Outer Banks North Carolina, USA Travel Guide
The Outer Banks culinary scene mirrors its identity as a coastal fishing community. Historically, islanders relied on ocean or sound catches, local crops, or mainland trade. This reliance fostered simple, delicious preparations highlighting seafood's natural flavors.
Seafood: The star of the Outer Banks plate. Common catches include shrimp, crabs (blue crabs), oysters, flounder, tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, scallops, and clams. Freshness is paramount. Flavors: Preparations are often simple to highlight seafood freshness, frequently fried, grilled, or steamed, seasoned with butter, lemon, and Old Bay.
These areas present more upscale dining and a broader diversity of cuisines, reflecting preferences for a refined experience.
This area holds the widest range of dining, from casual diners and family-style seafood restaurants to mid-range eateries.
These southern areas present more authentic, local, and rustic seafood shacks and family-run eateries.
Any preparation of locally caught fish (flounder, tuna, mahi-mahi), shrimp, oysters, or crabs. Look for "fresh catch of the day" specials. You find excellent fresh seafood at most restaurants.
Steamed Shrimp, Crab Legs/Crab Cakes, Oysters.
Small, savory fried cornmeal fritters, typically served as a complimentary side with almost any seafood meal. A classic casual meal found at many seafood shacks and diners.
Fried Fish/Shrimp Baskets.
A rich, creamy soup made with crab meat, a distinct flavor. A comforting appetizer. Eastern North Carolina BBQ (vinegar-based, pulled pork) is also found in some Outer Banks spots.
Slow-cooked, shredded pork.
A delicacy in spring and early summer when blue crabs shed their shells, typically fried and eaten whole.
Peak shrimp season is late summer through early fall. Oyster roasts are popular social events in fall and winter, where oysters are steamed.
Offers upscale, modern American cuisine with beautiful waterfront views.
A range of seafood and American cuisine options.
Affordable meals and quick bites.
Best places to buy fresh, locally caught seafood. Many offer steaming services. Examples: Wanchese Fish Company, O'Neal's Sea Harvest.
Farmers Markets are seasonal in various towns, offering local produce and baked goods.
Present but limited. You find Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese (sushi) restaurants, mainly in the northern and central towns.
More diverse options are available in larger cities on the mainland.
Many restaurants offer adaptions; review menus online or call ahead.
Some restaurants accommodate; always inform your server of allergies.
Options are very limited. Self-catering from supermarkets may be needed.
Use apps like HappyCow or contact restaurants directly.
Many restaurants present stunning sunset views over the Pamlico Sound. Dining while watching the sun dip below the horizon is a memorable Outer Banks experience.
Oceanfront Dining: A different ambiance with waves and sea breezes.
Outer Banks Seafood Festival: An annual event in October celebrating local seafood. Taste of the Beach: A spring culinary event. Check local event calendars for smaller community food events.
Oyster roasts are popular in the fall/winter.
Food Lion and Harris Teeter are the main grocery chains on the Outer Banks, well-stocked for all your self-catering needs.
The Outer Banks does not have a formal "street food" culture akin to larger cities.
Located on the mainland side just before Roanoke Island, this restaurant has exceptional fine dining with stunning sound views, popular for sunset.
A lively spot known for its steamed seafood, including crab legs and shrimp, served in a fun, casual atmosphere in Nags Head and Kitty Hawk.
Offers both prepared seafood dishes and fresh seafood for purchase. A local option for enjoying and preparing seafood.
A local seafood market where you can purchase fresh, local seafood.
Great for cooking at your rental.
Another excellent local seafood market with fresh catches and take-out options.
Offers steamed items for quick meals.
For a truly local experience, visit a seafood market, purchase some fresh catch, and prepare it in your vacation rental's kitchen. It's delicious and often more economical.
The Outer Banks cuisine prioritizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, especially from the surrounding waters. Look for daily specials.
Don't forget to try Sweet Tea, a Southern staple, and explore the growing craft beer scene with local breweries.
The Outer Banks culinary scene blends coastal heritage with Southern comfort food, creating distinct and inviting local cuisine.
