Outer Banks Restaurants

Whalehead Brewery in Corolla stands out as not only a woman- and veteran-owned brewery, but also as a place to enjoy great full-flavored beers and amazing brick-oven pizzas with people who love the Northern Outer Banks. Owner Christin Crowley founded the brewery after 22 years in the Navy. During her career she traveled around tasting the beers of the world, and after retirement she decided to make her own beers in her favorite vacation town of Corolla. Her popular 5-barrel brewhouse, open since 2023, includes a self-pour tap wall, a welcoming industrial-style taproom and a beautiful mosaic tile pizza oven. In addition to brick-oven pizzas, the restaurant serves delicious shareables, soups, salads and more. This is a fun gathering spot in Corolla, with bingo, trivia and live music weekly and frequent community fundraisers and special events.

Housed in a former U.S. Lifesaving Station and full of character and rustic charm, the Black Pelican is on the Beach Road, directly across from the ocean. They have a deck bar with great ocean views and, of course, lots of fresh seafood on the menu. Choose from steamed seafood, steaks or pizza from the wood-fired brick oven, a locals' favorite. Each night they offer an eclectic list of chef’s specials, and they have a kids' menu with lots of choices. 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. The Black Pelican serves lunch and dinner every day, plus a late-night menu is served at the bar and in the restaurant. This is a lively place where you can find a fun bar scene. They are open all year.