From Sea to Plate: Exploring OBX Seafood Markets for Fresh Catches

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is renowned for its abundant seafood harvests and coastal culinary delights. For visitors and locals alike, exploring the OBX seafood markets is an essential part of experiencing the region’s rich maritime heritage and savoring the freshest catches from the Atlantic Ocean and local waterways. From succulent shrimp and sweet scallops to savory crab and flaky fish, these seafood markets offer a diverse array of options to satisfy any palate. Here are some of the best OBX seafood markets where you can find fresh catches and local flavors.

1. Austin Fish Company

Location: 3711 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959

About: Austin Fish Company has been a staple of the Outer Banks seafood scene for over 40 years, offering a wide selection of fresh seafood sourced directly from local fishermen and seafood suppliers. From shrimp and oysters to grouper and tuna, their market showcases the best of OBX seafood.

Specialties: Try their famous steamed shrimp, homemade crab cakes, or seafood platters featuring a variety of local catches. Don’t miss their selection of house-made sauces and marinades to enhance your seafood dishes.

2. Billy’s Seafood

Location: 400 Queen Elizabeth Ave, Manteo, NC 27954

About: Located in the heart of historic downtown Manteo, Billy’s Seafood is a family-owned market specializing in fresh local seafood and homemade specialties. Their market offers a variety of fresh fish, shellfish, and prepared dishes, perfect for cooking at home or enjoying on the go.

Specialties: Indulge in their signature shrimp burgers, seafood chowder, or crab-stuffed mushrooms. You can also pick up fresh-caught fish fillets, live crabs, and steamed shrimp for a seafood feast at home.

3. Carawan Seafood Company

Location: 4107 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949

About: Carawan Seafood Company is a beloved OBX institution known for its commitment to quality and freshness. With a focus on local and sustainable seafood, their market offers a wide selection of fresh catches, including shrimp, crab, clams, and more.

Specialties: Treat yourself to their famous crab legs, lobster tails, or seafood boils featuring a mouthwatering assortment of shellfish. They also offer homemade seafood dips, spreads, and sauces to complement your meals.

4. Dockside ‘N Duck Seafood Market

Location: 1225 Duck Rd, Duck, NC 27949

About: Situated in the charming village of Duck, Dockside ‘N Duck Seafood Market is a favorite destination for locals and visitors seeking the freshest seafood on the OBX. Their market features a diverse selection of locally sourced fish, shellfish, and specialty items.

Specialties: Sample their signature smoked fish dip, crab cakes, or steamed shrimp. They also offer ready-to-cook seafood meals and gourmet items like lobster mac ‘n’ cheese and seafood stuffed mushrooms.

5. O’Neal’s Sea Harvest

Location: 618 Harbor Rd, Wanchese, NC 27981

About: Located in the historic fishing village of Wanchese, O’Neal’s Sea Harvest is a family-owned seafood market specializing in locally caught seafood and shellfish. Their market offers a direct connection to the region’s fishing heritage and culinary traditions.

Specialties: Enjoy their fresh shrimp, soft-shell crabs, or seafood baskets featuring a mix of fried fish, shrimp, and oysters. Be sure to try their homemade hushpuppies and coleslaw for a true taste of the Outer Banks.

Experience the true taste of the Outer Banks with a visit to one of these top seafood markets, where you can indulge in the freshest catches and local flavors from the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding waterways. Whether you’re cooking up a seafood feast at home or enjoying prepared dishes on the go, these OBX seafood markets are sure to satisfy your cravings for coastal cuisine. Dive into freshness and savor the bounty of the sea during your visit to this beloved coastal destination.

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