2018 Restaurants Guide

After a long night at the oceanfront bars of Atlantic Beach, or before a full day exploring the Crystal Coast shoreline, make a stop at 4 Corners Diner. This hearty and centrally located diner is a local landmark of...

Visitors who are taking a stroll along Arendell Street, or who are in the downtown region for a local art show or special event, can satisfy a craving for something different and the Japanese bistro and sushi bar, Akai...

Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant & Bar is the Atlantic Beach go-to for classic southern and coastal fare in a casual, beachy environment. Located on the soundside, across from the Oceana Pier, the restaurant is...

Aqua offers a refined and eclectic dining experience, thanks to a varied menu that features an ever-changing selection of tapas, small plates, and big plates.

Visitors who are in the mood for a casual appetizer or meal, or just a Happy Hour drink after a long day of exploring Downtown Morehead City, can settle into a table or bar stool at Beach Bumz Pub & Pizzeria.

Crystal Coast visitors can hang out with the locals with a visit to Beach Tavern. Centrally located, in the heart of Atlantic Beach just a couple blocks from the shoreline, this casual tavern boasts a nice selection of...

Beaufort Café is a super casual and no-frills destination for breakfast fare that is served in fantastically hearty portions, and always tastes fresh and filling. Located along Highway 70 in the heart of...

Beaufort Grocery Company is garnering a big reputation as a little eatery with lots of options and bold, coastal flavors. Located along quiet Queen Street in the downtown area, this all-encompassing restaurant features...

Nothing says vacation like enjoying an ice cream after a long and sunny day at the beach, and Emerald Isle visitors can treat their taste buds with a visit to one of the most well-known ice cream destinations in the...

Big Apple Pizzeria is a Havelock pizza place that certainly lives up to its “Big” moniker. With an extensive menu, large slices of topping-loaded pies, and dine-in, take-out and delivery options, this eatery...

It can be easy to drive past this cute little hole-in-the-wall eatery, but longtime visitors attest that the Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que is worth a second look. Located in the small beach town of Salter Path, this...

Bistro-by-the-Sea is an inviting restaurant and private banquet facility that is conveniently found in the heart of Morehead City along Arendell Drive. Overseen by husband and wife team Chef Tim and Libby Eaton, the...

Located off the beaten path, in a more residential section of Beaufort, Blackbeard’s Grill and Grog will be a welcome lunch, dinner or Happy Hour destination for anyone who appreciates a good brew and a sea-faring...

Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood just off of busy Front Street, Blue Moon Bistro is an acclaimed destination for elevated cuisine in an intimate and relaxingly casual atmosphere. The historic white home...

Tucked away in a collection of waterfront restaurants and shops on Beaufort’s Front Street, Boardwalk Café is a fine option for visitors who like to enjoy a nice rise and shine with an accompanying...

Though not too fancy, Captain’s Choice Restaurant has a glowing reputation, and is a fine tribute to the Down East local seafood and southern hospitality. Located in the heart of Harkers Island, and a favorite...

Captain’s Table may not be the fanciest dining destination in the Crystal Coast and southern Outer Banks region, but visitors who crave big portions and home cooking will be pleased with the extensive menu and...

The aptly named Channel Marker Restaurant is located on the southern edge of the Atlantic Beach Causeway, and as such, is a fine destination for vacationers to enjoy a stunning open-water view to complement a seafood...

Chefs 105 stands out along the waterfront Evans Street in downtown Morehead City. The unique semi-circular building with a brick façade and lush landscaping will entice patrons before they even settle into a...

Chowdaheads is a kid-friendly and beach lover-approved seafood shack that might not be fancy, but will nevertheless impress Emerald Isle visitors with a hearty menu that doesn’t skimp on the seafood or the flavor.

Circle Pizza is a convenient and popular option for family cooks who want to take an evening off, and enjoy a satisfying meal delivered right to the vacation rental home or hotel room door. Subtly located in a small...

City Kitchen is found within the Town Creek Marina, and is a private and scenic eatery that has a prime waterfront view. The menu changes on a regular basis, and features a number of fresh seafood dishes as well as...

Located along the oceanfront adjacent to the Clamdigger Inn, the Clamdigger Restaurant is a convenient and popular spot for Salter Path vacationers to enjoy a hearty breakfast, lunch or dinner without straying too far...

As the name would suggest, Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant has more than a century of history as a local grocery store, (and then a restaurant), in one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Beaufort. The effortlessly...

Simple no-frills dining meets exceptional southern fare at Cox Family Restaurant – an established and well-loved eatery that’s conveniently found in the heart of Morehead City along central Arendell Street...

Situated on a prime soundfront spot in the beach town of Salter Path, Crab Shack is a prized destination for roll-your-sleeves-up southern seafood feasts in a casual, and yet romantically waterfront destination.

When it comes to beautiful on-the-water views, Crab’s Claw Oceanfront Caribbean Restaurant is pretty hard to beat. Located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean in the heat of Atlantic Beach, this eatery is a...

Crispino’s Pizza is a centrally located and acclaimed pizza joint that caters to hungry families of all tastes. The small pizza restaurant has casual in-house dining for parties large and small, with beer and wine...

The Dock House Restaurant is arguably more famous for its location that its food. Situated in the very center of Waterfront Downtown Beaufort in an extensive, multi-story historical residence, this sprawling eatery...

With two locations in the heart of the Crystal Coast, and a familiar menu that is packed with pizza, appetizers, pasta, and more, Domino’s Pizza is a reliable choice for an easy-going meal that the entire family...

Double J Texas BBQ is a Texas-style barbecue joint that’s located in the heart of busy Havelock along US Highway 70. Featuring rich smoky flavors, the restaurant is known for its diversion from the traditional...

Emerald Isle beachgoers who want to feast on sweet and salty fare will feel right at home at the convenient and always tempting DQ Grill & Chill Restaurant Emerald Isle. Situated just a block or two away from the...

Dragon King is a small Chinese take-out and eat-in restaurant that’s located in the inland residential section of Beaufort, just off of Highway 70. Though simple and unimposing, the establishment is nonetheless a...

El Cerro Mexican Bar and Grill is a colorful and flavorful Mexican restaurant that’s found in the heart of Havelock along Main Street / Highway 70. A local favorite for budget-friendly and traditional Mexican...

Located along busy Arendell Street and flanked by palm trees, El’s Drive-In is a perfect post-beach spot for Crystal Coast vacationers. The small brick restaurant looks like it’s been a classic Morehead City...

Emerald Grill is a casual eatery that attracts hungry vacationers with breakfast and lunch fare that’s available all day long. Located in the heart of Emerald Isle, this convenient spot is a solid option for a big...

Waterfront Finz Grill & Eatery has a casual and vibrant surfer vibe that pops off the pages of the colorful menu and trickles into the laid-back cuisine. Located along a quieter western corner of Beaufort’s...

The Fish Hook Grill is a small but charming restaurant with a big reputation for fresh seafood and decadently tasty desserts. Located in the heart of Harkers Island, this local mom and pop restaurant is sure to charm...

Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant and Catering is a longstanding Morehead City destination for inspired lunch, dinner and catering services, and has been a Crystal Coast landmark of sorts since first opening its doors in...

Frank and Clara’s Restaurant and Lounge is a relatively simple seafood restaurant that has a solid nightlife scene on the weekends, as well as a convenient location in the heart of Salter Path. Close to a number...

Located on the western edge of waterfront Downtown Beaufort, Front Street Grill is a fine spot for Crystal Coast visitors and Intracoastal mariners to take a break from exploring, and enjoy a drink and a meal with an...

Frost Seafood House is a classic seafood restaurant that has been a Salter Path fixture since opening in 1956 as the Sinclair Gas Station and on-site “Sportsman Café.” Serving dinner, as well as...

Settle in for a bright and cheerful start to the morning with a hearty breakfast or lunch at Georgia B’s This small and colorful restaurant is found on the edge of Downtown Morehead City along Arendell Street, and...

Vacationers who are staying in the Emerald Isle region don’t even have to cross the bridge to the mainland to satisfy a Chinese food craving, thanks to Great Wall. Located along Emerald Isle Drive, this sit-down...

Visitors and locals in the mood for familiar flavors and hearty fare can head to this popular destination that has all of a food fan’s favorite dishes on the menu. Serving breakfast all day long and late into the...

Tucked away along busy Arendell Street in central Morehead City, Ioanni's Grill is a fine destination for visitors and locals who are in the mood for something a little different. Specializing in pizza, pasta, Italian...

Jackie’s American Grill is a bar and grill for the foodie crowd, with a menu that takes pub favorites and elevates them to new heights with unique twists and flavors. Located along Coast Guard Road in the heart of...

Jordan’s House of Seafood has a bit of a retro look inside and out, but seafood and southern food fans will be pleased with the menu which features all the beachy classics, from fried popcorn shrimp to hushpuppies.

Kathryn’s is a chic little bistro in the heart of Emerald Isle that is sure to appeal to food lovers, martini fans, and wine aficionados alike. The small restaurant features a rich menu of rotating specialties and...

Though small and almost hidden in a bustling section of Atlantic Beach along Fort Macon Road, Kelli’s At the Beach is nonetheless a famed steak and seafood restaurant with a local following and plenty of...

When it comes to classic southern home cooking, Crystal Coast visitors will find it hard to find a larger selection or a more down-home atmosphere than Morehead City’s Kountry Kitchen. This family restaurant...

Heralded by some Havelock locals and visitors as one of the best spots for authentic Mexican cuisine, La Casa del Patrón is impressing patrons with a wide menu that includes the staples as well as traditional and...

Hungry Emerald Isle vacationers won’t be disappointed by the ridiculously huge pizzas that are served up regularly by Lazzara’s Pizza & Subs. With gigantic slices and rich toppings, as well as other...

Crystal Coast vacationers can satisfy a pizza craving with a quick visit to Luigi’s Pizza. Well-known among Carteret County locals as one of the most satisfying pies around, Luigi’s features gigantic, New...

McCurdy’s Restaurant & Deck is an easy-to-find waterfront eatery which is perched on the Causeway that connects Morehead City and Atlantic Beach. Specializing in fresh seafood and grilled meats and proteins...

Emerald Isle visitors with a ravenous appetite for a hearty breakfast or lunch can head on down to Mike’s Place. This casual but friendly restaurant serves up big plates and lots of variety, and is a popular spot...

Dive into a satisfying dinner experience with a visit to Minoda’s Japanese Steak House, Izakaya & Sushi Bar. This expansive restaurant is found along Highway 70 on the edges of Morehead City, and offers a...

Molly's Beachside Bar & Grill is found adjacent to the sky-high DoubleTree Hotel, and is a casual hang-out for hotel guests and beach-goers alike. Perched on the oceanfront and steps away from the sand, the...

Monkey Bar & Grill is a local joint with a casual atmosphere and a variety of fun eats that will appeal to visitors of all ages and tastes. Located in the heart of Atlantic Beach, and an easy drive away from the...

Though the exterior of Musashi Japanese Steak & Seafood Restaurant may dissuade new patrons from thinking of the restaurant as a “date night” destination, the cozy interior and beautifully composed...

An Atlantic Beach staple for more than 25 years, the small but colorful New York Deli is a favorite spot for vacationers crossing the Atlantic Beach Causeway to fill up on fast lunches and fare to enjoy alongside the...

Don’t let the name – or rather, the lack of a name – fool you. No Name Pizza and Subs is a popular eatery that has been a local and longtime vacationer recommendation since it first opened in 1982...

Oki’s Japanese Restaurant has a somewhat unusual location next to a gas station in a small and primarily residential section of Havelock. But visitors who take a chance on this restaurant that’s easy to miss...

Don’t let the name fool you - Old Salt Restaurant & Oyster Bar will cater to modern tastes, as well as classic seafood fans, with a wide selection of menu items that make good use of the local sea-faring...

This small café and bakery that’s located on the corner of a shopping plaza in the heart of commercial Havelock is a slowed-down breath of fresh air for casual lunch goers. Featuring a wealth of soups...

Parrott’s on 11this a carefully crafted neighborhood restaurant that has plenty of warm southern hospitality and historic appeal. Found within the original Phillips Bell house – a historic residence in...

Crystal Coast vacationers who want to eat where the locals eat should make a stop at Pete’s Diner. Located in a happening section of Arendell Street on the borders of the Downtown region, the seasonally-opened...

Vacationers who are exploring the abundance of stores and shopping centers along Arendell Street and Highway 70 can enjoy a relaxed and refreshing lunch at the Pita Plate. Specializing in easy-going Greek and Lebanese...

Situated in the heart of Emerald Isle, Pizza Inn is a popular destination for vacationers who want to feast on slice after slice of mouth-watering pizza varieties, or who want to pick up a few pies to enjoy at the beach...

Plaza Mexico Restaurant Bar and Grill is a lively spot in Emerald Isle that serves up ice cold drinks and traditional Mexican cuisine in a casually cool atmosphere, The interior features a nice bar area, dimmed...

Port Of Call is a classic seafood restaurant that’s located along the Bogue Sound just off of the main road that cuts through Atlantic Beach and Salter Path, and as such, boasts a prime vantage point for...

Queen Anne’s Revenge is a warm weather favorite for locals and visitors alike, thanks to an array of indoor and outdoor seating that takes full advantage of this eatery’s prime location on Front Street...

Diners can admire the adjacent Morehead City waterfront while dining on a feast of fresh local seafood with a visit to Red Fish Grill. Located in the heart of the downtown area, this small but popular eatery has a...

Resort Grill, a tropically-adorned breakfast and lunch joint that’s found just off of Fort Macon Road in Atlantic Beach, is a good place for beach-goers to start their day, or for night owls to recoup after a...

Fresh seafood, homemade sauces, perfectly cooked beef, and nightly specials are all hallmarks of the acclaimed Riverside Steak And Seafood in the coastal town of Swansboro. Located within a historic 1915 former home...

Visitors who love a big southern meal will appreciate Roland’s Barbecue. Located in a primarily residential section of inland Beaufort, this local favorite features a lengthy and varied menu that’s heavy on...

Roma Pizza & Subs is a well-reviewed take-out and dine-in pizza joint that is centrally located along Fort Macon Road in the heart of Atlantic Beach. Known as the preferred destination for post-beach pizza, this...

The Royal James Café is a small destination located just off of Downtown Beaufort’s on-the-water Front Street, and is a local institution of sorts. A hang-out spot and restaurant since it was first opened...

Everyone in the family can find something to sink their teeth into at Rucker Johns – a family-run restaurant that has been a favorite Emerald Isle destination for more than 25 years. Now offering several locations...

Ruddy Ruck Tavern is a popular spot with the Happy Hour crowd, thanks to a fun pub-style atmosphere and a fantastic waterfront location along Evans Street in the heart of Downtown Morehead City. The menu is causal and...

Located just a block away from the Downtown Morehead City waterfront, Sammy’s Seafood House & Oyster Bar is a fine destination for hungry visitors to satisfy a seafood craving. The menu is a fine...

Shark Shack isn’t too fancy and isn’t too big, which is exactly why it’s a favorite local spot for ice cold drinks and easy-going outdoor dining.

Locally-owned SoundSide Restaurant is a top destination for seafood and steak fans, with a friendly atmosphere and convenient locale along Highway 70 / Arendell Street. The restaurant utilizes a wealth of top...

Beachgoers on the hunt for something refreshing and filling will appreciate colorful Sub Tropics – a small sandwich, wrap and smoothie spot that’s located in the heart of Atlantic Beach, just off the...

Surfari Restaurant and Bar is a casual eatery with a fun and cool atmosphere, and a stellar location that’s just a block away from Atlantic Beach’s oceanfront. Featuring a decidedly surfer vibe, the...

Taste of China is a small take-out Chinese restaurant that’s located in between several general grocery stores in the heart of residential Beaufort, just off of Highway 70. Though easy to miss, Taste of China is...

Taylor’s Creek Grocery is a charming grocery store / restaurant / bakery that is perfectly suited as a catch-all destination for all things grub and grog in inherently coastal Beaufort. Located just off of...

Settle in for a big hearty breakfast or a post-beach lunch with a visit to The Banks Grill. Known for classic breakfast and mid-meal staples, this small restaurant with a diner-style menu has a loyal following among...

The Cedars Inn Restaurant is subtly tucked away in Downtown Beaufort, (just a shell’s throw from the waterfront and local attractions like the North Carolina Maritime Museum), and offers fine upscale fare to go...

Enjoy a garden of Thai delicacies with a visit to The Old Siam. Located within a subtle but welcoming and well-sized wooden structure along Arendell Street, this restaurant is a favorite destination for Crystal Coast...

The Shark’s Den Sports Bar & Grill is a fine destination for Emerald Isle sports lovers and hungry beachgoers alike. The extensive menu, which features an array of pub-worthy fare that goes well with a...

Don’t let the warehouse-style exterior and a secretive location in the midst of inland Beaufort sway you from visiting The Spot. This famed hamburger joint has been a local favorite since first opening in 1950...

Settle into a front row view of the Downtown Beaufort Harborfront, Taylor Creek and the Rachel Carson Reserve with a waterfront table at The Spouter Inn. This highly acclaimed Front Street restaurant and bakery has been...

The Village Market is a favorite Emerald Isle spot for visitors and locals alike for hearty breakfasts, fresh lunches, and a cool atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing with one of the eatery’s many...

Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company is a haven for Morehead City beer lovers, thanks to an extensive selection of more than 30 craft beers on tap. Most varieties are regional, and change regularly with the season...

Tsunami Buffet is where the locals go for an all-you-can eat feast that has every Japanese dish under the sun. Located in a busy section of Morehead City, and surrounded by shopping centers and large department stores...

White Swan Bar-B-Q & Fried Chicken, which straddles the borders of Atlantic Beach and Salter Path, is an easy stop for Atlantic Beach visitors who want to enjoy a quick breakfast, or pick up a hearty meal for a...