14 BEST Restaurants in The Outer Banks (OBX) To Try! - Lost In The Carolinas (2024)

The Outer Banks are a stunning chain of barrier islands of the idyllic North Carolina coast. They are known as a charming romantic getaway destination in NC full of quaint beachside buildings, pristine wilderness, expansive shores, and rich nautical history.

We are so happy to relay that we can all now add one more delicious reason to visit these scenic seaside towns – their culinary prowess.Read on as we break down the best restaurants in the Outer Banks!

As you may imagine, the banks are home to some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere. Straight from the ocean, there’s an abundance of shellfish being cooked to perfection among these esteemed establishments.

There are also surprising flavors being incorporated into cuisines here from all parts of the globe. From classic Carolina BBQ and boils to authentic Indian and Caribbean creations, the diversity of the dining delights never ceases to amaze. These are the best Outer Banks restaurants.

Delicious Outer Banks Restaurants to Try

Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar

Kill Devil Hills

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This Kill Devil Hills institution has long been a local legend in the Outer Banks and it’s one of the best restaurants in Outer Banks. They are serving up fresh oysters straight from the sea in every manner imaginable.

Watch them slide off the steamers sizzling. Slurp them down straight after seeing them be shucked. Savor them seasoned and fried to the perfect crisp. The copper topped bar is a sight for seafood sore eyes to behold. The oceanfront views are unparalleled.

What better way to enjoy a spectacular meal than with a side of salty sea breeze? The space has a cozy nautical feel that captures the coastal Carolina spirit. The menu provides a whole host of options from pastas to poultry to various kinds of fish. The world is your oyster at Awful Arthur’s.

Urban Kitchen

Corolla

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This little gem of in the small OBX town of Corolla packs big flavors on the plate in an intimate setting. Everything is farm-to-table, ensuring a truly fresh and local dining experience.

They create a range of new American fares that never cease to surprise and delight. Some of the beloved dishes here are the Pork Shanks with a house made hot sauce, blue cheese slaw, sweet pickles, and pork rinds or the Crispy Catfish with the coveted comeback sauce, sure to convince you to do just that.

Each plate feels carefully concocted in this quaint Outer Banks eatery. A delicious departure from the usual seafood suspects, Urban Kitchen is serving up some of the most refined dishes in the area, securing its place among the best Outer Banks restaurants.

The Blue Point

Duck

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Easily one of the best Outer Banks seafood restaurants. A laidback local haunt in Duck, the Blue Point is home to locally sourced seafood and high-end Southern fares.

Nestled on the banks of the picturesque sound, it features an open kitchen and retro decor. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring the best of fresh ingredients. Southern hospitality is in abundance in this sweet setting.

Sweeping views overlooking the sparkling waters are the perfect companion to any feast. We highly recommend dining during the scenic sunset. You can also pull up an Adirondack at the backBAR for a cold drink and some live tunes in the warm Carolina sunshine.

The bread is all freshly baked, and the food is straight from local and sustainable fishers. The Jumbo Lump Crabcakes and She Crab Soup from scratch are favorites among neighbors and visitors alike.

High Cotton BBQ

Kitty Hawk

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This unassuming Kitty Hawk hotspot is serving up some of the best barbecue in the banks. It’s a no-frills-down home joint where the flavors of the meat speak for themselves, and loudly. Owned and operated by a Carolina connoisseur, the offerings are country classics and cooked to perfection.

In the traditional Eastern North Carolina style, consistent temperatures and hours smoking over hickory coals create the stuff of Southern dreams.

It comes with all the favorite homemade fixings – chopped slaw, baked beans, and hush puppies. Whether you’re in the mood for pulled pork, fried chicken, or beef brisket, High Cotton has your back (and your BBQ sauce).

The Paper Canoe

Duck

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The Outer Bank bistro sits right on the sound shores of Duck, and easily makes this list of best restaurants in the OBX. They’re known for the breathtaking vista on their iconic waterfront location, but the gourmet grub comes in close second. The chalkboard is constantly showing off some new and exciting dishes that you may have never expected and subsequently won’t be able to live without.

Many of the ingredients are grown right in their own backyard and picked fresh daily – you can’t get any more local or fresh than that. The dishes are developed to be simple, unique, and inspired by Southern fare as well as the more immediate surroundings. The plates are pleasing to both the palette and the eyes, as the kitchen here has a passion for presentation.

The ambiance is warm and inviting with wood covered walls soaked in sun from all the natural light streaming in. There is an extensive wine list and craft beer on tap to pair with your pick. The Crab Stuffed Shrimp and Skillet Seared Scallops are sensational.

Miller’s Waterfront

Nags Head

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Family owned and operated for generations, Miller’s is a quintessential Nags Head haven for seafood and steak. Chock full of rustic charm, the environment reflects the easy-going coastal character of the banks.

The views of the Roanoke Sound offer plenty of entertainment to accompany your meal in the form of windsurfers, kite-boarders, and if you’re lucky a glowing sunset.

The fresh North Carolina Flounder and the BBQ Pork Poutine are delectable dishes, especially when paired with a cold beer or the Miller’s famous bloody Mary. With a wooden dock stretching through the waters right out front, you can even arrive by boat. Miller’s has surf and turfed its way right into all of our hearts as one of the best Outer Banks restaurants.

Outer Banks Boil Company

Corolla

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Outer Banks Boil Company is home to the best pot on the beach. They offer an exciting way to share a meal and a refreshing departure from the typical dining experience. A boil is a time-honored coastal tradition that everyone can now partake in together.

It includes a fresh assortment of jumbo shrimp, andouille sausage, red bliss potatoes, corn on the cob, and sweet Vidalia onions all seasoned to perfection. You can even customize your boil with extras such as crab legs, mussels, clams, and lobster tails.

The beloved boil is then ceremoniously dumped out right on the tablecloth for everyone to forage and enjoy. These signature-style seafood sessions can be served up right in the comfort of your (rental) home. You can pick up a pot to go or have them come to you for a full-service affair.

Tortugas’ Lie

Nags Head

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Tucked among the dunes of the Outer Banks, this mouthwatering(hole) lies in Nags Head and is cooking up Caribbean culinary creations. It’s known as a hotspot for surfers for it’s chilled out vibes and fresh far-out fares. They’ve got it all at Tortugas – steamed shellfish, inventive sandwiches, burritos, burgers, and Jamacian jerk-style meats.

The flavors are bright and tropical, much like the quaint and OBX beachy establishment itself. The Cajun Conch Fritters and Creole Crawdaddies are surely the best way to start out your feast here.

The backyard boasts a sand volleyball court if you want to work up an appetite prior to your plates, or watch some competitive teams battle it out as you dine. Tortugas’ Lie is a fun and festive eatery for all to enjoy.

Mama Kwans

Kill Devil Hills

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This vibrant eatery is a celebration of Pacific Rim flavors and fares in Kill Devil Hills. There’s just something about a Tiki Bar that gets everyone smiling.

Joy is served up in the form of delicious and different craft cocktails. New creations are constantly being invented, but the Bahama Mama is a rum drinker’s dream and the Bushwacker makes it hard to only order one of something so delicious.

Plus, they’re often served in a kitschy souvenir glass that you get to keep, a sweet gift from mama to you. The Mahi Mahi Tacos have developed a cult following along with the Big Daddy Tuna Plate and Thai Money Bags. If you want to go all out, order the Garbage Plate, which advertises a little bit of everything. This is the place to let loose and live a little, promising fun times, friendly faces, and fantastic food. Treat yourself at Mama Kwans.

Kill Devil Grill

Kill Devil Hills

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This unassuming retro chic diner makes traditional American offerings with an upscale twist. A favorite among anyone who frequents the banks, their pristine reputation precedes them. The cheese steak eggrolls are a showstopper here.

If curiosity alone isn’t enough to convince you to make the order, just ask around town to hear rave reviews. Everything is made from scratch in-house. The chicken wings are marinated for days and then smoked, roasted, and grilled with a special sauce. There is always a daily special on deck that is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.

The desserts are to die for if you have a hankering for something sweet and the full bar is always open. The selection of Carolina craft beer is extensive and pairs well with these homey gourmet fares. Kill Devil Grill is a foodie favorite and scrumptious secret gem of these sandy shores.

Art’s Place

Kitty Hawk

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Home of the best beach burger in the banks, Art’s features classic American foods in a funky seaside setting. A popular neighborhood hangout in Kitty Hawk for decades, a meal here has become a tradition in the area. They may very well be the last local little hole in the wall joint around.

The atmosphere is friendly and familiar in a perfectly casual way. The deck bar boasts sweeping views of the sparkling sea and often hosts live local bands. The fresh hand-cut fries that accompany each order are worth a visit alone.

The Baja Burger comes topped with swiss cheese, grilled red onion, spinach, pineapple, and a balsamic reduction for the win. Go by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Art’s will be waiting with open arms.

Corolla Cantina

Corolla

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An easygoing eatery, this coastal cantina cooks up Mexican cuisine with a seaside flare. You can dine al fresco to appreciate the phenomenal views of the nearby OBX lighthouse. The ambience is very relaxing, a great way to unwind after a day of fun in the sun. Everything is fresh and handmade in-house. The Baja Fish Burrito and Ahi Tuna Tacos are some of the favorite fares.

There are vegetarian and vegan options here as well, lovingly deemed as Rabbit Food on the menu. The credo here is, be kind and unwind, and it feels easy to do with a mouthwatering margarita in hand and loaded nachos on your plate. It’s well loved by locals and anyone who happens to stumble upon this cozy cantina in Corolla.

La Dolce Vita

Corolla

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La Dolce Vita is home to classic Italian fares made with love. Using family recipes handed down for generations, everything is homemade and hand tossed all from scratch.

The deck faces the sound for a stunning sight surrounded by flora and warm Carolina sunshine. A whole slew of seafood pastas are sure to please your palate, try the Seafood Diablo or Clams Bianca.

Fresh baked bread starts off every meal. The gourmet pizzas are baked in the stone oven on site, and they can be ordered with a wide range of fresh and traditional toppings. The wine list is extensive and curated carefully. Be sure to leave the gun and take the cannoli on the way out. La Dolce is home to the best Italian cuisine in the banks.

Masala Bay Grill

Point Harbor

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Masala Bay brings all the tastes of India right to the Outer Banks. The authentic fares are a first for the area and we must say, it really is something to celebrate. Its waterfront location on the banks of the Currituck Sound adds a special ambiance to this culinary stand out of Point Harbor. To create their famous and eponymous sauce they use spices from all four corners of India, though the fares themselves are in the style of the North.

Each dish is thoughtfully created with its own distinctive well-balanced and complex flavors. The dishes are rich, the vegetables are fresh, and the meat is tender. The Lamb Biryani and the Chicken Tikka Masala are mind blowing culinary masterpieces.

The atmosphere feels simple and comfortable yet refined, allowing the view and the food to be the focus. If you’re looking for exotic tastes in an exceptional setting, it’s Masala Bay all the way.

Wherever you decide on we hope you enjoy one of these best restaurants in the outer banks

Best Restaurants in the Outer Banks

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These are just some of the best restaurants in the Outer Banks, if you're looking for some fun things to do in the Outer Banks, make sure to read on!

EXPLORE THE OUTER BANKS

  • Beautiful Outer Banks Lighthouses to See
  • 14 Outer Banks Beaches to Relax On
  • 9 Best Outer Banks Towns You Can’t Miss
  • 20 Outer Banks Vacation Rentals You’ll Love (Oceanfront VRBO!)
  • 25 Best North Carolina Beaches To Visit

Plan For Your Trip to the South!

  • We like to use VRBO when searching for vacation apartment rentals and Booking.com when searching for hotels.
  • See our favorite cooler for the road!
  • Get Around: We suggest renting a car for traveling the Carolinas. Check Prices on RentalCars.com
  • Our Favorite Travel Shoes:Our answer to this question is alwaysAllbirds.
  • Check out our favorite North Carolina Souvenir!
14 BEST Restaurants in The Outer Banks (OBX) To Try! - Lost In The Carolinas (2024)

FAQs

What food are the Outer Banks famous for? ›

Generations of fishermen work hard in these waters to pull in native green and brown shrimp, blue crabs and tuna that will tempt your tummy. Just about all our seafood restaurants buy fresh catch like this- clams, flounder, scallops and more - right from the docks on Roanoke Island and Hatteras.

Where is Kiara's parents restaurant in Outer Banks? ›

Filming location: The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene is the real restaurant where scenes featuring Kiara's family's business were filmed. This laid-back seafood dive is located on the banks of Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant.

Where do the rich live in Outer Banks? ›

A new survey has ranked residents of several Greater Outer Banks counties among North Carolina's wealthiest, despite not being located in the state's population centers, and the wide gap between top and bottom earners that live in those counties.

What is the nicest part of the Outer Banks? ›

The Best Places to Live in the Outer Banks
  • Corolla. The most northern town in the Outer Banks, Corolla is home to miles of beautiful beaches, wild horses, fabulous restaurants, a plethora of outdoor activities, and great golfing. ...
  • Duck. ...
  • Southern Shores. ...
  • Kitty Hawk. ...
  • Kill Devil Hills. ...
  • Nags Head. ...
  • Manteo. ...
  • Rodanthe.

What movie was filmed in Outer Banks? ›

Did you know several famous movies were filmed on the Outer Banks? Nights in Rodanthe (2008), Brainstorm (1983), and Breakwater (2023) were all filmed on the Outer Banks!

What are the locals called in Outer Banks? ›

Outer Banks is set in a coastal town along the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where there is a stark social divide between wealthy seasonal residents and working-class locals, nicknamed the "Kooks" and "Pogues", respectively.

Where is John B's house in real life? ›

If you're looking for the filming location, it's located in Charleston, South Carolina. The home is very private as they do not want visitors, but there's a boat tour that goes on in which they will go by the house and show you it. Directly North of 1659 Fort Lamar Rd Charleston, SC 29412.

Was any of Outer Banks filmed in NC? ›

The story of Outer Banks takes place in North Carolina, but it's mostly shot in Charleston, South Carolina. The reason for that? According to Wilmington Star News it was because of the anti-LGBTQIA+ laws in North Carolina.

What is Kiara's nickname OBX? ›

Kiara “Kie” Carrera.

Do any celebrities live in Outer Banks? ›

The Outer Banks' most beloved celebrity resident was actor Andy Griffith, famous for his roles on The Andy Griffith Show, A Face in the Crowd, and Matlock, to name a few. Andy lived on Roanoke Island and was often seen at the Ace Hardware, local restaurants, or the Island Pharmacy.

Where did Bill Gates stay on the Outer Banks? ›

The vacation house in Corolla, just north of North Carolina's Outer Banks, is a four-bedroom, two-bathroom that has its own gazebo overlooking the ocean as well as a private pathway to the beach. The home, known as Castle Sween, is billed on Airbnb as a 'royal retreat for beach lovers' - starting at $600 per night.

What is the prettiest quietest beach in the Outer Banks? ›

Ocracoke Island:

Accessible only by ferry, Ocracoke Island boasts some of the most pristine and secluded beaches in the OBX. The untouched beauty of Ocracoke's shores makes it a paradise for those who crave solitude and serenity.

What is the best month to go to the Outer Banks? ›

The best time to visit the Outer Banks is between March and May or September and November, when lodging rates drop and crowds dissipate. Most mainland North Carolina residents and out-of-towners arrive during the summer months, when humidity is high and average temperatures consistently hit the upper 80s.

What is the least touristy area of the Outer Banks? ›

Visit Currituck NC | Least Crowds in the Outer Banks.

What is the prettiest beach in the Outer Banks NC? ›

10 Best Beaches in Outer Banks
  • Rodanthe Beach.
  • Kitty Hawk.
  • Nags Head.
  • Kill Devil Hills.
  • Ocracoke Island.
  • Hatteras Island.
  • Duck Beach.
  • Cape Point Beach.

What seafood are Outer Banks known for? ›

The region is renowned for its bounty of shrimp, crab, and oysters, which are considered some of the best in the world. These local delicacies are used in a variety of dishes, from classic comfort food like shrimp and grits to more innovative creations that showcase the chefs' creativity.

What is a cook from Outer Banks? ›

What is a Kook? A Kook is a person who lives in Figure 8 or the north side of the OBX. They are typically well-off and have the most power on the island.

What is special about Outer Banks? ›

In addition to its physical beauty, the OBX has a rich history and cultural heritage that is woven into the fabric of the community. From the Wright Brothers Memorial marking the birthplace of powered flight, to the quaint, historic town of Manteo, the OBX offers a unique glimpse into America's past.

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