Join Our Newsletter Email:

Front Porch Café The Bypass, MP 10.5, Nags Head (252) 480-6616 Front Porch Cafe is a traditional community coffeehouse with deliciously fresh roasted coffee. The aroma will greet you when you step inside, and you can even watch as the coffee is roasted. Front Porch serves an array of specialty coffee drinks, teas and chais. Fresh pastries and cakes are baked on site, like croissants, muffins, cinnamon buns and cheesecake. A variety of whole bean coffees is for sale. The interior of this coffee shop is unique, with artwork from coffee-producing countries across the globe and a hand-painted mural by local artist Elizabeth Kays. This is a great place to hang out, with free wireless Internet access, extended summer evening hours and a community bulletin board with local news and events.

How Sweet It Is
Jockey's Ridge Crossing
The Bypass, MP 12.5, Nags Head
(252) 441-4485
Shop until you drop and then stop in for a coffee, sandwich or snack. You won't be able to resist the homemade ice cream, and you can even take home an ice cream cake.

Sonic
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 441-9030
Sonic is fairly new to the Outer Banks, but you're probably already familiar with this chain restaurant. They have fast-food standards like burgers and hot dogs, but they also have good milkshakes, fruit slushes, breakfast sandwiches and tater tots. There is not an entrance directly off the Bypass, so turn down one of the side streets nearby.

Grits Grill
Outer Banks Mall
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 449-2888
Grits Grill serves up breakfast foods all day along with lunch standards such as hamburgers, sandwiches, soups and salads. Baked goods, like those Southern comfort favorites Krispy Kreme donuts, sweeten up the menu. They're open year round from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Carolina Pizza
Outer Banks Mall
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 480-9299
Carolina Pizza offers pizza, subs, salads and chicken wings year round with free delivery within a specific area.

Yellow Submarine
Outer Banks Mall
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 441-3511
The Yellow Submarine features hot and cold standard and specialty subs, pizza, hamburgers and pasta, tuna, shrimp and chicken dinners year round. They have a kid's menu that includes grilled cheese, chicken tenders, bologna sandwich and more. Beverages include beer, soft drinks, coffee and tea. They also have a full-service ice cream bar in the front of the shop. Eat-in or take-out service is available, as is free delivery within a specific area.

Peking Restaurant
Outer Banks Mall
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 441-3454
Peking offers a variety of traditional meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes such as fried rice, sesame chicken, sweet and sour shrimp, bean curd, soups and egg rolls. You can order from the menu or dine buffet style. They have a full bar, non-smoking section and are open year round for lunch and dinner.

Taiko Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar
Outer Banks Mall
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 449-8895
Taiko serves Japanese food, with lots of healthy and flavorful options. Great sushi, miso soup, tempura, seaweed salad (try it!) and tasty plum wine...yum! They also serve traditional preparations of shrimp, beef, chicken and noodles. This food is fresh and affordable. Taiko is open for lunch and dinner year round. The restaurant is smoke-free.

Tropical Smoothie Café
Outer Banks Mall
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 449-2200
Tropical Smoothie Café has a full menu of smoothies to satisfy any craving, from fabulous fruit concoctions to dessert smoothies made with Ghirardelli chocolate. They also have salads, wraps and sandwiches, all made with quality Boars Head meats and cheeses.

Applebee's
Outer Banks Mall
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 441-3652
You're probably already familiar with the affordable and delicious food Applebee's serves. They have Southwestern cuisine, salads, soups, sandwiches, steaks and seafood on the menu. A full bar keeps the atmosphere lively. Applebee's is open for lunch and dinner year round.

Outback Steakhouse
Outer Banks Mall
The Bypass, MP 14, Nags Head
(252) 441-3981
Everyone is familiar with the delicious food Outback serves. Whether you choose the baby back ribs, prime rib, New York strip steak or the lobster tails, you can't go wrong. Outback Steakhouse is open year round. Take-out is available.

La Fogata
The Bypass, MP 14.5, Nags Head
(252) 441-4179
La Fogata serves traditional Mexican favorites and specialties at this casual restaurant. Locals love it for offering tasty food at a good value. Within minutes of sitting down, you'll have warm chips and yummy salsa to munch on while you look over the menu. There's a full-service bar. They're open for lunch and dinner.

Penguin Isle Soundside Grille
The Bypass, MP 16, Nags Head
(252) 441-2637
Winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 15 years in a row, Penguin Isle is a classic restaurant featuring fine dining with a sound view. They serve coastal fusion-style food showcasing lots of mesquite grilled selections. Enjoy certified Angus beef, Gulf Stream fish and homemade pasta selections like shrimp and pasta marinara; or choose from their selection of lighter fare, with delicious sandwiches, salads and wraps. Arrive before 6 p.m. to catch their early dining specials. They offer more than 400 different bottles of wine. Penguin Isle specializes in rehearsal dinners and weddings and can accommodate a large gathering. A kid's menu is available. They accept reservations and are open March through December.

Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant The Bypass, MP 16, Nags Head (252) 441-6151 One of the few soundfront restaurants on the beach, Miller's serves lunch and dinner daily, which allows you ample time to enjoy the view. They can handle families and large parties and have a varied menu with fresh local seafood, steaks, chicken and creative salads and pastas. The kitchen prepares unique specials every day. They really do have one of the best sunset views, and you can have fun watching windsurfers and kiteboarders during the day or enjoying music and a cocktail in the evening. They have a pier and gazebo, which are a big hit too!

Windmill Point
The Bypass, MP 16.5, Nags Head
(252) 441-1535
You can't beat the views at this elegant soundside venue. Fine dining includes traditional favorites such as fresh seafood, beef, veal, pasta and duck. Enjoy cocktails, coffee or tea in the upper deck of the S.S. United States Lounge, complete with authentic memorabilia. A children's menu is available in their non-smoking section. They are open daily for dinner at 4 p.m. year round and also serve breakfast and lunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Windmill Point also offers on- and off-premise catering.

Stone Oven Pizza
Tanger Outlet Center
The Bypass, MP 16.5, Nags Head
(252) 441-7775
Stone Oven is a convenient stop for Tanger Outlet Mall shoppers featuring pizza, calzones, sub sandwiches, a variety of appetizers including chicken wings and mozzarella sticks, plus salads, sodas and beer. Stone Oven Pizza is open all year. They offer free delivery after 4 p.m. within Nags Head and Pirate's Cove.

back to top

The Beach Road

Red Drum Grille and Taphouse Beach Road, MP 10, Nags Head (252) 480-1095 Dine in a cozy ambiance and enjoy a variety of lunch and dinner dishes including sandwiches, burgers, fish and chips and steamed seafood and vegetables plus ribs, steaks, vegetarian dishes, seafood pasta and more. Like the setting, the food could be dubbed "comfort with an upscale dash." Most any beer lover will be happy as a clam here with 18 beers on tap. Red Drum is closed December and January and reopens in February around President's Day weekend.

Beach Road Grill
The Beach Road, MP 10.5, Nags Head
(252) 480-2228
Offering lunch and dinner year round, the Beach Road Grill's menu features steamed seafood, wraps, sandwiches, soups and salads. The cozy atmosphere is a local favorite for a delicious, casual meal. Favorite appetizers include coconut shrimp, build-your-own quesadillas and stuffed jalapenos. The chef whips up daily lunch and dinner specials. Beach Road Grill has a full bar, and they offer live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights all year long.

Tortuga’s Lie Shellfish Bar and Grille The Beach Road, MP 11, Nags Head (252) 441-RAWW The island interior and good food make Tortuga's a local favorite. There are lots of healthy options here with Caribbean-inspired seafood and vegetarian options. Chow down on a variety of dishes including tuna bites, burritos, fresh steamed seafood and pasta. And, if there's a special salad, take our word for it and order it. Tortugas has a sushi night on Wednesdays. They roll sushi late night in the summer and during regular dinner hours in the off-season. There is a full bar, and Tortuga's is smoke-free. Be sure to check out the beach volleyball court in the back! They are open daily for lunch and dinner with the hours changing in the winter.

Pier House Restaurant
Nags Head Fishing Pier
The Beach Road, MP 11.5, Nags Head
(252) 441-4200
Here’s a great combination – food with a view. You can watch the surf pound from the screened dining area or sit inside and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner selections including fresh steamed seafood, fried seafood sandwiches, steaks and chicken served up with cole slaw, hushpuppies and fries. They'll even cook your own catch if you like. The Pier House is open daily March through November with dinner served through mid-October.

Lucky 12 Tavern
The Beach Road, MP 12, Nags Head
(252) 255-LUCK
This neighborhood-style tavern serves good quality food at great prices. Lucky 12 has fresh local seafood, hand-patted burgers, New York-style pizza, authentic Buffalo chicken wings and boardwalk fries. Everything is fresh and well prepared, and the chef creates tasty daily specials. There's a menu for kids. The dining room is open for lunch and dinner every day. The bar is a popular late-night hangout, and you can order pizza until 2 a.m. The bartenders mix up Bushwackers, delicious frozen cocktails, using the recipe from Quagmires (a now-closed and missed oceanfront restaurant). They also have a good selection of beers and a martini menu. For entertainment there are pool tables, foosball and sports on TV including the popular NFL Sunday ticket. There is never a cover charge. Lucky 12 is closed for just a short time in the winter.

The Snowbird
The Beach Road, MP 12, Nags Head
(252) 441-0000
The Snowbird boasts more than 24 flavors of soft serve ice cream, which is worth looking into. Locals love the burgers, sandwiches and seafood at this drive-in stop. The treats here are served to-go only. One of the best things about this little spot is that it’s open really, really late – like, until after midnight during the summer – in case you just have to have that ice cream well after the hour you should!

Jockey’s Ribs
The Beach Road, MP 13, Nags Head
(252) 441-1141
Yummy barbecue, ribs, spicy wings, chicken, steaks, chops and seafood make for stick-to-your-ribs hearty dinners. Lighter fare includes soup, sandwiches and appetizers. A kid's menu is available .

Country Deli
Surfside Plaza
The Beach Road, MP 13, Nags Head
(252) 441-5684
This year-round take-out deli features lunch and dinner selections including a variety of sumptuous sandwiches such as grilled cheese and steak sandwiches. To quench your thirst, they also have a good selection of bottled beverages. Delivery is available and free within a specific area.

Majik Beanz
Surfside Plaza, MP 13, Nags Head
(252) 255-2700
Stop here for refreshments like ice cream, fruit smoothies, milk shakes and espresso drinks of all kinds. They offer wireless Internet access and a computer for public use.

Mulligans Raw Bar and Grille
The Bypass, MP 13, Nags Head
(252) 480-2000
Now in a new location, Mulligans still features award-winning burgers in a convivial atmosphere. They serve lunch and dinner year round. On the menu you'll also find steamed seafood, steak, sandwiches, wraps, pizza and pasta. Check out the seafood dishes, served with the traditional homemade cole slaw and hushpuppies. Kids will be happy here with their own menu. Mulligans accepts reservations and can accommodate large groups. Mulligans has a full bar and often hosts live entertainment.

SOS Enterprises
The Beach Road, MP 16, Nags Head
(252) 441-1357
SOS Enterprises is a casual dining option that the kids will love. They offer a limited menu with favorites like hot dogs, sandwiches and wraps. Cool off with a sno-cone or slushie. Order your treats at the counter, and then enjoy them on the deck with a great ocean to sound views. Located right across the street from the beach, this is the perfect place to grab a quick bite. SOS is also a surf shop. Look for the bright blue building with the tiki gods.

Owens’ Restaurant
The Beach Road, MP 16.5, Nags Head
(252) 441-7309
Owen's is a Nags Head institution, featuring a legacy of fine dining by the sea since 1946. They delight diners with locally caught grilled, broiled, fried or sautéed seafood plus pasta dishes, prime rib, lobster and chowders and bisques. Homemade desserts top the fare. Enjoy an elegant dining experience or relax in the upstairs bar, which offers coffee drinks, beer, wine, mixed drinks and a full dinner menu.

Fatboyz Ice Cream & Grill The Beach Road, MP 16.5, Nags Head (252) 441-6514 This popular take-out food and ice cream stand serves up an array of ice cream concoctions - shakes, sundaes, cones - as well as traditional hamburgers, fries and sandwiches. (The ice cream is absolutely delectable!) You can eat on-site at a handful of tables on the side deck. If you're a veggie burger aficionado, get one here with all the fixings.

Sam & Omie’s The Beach Road, MP 16.5, Nags Head (252) 441-7366 Originally opened by a couple of fishermen as a pre-fishing breakfast stop, Sam & Omie's maintains its seaside flavor 70 years later. Stop here for a true Nags Head eating experience. The place exudes a barefoot and beachy atmosphere and serves up plenty of tasty dishes morning, noon and night including omelets, hamburgers, club sandwiches and prime rib and seafood dinners. Try the shrimp burger -- it's popular for a reason! A complete bar lines the wooden structure, making this a social stop for locals and visitors alike. They are closed December through February.

Dune Burger Inc.
The Beach Road, MP 16.5, Nags Head
(252) 441-2441
At Dune Burger you can enjoy fast food-style favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, BBQ, French fries and ice cream. What could be better in the summertime? This is a to-go stop only. Dune Burger is open for lunch and dinner from March to Thanksgiving.

back to top

Nags Head Causeway

Sugar Creek Soundfront Seafood Restaurant Nags Head Causeway, Nags Head (252) 441-4963 Sugar Creek has been serving the freshest seafood available to locals and visitors for years, and now they have expanded to offer even more waterfront dining. The views of Sugar Creek and the Roanoke Sound are incredible. The outdoor walkways and decks on the property are great for strolling along and viewing the resident wildlife. Before dinner, enjoy a drink from their outdoor gazebo bar. The fresh tuna, shrimp and scallops are expertly prepared at Sugar Creek and keep seafood lovers happy. Also on the menu are favorites like steaks, prime rib, chicken, ribs, pasta, salads, soups, burgers and sandwiches. They have a children’s menu. The newly expanded dining room can easily accommodate large parties and special events like rehearsal dinners or other parties. Sugar Creek serves lunch and dinner daily in season and is open from March through late November. Check out The Sugar Shack, located next door, for great take-out seafood. See Shopping for more information.

Tale of the Whale Nags Head Causeway, Nags Head (252) 441-7332 Tale of the Whale is a soundfront restaurant with calming views from the airy, windowed dining room. Every seat has a view of the water. You can enjoy entrees including seafood, pasta, steaks, chicken and prime rib. They make their own desserts and have a full bar. During the season, sit outside on their deck and enjoy a cocktail. There’s often live music on the waterfront gazebo; call for more details. Recent renovations to this classic Outer Banks restaurant offer even better views of the Roanoke Sound, and they have an excellent space for private events that can accommodate more than 200 people. Tale of the Whale is open for dinner daily in the summer; call ahead for off-season hours.

Basnight’s Lone Cedar
Nags Head Causeway, Nags Head
(252) 441-5405
This is North Carolina's favorite senator's stomping ground. Senator Pro Tem Marc Basnight is known to greet customers at this family restaurant, and daughters Vicki and Caroline are also there to make sure your dining experience is exactly what you expected. This restaurant is at the top of the list of many locals' favorite spots. The service is genuinely friendly, and the portions are huge You'll enjoy views of the sound from within a cozy establishment, or choose outdoor seating. Basnight's serves lunch and dinner daily during the season (and only cuts back a few lunches during the off-season) featuring local, fresh seafood – cleaned here – vegetarian dishes, pasta and steaks. The dedication to freshness includes their own herb garden. They also serve local produce and pork as well as free-farmed chicken.

A new addition is their incredible wine cooler (well, it’s a room really) featuring hundreds of bottles of wine. This accompanies a brand new bar area that allows smoking where you can also order from the full menu. They close December 15 and reopen for Valentine's Day. Basnight's also offers off-premise catering.

back to top

Kill Devil Hills Restaurants

If you love dining out, then you'll love the town of Kill Devil Hills. Within the town limits, you'll find more than 30 different restaurants. Each has a distinct specialty, but of course fresh seafood from local waters is the main dish at most restaurants.

One thing that may surprise you is the creativity of the cuisine. There are many talented local chefs who develop imaginative fusion dishes, sampling international flavors with delicious results. You’ll find a great variety of cuisine, like Pacific Rim, Southwestern, Italian and good old Southern home cooking. Top it off with specialties like home-brewed beers, fresh-roasted coffees and luscious desserts, and you’ll see why locals tend to eat out a lot too.

A great fact of Kill Devil Hills restaurants is that most are locally owned and operated. Visitors can branch out from the familiar chain restaurants they find at home and discover something new. (If you must have a fast food fix, however, Kill Devil Hills is home to French fry alley, which is what the locals call the area along the Bypass around Milepost 9 where several fast food chains are located.) We haven’t included them here because everyone is familiar with what they offer. Wherever you go in this town, you’ll find that casual attire is perfectly acceptable, even in fine dining establishments.

On the Outer Banks locals use the following local names for the roads: U.S. Highway 158 is the Bypass and N.C. Highway 12 is the Beach Road, so that’s how we’ve listed them here. We describe the restaurants that are on the Bypass first, and then we go to the ones on the Beach Road, from north to south.

The Bypass | The Beach Road | Colington Road

The Bypass

Coastal Cactus Southwest Cafe & Margarita Bar
Seagate North Shopping Center
The Bypass, MP 5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-6600
Coastal Cactus serves Southwestern specialties with Outer Banks flair. Fajitas are their specialty, and they prepare other favorites like tacos and enchiladas, along with great crab cakes and fresh seafood dishes. Vegetarians will find plenty of options as well. Their new margarita bar features more than 50 different margaritas, mojitos and martinis. This restaurant is family friendly. They have a kid's menu and can easily cater to large parties. Call for reservations for groups of six or more.

Chilli Peppers
The Bypass, MP 5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-8081
Chilli Peppers is famous on the Outer Banks for their Southwestern cuisine, fresh seafood, great steaks and award-winning soups and sauces. Everything is made from scratch. The dining room is casual and colorful. Every day the chef's lunch specials include a Bamboo steamer pot creation, a pasta dish, burrito, sandwich and soup, so there's lots of delicious choices. Chilli Peppers has a full bar, and there's always something special happening. Come for live music on Tuesday nights, late-night sushi on Wednesday and Friday and steamed seafood served late every night. In the off-season, don't miss the popular tapas nights on Thursdays. Each week the chef devotes the entire tapas menu to a different country's cuisine, and the results are always original and delicious. The Sunday brunch is a local's favorite, with selections like Bananas Foster French toast, eggs Benedict with lump crabmeat and build-your-own omelets. Chilli Peppers is open year round, serving lunch and dinner every day and brunch on Sundays.

Front Porch Cafe
Milepost 6 Plaza
The Bypass, MP 6, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 449-6616
Front Porch Café roasts their own coffee beans, so the delicious aroma will greet you as soon as you walk in the door. Enjoy a full espresso bar, with a wide variety of coffee drinks. They also have a great selection of teas, both loose and bagged. Pastries are baked fresh everyday, like croissants, muffins, cinnamon buns and cookies. Front Porch opens at 6 a.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 a.m. on Sunday. Get connected here with free wireless Internet access.

Mako Mike's
The Bypass, MP 7, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 480-1919
The menu at Mako Mike's is filled with fresh seafood with choices ranging from Mako shark to lobster. They have excellent crab cakes, pasta dishes and steaks. The chef creates lots of specials every night. A kid's menu makes the tikes happy. When it comes to dessert, there are many delicious choices. Mako Mike's has all ABC permits and a non-smoking section. Catch one of the early bird specials; they're offered daily. Large parties can easily be accommodated. They have private dining rooms for special events; ask about their catering services. Don't leave without checking out their live shark tank. Mako Mike's is open for dinner year round .

The Good Life Gourmet
The Dare Center
The Bypass, MP 7.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 480-2855
Within the busy Dare Center strip mall, there is a mecca of gourmet food. The Good Life Gourmet is a bistro, bakery and wine shop. They have fresh-baked pastries and breads, a huge menu of sandwiches and a bistro-style dinner menu. The chef creates daily specials. The desserts are to die for. They have a full espresso bar and an extensive selection of wine. And while you sit and enjoy the perfect afternoon break, you can connect up to their free wireless Internet in the café and email away! The Good Life Gourmet is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner year round.

New York Bagels
The Dare Center
The Bypass, MP 7.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 480-0990
The bagels are fresh and the fillings are delicious. You must experience their killer egg salad, lox or veggie cream cheese spread. This is a "to go" stop. Drinks include sodas, juices, water and Snapple products. The hours change seasonally.

Outer Banks Brewing Station
The Bypass, MP 8.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 449-BREW
Outer Banks Brewing Station serves innovative dishes that are prepared by chefs in their open kitchen. The restaurant and bar has a decidedly metropolitan feel, and the food follows suit. The meals are creative and delicious. The menu changes seasonally and offers a wide variety of options. They serve lunch and dinner and offer happy hour specials at the bar. This is also a brewery, with a seasonal menu of beers that are brewed in-house. You can order their beer to go in growlers or kegs. They also have a full bar. For the kids, they brew root beer and offer a children's menu. From the bakery comes fresh breads, pastries (the desserts are outstanding) and even wedding cakes. They serve sushi on Sundays. The Brew Station is also a busy nightspot, with live entertainment like music from local or national acts and dancing. They can accommodate special events and large groups. The Brew Station is open for lunch, dinner every day in the summer. In the off-season, dinner is served every night and lunch is available on the weekends. They are open year round .

Kill Devil’s Frozen Custard
The Bypass, MP 8.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-5900
The specialty here is frozen custard: a thick, delicious concoction of cream, milk, egg yolk, sugar and vanilla. Call it delicious, call it fabulous, just don’t call it ice cream. They offer the frozen custard in cups or on cones and also do great sundaes, shakes, waffle sundaes, floats, hurricanes and more. On the menu are wrap sandwiches, burgers, Coney Island dogs, barbecue sandwiches, veggie and black bean burgers. The killer beach fries are hand cut. Kill Devil’s is open for lunch and dinner from April to December.

Fuji Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar
The Bypass, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 449-0628
Fuji is a Japanese steakhouse where Hibachi cooks prepare authentic Japanese food right in front of you. The meals are delicious and the experience is entertaining. They also have a sushi bar where fresh raw and cooked selections are available. They accept reservations. Fuji is open year round for lunch and dinner.

JK's
The Bypass, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-9555
JK's is famous for their steaks and fresh seafood, all cooked over a mesquite wood grill. The steaks are of exceptional quality and are prepared by their in-house butcher. They have several cuts of steak on the menu, and many steak dinners are complemented with fresh local seafood. All entrees are served with the fresh vegetable of the day and either rice pilaf or their perfect mashed potatoes. Top off your meal with a home-made dessert. JK's is a very consistent restaurant with high-quality fare. They have all ABC permits. The dining room is non-smoking. Smoking is permitted at the bar, where the full menu is served. They are open year round for dinner. In the off-season, JK's is closed on Sundays, but in season they are open every day .

Bob's Grill
The Bypass, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-0707
You have to love a place where you can get breakfast all day and night. Bob's is casual, with reasonable prices and large portions. Breakfast includes huge hot cakes, three-egg omelets, French toast and waffles. At lunch, try Bob's burger, Philly steak and cheese, fried chicken or a fresh salad. Dinner at Bob's includes lots of seafood specials like tuna, shrimp and scallops or grilled chicken, ribs, Prime Rib and rib eye steak. The restaurant is open year round.

Five Guys Burgers & Fries
The Bypass, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 255-0006
Five Guys serves up their famous burgers, hot dogs, and, of course, French fries. You can add cheese and bacon to your burger and then choose from a variety of toppings like mushrooms, fried onions and pickles. The “famous fries” are hand-cut and served either Five Guys style or Cajun. Yum!

The Pit Surf Shop & Boardriders' Grill
The Bypass, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 480-3128
The Pit is a favorite stop for hungry local surfers and whoever is hanging with them. They serve up sandwiches, wraps and quesadillas. Everybody loves the Roundhouse wrap of chicken and garlic smashed potatoes with spinach, cheddar and jack cheeses, corn, tomatoes and onions. Don't miss $1 tacos on Tuesday nights - the place is packed, and the wait is worth it. They have a full bar. The Pit serves lunch and dinner. The restaurant is closed in the wintertime, so call ahead if you're visiting in the off-season. The Pit is also a great nightspot. For the 21 and up crowd, there's live music or dancing. Several nights a week in the summer The Pit hosts the teen crowd with drug-free and alcohol-free dance nights. Most entertainment on the beach is strictly limited to those 21 and up, so this is a really special offer for local and visiting teens.

Stack ‘em High The Bypass, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills (252) 441-7064 Stack 'em High is a great breakfast stop. In this family-friendly restaurant, you'll go through a cafeteria-style line to select your own beverage, fresh fruit, cereal or muffins and then order at the register. Choose from delicious, made-to-order breakfasts like pancakes -- short or high stack, with fresh fruit, pecans or plain. They also have waffles, omelets, bacon, sausage and more. Find a seat in the dining room and they'll bring your breakfast to you piping hot. Stack 'em High is family owned and operated. They serve breakfast every day in season. There is a second Stack 'em High located in Kitty Hawk.

Mama Kwan's
The Bypass, MP 9.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-7889
Mama Kwan's serves delicious, local Outer Banks seafood with flavors from the Pacific Rim. The chef whips up specials every day, and there are lots of tempting dishes on the menu. Try the pepper-seared tuna; sushi-grade tuna is served rare with wasabi, soy sauce and Asian slaw. The unique flavors of the Special Occasion Pasta make it a local favorite. Mama Kwan's has a full bar, and you can enjoy a specialty drink in their novelty glassware. The whole family will enjoy the fun, tiki-bar atmosphere of this restaurant. Kids love to eat here. Mama Kwan's serves lunch and dinner every day, year round, and a special late-night menu on Friday and Saturday nights. The night owls come here for karaoke on Thursdays.

Pigman's Bar-B-Que
The Bypass, MP 9.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-6803
At Pigman’s you’ll find several types of barbeque. In addition to the traditional pork, they have beef, tuna, turkey and catfish-que. They also have slow-smoked chicken, St. Louis ribs, fried shrimp and Buffalo wings. Side dishes include baked beans, coleslaw, hush puppies, French fries and sweet potato fries. You can dine in or carry out. They have a children’s menu. Pigman’s even does catering. They are closed January and February.

Flying Fish Cafe
The Bypass, MP 10, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-6894
Flying Fish Cafe features a Mediterranean-style menu with lots of coastal favorites. The Carolina crab cakes are exceptional, and a fresh fish entrée is offered every evening. You select how it is prepared: grilled, sautéed or blackened. They also have beautiful preparations of beef and chicken, like their seared Filet Mignon with Gorgonzola crust or the free-range chicken breast stuffed with Gruyere cheese. The wine list is extensive, with 40 by-the-glass options and reserve bottle selections. They also have a full bar. Top off your delicious meal with a drink from their cappuccino bar and one of their homemade desserts. We like their signature Chocolate Hurricane, a tower of chocolate five ways, wrapped in a cylinder of white and dark chocolate…heaven! Flying Fish is open for dinner nightly, year round. Reservations are recommended in-season.

back to top

The Beach Road

Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar & Restaurant
The Beach Road, MP 6, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-5955
Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar is world-famous for their casual, raw bar atmosphere and great local seafood. The steamed shrimp are so good that they were featured in Esquire magazine. The menu features lots of seafood, but there are also burgers, pastas, steaks and chicken. The chef creates specials every day. They have a full bar and an upstairs lounge with an ocean view. Awful Arthur's is open year round for lunch and dinner.

Carolina Seafood
The Beach Road, MP 6.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-6851
Carolina Seafood is a buffet-style restaurant with lots of fresh seafood, roast beef, hushpuppies, veggies and more. They have a big salad bar and lots of dessert selections. They have a full bar, take out and children's menus. In season they open at 4:30 and offer free lobster tail until 5:30. They also offer carry-out and crabs by the bushel. Call for off-season hours.

Jolly Roger Restaurant
The Beach Road, MP 6.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-6530
The Jolly Roger has been an Outer Banks fixture for years. You can't miss the pirate out front, and you shouldn't miss the big breakfasts that are served here until 2 p.m. They also serve lunch and dinner, with a big menu of seafood, pastas, steaks and Italian specialties. The Jolly Roger is open every day, all year round. The bar is open late, with NTN Interactive Trivia and karaoke every night with local legend Alan Ross.

the oceanfront trellis
The Beach Road, MP 7, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 449-9057
The oceanfront trellis is located in the Sea Ranch Hotel and is one of very few restaurants on the Outer Banks that offers oceanfront dining. They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch on Sundays. The menu features lots of seafood selections, including a savory crab and wild mushroom cheesecake. The brunch menu includes eggs Benedict and a lobster frittata. The homemade desserts are delectable. Come in right off the beach and enjoy a meal on their outdoor, oceanfront deck. They also have a take-out window convenient to a beach access where you can order anything off the menu without leaving the sand. They also offer delivery from Southern Shores to Nags Head. They have a full bar, and a kid’s menu is available. The oceanfront trellis offers on- and off-site catering for special events. If you have trouble finding the oceanfront trellis, just ask at the front desk of the Sea Ranch Hotel; they’ll point you in the right direction.

Goombays Grille & Raw Bar
The Beach Road, MP 7, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-6001
Goombays is a casual restaurant with an island feel. The food is fresh and creative with a Caribbean spin on Outer Banks seafood favorites. Try the Rasta Pasta, fresh seafood tacos, Tuna Reuben, Jazzy Coconut Chicken or Caribbean Creole Pasta. They have a full steamed or raw seafood bar. Goombays is family friendly with a colorful dining room and a special menu for kids. They have a full bar, including lots of imported and microbrew beers. Goombays serves lunch and dinner.

Port O' Call Restaurant & Gaslight Saloon The Beach Road, MP 8.5, Kill Devil Hills (252) 441-7484 Port O' Call has been a great dining choice on the Outer Banks for many years with its large and interesting menu and Victorian-style décor. The menu changes seasonally but always includes lots of fresh seafood prepared in a variety of ways: steamed, broiled, blackened, fried, seared or grilled. They also serve steaks, ribs, chicken and pastas. On holidays they prepare a special buffet. Kids have their own extensive menu. They accept reservations and can easily handle large parties. Port O' Call serves dinner nightly. Ask about their early bird specials. In the gift gallery you'll find a little bit of everything, like antiques, lamps, glassware, jewelry, collectibles and more. At night, Port O' Call's Gaslight Saloon hosts live music and dancing. Call to see what's on the schedule.

The Thai Room
Oceanside Plaza
The Beach Road, MP 8.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-1180
The Thai Room has been a local's favorite for more than 20 years for providing affordable, delicious Asian cuisine. They serve Thai, Chinese and American food. They were voted Best Asian Restaurant in a local poll for several years in a row. You can eat in or take out. They have vegetarian selections and a children's menu. Thai Room serves lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday and dinner on Sunday.

Dare Devil's Authentic Pizzeria
The Beach Road, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-6330, (252) 441-2353
Dare Devil's serves delicious pizzas, strombolis, subs, salads and appetizers. They have a full bar and TVs that are great for watching sports events. You can eat in or take it out. Dare Devil's is open for lunch and dinner.

OBX Chefs 2 Go / Beach Java
The Beach Road, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 449-9075
This restaurant and coffee shop is the headquarters of OBX Chefs 2 Go who provide top-notch catering and personal chef services for groups from two to 200. The restaurant is carry-out only and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The coffee shop serves espresso drinks, smoothies and hand-dipped ice cream. On the breakfast menu you’ll find bagels with homemade spreads, omelets, biscuit sandwiches and more. For lunch and dinner, the menu includes steamed or fried seafood, salads, po-boys and sandwiches. The deli stocks Boars Head meats and cheeses. Check out their selection of homemade desserts.

Shuck U – Old School Raw Bar and Grill
The Beach Road, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 449-6969
Shuck U is a classic raw bar serving steamed and raw seafood and other favorites like seafood quesadillas. They serve lunch, dinner and late night food. This is a great place to hang out, with good food, cold drinks, video games, pinball machines and live entertainment - call for a schedule. Dining at home tonight? Pick up one of their steamed seafood buckets to go. Check out their university-themed T-shirts and "get a degree in fun" at Shuck U.

Saltwater's Grill
The Beach Road, MP 9, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 449-8008
Saltwater's Grill is a casual restaurant with a menu full of fresh seafood options. They also have subs, salads and wraps. Try their popular homemade onion rings, stuffed mushrooms or French Dip sandwich. They have a kid's menu. Beer and wine are available. Saltwater's is open for lunch and dinner year round. Take-out is available.

Peppercorns
Ramada Inn
The Beach Road, MP 9.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-2151
Peppercorns overlooks the ocean from its location inside the Ramada Inn. The menu features fresh seafood, pasta dishes, surf and turf and chef's specials. Peppercorns serves breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. They are open year round. The deck bar is open in season and features its own, light menu and live entertainment - call for a schedule.

Miller’s Restaurant
The Beach Road, MP 9.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-7674
Miller's Restaurant is more than family owned and operated; it's a family tradition that began in 1978 and is being carried on by a second generation. Breakfast at Miller's includes a big menu of favorites like homemade buttermilk biscuits, three-egg omelets and a never-ending cup of coffee. Dinner specialties are Miller's famous, made from scratch hushpuppies, fresh, local seafood, Angus beef and pastas. They have a children's menu. Miller's has a full bar. The restaurant is closed from December through February.

American Pie
The Beach Road, MP 9.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 441-3332
American Pie serves two vacation favorites: pizza and ice cream. Enjoy hand-tossed New York-style pizza, subs, wings and salads. Then for dessert enjoy homemade, hand-dipped ice cream. This restaurant is right across the street from the beach and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. You can also take your food to go or have it delivered.

Kill Devil Grill
The Beach Road, MP 9.5, Kill Devil Hills
(252) 449-8181
Kill Devil Grill may look like a diner, but step inside and you'll be treated to a gourmet meal that is miles ahead of typical diner fare. It starts with a great menu of dishes that are all made from scratch. Choose from creative daily specials, fresh fish and other seafood, steaks, ribs, sandwiches and killer salads. The chicken wings have become legendary: They're rubbed, smoked and then grilled with homemade sauce. The Grill has a kid's menu and outstanding homemade desserts. There are a few menu items you'd expect to find in a diner, like blue-plate specials, milkshakes, root beer floats and apple crisp that's served warm with vanilla ice cream. They have a full bar. Kill Devil Grill serves lunch, dinner and brunch on Sundays. They are only closed for a short time in the winter.

back to top

Colington Road

Colington Cafe
Colington Rd., Kill Devil Hills
(252) 480-1123
Colington Café is located on Colington Road in a Victorian-style home. This is a great place for a special night out and has received accolades from Southern Living magazine. The chefs are skilled at preparing outstanding dishes with fresh local ingredients. They are famous for their she-crab bisque and crab cakes. Nightly specials always offer a unique take on dishes such as fresh local seafood or quality steaks. The desserts are incredible and include a white chocolate crème brulee, triple chocolate mousse cake and Key lime cannoli. The wine list is long. Reservations are recommended. Colington Café is open for dinner from late March through Thanksgiving and then reopens for the Christmas holidays and the week surrounding Valentines Day.

Surf Dog Grill
Colington Rd., Kill Devil Hills
(252) 480-0282
Surf Dog Grill is an extremely family friendly soundside restaurant with a casual atmosphere, screened-in deck and kid's playground. On the menu you'll find steamed seafood, a variety of appetizers, sandwiches and fresh seafood entrees. They have a kid's menu. The dessert selections include milk shakes, ice cream sundaes and chocolate mousse pie. They serve beer and wine. Check out their daily specials. Surf Dog Grill is open for lunch and dinner, and they are closed on Sundays.

Hidden Creek Grill
1469 Colington Rd., Kill Devil Hills
(252) 480-3298
Located on Colington Road, Hidden Creek Grill bills itself as old Outer Banks style Southern cooking. They serve fresh, Outer Banks seafood, pasta dishes, beef and chicken. You’ll love the homemade desserts. Hidden Creek Grill serves lunch and dinner.

back to top

Kitty Hawk Restaurants

Kitty Hawk is a great place to eat out. You’ll find everything from Eastern North Carolina barbecue to tasty vegetarian cuisine. Most restaurants feature delicious local seafood, as you might have guessed.

Some dress it up with exotic flavors and presentations, and some dress it down with traditional sides like hushpuppies and French fries. But you'll soon discover that it's all delicious. Kitty Hawk is home to several local favorite spots. Read on to discover where locals go for their barbecue, bagels, hot dogs, burgers, veggies and milkshakes. But don't just take our word for it - dine out and discover your own favorite places!

Note that, as you enter the Outer Banks from the north over the bridge from Currituck, all the restaurants on the right-hand side of the road (the side with the Home Depot) are in Kitty Hawk, while those on the left are in Southern Shores. We cover those eateries in the Duck/Southern Shores book and tabloid or online at www.duckncguide.com. Remember, N.C. Highway 12 is what is locally called the Beach Road and U.S. Highway 158 is locally referred to as the Bypass. We use these local names -- they're just easier to remember! We start our dining adventure on the northernmost end of Kitty Hawk and work progressively southward.

The Bypass | The Beach Road

The Bypass

Argyles Restaurant & Piano Bar
The Bypass, MP 2.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-7325
Argyles serves culinary masterpieces on every plate. The food here is gourmet, creative and fresh. Their vegetables come directly from a farm in Currituck, and they grow their own herbs. The desserts are amazing. The sophisticated atmosphere of the restaurant and piano bar is interesting and intimate. You'll enjoy an extensive wine list and martini menu. Argyles offers catering, including fabulous wedding cakes, and they're open for dinner year round.

Max’s Bagels & Deli
The Bypass, MP 3.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-3111
At Max's you'll find 14 varieties of fresh-baked bagels and lots of homemade spreads. They also have fresh-cooked breakfast sandwiches with eggs and meats. For lunch, choose from a full line of deli sandwiches, made with quality Thumann's meats and cheeses. You can eat in or take it out. Max's is open every day for breakfast and lunch but closed for the month of January.

Spanky’s Grille
The Bypass, MP 3.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-1917
Spanky's Grille is a casual, family-friendly restaurant. It also happens to be very affordable. On the breakfast menu you'll find fresh, hot biscuits, eggs, sausage and homefries. The locals love the biscuit sandwiches here. Some favorite lunch offerings include the hand-patted burgers, homemade onion rings, grilled chicken, chili-cheese fries and foot-long hot dogs. Spanky's is open for breakfast and lunch from March through December.

Pizzazz Pizza Company
The Bypass, MP 3.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-0050
Pizza is the perfect food when you're feeding a crowd, and Pizzazz even offers free delivery. In addition to pizza, they also feature subs, wings and salads. If you're eating in, enjoy the buffet at lunch and dinner, including a huge salad bar.

Hooters of Kitty Hawk
The Bypass, MP 3.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-1808
The Hooters chain bills itself as "delightfully tacky, yet unrefined" and this Kitty Hawk location follows suit. You'll find a casual menu with wings, shrimp, burgers and sandwiches. Hooters offers drink specials, a late night menu and more than 20 televisions tuned to sporting events. They sell souvenirs and merchandise with the hard-to-miss Hooters logo.

Jimmy's Seafood Buffet The Bypass, MP 4, Kitty Hawk (252) 261-4973 Jimmy's is a popular buffet with a variety of Outer Banks seafood and other tempting dishes. Check out their crab legs! You'll find king, snow and Dungeness crab legs as well as stone crab claws. They also have many to-go options like fried platters, steamed dinners and the handy carry-out seafood buckets. The clambake-style seafood buckets make enjoying great, steamed seafood at home a snap - just add water and cook on the stovetop for 30 minutes. If you choose a steamed bucket, they'll steam it for you and include fries, cole slaw and hushpuppies. Call ahead for curbside pick up. Jimmy's Seafood opens for dinner at 3 p.m.

Keeper's Galley
The Bypass, MP 4, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-4000
Keeper's Galley is a classic Outer Banks restaurant with lots of fresh seafood on the menu as well as great steaks, chicken and pasta. Breakfast begins every morning at 7 a.m. Choose from a huge menu of omelets, pancakes, waffles, French toast, breakfast meats and Southern-style grits. In the summer you can have a little (or a lot) of everything with their breakfast bar. Lunch includes sandwiches, shrimp salads and the chef's specials. On the dinner menu you'll find seafood, prime rib and homemade desserts. Every entrée comes with real Outer Banks hushpuppies. Keeper's Galley is family-friendly, and they have a kid's menu. The entire restaurant is smoke free. When Keeper's Galley is closed in the winter you can visit their sister restaurant, The Dunes, located in Nags Head.

Sunburn Sports Bar & Grill
The Bypass, MP 4, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-7833
Sunburn is casual dining for lunch and dinner. Choose from seafood, chicken, pasta, pizza, sandwiches and salads. This is also a great nightspot with live entertainment, several pool tables, games and a large bar. Sunburn is open year round.

Ianjay Cafe
Ocean Plaza
The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 480-3100
Ianjay Cafe serves up healthy, delicious food with international flavors that keep the fare fresh and interesting. No wonder this restaurant is a local’s secret...well, not anymore! Choose from Baja-style tacos or burritos with fresh fish, pork, chicken, beef or veggies. They also have hot pressed sandwiches, vegetarian dishes and empanadas. The chef prepares daily soups and specials. There is no separate menu for kids, but they can easily be accommodated with smaller portions or special orders. You can eat in or take out at Ianjay, or they’ll even deliver right to you. Catering is available. Ianjay is open for lunch and dinner year round.

La Isla Bakery
Ocean Plaza
The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 441-7710
La Isla is a Latin bakery and market. Baked goods are available from a variety of countries, and many are made with tropical fruits like mango, guava and pineapple. They also bake Tres Leche, a traditional Mexican cake made with three kinds of milk. It is moist and delicious. They have coffee and other drinks available. This is a to-go stop only. In the market you'll find ingredients for cooking Latin dishes. Upstairs they have clothing, videos and computers with Internet access.

Capt'n Frank's
The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-9923
You might guess from the name what this restaurant is all about: hot dogs. The same family has been serving Oscar Meyer's here since 1975. They have foot-long, quarter-pound and, for the less adventurous, regular dogs. We like the Junkyard Dog, which is topped with just about everything. Every meal is made to order, and the service is fast and friendly. Besides hot dogs, they also have barbecue, chicken fingers, chicken filets and steak sandwiches. The cheese fries are out of this world. In the summer months you can chow down on steamed shrimp in the evenings. Capt'n Franks is open year round.

La Fogata Mexican Restaurant
The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-0934
The three La Fogata restaurants, one in Nags Head, one in Corolla and this one in Kitty Hawk, are locals' favorites for inexpensive, delicious meals. The exhaustive menu of authentic Mexican specialties is a little overwhelming, but complimentary warm chips and spicy salsa hold you over while you decide.

Stack ‘em High The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk (252) 261-8221 Stack 'em High is a great breakfast stop. In this family-friendly restaurant, you'll go through a cafeteria-style line to select your own beverage, fresh fruit, cereal or muffins and then order at the register. Choose from delicious, made-to-order breakfasts like pancakes -- short or high stack, fresh fruit, pecans or plain. They also have waffles, omelets, bacon, sausage and more. Find a seat in the dining room and they'll bring your breakfast to you piping hot. Stack 'em High is family owned and operated. They serve breakfast every day in season. There is a second Stack 'em High located in Kill Devil Hills.

Seaside Gourmet To Go
Dunes Shops
The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-5330
Seaside Gourmet To Go serves great local seafood and ethnic-inspired, healthful cuisine. Every day they have vegan, vegetarian and seafood specials in addition to their regular menu. You can call the number above to hear about the day's specials and order ahead. Whenever possible, the chef uses local and organic produce. You'll find some of the best seafood dishes on the beach at Seaside. As the name implies, this is a take-out stop only. While you're waiting, pick out a bottle of wine from their boutique selection and enjoy the local artwork. Seaside Gourmet To Go is open for lunch and dinner year round every day but Sunday, and they'll also cater your event.

Southern Bean
Dunes Shops
The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-JAVA
Southern Bean is a locally owned coffeehouse with coffee and espresso drinks, smoothies and milkshakes. They also offer fresh-squeezed juices, chai and other teas. The menu here is almost entirely vegetarian, with salads and wraps in addition to muffins, bagels and pastries. There are several options for kids, like hot chocolate, ice cream, PB&J and PB and banana sandwiches. You can sit at a counter with barstools, a few tables or in the comfy chairs if you want to eat in or just sit a spell. Southern Bean is open all year round, every day from early morning into the evening.

The Beach Bread Company
The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-7711
(252) 261-8692 (Bistro)
The Beach Bread Company is filled with everything good to eat. We can't possibly describe it all here; you must see it for yourself. They have a full-scale bakery with pastries of all sorts and fresh-baked breads. For breakfast, enjoy baked goods or waffles. On Sundays they serve an expanded breakfast menu, including omelets and French toast. At lunch, enjoy a selection from their deli such as sandwiches, salads, soups and quiche. Don't forget to sample one of their homemade desserts. Dinner is served in the bistro, which is more upscale but still casual. The menu changes seasonally to keep it fresh. You'll find selections like seafood, steaks, duck and pasta. The bistro features a martini bar and often has live entertainment, so call for a schedule. They have a kid's menu in both the deli and bistro. The entire place is non-smoking. In the retail shop you can pick up gourmet sauces, spices and kitchen equipment. They also offer catering and wedding cakes. The Beach Bread Company is open year round and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.

Papa John’s Pizza
The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-2389
This popular pizza chain has made a name for itself by using high-quality ingredients to make their pies. They offer all the favorite toppings, plus specialty pizzas like spinach alfredo and barbeque chicken and bacon. Also on the menu are side dishes like wings, cheese sticks, and chicken strips. You can pick up an order at their Kitty Hawk location. Papa John’s delivers within Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills, and they’re are open for lunch and dinner.

Barefoot Bernie’s Bar and Grill The Bypass, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk (252) 261-1008 Barefoot Bernie's is a new addition to the Kitty Hawk restaurant scene open year round for lunch and dinner. They pride themselves on offering big portions at reasonable prices. Menu items include seafood, steaks, chicken, pastas, large salads, sandwiches and gourmet pizzas.  A kid's menu is also available. Check out their specialty frozen drinks, martinis or have you own favorite wine, beer or spirits with their full ABC permit. A non-smoking area is available and large party reservations are always welcome. In the summer they have late-night food and live entertainment; call ahead for details.

Henry’s
The Bypass, MP 5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-2025
Henry's is a family-owned and operated restaurant and has been serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in a family-friendly atmosphere on the Outer Banks since 1989. Breakfast is available until 1 p.m. so you won't miss out on delicious, home-style choices like hot cakes, seafood omelets and biscuits and gravy. There's something for everyone on the lunch and dinner menu. Choose from seafood, burgers, sandwiches, salads or, if you're a young one, the kid's menu. They serve beer and wine and provide a non-smoking section. Henry's is open year round, but the hours change seasonally, so call ahead if you're visiting in the off-season.

back to top

The Beach Road

High Cotton BBQ
The Beach Road, MP 1, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-2275
High Cotton is owned and operated by a native North Carolina family that was born and raised in the heart of barbecue country. They serve authentic eastern North Carolina-style pork barbecue. The pork is smoked for hours over hickory, is hand-chopped and then seasoned with a light, vinegar-based sauce that doesn't overpower the natural flavor of the smoked meat. The Southern fried chicken is crisp and delicious. The smoked chicken is so tender it falls right off the bone, and the Texas-style beef brisket is smoked, sliced and served with a tangy sauce. The St. Louis cut ribs are the local's favorite for good reason. Portions here are generous. They serve traditional side dishes like cole slaw, baked beans and fresh vegetables plus crispy corn sticks and French fries. The sauces are homemade and available for purchase. They have a kid's menu. This is a great place to feed a crowd, and they have a speedy to-go counter for take-out. Check out their convenient to-go packages and bring home your own pig-pickin'. The restaurant also offers catering. High Cotton serves lunch and dinner every day in season and close for a short time in the winter.

Rundown Cafe
The Beach Road, MP 1, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-0026
Rundown Cafe serves island cuisine in a casual atmosphere. The food is a fusion of Pacific Rim and Caribbean flavors, and they have a substantial menu of vegetarian options. Upstairs you'll find an authentic surf bar with an ocean view. This is a great family-friendly restaurant since the menu is very affordable and there are lots of choices for kids. The downstairs dining room is smoke-free. Rundown serves lunch and dinner seven days a week in the summer. You can also order take-out here. They are closed from the end of November until mid-February.

Ocean Boulevard The Beach Road, MP 2, Kitty Hawk (252) 261-2546 Ocean Boulevard is a casual yet upscale restaurant, which means you can enjoy a special evening out in the comfort of your flip-flops. They are, after all, just steps away from the ocean. Ocean Boulevard's chef serves an American bistro-style menu and has been praised in Southern Living magazine. The menu changes seasonally but always includes lots of beautiful preparations of fresh local seafood, nightly chef specials and decadent desserts. They have a long wine list and a full bar with their own martini menu. Come here for live entertainment, often a jazz band, on Friday nights. In the summer there's live entertainment during the week outside on the deck. Ocean Boulevard is open nightly for dinner year round. Reservations are suggested.

Art's Place
The Beach Road, MP 2.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-3233
Art's Place is famous among locals for their hamburgers served with hand-cut French fries. The tiny restaurant has been a fixture on the Beach Road for 30 years and a local's favorite for the extremely affordable menu. Some other lunch favorites include chicken filets, steak and cheese sandwiches, breaded and fried mushrooms and sweet potato sticks. Breakfast at Art's includes eggs, bacon, corned beef hash, homemade biscuits with sausage gravy and creamed chipped beef. They have a kid's menu. The restaurant is non-smoking. Art's has a full bar, and they're open for breakfast and lunch all year round.

Black Pelican Oceanfront Cafe The Beach Road, MP 4, Kitty Hawk (252) 261-3171 Black Pelican is just across the Beach Road from the ocean. They have a deck bar with great ocean views and, of course, lots of fresh seafood on the menu. Chose from steamed seafood, steaks, dishes with exotic Pan-Asian flavors or pizza from their wood-fired brick pizza oven. Each night they offer an eclectic list of chef's specials. They have a kid's menu with lots of choices for the little ones. Save room for one of their home-baked desserts; you'll see what we mean when you pass the display case on your way in. Black Pelican serves lunch and dinner every day plus a late-night menu at the bar. This is a lively place where you can find a fun bar scene if that's want you're looking for. They are open all year.

Hurricane Mo’s Beachside Bar and Grill
E. Kitty Hawk Road, just off the Beach Road, MP 4, Kitty Hawk
(252) 255-0215
This is a branch of Hurricane Mo's, which began at Pirate's Cove on Roanoke Island. This location is just steps from the ocean and has an intimate, beachy atmosphere. On the menu you'll find fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, pasta and sandwiches. Daily specials are offered at lunch and dinner. Kids will be happy with the selections on their children's menu. Hurricane Mo's has a full bar and happy hour specials. There is a non-smoking section. Hurricane Mo's is open year round for lunch and dinner and you can get take-out if you prefer. They often have entertainment, so check them out if you're looking for fun.

John's Drive-In
The Beach Road, MP 4.5, Kitty Hawk
(252) 261-6227
John's Drive-in is famous for their milkshakes. Locals and tourists alike are addicted, making this a busy stop, but the speedy service moves things right along. The only thing that might take a while is choosing what kind of shake to have - they have a long list of flavors including fruit and other sweet choices. Try a combination like banana-peanut butter-chocolate, and you might not have room for lunch. But you'll wish you did, with the fried mahi sandwiches and juicy hamburgers served here. Food is served to-go style, and there are several umbrella-shaded picnic tables. John's is open every day but Wednesday from spring through fall.

back to top

PO Box 308 • Manteo NC, 27954 • 252-473-1111