We bet you've been dreaming of eating an Outer Banks seafood dinner for months. (We understand. As locals, eating fresh-caught seafood is one of the true pleasures of living here.) Whether it's fried, broiled, blackened, grilled, steamed or raw (as in the oyster or sushi variety), there's a virtual sea of choices. Favorites such as shrimp, flounder, crab cakes and tuna are always found on menus, but seasonal favorites are much anticipated too -- soft shell crabs, oysters, rock fish, puppy drum and blue fish being big ones on the list. As you can imagine, almost every restaurant here serves Outer Banks seafood of some sort, but the ones we're noting in this category are the ones that feature it foremost on their menus and prepare it in imaginative as well as traditional ways. Steamed Outer Banks seafood is offered in many of these restaurants, but unless we specifically note it, you're smart to call ahead to confirm if that's what you're wanting. For diners who are particularly health conscious, steamed shrimp, clams or oysters accompanied by steamed veggies is a meal any trainer would approve of! A select number of Outer Banks restaurants will even cook your catch of the day – what a satisfying end to a successful day of fishing.
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
Greetail's is a combination of seafood market and restaurant offering fresh Outer Banks seafood. If you're cooking at home or taking seafood home for...read more
Harbor Deli offers lunch and take-out fare. The lunch menu is large, with specialty sandwiches – including the popular Shrimp Burger – seafood salads, daily...read more
The Hatteras Sol Deli has moved and expanded into the Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill. Just like their deli menu, everything at the grill is fresh and homemade...read more
Hurricane Mo’s is just steps from the ocean and has an intimate, beachy atmosphere. It's open year round, and you can find fresh seafood, steaks, chicken,...read more
If you like eating locally caught fresh blue crabs, this place is for you. Family-owned and operated by Currituck commercial fishermen, this restaurant...read more
Jimmy’s is a popular vacationer's destination now entering its 22nd season. They offer a variety of Outer Banks seafood and...read more
JK's is famous for its steaks and fresh seafood, all cooked over a mesquite wood grill. The steaks are of exceptional quality and are prepared by JK's in-...read more
Johanna's, operated by a longtime local restaurateur and caterer, is a food truck based at Wanchese Tiki Hut at Safe Harbor Outer Banks. Open Wednesday...read more
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...read more
Ketch 55 Seafood Grill specializes in fine coastal cuisine in a casual island atmosphere. The chef has an appreciation for local ingredients and all-natural...read more
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...read more