Outer Banks Restaurants

Is it a bottle shop or a bar? It's both! Old Tom's is a place to pick up provisions like beer, wine, mead, cider and nonalcoholic drinks to go or to enjoy on site. It's also a place to gather with friends in a cozy, inviting and friendly atmosphere. The bar features live music, game nights and sports on TV, making it a favorite local hangout. In addition to drinks, Old Tom’s offers unique gifts, souvenirs and a charming space available for private events. In case you're wondering, it's named for the liveliest character in The Lost Colony.

Located at the heart of Colington Island (just a few miles down Colington Road), The Saltbox Café is a charming cottage-style restaurant with a menu that focuses on local seafood, fresh meats and vegetables, plus delicious house-made desserts that can be custom created. You can dine inside or on their large outdoor porch, which overlooks beautiful Colington Creek. The porch can even be rented in season for special occasions such as small wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners and birthday parties, and their chefs are happy to work with you if you’d like to create a personalized menu for your event. The Saltbox Café is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, and they have a wonderful brunch on Sundays. Owned by a husband and wife team of well-trained, experienced and award-winning chefs, this is one of the Outer Banks tucked-away secrets and is popular with the locals.

Bad Bean Baja Grill creates a distinctive dining experience. Utilizing techniques and flavors found all across Latin America, California and the Baja Peninsula, the award-winning chefs present a creative fusion of familiar cantina favorites. One of the favorite dishes is the fish tacos topped with salsa fresca, crisp jicama slaw and cilantro chimichurri. The slow-cooked beef brisket and pork barbacoa also make for delicious tacos as well as burritos, wraps and quesadillas. Bad Bean always uses fresh, local seafood, and their chips, salsas, guacamole and queso dips are all made in-house. Be sure to check out the nightly dinner specials, and on Fridays stop by for fresh fish ceviche. Along with the full restaurant menu, the bar serves some of the best fresh fruit margaritas and mojitos on the beach. Plus they have an ever-changing selection of craft and draft beers. This cool Outer Banks restaurant is open year-round for lunch and dinner. Take-out, including party packs for groups, is available.