Published by Christina Riley. Last Updated on February 29, 2024.
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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
- Ocraco*ke
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
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
- Cravings
- Duck Donuts (Original)
- NC Coast and Grill
- The Roadside
- Kitty Hawk
- Black Pelican
- I Got Your Crabs
- Mama Kwans
- OBX Trio
- Rundown Cafe
- Stack ’em High Pancakes
- Kill Devil Hills
- Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar
- Food Dude’s Kitchen
- Goombays
- Kill Devil Grill
- Nags Head
- Biscuits N’ p*rn
- Tale of the Whale
- Tortugas’ Lie
- 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
- Ocraco*ke
- Plum Pointe Kitchen & 1718 Brewing
- Eduardo’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 NC -12, Corolla, NC
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 Outer Banks restaurants. 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
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 out of 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
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
Cravings
Address: 1209 Duck Rd, Duck, NC
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!)
Duck Donuts
Address: 1190 Duck Rd, Duck, NC
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
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 co*cktail 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
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 ambiance is one of the things that sets The Roadside 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 Cafe and Tavern
Address: 1314 Duck Road, Duck, NC
Overlooking the Currituck Sound, The Village Cafe and Tavern is an Outer Banks restaurant that serves casual yet elevated dining choices. Overlook the water and enjoy their expansive beer and wine list and delectable menu options. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner when looking for a restaurant in Duck.
Outer Banks Restaurants in Kitty Hawk NC
Black Pelican
3848 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
One of the coolest things about Black Pelican is that the building is an 1874 former lifesaving station! It was from this building that the Wright Brothers sent the telegraph announcing their successful first flight!
Right up on the beach (with beach access!), Black Pelican comes highly recommended by locals and frequent OBX vacationers.
Fresh seafood dishes, an extensive menu for landlubbers, and even incredible pizzas, Black Pelican, is a restaurant for the whole family. And make sure someone at your table orders the Scallops St. Jacque for the adorable puff pastry fish!
Read More: Wright Brothers National Memorial (How to See “First in Flight”)
I Got Your Crabs
Address: 3809 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC
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. That dozen blue crab is some of the tastiest seafood you’ll find on the barrier islands!
Mama Kwans
Address: 1701 S Croatan Highway, Kitty Hawk, NC
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!
OBX Trio
Address: 3708 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC
With hundreds of beer labels and thousands of wine bottles in-house, it’s almost easy to forget that OBX TRiO in Kitty Hawk 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.
They perfectly pair with a baguette, soppressata, and the rest that makes up Trio’s European Breakfast, which you’ll find on their brunch 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 Cafe
Address: 5218 Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC
Ocean views, live music, and Polynesian food with a laid-back vibe?! Sign us up for a meal at Rundown Cafe. The ocean view deck is the perfect place to sit and soak up the waves while local bands play every night during the summer.
A beautiful mural and tiki decor make the perfect backdrop for soaking up the most of your Outer Banks vacation. Make sure to order their namesake traditional Jamaican soup and the Hawaiian Poke Bowl!
Another added bonus to Rundown Cafe is that they are family and kid-friendly!
Stack’em High Pancakes and So Forth
Address: 3801 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC
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
Locally sourcing their oysters from the Outer Banks, Awful Arthur’s is the best raw bars and restaurants 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
“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
Address: 1608 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC
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 co*cktail 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 co*cktails 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
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!
Outer Banks Restaurants in Nags Head NC
Biscuits N’ P*rn
Address: 2112 S Croatan Highway, Nags Head, NC
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 convenient 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 #foodp*rn. 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
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! The she-crab soup and grilled fish trio are definitely a top order! But if you’re in the mood for surf and turf, that is also highly recommended!
Tortugas’ Lie
Address: 3016 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC
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 jerk pork, coconut shrimp, 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
Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant
Address: 6916 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC
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 co*cktails, 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. Kitty Hawk Watersports is located 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
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 (duh!) or the Black Bean Burger, which is one of the best light options you’ll find in the Outer Banks.
Read More: 10 Great Outer Banks Hiking Trails for Kids (and Adults, Too!)
Outer Banks Restaurants in Manteo NC
Lost Colony Brewery
Address: 208 Queen Elizabeth Ave, Manteo, NC
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: 305 Queen Elizabeth St, Manteo, NC
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
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
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 gem on Hatteras Island is a must-eat!
Orange Blossom Bakery
Address: 47206 NC-12, Buxton, NC
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 Ocraco*ke Island NC
This list of Ocraco*ke Island Restaurants is just a snapshot of what the island has to offer! Make sure to read our full guide to restaurants on Ocraco*ke Island and save room in your belly for more incredible Outer Banks restaurants.
Read More: Portsmouth Island (How to See this Beautiful Uninhabited Place)
Plum Pointe Kitchen & 1718 Brewing
Address: 1129 Irvin Garrish Highway, Ocraco*ke, NC
If you find yourself thirsty while on Ocraco*ke, then a stop at the only brewery on the island is a must! 1718 Brewing has a wide selection of craft beers with generous flight pours and the restaurant inside serves up delicious and unusual pub fare.
Our hot tip is to order the crab-stuffed pretzel, some of their sliders, and whatever the fresh catch of the day is!
Read More: Ocraco*ke Lighthouse (How to Visit NC’s Smallest Lighthouse!)
Eduardo’s
Address: 10 Lawton Ln, Ocraco*ke, NC
Many Outer Banks vacationers take the ferry to Ocraco*ke just for a bite at Eduardo’s and it continues to rank high on many foodie bucket lists! Eduardo’s is a taco stand that serves some of the best tacos in North Carolina (and you can quote us on that!)
The hours are short, the menu incredible, and the dining casual. Make sure to enjoy this Outer Banks restaurant on your next trip across the sound!
Read More: 20+ Things to Do on Ocraco*ke 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.
