2025 American Guide

The flavors of the Crystal Coast and the Down East region of eastern North Carolina are on full display at 34° North Restaurant, an elegant but laid-back eatery that is found just a shell’s throw away from Beaufort’s downtown area. Serving a wide range of fare for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, this enticing waterfront restaurant can cater to parties of all tastes.

Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant & Bar is the Atlantic Beach go-to for classic southern and coastal fare in a casual, beachy environment. Located on the soundside, across from the Oceana Pier, the restaurant is known for plenty of hearty and coastal dishes, a fun atmosphere, and solid waterfront views.

Aqua offers a refined and eclectic dining experience, thanks to a varied menu that features an ever-changing selection of tapas, small plates, and big plates.

Visitors who are in the mood for a casual appetizer or meal, or just a Happy Hour drink after a long day of exploring Downtown Morehead City, can settle into a table or bar stool at Beach Bumz Pub & Pizzeria.

Crystal Coast visitors can hang out with the locals with a visit to Beach Tavern. Centrally located, in the heart of Atlantic Beach just a couple blocks from the shoreline, this casual tavern boasts a nice selection of cool eats, burgers, and drinks in a friendly come-as-you-are atmosphere.

Beaufort Grocery Company is garnering a big reputation as a little eatery with lots of options and bold, coastal flavors. Located along quiet Queen Street in the downtown area, this all-encompassing restaurant features in-house dining in a cozy and friendly atmosphere, catering for special events, and even pick-up and delivery options for Beaufort visitors and locals alike.

Beer and burger lovers can join the ranks of New Bern locals and frequent visitors who have discovered a wealth of great tastes at the downtown Beer Army Burger Company. Featuring an ever-changing selection of incredible regional and national brews on tap, this destination is an exceptional spot to satisfy a beer and burger craving after a long day of exploring historic New Bern.

Billfish is a southern coastal restaurant and bar in Indian Beach focused on providing unique eats, signature cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere for families, locals and visitors alike! Our menu puts an exciting, modern twist on classic seafood dishes and beachside cocktails. We are a sustainable, from-scratch kitchen that uses top quality steaks and fresh seafood.

Black Sheep Beaufort is a favorite destination for fresh local ingredients and incredible views in the heart of the downtown Beaufort area. Renowned for their brick oven pizzas, this eatery is a great destination for food fans of all tastes after a long day on the water.

Located off the beaten path, in a more residential section of Beaufort, Blackbeard’s Grill and Grog will be a welcome lunch, dinner or Happy Hour destination for anyone who appreciates a good brew and a sea-faring meal.

After a long day on the golf course, or after a morning of exploring the miles of nature trails in this quiet area, visitors and residents of The Beaufort Club can re-energize or enjoy a romantic evening out without ever leaving this pristine corner of the Crystal Coast with a visit to the Blue Heron restaurant. Situated in the heart of The Beaufort Club, this restaurant specializes in combining local ingredients and seasonal flavors to create an enticing menu that is sure to appeal to visiting and local food lovers alike.

Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood just off of busy Front Street, Blue Moon Bistro is an acclaimed destination for elevated cuisine in an intimate and relaxingly casual atmosphere. The historic white home has been converted to a cozy dining space with a scattering of tables and a small bar. The menu mirrors this satisfying setting with filling dishes that are inspired by local ingredients and a global influence of flavors. Local favorites include the grilled eggplant lasagna, the steamed pork dumplings, and the pan-seared salmon with asparagus over lobster meat raviolis in a mushroom ivory sauce.

Tucked away in a collection of waterfront restaurants and shops on Beaufort’s Front Street, Boardwalk Café is a fine option for visitors who like to enjoy a nice rise and shine with an accompanying on-the-water view.

From ice cold brews to traditional southern favorites, Captain Ratty's Seafood is a fun and friendly destination where big appetites can easily be catered to. Situated in the historic town of New Bern, this restaurant and tavern has a wealth of reasons to linger and toast another day along the Inner Banks, thanks to an extensive menu, plenty of southern hospitality, and multiple indoor and outdoor areas to enjoy the scene.

Captain’s Table may not be the fanciest dining destination in the Crystal Coast and southern Outer Banks region, but visitors who crave big portions and home cooking will be pleased with the extensive menu and nice-sized portions.

Circa 81 offers an extensive menu of tapas and cocktails that is sure to entice guests of all tastes. Specializing in brunch, small plates, and larger entrée-sized plates, this Morehead City favorite features an eclectic selection of modern cuisine and area staples, such as steamed mussels, she crab soup, and classic clam chowder.

City Kitchen is found within the Town Creek Marina, and is a private and scenic eatery that has a prime waterfront view. The menu changes on a regular basis, and features a number of fresh seafood dishes as well as meats and proteins, which are divvied up into “Little” and “Big” categories. Stand-outs for frequent patrons include the Duck Bolognese, the Thai meatballs with coconut curry, and the crab cakes with soy citrus sauce and cilantro Aioli. Patrons will find a little Asian infusion in the coastal classics, and can enjoy a wide range of dishes that veer from pub food staples and burgers to more refined steaks and seafood creations.

Located along the oceanfront inside the Inn at Pine Knoll Shores, the Clamdigger Restaurant is a convenient and popular spot for Crystal Coast vacationers to enjoy a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The restaurant features an inviting wood-lined interior that has a rustic and nautical appeal. Breakfast patrons will find a wide selections of egg dishes, pancakes, waffles, french toast, biscuits and sandwiches, as well as an array of 3-egg omelets. Lunch patrons will enjoy a wealth of light appetizers, soups and salads, as well as a long list of sandwiches, and seafood dishes. Dinnertime guests can choose from beef entrées, seafood dishes, Italian fare, and southern classics, as well as lighter sandwiches and dishes for smaller appetites. The sheer variety of menu selections is where the Clamdigger Restaurant really shines, and patrons can pop in every day, and find something new to sample.

As the name would suggest, Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant has more than a century of history as a local grocery store, (and then a restaurant), in one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Beaufort. The effortlessly historic and cool interior is lined with wooden booths and tables, naturally brick-lined walls, and plenty of charm in the form of old antiques serving as authentic décor.

Satisfy a craving for a little ice cold dessert on a sunny day, or settle in for a hearty lunch or dinner that’s filled with kid-friendly fare, with a visit to the always popular Cow Café. Locally known as a New Bern landmark, the Cow Café is a tempting eatery that features bold décor, plenty of desserts, and lots of tempting reasons to come back again and again.

Simple no-frills dining meets exceptional southern fare at Cox Family Restaurant – an established and well-loved eatery that’s conveniently found in the heart of Morehead City along central Arendell Street. This budget-friendly restaurant boasts a long menu of traditional southern fare that focuses on hearty and completely appetizing breakfast, lunch and dinner plates, and is sure to appease visitors who are in the mood for plenty of home cooking.

Situated on a prime soundfront spot in the beach town of Salter Path, Crab Shack is a prized destination for roll-your-sleeves-up southern seafood feasts in a casual, and yet romantically waterfront destination.

The Dock House Restaurant is arguably more famous for its location that its food. Situated in the very center of Waterfront Downtown Beaufort in an extensive, multi-story historical residence, this sprawling eatery features multiple indoor and outdoor locales to settle in, enjoy a sunset and a little live music, and watch the on-foot and maritime traffic slowly pass by.

Double J Texas BBQ is a Texas-style barbecue joint that’s located in the heart of busy Havelock along US Highway 70. Featuring rich smoky flavors, the restaurant is known for its diversion from the traditional Eastern NC-style BBQ, and its wealth of overflowing southern dishes.

Located along busy Arendell Street and flanked by palm trees, El’s Drive-In is a perfect post-beach spot for Crystal Coast vacationers. The small brick restaurant looks like it’s been a classic Morehead City icon for years, and in fact, it has. El’s has been serving hungry Morehead City locals and visitors alike since 1959, and longtime patrons will be happy to discover that the menu, and the prices, haven’t changed that much since the small restaurant originally opened.

Emerald Grill is a casual eatery that attracts hungry vacationers with breakfast and lunch fare that’s available all day long. Located in the heart of Emerald Isle, this convenient spot is a solid option for a big family meal, or to cure a hangover anytime of the day.

Fat Fellas BBQ & Grille is an ultra-casual eatery that’s found in a small residential section of Newport, and which features a wealth of hearty breakfast and lunch plates that are sure to appease any big southern appetite.

Waterfront Finz Grill & Eatery has a casual and vibrant surfer vibe that pops off the pages of the colorful menu and trickles into the laid-back cuisine. Located along a quieter western corner of Beaufort’s Front Street, this eatery is known for solid views and fun food that suits appetites for both coastal classic fare and unique, Latin-inspired dishes.

The Fish Hook Grill is a small but charming restaurant with a big reputation for fresh seafood and decadently tasty desserts. Located in the heart of Harkers Island, this local mom and pop restaurant is sure to charm visitors with its wealth of southern hospitality and satisfying menu.

Flipperz Family Bar and Grill is a popular spot for the post-beach crowd, thanks to an extensive menu that has fun with all the classic Crystal Coast specialties. Perfect for an easy-going lunch, a family dinner, or just a round of drinks and appetizers to sooth a sunburn, this Emerald Isle destination is sure to appeal to the whole family.

Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant and Catering is a longstanding Morehead City destination for inspired lunch, dinner and catering services, and has been a Crystal Coast landmark of sorts since first opening its doors in 2005.

Frank and Clara’s Restaurant and Lounge is a relatively simple seafood restaurant that has a solid nightlife scene on the weekends, as well as a convenient location in the heart of Salter Path. Close to a number of local hotels and condo complexes, the restaurant is a good dinner spot for visitors looking for convenience, as well as a fun night owl destination for music and drink fans.

Enjoy an easy meal that’s inspired by southern flavors at this unique little eatery that’s located just off the beaten path. Situated in the heart of Downtown Beaufort, Freschi’s Food is a unique dine-in or take-out spot that’s convenient, fast, and always easy to enjoy.

Located on the western edge of waterfront Downtown Beaufort, Front Street Grill is a fine spot for Crystal Coast visitors and Intracoastal mariners to take a break from exploring, and enjoy a drink and a meal with an exceptional on-the-water view.

Charming and unique, Full Circle Café is a welcoming destination in the downtown Morehead City area for any diner who appreciates a little creativity and a world of flavor with every meal. Located within a small and unimposing structure along Evans Street, and just a shell’s throw away from the bustling waterfront, Full Circle Café features a creative and relaxed dining experience where patrons can enjoy the local flavors of the Crystal Coast, and miles beyond.

Settle in for a bright and cheerful start to the morning with a hearty breakfast or lunch at Georgia B’s This small and colorful restaurant is found on the edge of Downtown Morehead City along Arendell Street, and is tucked in between several antique stores and historic buildings in a small shopping plaza.

Visitors and locals in the mood for familiar flavors and hearty fare can head to this popular destination that has all of a food fan’s favorite dishes on the menu. Serving breakfast all day long and late into the evening, IHOP Morehead City patrons can indulge a sweet or salty tooth by popping into this fast-casual chain that has a central locale in the heart of the Crystal Coast.

Tucked away along busy Arendell Street in central Morehead City, Ioanni's Grill is a fine destination for visitors and locals who are in the mood for something a little different. Specializing in pizza, pasta, Italian fare, and Greek specialties, virtually any patron will find something to crave in the extensive three-page menu.

Dive into uniquely refined cuisine in an almost-oceanfront atmosphere with a visit to Island Grille. Located adjacent to the seashore in Atlantic Beach, Island Grille is a fine destination for a date night, an intimate celebration, or just a diverse sample of the Crystal Coasts’ unique southern and seafood-influenced culinary style.

Kathryn’s is a chic little bistro in the heart of Emerald Isle that is sure to appeal to food lovers, martini fans, and wine aficionados alike. The small restaurant features a rich menu of rotating specialties and extensive drinks, and is the perfect spot for a romantic evening for two, or an elevated dinner in the heart of the Crystal Coast.

From sumptuous baked goods to classic and creative sandwiches, there’s a lot to discover and love at the Kitchen on Trent. Located on the edge of the downtown area of New Bern, this enticing destination is a great spot for budget-friendly dining that is brimming with downhome flavor.

When it comes to classic southern home cooking, Crystal Coast visitors will find it hard to find a larger selection or a more down-home atmosphere than Morehead City’s Kountry Kitchen. This family restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner at a reasonable price, with plenty of southern influences – from the morning grits, to the lunchtime and evening fried chicken.

Lawson's On The Creek is located in the NC History Center. We offer a Deli-Style Cafe' House-Made Salads, a Waterfront Patio - Beautiful River Views - Focus on NC Craft Beer & Wine by the Glass - Always Fresh & House Made - Daily Specials - Catering Available. Conveniently located in downtown New Bern you can stop in for a bite to eat and a refreshing drink and start your tour of NewBern and Tryon Palace.

Visitors can enjoy a casual and hearty meal that can satisfy the largest of southern appetites with a visit to MJ's Raw Bar & Grille. Located in downtown New Bern, and serving a variety of comfort food-style dishes, ice cold drinks, and plenty of southern hospitality, this casually cool restaurant is a tempting destination for diners of all tastes.

Molly's Beachside Bar & Grill is found adjacent to the sky-high DoubleTree Hotel, and is a casual hang-out for hotel guests and beach-goers alike. Perched on the oceanfront and steps away from the sand, the restaurant can be accessed from the hotel, the neighboring pier, or the beach itself via weather-worn steps that ascend up the dune line.

Monkey Bar & Grill is a local joint with a casual atmosphere and a variety of fun eats that will appeal to visitors of all ages and tastes. Located in the heart of Atlantic Beach, and an easy drive away from the area’s local beaches and shopping centers, this spot is a fine destination for an afternoon or evening drink, or an easy-going meal in between beach trips.

Serving lunch and dinner at one of the most enticing settings in Beaufort, Moonrakers is an inspired destination to enjoy a wealth of fresh local ingredients and creative dishes with a waterfront backdrop. With menus that change with the season, and expansive views from both the main dining area and the popular rooftop bar, this restaurant is an engaging spot to take in the sights and flavors of historic Downtown Beaufort to the fullest.

With a menu that pays homage to traditionally delicious food and drinks, Morgan's Tavern & Grill is a great destination for visitors and locals alike to satisfy an extra-large appetite. Situated in the heart of New Bern along bustling Craven Street, this downtown eatery offers plenty of reasons to stop in and relax, including an extensive menu, a host of drinks, and a great atmosphere both indoors and out.

From scratch-made breakfast to unique spins on tacos, salads, and wraps, food fans of all tastes will find something to love at this unique eatery that has everything from coffee to cocktails. Mug Shot is a one-of-a-kind destination in the Crystal Coast region that has a wide array of drinks and cuisine that is sure to appease any appetite and is able to cater to any occasion.

Hungry downtown Morehead City visitors who are in the mood for a big sandwich and a local craft brew will feel right at home at Next Door Deli, a unique sandwich spot that has plenty of personality and exceptional flavor. Featuring a long list of both classic and creative deli sandwiches, as well as a range of local and regional beers on tap, this casual eatery is a great representation of the myriad flavors that the Crystal Coast has to offer.

Now open at 8am in Morehead City at the corner of Arendell + Friendly! Join us for brunch 'n lunch!

A stop at the Oceanana Fishing Pier, and a stay at the adjacent Oceanana Resort, has been an Atlantic Beach family tradition for more than 60 years. A local icon for anglers and beach-goers alike, Oceanana Fishing Pier is the only pier in the beachside town, and is an unmistakable local landmark that jets nearly 1,000' feet into the Atlantic Ocean.

This small café and bakery that’s located on the corner of a shopping plaza in the heart of commercial Havelock is a slowed-down breath of fresh air for casual lunch goers. Featuring a wealth of soups, sandwiches and baked goodies of all varieties, visitors will be both charmed and happily satisfied by the slightly unique but filling fare.

Parrott’s on 11this a carefully crafted neighborhood restaurant that has plenty of warm southern hospitality and historic appeal. Found within the original Phillips Bell house – a historic residence in Downtown Morehead City - the restaurant features an ever-changing menu that utilizes exceptional local ingredients and unique flavors.

Originally opened in 2010 and already gaining a reputation as a favorite waterfront restaurant in the heart of the Inner Banks, Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant is a choice destination for a romantic meal, a family gathering, or just a drink and appetizer with a gorgeous view. Located on the edge of the Neuse River in the town of New Bern, Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant is a chic bistro with New American fare and a casual atmosphere that will have patrons feeling right at home.

We invite guests into an elevated dining experience that marries the classic with the contemporary, featuring wood-fired steaks, fine seafood, house-made pasta, and a robust wine menu.

Located in the heart of Downtown Morehead City along the community’s main drag of Arendell Street, Promise Land Market is much more than an enticing spot for lunch, brunch, or dinner, thanks to its extensive menu, unique event space, and cool and separate offerings like a wine shop and a casual bar to catch the big game. Offering plenty of variety that can range from sandwiches to lobster ravioli, this unique destination is a great way to sample a world of Crystal Coast flavors in one charming and enticing spot.

Enjoy a dining experience next to the waters that Blackbeard the Pirate called home at this Beaufort eatery that is named after his signature ship, and which features a variety of dishes that are sure to appeal to the saltiest patrons. Located along Front Street, Queen Anne's Revenge is a great destination for Beaufort explorers to enjoy a break without ever leaving the water’s edge, and the expansive menu ensures that everyone in the crew can find a dish that satisfies their appetites.

Diners can admire the adjacent Morehead City waterfront while dining on a feast of fresh local seafood with a visit to Red Fish Grill. Located in the heart of the downtown area, this small but popular eatery has a selectively varied menu that offers a blend of beach favorites, (like burgers and clam chowder), as well as unique specialties. Starters, salads, sandwiches and entrees are all represented, and patrons will be surprised by some of the more unusual items that are scattered throughout the menu. Diners can enjoy hearty plates of house made lasagna, Cajun shrimp and grits, and even gyros, or stick to local favorites like a range of fried NC seafood platters, grilled Mahi, stuffed flounder, and Carolina crab cakes.

Head to the heart of Morehead City for a sumptuous dinner on the edge of the waterfront. RedFish Grill & Bar features all the aspects of Down East cuisine that locals and visitors adore, such as a stunning location, fresh ingredients, local seafood, and expansive views that highlight the best of Morehead Coty and the Crystal Coast.

Embrace a healthy lifestyle without skimping on flavor at this unique Morehead City destination that delivers fresh and ready-to-prepare meals right to your doorstep. With an always rotating and seasonal menu that can cater to all tastes, (including and especially healthy eaters and vegetarians), Refection Foods is an easy way to enjoy nutritious and delicious meals with minimal hassle throughout the week.

Visitors to Beaufort won’t have to venture too far to sink their teeth into a freshly grilled steak or a big helping of seafood, thanks to one of the newest additions to the downtown restaurant scene, Ribeyes Steakhouse. This familiar chain eatery has a prime location that is easy to reach for folks staying throughout the Down East area, and its full dinner menu is sure to appease patrons with even the largest of appetites.

Hungry night owls along the Crystal Coast will find plenty of hearty pub-style fare and a fun and local atmosphere at Riptidez Bar & Grill, a cool destination that’s located in the heart of Morehead City. Offering a full menu and plenty of ice-cold drinks to go around, this popular destination for hungry diners and fun-seeking visitors alike has a lot to offer for folks in the mood for a casual night on the town.

After exploring Morehead City’s many shops and attractions, take a budget-friendly break and enjoy a hassle-free lunch or dinner at this casual eatery that has a hearty sample of filling appetizers, salads, subs, and entrees to go around. Riverside Grill and Subs offers delivery, take-out, and dine-in options for hungry patrons, which makes it a convenient spot for a big and filling meal at home or on the go.

Fresh seafood, homemade sauces, perfectly cooked beef, and nightly specials are all hallmarks of the acclaimed Riverside Steak And Seafood in the coastal town of Swansboro. Located within a historic 1915 former home, and developing a reputation for delicious dinners since opening its doors as a restaurant in 1998, this established eatery is a tempting destination that will appease Crystal Coast area diners of all tastes.

The Royal James Café is a small destination located just off of Downtown Beaufort’s on-the-water Front Street, and is a local institution of sorts. A hang-out spot and restaurant since it was first opened more than 60 years ago, the café’s quiet exterior belies a fairly large restaurant as well as a slightly removed pool hall that’s filled with roughly a half dozen antique Brunswick pool tables. This makes Royal James Café a popular destination for the Happy Hour and evening crowd, but every day non-pool shark visitors can enjoy the establishment too, thanks to a hearty menu, rugged but inviting surroundings, and a casually laid-back atmosphere.

Everyone in the family can find something to sink their teeth into at Rucker Johns – a family-run restaurant that has been a favorite Emerald Isle destination for more than 25 years. Now offering several locations throughout the state of North Carolina, Rucker Johns continues to serve up crowd-pleasing meals that can easily cater to all varieties of tastes.

Ruddy Ruck Tavern is a popular spot with the Happy Hour crowd, thanks to a fun pub-style atmosphere and a fantastic waterfront location along Evans Street in the heart of Downtown Morehead City. The menu is causal and varied, with a heavy emphasis on coastal and pub-inspired appetizers. Patrons can fill up on draft beer, (there’s a nice rotating selection), and full plates of nachos, fried calamari, jumbo chicken wings, and crab and spinach dip – a regular favorite.

Located just a block away from the Downtown Morehead City waterfront, Sammy’s Seafood House & Oyster Bar is a fine destination for hungry visitors to satisfy a seafood craving. The menu is a fine representation of what the Crystal Coast has to offer, and features a wealth of seafood favorites, including tuna, stuffed flounder and shrimp, crab cakes, and a full steamed / raw bar with oysters, clams, crab legs and more. Visitors who can’t decide on a specific dish can also order the aptly named Seafood Extravaganza, which is a mixture of scallops, crabmeat, shrimp, scallops and more with a blend of fresh veggies and garlic wine sauce.

Shark Shack isn’t too fancy and isn’t too big, which is exactly why it’s a favorite local spot for ice cold drinks and easy-going outdoor dining.

Hungry night owls can get their fill of food and fun at Shipwrecks Bar & Grill – a casual restaurant and nightlife spot that is located in the heart of Morehead City. Featuring a fun local atmosphere with plenty of good drinks and food to go around, diners will be surprised by the extensive menu at this cool destination that features everything from Greek specialties to pub-style grub.

For over 30 years, Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q, has focused on creating an enjoyable dining experience for our customers.At Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q, we strive to be the best host. From the moment you walk through the door, you are our guest. Our staff personally delivers hot and fresh food right to your table, refills your drink, and even takes care of discarding your trash. Our goal is for you to relax and enjoy the nostalgic décor and music. Let us serve you.There are currently 36 locations stretching from the NC coast to the Piedmont with plans of expansion. This would not be possible without our loyal customers.We invite you to come join us. Dine in, take home or go through the drive thru.

Snapperz Grill & Steam Bar is a solid destination for a little Crystal Coast vacation atmosphere – an environment which perfectly complements a varied menu chock-full of seasonal and local seafood specialties. The restaurant is decked out in beachy décor and furnishings, which includes a new “Boat Bar” that looks like a long dinghy and is called, affectionately, the Harper Grace. In addition, the bar area doubles as a spot for the night owl crowd, with seasonal live acoustic music to accompany dinner, or a little weekend karaoke with a cold beer or cocktail.

Hungry visitors in the Morehead City area who love a little southern flavor will want to plan a stop at this hidden gem of an eatery where the barbecue steals the show. Social Q Smokehouse uses high-quality meats, like USDA Prime briskets, pork shoulders, and house-made sausages, to create incredible and casual meals that are brimming with flavor in every bite.

Locally-owned SoundSide Restaurant is a top destination for seafood and steak fans, with a friendly atmosphere and convenient locale along Highway 70 / Arendell Street. The restaurant utilizes a wealth of top ingredients for its staple creations, and is especially known for its Certified Angus Beef selections, which are sure to impress any meat lover.

As the name aptly implies, Southern Salt Seafood Company and Waterfront Restaurant is the place to go to get a big helping of Morehead City’s inherent coastal charm, and to enjoy a great meal that is brimming with local, Down East flavor. Featured on UNC-TV, and offering ample space to take in the miles of on-the-water views, this restaurant is a great destination for any visitor who wants to uncover all the flavors and staples of Crystal Coast cuisine.

Seafood fans are well represented at the Stingray Café - a tempting New Bern eatery that has a wealth of regional specialties and fresh seafood options on the menu. With a big helping of favorite southern dishes, as well as more familiar fare for landlubbers, everyone in the crew will find something to crave at this popular vacation restaurant where the seafood steals the scene.

Beachgoers on the hunt for something refreshing and filling will appreciate colorful Sub Tropics – a small sandwich, wrap and smoothie spot that’s located in the heart of Atlantic Beach, just off the Atlantic Beach Causeway.

There’s a world of fun waiting at Taps & Tackle, the only bar, restaurant, and tackle store located in the heart of Morehead City. Perched along the waterfront and open late for patrons who want to gather, socialize, and keep the fun going, Taps & Tackle is an easy-going destination where good times and good grub are always waiting.

Settle in for a big hearty breakfast or a post-beach lunch with a visit to The Banks Grill. Known for classic breakfast and mid-meal staples, this small restaurant with a diner-style menu has a loyal following among vacationers and Morehead City locals alike.

There’s a bit of history and an exceptional dining experience waiting at The Chelsea – a popular spot in the heart of downtown New Bern for lunch and dinner, as well as banquets and catering. Situated along Middle Street and walking-distance close to a number of area hotels and accommodations, The Chelsea is a star on the local dining scene, thanks to its tempting menu and unique and historic locale.

Situated along the Morehead City waterfront and featuring a casual but enticing menu that echoes the relaxed atmosphere of the downtown area, The Galley is a great gathering spot for locals and visitors who want to unwind with a cool drink and a delicious meal after a day of exploring the Crystal Coast. Housed within a historic 1920s structure but featuring a contemporary menu with plenty of variety, The Galley is a crowd pleaser when it comes to local cuisine that the whole crew can enjoy.

Don’t let the warehouse-style exterior and a secretive location in the midst of inland Beaufort sway you from visiting The Spot. This famed hamburger joint has been a local favorite since first opening in 1950, and features some of the best hand-crafted burgers and sandwiches around. Garnering a longtime-visitor following, the “secret” Spot is on the verge of becoming a famed Beaufort landmark.

Southern hospitality, delicious home cooking, and a stunning atmosphere in the heart of Emerald Isle are all combined at The Trading Post Southern Food & Spirits – one of Emerald Island’s favorite destinations for great easts and good times. Offering a long list of down-home favorites, crave-worthy coastal fare, and a fun setting that makes it easy to kick back, relax, and swap a story or two, The Trading Post is a great spot for food, friends, and happy memories along the shoreline.

The Village Market is a favorite Emerald Isle spot for visitors and locals alike for hearty breakfasts, fresh lunches, and a cool atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing with one of the eatery’s many specialty coffee drinks.

Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company is a haven for Morehead City beer lovers, thanks to an extensive selection of more than 30 craft beers on tap. Most varieties are regional, and change regularly with the season, ensuring that visitors can try a new brew or two with every visit.

Take a slight detour way from the busy Downtown Beaufort scene and you’ll discover this charming eatery that features a wealth of delicious breakfast and lunch options, as well as unique grocery items and deli staples to stock your refrigerator. Turner Street Market is a unique and locally beloved eatery that is brimming with flavor, and which features the perfect assortment of goodies for food lovers of all tastes.