2025 Southern Guide

The flavors of the Crystal Coast and the Down East region of eastern North Carolina are on full display at 34° North Restaurant, an elegant but laid-back eatery that is found just a shell’s throw away from...

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...

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...

Venture just outside the borders of the historic downtown area of New Bern and you’ll come across a popular local eatery that has plenty of variety, good portions, and great fun to go around. Annabelle's of New...

Located on the outskirts of the heart of New Bern, but offering an extensive list of menu items, drinks, and plenty of fun times for everyone in the crew, Attitudes Pub & Grille is a hidden gem destination that...

There’s a treasure trove of baked goods and tempting menu items to be discovered at Baker's Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery, which is a fresh and inviting destination that’s located in the heart of downtown...

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...

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...

After a long day on the golf course, or after a morning of exploring the miles of nature trails in this quiet area, visitors and residents of The Beaufort Club can re-energize or enjoy a romantic evening out without...

From ice cold brews to traditional southern favorites, Captain Ratty's Seafood is a fun and friendly destination where big appetites can easily be catered to. Situated in the historic town of New Bern, this restaurant...

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...

There’s a little something to whet any appetite at Carolina Grill, which is a popular seafood and southern restaurant that’s situated just south of the heart of downtown New Bern. Located in the James City...

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 inside the Inn at Pine Knoll Shores, the Clamdigger Restaurant is a convenient and popular spot for Crystal Coast vacationers to enjoy a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The restaurant...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Enjoy an easy meal that’s inspired by southern flavors at this unique little eatery that’s located just off the beaten path. Situated in the heart of Downtown Beaufort, Freschi’s Food is a unique...

Located in the downtown New Bern area, and featuring a lengthy menu where seafood is the star, Friday's 1890 Seafood is a fun destination for family members of all ages who want to sink their teeth into coastal fare...

Charming and unique, Full Circle Café is a welcoming destination in the downtown Morehead City area for any diner who appreciates a little creativity and a world of flavor with every meal. Located within a small...

Settle in for a big southern breakfast or lunch without breaking the bank with a visit to the Ghent Sandwich Shop in New Bern. Featuring a hearty menu that is stocked with southern favorites, this small eatery offers...

Whether a sports fan is on the hunt for a fun and friendly hang-out to catch the big game, or a New Bern explorer wants to relax and toast another great day with a cold brew or two, the Half Time Pub & Grub has a...

Dive into uniquely refined cuisine in an almost-oceanfront atmosphere with a visit to Island Grille. Located adjacent to the seashore in Atlantic Beach, Island Grille is a fine destination for a date night, an intimate...

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...

From sumptuous baked goods to classic and creative sandwiches, there’s a lot to discover and love at the Kitchen on Trent. Located on the edge of the downtown area of New Bern, this enticing destination is a great...

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...

Visitors can enjoy a casual and hearty meal that can satisfy the largest of southern appetites with a visit to MJ's Raw Bar & Grille. Located in downtown New Bern, and serving a variety of comfort food-style dishes...

Serving lunch and dinner at one of the most enticing settings in Beaufort, Moonrakers is an inspired destination to enjoy a wealth of fresh local ingredients and creative dishes with a waterfront backdrop. With menus...

Barbecue fans will want to make a small trip outside the heart of downtown New Bern to discover one of the area’s favorite destinations for southern fare, Moore's Olde Tyme Barbeque Chicken & Seafood...

With a menu that pays homage to traditionally delicious food and drinks, Morgan's Tavern & Grill is a great destination for visitors and locals alike to satisfy an extra-large appetite. Situated in the heart of New...

Originally opened in 2010 and already gaining a reputation as a favorite waterfront restaurant in the heart of the Inner Banks, Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant is a choice destination for a romantic meal, a family...

Located in the heart of Downtown Morehead City along the community’s main drag of Arendell Street, Promise Land Market is much more than an enticing spot for lunch, brunch, or dinner, thanks to its extensive menu...

Enjoy a dining experience next to the waters that Blackbeard the Pirate called home at this Beaufort eatery that is named after his signature ship, and which features a variety of dishes that are sure to appeal to the...

Head to the heart of Morehead City for a sumptuous dinner on the edge of the waterfront. RedFish Grill & Bar features all the aspects of Down East cuisine that locals and visitors adore, such as a stunning location...

Hungry night owls along the Crystal Coast will find plenty of hearty pub-style fare and a fun and local atmosphere at Riptidez Bar & Grill, a cool destination that’s located in the heart of Morehead City...

After exploring Morehead City’s many shops and attractions, take a budget-friendly break and enjoy a hassle-free lunch or dinner at this casual eatery that has a hearty sample of filling appetizers, salads, subs...

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...

Enjoy a hearty meal that has a few unique spins on southern favorites with a visit to the Sea Glass Café. Located in a busy section of New Bern that’s just outside the downtown area, this beloved local spot...

Snapperz Grill & Steam Bar is a solid destination for a little Crystal Coast vacation atmosphere – an environment which perfectly complements a varied menu chock-full of seasonal and local seafood specialties...

Hungry visitors in the Morehead City area who love a little southern flavor will want to plan a stop at this hidden gem of an eatery where the barbecue steals the show. Social Q Smokehouse uses high-quality meats, like...

As the name aptly implies, Southern Salt Seafood Company and Waterfront Restaurant is the place to go to get a big helping of Morehead City’s inherent coastal charm, and to enjoy a great meal that is brimming with...

Seafood fans are well represented at the Stingray Café - a tempting New Bern eatery that has a wealth of regional specialties and fresh seafood options on the menu. With a big helping of favorite southern dishes...

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...

Enjoy a late night bite or a little fun with a local crowd at The Bern Bar and Grill. This casual pub and restaurant is a fun place to toast the end of a busy day in New Bern, grab some appetizing pub fare in a relaxed...

There’s a bit of history and an exceptional dining experience waiting at The Chelsea – a popular spot in the heart of downtown New Bern for lunch and dinner, as well as banquets and catering. Situated along...

A popular destination for hungry New Bern residents since it first opened in 1978, The Country Biscuit Restaurant is a delicious downtown eatery that serves up big platters of southern fare for breakfast, lunch, and...

Situated along the Morehead City waterfront and featuring a casual but enticing menu that echoes the relaxed atmosphere of the downtown area, The Galley is a great gathering spot for locals and visitors who want to...

Southern hospitality, delicious home cooking, and a stunning atmosphere in the heart of Emerald Isle are all combined at The Trading Post Southern Food & Spirits – one of Emerald Island’s favorite...

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...