Summer on the Crystal Coast is all about beach days, ocean breezes, and soaking in those stunning sunsets. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy fresh, flavorful food that captures the spirit of the coast. From romantic seafood dinners to fun, to homestyle meals the whole family can enjoy, the coast is full of restaurants that bring fresh, regional fare to the table. Here’s your guide to the top local spots for seafood and summer eats, each one sure to elevate your coastal getaway with unforgettable flavors.
1. Caribsea – Emerald Isle
A standout in Emerald Isle’s dining scene, Caribsea is the place to go when you want your summer seafood with a side of elegance. With ocean and sound views, plus a rooftop lounge featuring live music every Friday and Saturday, it’s perfect for a special night out. From the blackened shrimp and house-made crab cakes to the specialty cocktails crafted for warm, breezy nights, every bite feels like a celebration of the season. Finish the evening with their creamy, caramelized crème brûlée for a truly memorable night by the water.
2. Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant & Bar – Atlantic Beach
Fun, funky, and full of personality, Amos Mosquito’s in Atlantic Beach delivers creative coastal cuisine with a playful twist. Diners can enjoy scenic views of Bogue Sound, play corn hole outside, and relax in a lively space that’s popular with both families and couples. Some summer favorites include scalloped scallops baked with Parmesan and cream, creamy clam chowder, fried pickles, and Jamaican jerk roasted chicken.
There’s also a fresh sushi menu and tasty salads for those who crave something lighter. For dessert, the make-your-own s’mores bring a summer classic right to your table, something kids will adore, and adults will find charmingly nostalgic.
3. Shepard Barbecue – Emerald Isle
When you’re craving a taste of the South, Shepard Barbecue in Emerald Isle delivers all the smoky, savory flavors that make barbecue a summer staple. This laid-back spot offers tender pulled pork, smoked brisket, and carved turkey breast, along with classic sides like potato salad and pimento mac and cheese. With plenty of outdoor seating and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great place to slow down and savor the moment. End your meal with cornbread or banana pudding for a sweet Southern finish.
4. Flipperz Family Bar & Grill – Emerald Isle
A true family favorite, Flipperz Family Bar & Grill in Emerald Isle serves up crowd-pleasers in a fun, coastal setting. Their menu features everything from fried flounder and seafood bisque to firecracker shrimp and tasty sandwiches. After your meal, stop by the on-site gift shop for beachy souvenirs and a fudge counter stocked with an assortment of flavors like vanilla salted caramel. With a welcoming vibe, live music, and plenty of options for kids and adults, Flipperz is the kind of place where summer memories are made.
5. Big Oak Drive In & BBQ – Salter Path
No Crystal Coast food list would be complete without Big Oak Drive-In & BBQ. It’s a local legend thanks to its famous shrimp burger, piled high with fried shrimp, slaw, and their signature sauce. The menu also includes other tasty items like hushpuppies, barbecue sandwiches and sweet potato waffle fries. Grab your food to go and head to the beach or enjoy it at a shaded picnic bench out back for a true summer roadside experience.
6. The Boro Restaurant & Bar – Swansboro
Tucked away in charming downtown Swansboro, The Boro Restaurant & Bar is known for its coastal Carolina cuisine and lively atmosphere. The menu features favorites like fish tacos, seafood platters, flash-fried calamari, and their rich crab dip. Guests can enjoy award-winning wines, craft cocktails, and live music on the outdoor stage several nights a week. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a flavorful meal after browsing the local shops and taking in the scenic waterfront.
7. RuckerJohns – Emerald Isle
With a reputation for consistency and comfort, RuckerJohns in Emerald Isle is a favorite for families and groups. Their menu features seafood, pasta, and sandwiches, along with popular picks like the blackened prime rib and RJ’s famous lightly battered shrimp. The honey butter croissants are a must-try, renowned by locals and visitors alike. Be sure to order a basket to share at the table! Their fresh salads are also a hit, topped with your choice of dressings that are all made in-house, including choices like hot bacon and honey mustard. Outside, there’s a fun area overlooking the canal where guests can enjoy feeding the turtles.
8. Front Street Grill at Stillwater – Beaufort
Waterfront dining doesn’t get more scenic than Front Street Grill at Stillwater in Beaufort. Located in a renovated historic Topsail marine boathouse on the Beaufort waterfront, the restaurant offers stunning views that complement its coastal cuisine with a touch of southern soul. The menu features favorites like blackened ahi tuna tacos, crispy grouper bites, and burgers served with a side of fried sweet plantains.
Guests love the RhumBar’s craft cocktails, especially the popular Pain Killer—a tropical mix of Pusser’s dark rum, fruit juices, and cream of coconut. It’s a beautiful place to sip, savor, and take in the sunset, with a location that offers views of dolphins in Taylor’s Creek and, if you’re lucky, wild horses on Carrot Island.
9. Gaffer’s – Emerald Isle
Gaffer’s in Emerald Isle offers a laid-back beach bar vibe with plenty of outdoor seating, making it a local favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu highlights fresh North Carolina seafood like Atlantic mahi, sea scallops, shrimp tacos, and seafood pasta, alongside crowd-pleasers like burgers, wings, and southwest egg rolls. The shrimp nachos are great for sharing, and desserts like funnel cake fries and the much-loved Atlantic Beach Pie keep things fun. With live music and a family-friendly atmosphere, Gaffer’s is a go-to all summer long.
10. RedFish Grill & Bar – Morehead City
RedFish Grill & Bar in Morehead City offers coastal dining in a relaxed atmosphere, complete with outdoor seating by the water. The menu features fresh, local ingredients in standout dishes like crab-stuffed mahi, bacon-wrapped sea scallops, creamy clam chowder, and classic shrimp and grits. Kick things off with summery starters. Fresh, savory zucchini fries and zesty jalapeño hushpuppies pair perfectly with a cold beverage and good conversation. Whether you’re watching the boats drift by or enjoying dinner at sunset, RedFish is a breezy spot for a memorable coastal meal.
Taste What Makes the Crystal Coast Shine
There’s something special about sharing a meal just steps from the water, where the seafood is as fresh as the ocean breeze. Whether you’re enjoying oysters at sunset, savoring locally caught shrimp tacos after a beach day, or settling into a cozy spot for a family dinner, these local restaurants reflect the laid-back charm and rich flavor of coastal North Carolina. Add a few to your summer itinerary and you’ll get a true taste of the coast with every delicious bite.
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