The Outer Banks is a popular tourist destination for those seeking a relaxing beach vacation or outdoor adventure. The area is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, which provides a bountiful supply of fresh seafood, including shrimp, crab, oysters, clams, and fish. The local seafood industry is an important part of the economy and culture of the region, with many restaurants sourcing their seafood directly from local fishermen and markets.
With so many options to choose from, visitors to the Outer Banks can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, from classic preparations like fried seafood baskets and seafood boils to more creative dishes like seafood tacos and sushi rolls. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to experience the local cuisine, the Outer Banks offers a range of seafood restaurants that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
The Best Seafood Restaurants in Outer Banks
If you’re a seafood lover planning a trip to the Outer Banks, here are some of the best seafood restaurants to add to your itinerary.
Outer Banks Boil Company
One of the best ways to experience the freshest seafood in the Outer Banks is by visiting the Outer Banks Boil Company. This restaurant is known for its unique approach to seafood, which involves boiling fresh local seafood in seasoned water and serving it with all the fixings. The Outer Banks Boil Company’s seafood boils include shrimp, clams, crab legs, and lobster tails, and they also offer a variety of sides like corn on the cob and red potatoes.
Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar
Located in the heart of Manteo, Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar is a local favorite for seafood. Their menu is full of classic seafood dishes like crab cakes, fried shrimp, and oysters, but they also offer unique items like smoked tuna dip and lobster mac and cheese. Plus, their raw bar has a great selection of oysters, clams, and other fresh seafood.
Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar
Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar has been a fixture in the Outer Banks for over 30 years. Their menu is focused on seafood, with a variety of oyster dishes, as well as shrimp, crab, and fish. They also have a great selection of craft beers and cocktails to pair with your meal.
The Colington Cafe
For a fine dining experience, head to The Colington Cafe. This restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, which include pan-seared scallops, shrimp and grits, and lobster tail. The Colington Cafe also has a great wine selection, which makes it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner.
Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe
Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe is a family-owned restaurant that’s been serving seafood in the Outer Banks for over 20 years. Their menu features classic seafood dishes like crab cakes and fried shrimp, as well as more unique options like shrimp and lobster carbonara. They also have a great selection of beer and wine to pair with your meal.
Dirty Dick’s Crab House
If you’re looking for a fun and casual atmosphere, head to Dirty Dick’s Crab House. This restaurant is known for its crab dishes, including crab legs, crab cakes, and crab dip. They also have a great selection of cocktails and craft beers to enjoy while you’re there.
Hurricane Mo’s Beachside Bar & Grill
Located in Kitty Hawk, Hurricane Mo’s Beachside Bar & Grill is a great spot for seafood and drinks. Their menu includes classic seafood dishes like fish and chips, as well as unique items like shrimp and grits tacos. Plus, their beachside location makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset cocktail.
What Makes a Good Seafood Restaurant in Outer Banks?
When it comes to seafood restaurants in the Outer Banks, there are a few key factors that can make a restaurant stand out as a great choice for seafood lovers. Here are some things that make a good seafood restaurant in the Outer Banks:
Freshness of the seafood: The Outer Banks is known for its fresh seafood, and a good seafood restaurant should take advantage of this by offering the freshest possible seafood. This means that the seafood should be caught locally and delivered to the restaurant as quickly as possible.
Variety of seafood dishes: A good seafood restaurant in the Outer Banks should offer a variety of seafood dishes, from classic dishes like crab cakes and shrimp cocktail to more unique options like lobster mac and cheese or seafood boils.
Quality of preparation: The preparation of the seafood is also important. A good seafood restaurant should know how to cook seafood properly to bring out its natural flavors and textures.
Atmosphere and location: The atmosphere and location of a seafood restaurant in the Outer Banks can also contribute to a great dining experience. A restaurant with a beachfront location or a view of the water can provide a relaxing and enjoyable setting for a seafood meal.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff: Finally, a good seafood restaurant in the Outer Banks should have friendly and knowledgeable staff who can make recommendations and answer questions about the menu and the seafood.
To sum it all up, the best seafood restaurant in the Outer Banks should offer fresh and varied seafood dishes, have a quality preparation, and provide a pleasant atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a seafood lover’s paradise, with a variety of restaurants offering fresh and delicious seafood. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a casual spot for drinks and crab legs, there’s a seafood restaurant in the Outer Banks that’s perfect for you. Be sure to add the Outer Banks Boil Company to your list of must-visit spots for a unique seafood experience.
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