From the very first writings about the Outer Banks by 1585 explorers Phillip Amadas and Arthur Barlowe, we've been lauded for our natural surroundings -- "the goodliest land under the cope of heaven." Certainly, anyone who comes here does so mostly because of the gifts Mother Nature has bestowed on the Outer Banks. Where else could you stand on top of a giant sand dune and watch the sun both rise and set? So, it's no wonder that dining under this cope of heaven, without a roof over your head, has been an Outer Banks restaurant tradition since the start of tourism. Outer Banks outdoor dining takes advantage of the magnificent environment that hosts it. There's no way any restaurant lighting can compete with twinkling stars! Lots of the restaurants with open air dining are located on the soundfront, so the scenic beauty is amped up as you watch the different colors of the sunset reflecting on the water. And, as an added benefit, many Outer Banks outdoor dining restaurants also offer live music on their decks. Want a local’s tip: Order a meal for take-out from your favorite restaurant, then go climb to the top of that giant sand dune and have a picnic. It’s a view that you’ve never had before while dining, that’s for sure!
Outer Banks Restaurants by Area
Corolla | Duck & Southern Shores | Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills & Nags Head
Roanoke Island & Manteo | Hatteras Island | Ocracoke Island
Outer Banks Restaurants by Category
American Pie serves two vacation favorites: pizza and ice cream. Enjoy hand-tossed New York–style pizza, subs, wings and salads. For dessert enjoy homemade...read more
If you're looking for a quick breakfast or lunch, stop by the Anchor Grill food truck in Kitty Hawk You'll find it next to Stack Em High restaurant in Kitty...read more
Aqua Restaurant on the waterfront is a must-stop while out and about in Duck. Serving lunch and dinner, Aqua offers fresh regional cuisine, exquisite wines...read more
Art’s Place is famous among locals not only for their hamburgers served with hand-cut french fries, but also for their friendly staff. The tiny restaurant...read more
The Lunchbox offers a variety of delicious and healthy lunch options: sandwiches, salads, protein pots and baked goods all made fresh daily in the Back...read more
The Back Porch is one of the island's great restaurants, providing a consistently pleasant dining experience. Their open-air screened porch dining room...read more
One of the few restaurants and bars on the Outer Banks oceanfront, Beachcombers Tiki Hut offers the ultimate coastal refreshment experience. Under the grass...read more
Serving American coastal cuisine, Beachside Bistro at the Sea Ranch Resort is one of the few true oceanfront restaurants on the Outer Banks. Hang out inside...read more
