Ultimate 3-Day Foodie Itinerary: Best Restaurants in the Outer Banks, NC
For decades, the Outer Banks of North Carolina (OBX) have been renowned for their fresh seafood. Situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, protecting the mainland from its waves, the waters yield yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, rockfish, flounder, crab, oysters, and shrimp. This abundance supports numerous seafood restaurants and markets, making it a paradise for pescatarians with endless options for every meal, including breakfast.
Today, food enthusiasts are discovering even more culinary gems beyond seafood. Omnivores and varied palates will find healthy snacks, hearty steaks, craft cocktails, and gourmet dinners. To guide your OBX food adventure, we've curated this expert 3-day itinerary of top dining and drinking spots.
DAY 1
Breakfast
Uglie's Mugs Coffee Shop
Begin your trip at this charming Avon spot blending coffee shop, trinket store, and bead shop. Enjoy premium coffees, bagels, and muffins amid eclectic decor. Browse postcards, jewelry, and unique mugs, or craft bracelets in the bead room while using free Wi-Fi.
The Froggy Dog in Avon
Lunch
The Froggy Dog
This lively Avon pub shines with frog legs in BBQ sauce—tender and tasting like chicken—and fresh local oysters: on the half-shell, garlic herb, or Rockefeller style. A perfect fuel-up for exploring Hatteras Island.
Café Pamlico sits on the edge of Pamlico Sound with stunning sunset views.
Dinner
Café Pamlico
After exploring Hatteras Island, unwind with beach-casual fine dining at Café Pamlico, especially convenient if staying at the Inn on Pamlico Sound. Savor Hereford ribeye, catch of the day, or vegetarian risotto paired with Champagne and panoramic water views—widely regarded as one of OBX's top dinners.
Cocktails
Turner's High Moon Bar
Extend the evening with 21 beers on tap, extensive liquors, live music, and a pub menu in a welcoming atmosphere.
DAY 2
Breakfast
Ashley's Espresso Parlour
In Kill Devil Hills, this parlour from All Time Coffee Roasting Co. features small-batch, fair-trade, organic beans roasted onsite. Indulge in pour-overs, cold brew shakes (try peanut butter banana), croissants, or muffins for a sustainable start.
Lunch
The Kill Devil Grill
This historic train-car diner near Kill Devil Hill serves nostalgic vibes. Order steamed local shrimp (a pound minimum) and legendary 3-day smoked chicken wings with signature sauce.
Dinner
The Colington Cafe
In a Victorian villa near Wright Brothers National Memorial, enjoy French-inspired cuisine with Southern flair. Highlights: she-crab bisque, scallops rumaki, and the Grand Trio of grilled filet mignon, shrimp, and jumbo lump crab with béarnaise.
Head to TRIO Restaurant and Market in Kitty Hawk for drinks, charcuterie, and cheese.
Drinks after Dinner
TRIO Restaurant and Market
With 35 wines by the glass and 24 rotating taps, this cosmopolitan spot offers cheese boards and charcuterie in an energetic setting.
DAY 3
Breakfast
Treehouse Coffee Co. and Rope Ladder Kitchen and Biscuits
In Duck's Scarborough Faire, savor local roasts and breakfast like homemade biscuits, empanadas, or crab cake sandwiches.
Who wouldn’t get excited about indulging in a fresh lunch on the deck at AQUA Restaurant?
Lunch
AQUA Restaurant
This waterfront gem in Duck features Executive Chef Cory Bryant's vibrant dishes: smoked baba ganoush, Gathering Salad, or poke bowl with sashimi tuna and fresh toppings.
Kimball’s Kitchen in Duck.
Dinner
Kimball’s Kitchen
At Sanderling Resort, elevate your final night with upscale local seafood, certified Angus beef, handmade pasta, and award-winning wines in a classy yet relaxed ambiance.
Post-Dinner Drinks
NC Coast Grill and Bar
Wind down with the "I’m not a tourist, I have a house in Duck" cocktail, live music, and sunset views—planning your return already.
Other Must-Try Spots:
Bros Sandwich Shack, Avon – awesome burgers and sandwiches
Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill, Hatteras – breathtaking views, delicious food
Outer Banks Brewing Station, Kill Devil Hills – killer brewpub
The Thai Room, Kill Devil Hills – great Thai food
Tortuga’s Lie, Nags Head – badass Caribbean food
Waveriders, Nags Head – healthy food, delicious brews
