The Outer Banks is a seafood lover’s paradise, where fresh catches meet creative culinary artistry. Whether you’re craving casual bites by the beach, a decadent fine-dining experience, or a hearty seafood buffet, these coastal spots deliver unforgettable flavors. From rich risottos to iconic fish tacos, this guide explores the best seafood restaurants the Outer Banks has to offer — each with its own unique charm and delectable menu. Prepare to savor the sea, one dish at a time!
Aqua Restaurant
Looking for an upscale seafood experience? You’ll find it at this warm and sophisticated restaurant, which offers breathtaking oceanview dining and unforgettable meals. Start with the whipped roasted garlic goat cheese and lightly battered-and-fried shrimp atop coriander lime slaw before moving onto the crab cakes or the succulent seared duck breast. And for dessert, if you find yourself understandably torn between the flourless chocolate torte and the vanilla crème brûlée, trust us: just order both.
The Black Pelican Restaurant
This beloved local restaurant, housed in a historic building with fascinating local lore, has a casual atmosphere, panoramic ocean views, and sublime seafood. It’s showcased in unexpectedly decadent combinations, most notably in its rich, white seafood pizza featuring creamy béchamel, shrimps, scallops, cheeses, scallions, oregano, and Old Bay. And the scrumptious Wanchese risotto is a must-try with an array of seafood, bacon, tomatoes, corn, and spinach folded into creamy roasted garlic risotto topped with a sweet potato nest.
Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant
No local seafood guide is complete without a mention of Captain George’s. Renowned for its All You Can Eat Buffet, consisting of multiple bars, including one with steamed seafood and one with breaded and fried seafood, it also boasts a great salad bar and non-seafood eats, too. (Don’t skip the baked macaroni and cheese). If you still have room, visit the dessert bar for treats like key lime cake and baklava. And you can always order from the a la carte menu.
Greentail’s Seafood Market & Kitchen
If you're in Nags Head, Greentail's Seafood Market & Kitchen is a must-visit spot for fresh, local seafood served with a creative twist. Known for their commitment to showcasing the Outer Banks' best catches, Greentail's features a menu that changes with the tides, offering innovative takes on traditional dishes. Popular items include the seared tuna steak sandwich, flavorful poke bowls, and their Old School Southern Fried Baskets packed with local shrimp or fish. Don't miss the Mattamuskeet Blue Crab Hushpuppies, a local favorite that perfectly complements their laid-back, coastal vibe.
Stripers Bar & Grille
Stripers Bar and Grille in Manteo offers a memorable dining experience with stunning waterfront views from every seat. Known for its casual and friendly vibe, this three-floor restaurant serves up an array of seafood delights like shrimp and grits, fish tacos, and seared tuna sashimi. Their extensive menu, features both local favorites and creative dishes, complemented by a robust selection of beverages. Don't miss their happy hour or live entertainment for an extra layer of fun!
O’Neal’s Sea Harvest
There’s nothing fancy about this place, but locals know it’s the spot to go for top-tier sustainable seafood. Both a wholesaler and buyer, plus a simple lunch spot, head here for a quick and classic beach lunch like soft crab BLT sandwiches and fried fish baskets with coleslaw and fries. Also fantastic? You can load up on a large variety of fresh and frozen seafood to take home.
Dirty Dick’s Crabhouse
Laid back and casual with a fun, kitschy ambiance, Dirty Dick’s serves up a bevy of New Orleans-inspired seafood, with particular attention to — you guessed it — crabs. The rich, silky she-crab soup is loaded with succulent bites of crab, and the luscious, open-faced crab dip sandwich features dip-slathered bread topped with bacon and cheddar cheese. The breaded and fried crab lasagna, filled with crab dressing, ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella, is smothered in red gravy and Cajun-spiced “Alfredeaux” sauce.
Cockeyed Clam
Folks seeking a fresh seafood fix will love this popular cozy spot. It’s not uncommon to have to wait on a table, so plan to get there early, grab a drink, and hang out on the porch until it’s time. From fried clams and shrimp to sun-dried tomato pasta with shrimp, scallops, and crab, the menu offers deliciously solid options. Fun fact? It’s just over a mile away from the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Buxton Munch Company
With its bold colors and funky decor, the relaxed atmosphere at Buxton Munch matches the message seen on numerous interior signs: Good Vibes Only. And the food? It’s even better. Generous portions marry with fresh, robust flavors for mouthwatering meals. Don’t miss the fish tacos, which are evidence of its status as one of the area’s best seafood restaurants. Its enormous salads and wraps are equally satisfying.
