

A Most Uncommon Retreat for the Discerning Coffee Enthusiast

One does not often stumble upon a place such as The Tie-Dyed Coffee Bean. Indeed, such a discovery is typically relegated to the realms of serendipity, or, in my case, the consequence of an exhaustive pursuit of quality in all things.

Tucked away from the frenetic clamor of lesser establishments, this café presents itself as a sanctum—a refuge for those who seek not merely caffeine, but an experience. Upon entering, one is enveloped in an atmosphere that eschews the sterile uniformity of corporate chains in favor of something far more rare: authenticity.

The proprietors, a most affable duo, exude an effortless warmth that is neither forced nor affected. Their ethos appears to be one of genuine hospitality, welcoming patrons as if they were long-lost friends rather than mere transactions. Their attire and demeanor align seamlessly with the establishment’s motif—a vibrant homage to the halcyon days of the counterculture movement, replete with the scent of freshly ground beans and an ambiance that encourages one to linger.

But let us speak of the coffee. It is, after all, the raison d’être of such a place. I am pleased to report that the offerings here are of an exceptional caliber. The espresso is velvety and rich, its crema thick enough to leave a lingering impression upon the porcelain. The pour-over is prepared with the meticulous precision of a watchmaker, yielding a cup that is both delicate and complex. Even the simplest drip coffee possesses a depth of flavor that belies its humble presentation.

Seating is an exercise in eclectic charm, with chairs that seem to have been collected over time, each with a story to tell. The lighting is subdued yet inviting, encouraging conversation or quiet contemplation. One can imagine a turntable in the corner spins vinyl with a careful curatorial touch—one might sip a macchiato to the dulcet tones of Joni Mitchell or the ethereal strains of Pink Floyd.

In an age where true character in such establishments is increasingly rare, The Tie-Dyed Coffee Bean stands apart as a beacon of individuality. One leaves not merely caffeinated, but rejuvenated in spirit.

Five stars,...

Ordered a hot American Macchiato, but it came out very thin and watery, more like warm milk than a proper espresso-based drink. There was no foam on top, no latte art, nothing you’d expect from a “coffee shop” business. The brown sugar wasn’t added at the right step during milk steaming, and the barista clearly didn’t know how to make it (I even had to stop him mid-process). Thankfully, another employee stepped in to fix it, which I appreciated.

The drink itself tasted worse than Starbucks (which is already pretty low on my list). Honestly, I don’t understand how this place has 5-star reviews. I’d give it 2 stars, only because the staff were welcoming and the customer service was good. Otherwise, it really didn’t meet the expectations for a basic...

I was so pleasantly surprised during my visit on the way out of town for vacation. I ordered a cold brew and as I was checking out I looked over and saw that they use Little River Roasting Co. out of Spartanburg. I excitedly told them that that's my hometown, coffee, roaster and shop. The owners then told me that they're from Spartanburg and after trying some beans from other places they decided to go with Little River because they had enjoyed it when they lived in Spartanburg. The cold brew was great and the owners were so kind. I wish I would have gone earlier in the week but I was making my own coffee at the condo with my Little River Beans. Keep up the great work. Next time I'm on vacation I'll be sure to come by...