The Outer Banks, a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands along the North Carolina coast, is a popular vacation destination known for its natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreational activities. While many visitors come to the Outer Banks to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, the region is also renowned for its vibrant food scene, which offers a diverse range of culinary delights to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to traditional Southern comfort food, and from casual beach eats to fine dining establishments, the Outer Banks has something for everyone.
Best Seafood Restaurants in Outer Banks
The Outer Banks is famous for its fresh seafood, and visitors can indulge in a wide variety of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans at one of the many excellent seafood restaurants in the region. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in Outer Banks:
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1. The Blue Point
Located in Duck, The Blue Point is a popular seafood restaurant that offers a range of fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, shrimp, and lobster. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.
2. The Fish Hook Grille
In Nags Head, The Fish Hook Grille is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, serving up fresh seafood dishes like fish tacos, shrimp and grits, and lobster rolls.
3. John’s Drive-In
This casual drive-in restaurant in Nags Head has been serving up fresh seafood and burgers for over 60 years. Try their famous fish sandwiches or seafood baskets.
4. The Oyster House
In Manteo, The Oyster House is a must-visit for oyster lovers, offering a range of oyster dishes, including oyster po’ boys, oyster burgers, and oyster stew.
5. The Sanderling Resort’s Kimball’s Kitchen
Located in Duck, Kimball’s Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up creative seafood dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Best Southern Comfort Food in Outer Banks
While the Outer Banks is famous for its seafood, the region is also home to some excellent Southern comfort food restaurants. Here are some of the best Southern comfort food spots in Outer Banks:
1. The Blue Crab Cafe
In Manteo, The Blue Crab Cafe serves up classic Southern comfort food, including shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and burgers. (See Also: Where to Eat Breakfast in Pigeon Forge? Best Bites)
2. The Fishbowl Restaurant and Bar
In Nags Head, The Fishbowl Restaurant and Bar offers a range of Southern comfort food dishes, including fish and chips, burgers, and sandwiches.
3. The Outer Banks Brewing Station
This brewery and restaurant in Kill Devil Hills serves up a range of Southern comfort food dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
4. The Sanderling Resort’s Kimball’s Kitchen
Kimball’s Kitchen, located in Duck, also serves up Southern comfort food dishes, including shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and burgers.
5. The Village Table and Tavern
In Duck, The Village Table and Tavern offers a range of Southern comfort food dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Best Beach Eats in Outer Banks
When you’re looking for a quick and casual bite to eat while you’re enjoying the beach, the Outer Banks has plenty of options. Here are some of the best beach eats in Outer Banks:
1. The Beachcomber
In Nags Head, The Beachcomber is a popular beachside restaurant that serves up burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
2. The Lifeguard Station
In Kill Devil Hills, The Lifeguard Station is a casual beachside eatery that serves up burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches.
3. The Outer Banks Beach Grill
In Kitty Hawk, The Outer Banks Beach Grill is a popular spot for beachgoers, serving up burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches.
4. The Beach House Grille
In Duck, The Beach House Grille is a casual beachside restaurant that serves up burgers, sandwiches, and salads. (See Also: Where to Eat in Subic Olongapo? Foodie Guide)
5. The Waterman’s Grill
In Nags Head, The Waterman’s Grill is a popular spot for beachgoers, serving up burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches.
Best Fine Dining in Outer Banks
For a special occasion or a romantic evening out, the Outer Banks has some excellent fine dining options. Here are some of the best fine dining restaurants in Outer Banks:
1. The Sanderling Resort’s Kimball’s Kitchen
Kimball’s Kitchen, located in Duck, offers a range of fine dining options, including seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes.
2. The Inn at Pamlico Sound’s The Dining Room
In Buxton, The Dining Room at The Inn at Pamlico Sound offers a range of fine dining options, including seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes.
3. The Blue Point
The Blue Point, located in Duck, offers a range of fine dining options, including seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes.
4. The Fish Hook Grille
The Fish Hook Grille, located in Nags Head, offers a range of fine dining options, including seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes.
5. The Village Table and Tavern
The Village Table and Tavern, located in Duck, offers a range of fine dining options, including seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes.
Recap
The Outer Banks is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to traditional Southern comfort food, and from casual beach eats to fine dining establishments, the region has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a special occasion meal, the Outer Banks has plenty of options to choose from. (See Also: Where to Eat in Hakone Japan? Culinary Delights)
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to get around the Outer Banks?
A: The best way to get around the Outer Banks is by car, as public transportation options are limited. However, there are also plenty of bike rental shops and taxi services available.
Q: What is the best time to visit the Outer Banks?
A: The best time to visit the Outer Banks is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Summer is also a popular time to visit, but it can get quite hot and humid.
Q: Are there any all-inclusive resorts in the Outer Banks?
A: Yes, there are several all-inclusive resorts in the Outer Banks, including the Sanderling Resort and the Inn at Pamlico Sound. These resorts offer a range of amenities and activities, including dining, golfing, and water sports.
Q: Can I bring my pet to the Outer Banks?
A: Yes, many of the Outer Banks’ beaches and restaurants are pet-friendly. However, it’s always best to check with your accommodations provider or the specific location before bringing your pet.
Q: Are there any outdoor activities to do in the Outer Banks?
A: Yes, the Outer Banks is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. The region is also home to several state and national parks, including the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway.
