30 Amazing Outer Banks Restaurants for Your Next Beach Trip!

There are so many Outer Banks restaurants vying for attention that eating out is one of the best things to do here. We keep returning, mainly to update this list of unique places to eat in the Outer Banks.

We’ve included the best eats in each town from Corolla to Buxton to keep things balanced. Here’s how the guide is organized, in case you’re looking for a specific place:

• Map of Restaurants in the Outer Banks NC
• List of Outer Banks NC Restaurants
• Corolla
• Duck
• Kitty Hawk
• Kill Devil Hills
• Nags Head
• Manteo
• Avon
• Buxton
• Ocracoke

If you’re looking for the best OBX restaurants near your rental, hotel, or home, this guide covers you!

Read More: Eastern North Carolina (and 100+ Awesome Places to Visit)

Map of Restaurants in the Outer Banks NC

This map of restaurants on the Outer Banks and more attractions (created with Google Maps) is a branch of the North Carolina Travel Map we’ve created for the entire state.

List of Restaurants Outer Banks NC Featured in this Guide

We’ve included the best eats in each town from Corolla to Buxton to keep things balanced. Here’s how the guide is organized, in case you’re looking for a specific place:

• Corolla
  • Corolla Cantina
  • Lighthouse Bagels
  • North Banks
• Duck
  • Coastal Cravings
  • Duck Donuts (Original)
  • NC Coast and Grill
  • The Roadside
• Kitty Hawk
  • Black Pelican
  • I Got Your Crabs
  • Trio
  • Rundown
  • Stack ’em High Pancakes
• Kill Devil Hills
  • Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar
  • Food Dude’s Kitchen
  • Goombays
  • Kill Devil Grill
  • Mama Kwans
• Nags Head
  • Biscuits N’ Porn
  • Tale of the Whale
  • Tortugas’ Lie
  • Mulligan’s Grille
  • Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant
  • Waverider’s Coffee, Deli, & Pub
• Manteo
  • Lost Colony Brewery
  • Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop
• Avon
  • Pangea Tavern
• Buxton
  • Buxton Munch
  • Orange Blossom Bakery
• Ocracoke
  • Howard’s Pub
  • SmacNally’s

For each of these Outer Banks restaurants, we’ve included address info.

Outer Banks Restaurants in Corolla NC

Since we’re already hungry just thinking about these places, let’s start with our favorite eats in Corolla!

Corolla Cantina

Address: 1159 Austin St, Corolla, NC
Website

Located across the street from Corolla Historic Village, Corolla Cantina dishes up casual Mexican cuisine with a coastal vibe. Chow down on a delicious seafood quesadilla, shrimp tacos, and order a basket of chips and salsa!

The Baja-inspired joint is one of many dog-friendly restaurants on the Outer Banks. They also have a fantastic kids’ menu for smaller travelers.

Oh, and the margaritas here are top-notch!

Read More: 7 of the Best Things to Do in Corolla (A Lighthouse, Wild Horses, and More!)

Lighthouse Bagels

Address: 807 Ocean Trail, Corolla, NC
Website

There are very few Outer Banks restaurants that serve bagels, and Lighthouse Bagels is one of them! Perfectly chewy, these bagels rival some of the best delis in New York!

Get a shmear and some lox, or take a dozen to go. Either way, make sure you don’t miss this incredible Outer Banks restaurant!

Read More: Currituck Beach Lighthouse on the Outer Banks (How to See It and Climb to the Top!)

North Banks

Address: 794 Sunset Blvd G, Corolla, NC
Website

Serving the northern end of the barrier islands for over twenty years, North Banks dishes up delicious seafood all while preparing everything in-house with local produce and ingredients.

From hand-grating their cheeses to preparing all of the sauces and dressings, you know that a meal at North Banks is the freshest possible!

From the homemade hushpuppies to the hand-shucked regional oysters- fresh seafood and a comfortable environment are what you’ll find at North Banks!

Read More: How to Explore the NC Oyster Trail (10+ Adventurous Ways!)

Outer Banks Restaurants in Duck NC

We’ve enjoyed these OBX restaurants in Duck for years, and hope you’re able to do the same!

Cravings

Address: 1209 Duck Rd, Duck, NC
Website

Featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, Cravings is the perfect spot to chill on the patio or drive-thru for a seafood pot to take back to your vacation rental.

In fact, Cravings is the only drive-thru in Duck! Tucked next to a gas station, this unassuming little spot packs a giant flavor.

This Outer Banks restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with fresh salads, sandwiches, and seafood on the menu. Breakfast is incredibly affordable for the value, and any other time, please don’t skip the seafood trio!

Read More: 20 Great Things to Do in Duck (for Your Best Vacation!)

(THE Original) Duck Donuts

Address: 1190 Duck Rd, Duck, NC
Website

Sure, you’ve probably seen Duck Donuts scattered across the Outer Banks, and we even have a franchise in Durham… But trust us when we say you need to make a stop at the original Duck Donuts in Duck.

Made to order, the donuts are piping hot and dripping with custom glaze combinations. Known for their maple bacon donuts, the flavor combinations are endless!

You truly haven’t had an Outer Banks vacation without a stop at Duck Donuts!

Read More: 7 Awesome Coastal NC Lighthouses (+ How to Visit Them All!)

NC Coast and Grill

Address: 1184 Duck Rd, Duck, NC
Website

Duck is famous for its sunsets, and there is no better Outer Banks restaurant to enjoy one from than NC Coast and Grill. With an impressive cocktail menu and friendly staff, NC Coast and Grill was one of our favorite meals in Duck.

Please make reservations if you can and trust me when I say, ask about the Chef’s Board. Not advertised on the menu, the Chef’s Board is a sampling of the menu and truly a foodie dream.

Priced per person, we feasted on delicately fried crab cakes, pork belly roasted oysters, filet mignon, and crispy pork shanks. And if you’re lucky enough to dine outside during sunset, you’ll get an extra special treat.

Also (because I’m nosey…) this pier is associated with NC Coast and Grill and can be rented for a romantic sunset meal. Maybe even the best place to propose (wink wink!)

Read More: Sanderling Resort in Duck (+ 7 Things We Love About It!)

The Roadside Bar & Grill

Address: 1193 Duck Rd, Duck, NC
Website

Tucked away and in a renovated cedar-shaped house, The Roadside Bar and Grill is one of the best restaurants in Duck. Serving delicious southern fare with fun décor, The Roadside offers an ambiance that sets It above the rest.

Live jazz in the evenings, plenty of outdoor seating, and a relaxed atmosphere are what keep hungry beach-goers coming back year after year.

The Village Table & Tavern

Address: 1314 Duck Road, Duck, NC
Website

Overlooking the seemingly vast Currituck Sound, The Village Table and Tavern (formerly The Village Cafe & Tavern) is an Outer Banks restaurant serving casual yet elevated dining choices.

Overlook the often-quiet water with something from their expansive beer and wine list and delectable menu. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner, so remember that when you’re looking for a restaurant in Duck.

Outer Banks Restaurants in Kitty Hawk NC

If you’re planning an Outer Banks vacation and searching for where to eat in Kitty Hawk, check out these can’t-miss restaurants.

Black Pelican

Address: 3848 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC
Website

One of the coolest things about Black Pelican is the building that houses it. Built in 1874 as a lifesaving station, the Wright Brothers sent the telegraph announcing their successful first flight from here!

As close as one can get to the beach, and yes, there’s an access point here, the location is another reason Black Pelican is high on many locals’ and frequent OBX visitors’ lists.

Now for the menu, which is really why we love Black Pelican.

Fresh seafood dishes, an extensive menu for landlubbers, and even incredible pizzas make this a restaurant for the whole family.

Just make sure someone orders the Scallops St. Jacque, sweet Atlantic sea scallops carefully baked with creamy, roasted tomatoes and mushrooms, smoked gouda, mashed potatoes, and a golden puff pastry.

Now that you know, there is no excuse.

Read More: Wright Brothers National Memorial (How to See “First in Flight”)

I Got Your Crabs

Address: 3809 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC
Website

I Got Your Crabs is fresh, delicious, and definitely busy! It’s also locally owned, family-operated, and one of the best places to get fresh Outer Banks blue crabs in season.

If you want to dine in or grab a bushel for your beach house, these fishermen are working hard to provide locally caught seafood!

From live, steamed, and fried, there’s no shortage of fresh seafood. Grab a sandwich, seafood plate, or our favorite—heavily seasoned Medium Jimmy.

Those dozen blue crabs are some of the tastiest seafood you’ll find on the barrier islands!

Trio

Address: 3708 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC
Website

With hundreds of beer labels and thousands of wine bottles in-house, it’s almost easy to forget that TRiO in Kitty Hawk (formerly OBX Trio) serves up really delicious food to soak it all up.

Then, to top off the trifecta, you’ll find a great assortment of cheeses from all over the world. A perfect pair for a baguette, soppressata, and anything else on their tasty menu.

The fun continues through dinner, where you can choose from appetizers, large plates, and charcuterie to go along with more of that wonderful cheese.

Read More: Off-season in The Outer Banks

Rundown

Address: 5218 Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC
Website

If you’re looking for one of the best restaurants in the Outer Banks, Rundown in Kitty Hawk deserves a spot on your list.

A longtime OBX favorite since 1993, the oceanfront restaurant has recently undergone a stunning reimagining that blends elevated coastal dining with the laid-back beach atmosphere people have loved for decades.

The refreshed space feels warm and effortlessly coastal, with vintage-inspired touches, natural textures, candlelit corners, and handcrafted cocktails that encourage you to linger a while.

One of the biggest draws is still the location itself.

Guests can enjoy dinner and drinks while listening to the waves crash just outside, something that has become increasingly rare along the Outer Banks beachfront.

The menu continues to showcase the Caribbean, Polynesian, and globally inspired coastal flavors Rundown Cafe has always been known for, while adding a more elevated approach to seafood and cocktails.

Add in live jazz nights and a relaxed beach-town energy, and it feels less like a quick dinner stop and more like a full evening experience.

Rather than completely reinventing itself, Rundown has preserved the charm and legacy that made it an OBX staple while confidently stepping into its next chapter.

Stack’em High Pancakes and So Forth

Nags Head Address: 1225 S Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC
Kitty Hawk Address: 3801 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC
Website

Filling tables and bellies since 1985, Stack’em High Pancakes and So Forth is the perfect breakfast spot for your stay in the Outer Banks. It’s served up cafeteria-style, and you grab a tray as you did in elementary school.

Choose grab-and-go items like fruit, muffins, or yogurt, and then place your hot food order at the end.

Known for their signature light and fluffy pancakes, Stack’em High Pancakes and So Forth also has scrumptious waffles and traditional eggs and meat sides.

You can also take home their Original Pancake/Waffle Mix!

Outer Banks Restaurants in Kill Devil Hills NC

Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar

Address: 2106 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC
Website

Locally sourcing their oysters from the Outer Banks, Awful Arthur’s is the best raw bar and restaurant in the Outer Banks! Everything is steamed to order, and you can guarantee a friendly and delicious experience.

If you don’t get the oysters at Awful Arthur’s, you are missing out! Awful Arthur’s was the first of its kind to open 35 years ago, and the quality has stayed the same.

So order a peck of raw oysters and leave room for some of their incredible steamed shrimp!

Food Dude’s Kitchen

Address: 1216 S Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC
Website

“Quality Food with Laid Back Vibes” isn’t all you’ll get from Food Dude’s Kitchen! You’ll also find a Caribbean-inspired menu fused with delicious local seafood at this small shop in Kill Devil Hills. All their dishes are packed with flavor.

Jerk chicken, blackened fish, and the most mouthwatering nachos you’ll ever taste just a few of their signature menu items. And trust us, you’ll keep coming back.

While you wait for a return trip, you can drool over their menu items and specials on FDK’s Instagram!

Goombays Grille & Raw Bar

Address: 1608 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC
Website

 A local favorite with bright and vibrant décor, Goombays is a tropical-themed restaurant and raw bar that makes eating in the Outer Banks a memorable experience.

From the wall of vintage license plates to the tropical drinks, the cocktail hour is strong! So grab a Goombay’s Smash or a Kill Devil Smash which features Kill Devil Rum or choose from one of the 50 craft beers including many North Carolina favorites!

Oh, and don’t think just because they have amazing cocktails that it isn’t kid-friendly! If the fish tank doesn’t keep your little one occupied then the kid mocktails that come with a little toy will!

Kill Devil Grill

Address: 2008 South Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC
Website

When we originally posted this guide, we got a little bit of flack for leaving out Kill Devil Grill. However, it’s a key institution in the OBX food scene, and we knew we had to rectify it on our next trip.

This place’s interior takes on the classic American diner, mixed with random vintage décor.

If you’re want to sum up the vibe inside, think punk rock meets the Happy Days. However, the food is what should really draw you there. Featuring fresh seafood, juicy burgers, and award-winning desserts, there was nothing that wasn’t absolutely delicious!

And if you’re looking to visit on a specific day, be sure to check KDG’s Facebook page for their Chalkboard specials!

Mama Kwans

Address: 1701 S Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC
Website

These are the best Mahi Mahi tacos you’ll find in North Carolina! Mama Kwans Tiki Bar and Grill is an Outer Banks restaurant not to be missed.

The flavors at Mama Kwans are bursting with Pacific flavor and freshness. Order the tacos (blackened, trust us) and a side of the sesame seaweed salad. Oh! And don’t skip the Hawaiian Iced Coffee!

Outer Banks Restaurants in Nags Head NC

Biscuits N’ P*rn

Address: 2112 S Croatan Highway, Nags Head, NC
Facebook Page

Didn’t you know that biscuits and p*rn go together!? Just kidding… but in the Outer Banks, they do! Biscuits N’ P*rn isn’t really a restaurant but a convenience store that features the best drop biscuits in North Carolina.

The Stop Quik food joint serves two kinds of biscuits- plain and cheese stuff with any of the meat choices you so desire.

The name, though? It’s both a smart marketing ploy and a name that just stuck.

Like most convenience stores in the early 2000s, there was a rack of adult magazines somewhere around the deli.

The name stuck- but one can also argue that it’s also because it’s some major #foodporn. So if you see someone walking around with a Biscuits N’ P*rn t-shirt, give them a high five!

Read More: 30+ Amazing NC Coastal Towns (+ Things to Do in Each One!)

Tale of the Whale

Address: 7575 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC
Website

Looking for an upscale option for dinner? Tale of the Whale is the spot to dine overlooking the Roanoke Sound. Located at Whalebone Junction, live music fills this dinner-only steak and seafood restaurant that has been family-owned and operated since 1980.

Come hungry as the portions at Tale of the Whale are, well, whale-like! If you’re in the mood for surf and turf, surf, or turf, either way is a fun adventure.

Tortugas’ Lie

Address: 3016 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC
Website

One of my first experiences with Outer Banks restaurants has stuck with me for more than 10 years. I remember the cool and funky décor, the open bar seating, and, above all, the fresh Caribbean flavors.

Tortugas’ Lie is probably one of the most recommended Outer Banks restaurants, and trust us when we say we agree!

This Nags Head favorite serves up Pork Antonio (jerk-rubbed pork chop), creole crawdads, and some of the best-blackened fish in the barrier islands!

Read More: Jockey’s Ridge State Park: ALL to Know About Those Beautiful Sand Dunes

Mulligan’s Grille

Address: 4005 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC
Website

If you’re searching for the perfect laid-back dog-friendly restaurant in the Outer Banks, Mulligan’s Grille in Nags Head delivers classic OBX vibes from the moment you arrive.

Located on historic Cottage Row near Jockey’s Ridge State Park, this longtime local favorite combines water views, dune views, fresh seafood, and a relaxed beach-town atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

One of the highlights at Mulligan’s is the dog-friendly tiki deck, where guests can enjoy ocean breezes and one of their famous signature crushes made with fresh-squeezed fruit.

The menu focuses on coastal comfort food, with standout dishes like the stuffed crab pretzel, soft-shell crab tacos, shrimp tacos, shrimp and grits, and their legendary burger topped with fresh crab.

What makes Mulligan’s even more special is its commitment to local ingredients. Produce is sourced from farms in Currituck County, while green tail shrimp and oysters come straight from Pamlico Sound, giving the menu a true taste of coastal North Carolina.

Whether you’re stopping in for sunset drinks, fresh seafood, or a casual dinner after exploring the dunes, Mulligan’s is one of the best places to eat in Nags Head.

Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant

Address: 6916 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC
Website

With sound-side views and ample parking, Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant is a delightful place to grab dinner while vacationing in the Outer Banks.

The food is fresh and the catch of the day is always remarkable. While vacationing, we try to eat as much grilled seafood as possible, and Miller’s always delivers delicious results.

Oh- and did we mention that there are magical sunsets at Miller’s? The restaurant’s second floor is the Sunset Bar & Grill, serving delicious cocktails, a great selection of craft beers, and the best views in Nags Head.

Sit outside and catch views of people enjoying watersports on the sound. Causeway Watersports is next to the restaurant and we watched as several parasails came in for a close landing!

Read More: 7 Wonderful Aquariums in North Carolina and How to Visit them All!

Waverider’s Coffee, Deli, & Pub

Address: 3022 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC
Website

We had to include two on Nags Head, mainly because of the awesome things happening at Waveriders Coffee, Deli, & Pub.

Right off Croatan Highway and close to Bonnett Street Beach Access, this is one of the best Outer Banks restaurants. Unfortunately for you (fortunately for Waveriders!), get in early because Waverider’s gets busy.

Don’t worry, though, because you can join and enjoy their amazing food and drinks. You can also grab a board game and hang out with friends before and after eating.

We recommend you order either the Waverider (Chicken, Pepperoni, Provolone on Rye) or the Black Bean Burger, which is one of the best light options you’ll find in the Outer Banks.

During another visit, Christina devoured a Roast Beef & Cheddar. As you can see, this place has something for every visit.

Read More: 10 Great Outer Banks Hiking Trails for Kids (and Adults, Too!)

Outer Banks Restaurants in Manteo NC

If you’re traveling US-64 the whole way to the OBX, then you’ll pass Manteo on Roanoke Island. These iconic places await for you to enjoy a meal, a drink, or both!

Lost Colony Brewery

Address: 208 Queen Elizabeth St, Manteo, NC
Website

Dubbed as the “home town restaurant where first dates, prom dates, wedding proposals” and more have taken place for more than 20 years, Lost Colony Brewery is both a craft brewing and café serving delicious food.

Located along the water in the historic town of Manteo, guests can expect fresh seafood, a wide selection of sandwiches, and elevated appetizers.

Don’t forget to wash it down with a brew! Pouring British and Irish-style beers, we recommend getting a flight to taste them all!

Read More: The Best North Carolina Breweries

Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop

Address: 303 Queen Elizabeth Ave, Manteo, NC
Website

Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop is an institution in the Outer Banks. Serving up incredible sandwiches since 1984, Poor Richard’s is located on the waterfront in Manteo and makes for a perfect lunch stop.

The deli menu ranges from classic Italian subs to inventive burgers. There is always a line at Poor Richard’s, but we guarantee that it is worth the wait. Enjoy your sandwich while overlooking the docked boats at the Manteo Waterfront.

If you swing by Poor Richard’s in the evenings it will have a completely different feel. The deli turns into a lively pub atmosphere with live music upstairs and cold delicious beers.

Read More: 100+ of the Best Hiking Trails in North Carolina

Outer Banks Restaurants in Avon NC

Pangea Tavern

Address: 41001 NC-12, Avon, NC
Website

With a large selection of craft beers and a beautiful beer garden, Pangea Tavern is one of the best restaurants in Avon. Overlooking the beach from the popular Koru Village, the food is also something to write home about!

Fresh seafood with an emphasis on locally sourced, Pangea Tavern is above the rest! So make sure to slug down on of their 14 North Carolina craft beers on tap and enjoy your meal!

Read More: How to Enjoy the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island (7 Important Tips!)

Outer Banks Restaurants in Buxton NC

Buxton Munch

Address: 47359 Highway 12 Osprey Shopping Center, Buxton, NC
Website

Buxton Munch has been serving up delicious seafood and “goovy” food for over twenty years. So it’s no surprise that this is one of our readers’ most recommended Outer Banks restaurants.

With house rules like “Be nice, Be Happy, Be Patient, Be Mellow,” you know this isn’t a place to expect to quickly pop in and out.

Using high-quality ingredients, Buxton Munch is considered a local secret- but we’re letting the cat out of the bag! Grab some of their delicious blackened rockfish tacos or incredible crab cakes!

This Hatteras Island gem is a must-visit!

Orange Blossom Bakery

Address: 47206 NC-12, Buxton, NC
Website

Famous for their Apple Uglies, everyone and their mamma drives down to Buxton for Orange Blossom Bakery! The Apply Uglies are huge, ugly, and can feed an army. But man, are they literally something to write home about!

If you are still hungry after splitting an Apple Ugly with 4 friends, then Orange Blossom Bakery also has some of the best biscuits on the Outer Banks!

So grab some donuts and turnovers and you will have all the baked goods you’ll need for your Outer Banks trip.

Read More: The Best Beaches in North Carolina

OBX Restaurants on Ocracoke Island NC

This list of Ocracoke Island Restaurants is just a snapshot of what the island has to offer! Make sure to read our full guide to restaurants on Ocracoke Island and save room in your belly for more incredible Outer Banks restaurants.

Read More: Portsmouth Island (How to See this Beautiful Uninhabited Place)

Howard’s Pub

Address: 1175 Irvin Garrish Highway, Ocracoke, NC
Website

Before we ever set foot here, Howard’s Pub was one of the most recommended Ocracoke Island restaurants by many of our readers! Why?

Because as you’ll learn, this seasonally open place is loved and cherished by both locals and tourists alike. The casual vibe pairs nicely with the pub fare- and seafood-packed menu. 

Howard’s Pub also offers outdoor seating with ocean and sound-side views. It’s located at the very end of the Village, but don’t worry, golf carters, you can still park here! 

Another reason to love Howard’s Pub is that it’s great for traveling as a family. Kids’ meals are served on branded Frisbees that you can take to the beach and toss around!

Read More: Ocracoke Lighthouse (How to Visit NC’s Smallest Lighthouse!)

SmacNally’s

Address: 180 Irvin Garrish Highway, Ocracoke, NC
Website

SmacNally’s is the only waterfront restaurant on Ocracoke and one of the most highly recommended by locals! Featuring live music and plenty of outdoor dining, this place sources its meals straight from the docks.

Also known for mimosas and beer towers, we hope you stay long enough to watch the sunset over the harbor. Any meal on Ocracoke Island is magical, but one at SmacNally’s is extra special. 

Read More: 20+ Things to Do on Ocracoke Island (Beaches and More!)

Hungry for these Outer Banks Restaurants?

So are you hungry for more Outer Banks food? Ever been to any of these Outer Banks restaurants? If not, which one would you like to visit first? If you’re still thinking of things to do beyond these awesome restaurants, check out our OBX travel guide.

It includes eats, but also many things you’ll want to do and see during your Outer Banks vacation. Either way, we hope you enjoy your trip to the Outer Banks.

We also look forward to hearing about how your vacation went. As always, feel free to contact us and let us know!

More Outer Banks Things to Do

We’ve written many more NC travel guides to complement these wonderful OBX restaurants. Here are a few of them.