The North Carolina Coast Restaurants

We’ve compiled the best of the best in The North Carolina Coast - browse our top choices for Restaurants during your stay.

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  • 1. John's Drive In

    $

    When a large milk shake is the only thing that will do on a hot summer day, this is the place to head for—locals say they are the best on the Outer Banks, or even on the planet. And when you just can't take one more night out at a fancy restaurant, John's will come to the rescue with the best handheld food on the Outer Banks: burgers, subs, sandwiches (including grouper), all-beef hot dogs, and sides. The Dolphin Boat is a must: pieces of mahimahi (dolphinfish) on a bun, served in a boat (basket), with fries or slaw, sauce, and hush puppies. Hours vary seasonally, so call ahead on the day you plan to visit.

    3716 N. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, North Carolina, 27949, USA
    252-261–6227

    Known For

    • The Dolphin Boat mahi sandwich
    • Laid-back beachfront drive-in vibes
    • 24-ounce milk shakes

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Dec.–Feb., Reservations not accepted
  • 2. Manna

    $$$$ | Downtown

    Sleek design, creative lighting, and carefully orchestrated music provide a mesmerizing backdrop to chef Carson Jewell's locally sourced ingredients and culinary artistry and the talented mixologists who create cocktails using seasonal ingredients and house-made bitters. Try the braised pork shank with sweet-potato puree, collards, and radish pico de gallo, or the pan-seared Virginia scallops with parsnip puree, braised leeks, and apple salsa. You're made to feel very special here, and there's great attention to detail.

    123 Princess St., Wilmington, North Carolina, 28401, USA
    910-763–5252

    Known For

    • Incredible desserts, like a deconstructed peanut butter cheesecake
    • Creative, locally sourced dishes
    • Impeccable service

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.
  • 3. City Kitchen

    $$$

    At an otherwise working marina, this small-plates restaurant and cocktail bar offers a touch of upscale class with its excellent water views. The rotating "Littles" menu is globally inspired and full of flavor, while the "Bigs" are heartier, meatier choices for dinner. A seasonal tiki bar operates on the outdoor deck that's perfect for sunsets.

    114 A Town Creek Dr., Beaufort, North Carolina, USA
    252-648–8141

    Known For

    • Small menu with a diverse selection
    • Sticky-toffee pudding
    • Sophisticated but local vibes
  • 4. Cow Café

    $

    This black-and-white-spotted café and ice cream parlor is popular with families. Sandwiches, "cowlossal" all-beef hot dogs, "cowsadillas," house-made caramel corn, and apple pie "à la moo" are served, too.

    319 Middle St., New Bern, North Carolina, 28560, USA
    252-672–9269

    Known For

    • Many varieties of ice cream
    • Black-and-white cow toys, gifts, and memorabilia
    • Kid-friendly fun

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted, Reservations not accepted
  • 5. CRU

    $

    In the morning, pick up a bagel, a breakfast burrito, and a latte at this downtown coffee shop. Grab a sandwich or wrap to go for lunch, and come back in the evening for ice cream or to enjoy one of coastal North Carolina's best wine selections, by the glass or the bottle.

    120 Turner St., Beaufort, North Carolina, 28516, USA
    252-728--3066

    Known For

    • House-made chocolate bars
    • Gourmet coffee drinks
    • Ice-cream cones and floats
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

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