The Asian Bistro ambiance offers a cool, dimly lit, quiet getaway from the summer dinnertime hoopla and long lines found at other restaurants on the beach.

It is a peaceful place, tastefully decorated with a menu that offers the best of traditional Chinese and Japanese cuisine.  The Crab Rangoons are absolutely the best I’ve had, crispy and delicious and served with a tasty sweet & sour sauce for dipping.   For a sushi craving,  “Men in Black” rolls with a dollop of black caviar, and the “Super Duper Roll” with smoked eel and avocado hit the spot.  The popular and delicious “General Tso’s” chicken was served with spears of fresh broccoli.

I’d recommend the Asian Bistro for a delicious lunch (lunchbox specials until 4PM) a quiet date night, or girl’s night out.

(MP 4 Bypass) 3919 N. Croatan Hwy., Kitty Hawk  (252) 261-1946

If you’re looking for a place that will simply make you smile for lunch or dinner, try this wonderful old timey beach restaurant with brightly painted walls, fresh flowers on every table, nooks and crannies that become dining areas, outdoor deck seating with views of BOTH the ocean and the sound!  I was entranced.

The walls have hand painted beautiful, thought provoking ‘quotes’ decorating the entire restaurant.  The ambiance of old beach lives here and you get a feeling of being back in time…soft rock music like Michael Buble, Tracy Chapman and Nora Jones drift from the speakers.  For less than $15 I ordered the She Crab Bisque, made perfectly with just a touch of sherry, and the seared tuna complimented with a wasabi and soy salad.

South Beach Grille is a place to ‘get away from it all’ and really feel like you are on a quiet tropical vacation.  Honestly, the restaurant and bar were packed, but it didn’t feel crowded at all and every single person was smiling.  Everyone.  Lovely, just lovely!

(MP 16 Beach Road) 6806 S Virginia Dare Tr, Nags Head    (252) 449-9313

Awesome Ocean Views
Peppercorns: All meals are served with a scenic ocean view of the picturesque Outer Banks.  Bring the kids to their  family-friendly Outer Banks restaurant and enjoy half off a kids’ menu item with your choice of dinner entrée.

Peppercorns Lounge features  the perfect ambiance for relaxation and conversation. Listen to live music on Friday nights and then have some fun with Alan Ross Karaoke Roadshow on Saturday nights, begins at 8PM.

Dragon Fly Deck Bar: Open for lunch until 5 p.m. with appetizers, sandwiches, and live music on Saturdays, you’ll be relaxing and soaking up the sun at this beautiful oceanfront Outer Banks Tiki bar.

(MP 10 Beach Road) 1701 S. Va. Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills  (252) 441-2151 www.ramadaplazanagshead.com

Kelly’s is definitely one of the finer places for dinner and nighttime entertainment here on the Outer Banks. Mike and Willow Kelly know how to do it right when it comes to dining with fabulous seafood specials and fantastic restaurant service in a warm and pleasant atmosphere. Our favorite place for Sweet Potato Biscuits!

The Tavern at Kelly’s offers an eclectic mix of entertainment, with Alan Ross Karaoke Road Show (Tuesday Nights), live local and regional performers of Beach Music for Shag Dancers (Sundays), Hard Rock for the weekend crowds and a variety of magic, and individual performers throughout the year.  Kelly’s Tavern also hosts Chamber of Commerce functions, art shows, post golf and fishing tournament events and private parties in the upper deck lounge.  You never know what you’re going to get at Kelly’s Tavern, but you can count on a fun night out in one of the prettiest, two level nightclubs on the beach.  Huge wooden dance floor and prominent stage!

(MP 10.5 Bypass)  2316 S.Croatan Hwy., Nags Head   (252) 441-4116    www.kellysrestaurant.com

Locally owned and operated, carrying on the Bibey family tradition since 1980…this uniquely Outer Banks soundview restaurant is one not to miss.  Their homemade Shrimp & Lobster Bisque is one of the absolute best on the beach….(and would make Elaine Benis forget about a bad date…yadda yadda yadda).

Steaks are amazing and melt in your mouth. Seafood is fresh and cooked to perfection. Great fast and friendly staff. Decor is clean and inviting. Wine lists offer a huge variety. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two, or a party of friends and family…and the dessert tray…OMG!

Once we were at another area restaurant, having drinks and decided to go to DINNER at Tale of the Whale, simply because we love their friendly service and delicious dinner menu much more than the place we were at.  My husband, who has a naturally  loud voice, inadvertently announced our plans.  Much to the chagrin of that not-so-friendly bartender we left, followed by several other families who happened to hear him.   Ooops.

(MP 17 Bypass Causeway) 7575 S. VA Dare Trail, Nags Head (252) 441-7332  www.taleofthewhalenagshead.com

The 1587 Restaurant is located in the Tranquil House Inn on the waterfront in beautiful, historic downtown Manteo.  World-Class chefs,  herbs grown from the Inn’s own gardens, today’s Atlantic seafood, meats & fowl, and vegetables from the Outer Banks’ finest growers. You’ll dine in an atmosphere that is elegant but relaxed as you gaze through the large windows that frame a view of quaint Shallowbag Bay and a moonrise that is truly spectacular!  Personally, I’ve never had a more scrumptious appetizer as their Sesame seared Scallops with  gourmet Wasabi Soy Cream sauce.

405 Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Downtown Manteo/Roanoke Island  (252) 473-1587   www.1587.com

No one should ever, ever visit the Outer Banks without stopping for breakfast or lunch at the Nags Head Pierhouse Restaurant at least once.  The casual dining area juts out over the ocean and the view is spectacular!  There is a small game room for the kids, just outside the restaurant and pier.  The beach is right at the bottom of the steps….one of my favorite places to bring guests.  If you catch a fish on the pier, you can bring it in to the restaurant and they will clean and cook it for you!  Yummy stuff, that’s what!  It’s UNIQUELY Outer Banks!

(MP 12 Beach Road) Nags Head (252) 441-5141   www.nagsheadpier.com

My grandmother lived on the oceanfront in Nags Head for over 15 years.  Whenever the family (and we have a big one) came to visit, we always spent at least one evening at Owens’.  The atmosphere is incredibly cozy and romantic in the dining room with the fireplace, and in the bigger rooms there is so much to see…gorgeous artwork, beautifully appointed decor.  The food from the appetizer to the dessert is absolutely perfect in every way.  It’s a bit pricey, but soooo worth it!

(MP 16.5 Beach Road) Nags Head  (252) 441-7309  www.owensrestaurant.com

Native crab cakes, soft crabs and prime rib are the special favorites at this soundside family style restaurant.

Also visit their Sugar Shack Fresh Seafood Market, for seafood on the go!

(MP 16.5 Bypass) 7340 S. Croatan Hwy., Nags Head  (252) 441-4963 www.sugarcreekseafood.com

Mexian Restaurant with a Pacific flare.  We love their fresh fish tacos using local Mahi-Mahi pan seared, topped with Yucatan jicima slaw, and Salsa Fresca. For guacamole lovers it’s the real deal- no fillers, just flavor!!!  Their taco chips are fried fresh daily.

TWO LOCATIONS:

(MP 5 Bypass) 3105 N. Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills (252) 261-1300

785 Sunset Blvd., Timbuck II Shopping Center, Corolla (252) 453-4380 www.badbeanobx.com

Great food at reasonable prices, homey atmosphere.  Local hangout for fishermen.  Sam & Omie’s has maintained it’s seaside flavor for over 70 years.

(MP 16 1/2 Beach Road) Whalebone Junction, Nags Head  (252) 441-7366 www.samandomies.net

A recent addition to our community, the Blue Moon quickly gained a loyal following.  A favorite for everyone is their Shrimp & Grits, shrimp sautéed with Vidalia onions, Applewood smoked bacon, roasted red bell peppers, Cajun spices, white wine, and garlic. Served over smoked Gouda and aged cheddar cheese stone-ground grits.  Doesn’t that sound incredible?!

(MP 13 Beach Road) Surfside Plaza, Nags Head (252) 261-2583 www.bluemoonbeachgrill.com

A local landmark that was totally rebuilt after a catastrophic fire two years ago. Lone Cedar has a special connection to the Village People. Everything is homemade, fresh seafood is bought from local fishermen daily. Everything is organic and all vegetables are grown by local North Carolina farmers. Lone Cedar grows their herbs and tomatoes! Their Jumbo Lump She Crab Soup Cup has been described as “the best on the planet” made with fresh local jumbo lumps of crabmeat from the Alligator, Croatan, Albemarle and Pamlico waters in sherry-laced cream.

(Manteo Causeway) 7623 S. VA Dare Trail, Nags Head (252) 441-5405 www.lonecedarcafe.com

Pizza, pasta, kid’s menu, large dining room.

(MP 10 Bypass) 2217 S. Croatan Hwy., Nags Head (252) 441-2660 www.newyorkpizzapub.com

Extensive menu with something for everyone.  Kids meals are served on Frisbees.  Outdoor seating is available with a view of the ocean.

(MP 4 Beach Road) Kitty Hawk (252) 261-3171  www.blackpelican.com

Fun family friendly atmosphere, multi-level setting with fish tanks and shark decor.

(MP 7.5 Bypass) Kill Devil Hills (252) 202-8612 www.makomikesobx.com

Caribbean flare food, with beachy island decor and a great kid’s menu.

(MP 7 Beach Road) Kill Devil Hills (252) 441-6001 www.goombays.com

Chef’s prepare your Hibachi grilled steak, chicken or shrimp dinner with flaming volcanoes right at your table.  Be sure to try the Spicy Beach Roll (tuna, salmon and crab), the KDH roll (for Kill Devil Hills) and the classic Spider Roll. Fuji offers quick take-out as well; either call ahead or pop in to place your order and enjoy a bowl of edamame or Miso Soup and a cold Sapporo while you wait.

(MP 9.5 Bypass) 1201 S. Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills (252) 449-0628

Let the kids run all of their energy out in the Brewing Station’s fenced in grassy back yard with pirate ship playground.  Innovative menu, great homemade beer brewed right on the premises.  The only wind-powered Brew Pub in the country!

(MP 8.5 Bypass) 600 S. Croatan Hwy., Kill Devil Hills (252) 449-2739 www.obbrewing.com

Take a drive south over the causeway bridge towards Manteo and you’ll find a buried treasure tucked away in beautiful Pirate’s Cove Marina, Mimi’s Tiki Hut.  Waterfront bistro with live music, imported beers and fine wine, and you can bring your puppy!  Sip your favorite beverage and watch the  boats come in after a day of deep sea fishing….(No Food Service)

(Pirate’s Cove Marina) just over the causeway bridge www.mimistikihut.com

Surfer’s love their Chicken Tacos with smoked Gouda cheese!  Fish Tacos are out of this world served with a side of jicama slaw mon!

(MP 8.5 Beach Road) 1216 S. VA Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills (252) 441-7994

Locals eagerly await their opening day each spring.  One of the signature favorites is their Cheese Steak Egg Roll with sliced steak, cheese and caramelized onions in a crispy egg roll wrapper.

(MP 9 3/4 Beach Road) Kill Devil Hills (252) 449-8181 www.thekilldevilgrill.com

Caribbean Style with an Outer Banks Flare!   Tortuga’s has been here on the Beach Road since 1989 so they must be doing something right!  It’s THE place to go for Sushi!

(MP 11 Beach Road) 3014 S. VA Dare Trail, Nags Head (252) 441-7299  www.tortugaslie.com

You have never tasted anything like Mama Kwan’s!  They describe their cuisine as a fusion including borrowed tastes from the Pacific Rim, Hawaii, Japan, Thailand and such.

(MP 10 Bypass) Kill Devil Hills (252) 441-7889  www.mamakwans.com

Known for their romantic atmosphere, piano bar, steak & seafood dinners and chocolate gourmet desserts.

(MP 2.5 Bypass) 4716 N. Croatan Hwy., Kitty Hawk (252) 261-7325  www.argylesrestaurantandpianobar.com

AAA’s Four Diamond designation.  French inspired contemporary American cuisines overlooking the sound at the Sanderling Resort in Duck.

1461 Duck Road, Duck (252) 261-4111  www.theleftbank.com

Southern Living Magazine rated this cozy Victorian Inn restaurant the best on the Outer Banks and one of the best kept secrets.  French Cuisine with some Carolina twists…

(MP 7.5 off Bypass) 1029 Colington Road, Kill Devil Hills (252) 480-1123  www.colingtoncafe.com

Upscale French Style Cuisine and the only remaining oceanfront outside dining  on the beach…fantastic local seafood

(MP 7 Beach Road) 1731 N. VA Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills (252) 480-3463  www.thepearlobx.com

Metropolitan upscale restaurant & martini bar with a view of the ocean.

(MP 2.5 Beach Road) (252) 262-2546  www.obbistro.com

Greatly expanded dining room with beautiful sound views offering “Southern Coastal Cuisine”.

Waterfront Shops, 1240 Duck Road, Duck (252) 261-8090  www.thebluepoint.com

Known for fabulous steaks cooked to perfection on their wood-fired grill.

(MP 9 Bypass) S. Croatan Hwy., Kill Devil Hills (252) 441-9555  www.jksrestaurant.com

Try some authentic crispy and delicious “Fried Green Tomatoes” topped with a zesty caper sauce while dining on the outdoor pirate deck “Rum Jumpers” overlooking the calm waters of the Sound at sunset.

Note:  Real Mojito’s are hard to come by on this beach, but Kip (Bardenter) knows how to make them with white rum, limes, fresh mint leaves and sugar…like they do in the Florida Keys.

It doesn’t get much better than this…

(MP 16 Bypass) 6708 S. Croatan Hwy, Nags Head (252) 441-2637

Mulligan’s is one of my favorites places on the beach for several reasons;

Upper Deck: On a typical sunshiny day, Mulligan’s has one of the best and largest outdoor upper decks offering a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean, the Beach Road and Jockey’s Ridge. It’s relaxing and breathtaking to sit in their Adirondack chairs, sipping an ice cold beertini or Ruby Red Grapefruit Crush and wonder what the rest of the world is up to. The seating is arranged in cozy conversation pits, offering spacious privacy for two or a fun gathering area for six or more. They have LIVE MUSIC 7 Days a Week (weather permitting) beginning at 6PM each evening. Anything from Jimmy Buffet style to original rock & roll to classic acoustics…all local, all great!

Downstairs Bar: Both the upper deck and downstairs bars offer an eclectic variety of local patrons and tourists with bartenders who are not only excellent in their trade, but friendly, funny and informed! If you want to know what’s going on around the beach, just stop in to Mulligan’s (downstairs) on a weekday afternoon and listen to fishermen talking about the catch of the day, golfers comparing their handicaps, Realtors discussing the latest listings and sales, sports enthusiasts comparing their teams and scores, and none of this is done without someone laughing so hard they nearly spit out their beer.

Restaurant: Every single restaurant on this beach offers something they can pretty much call their own and be proud of, a specialty or two, or six. Mulligan’s is no exception…they serve the finest seafood, fantastic Mulligan’s Stew and Clam Chowder and award winning burgers and sandwiches.

MY personal favorite (what I always recommend) is the Pan-Seared Tuna! OMG good! Black pepper and sesame coated pan-seared yellowfin tuna served with a wasabi aioli, side of soy sauce and Asian cucumber salad. This Mully Munchie melts in my mouth!

Mulligan’s is family owned and operated. Gus & Shannon are usually there to ensure each and every customer feels welcomed. One sign of a really good restaurant is low turnover of employees…it’s an absolute JOY to walk in and see Aaron, Elizabeth, Courtney or Lori behind the bar and know that you’ll see your same servers year after year.

(MP 13) 4005 S. Croatan Hwy., Nags Head (252) 480-2000 www.mulligansobx.com

Breakfast: To date, I’ve never had a more delicious breakfast anywhere than at the Jolly Roger. Their Eggs Benedict with lump crab and homemade lemony Hollandaise sauce served on a toasted English muffin, with a side of cheesy grits and fresh melon just about did me in. Sooooo goood! Try a cup of coffee at another restaurant, then go to Jolly’s…there IS a difference and Jolly’s wins for choosing Wilson’s as their house coffee.

Lunch Specials: Each day, the chef creates a delicious, affordable lunch special that fills you up to the brim, without breaking your budget.

Friday Night Prime Rib: Prime Rib nights are a favorite, always cooked to perfection with that little dab of horseradish that makes every bite pop. Mmmmm.

Alan Ross Karaoke Road Show: Okay, here I’m biased because he’s my brother-in-law but still, if you like Karaoke (either to sing or simply watch and enjoy) his show at the Jolly’s is hard to beat anywhere. And I do mean ANYWHERE, not just on the Outer Banks. The shows are professionally run by talented hosts (although there is only one Alan Ross) and each one is genuinely different, usually spectacular. It’s like watching American Idol live. There are some wonderful, amazingly talented singers on this beach and they ALL come out to the Jolly. You should too. (Shows start at 10PM during the summer season/8PM during the rest of the year.)

Stained Glass Bar: At the bar, you can order 20 cent steamed shrimp (that’s 10 for $2.00 folks) and the best BBQ Pork Ribs for only 49 cents each, along with a variety of other familiar bar menu fare. The beers are icy cold and the bartenders take great pride, as they should, in serving up drinks fast and furious to thirsty patrons.

Bar Manager, Deanna Givens is not only fantastic at her job, she is a person who will touch your heart when you meet her…and you should hear her SING! She and her staff (Sam, Brian) are some of the finest bartenders you’ll find on this beach. Always friendly, professional and yes…nearly everybody SINGS!

Beach Road (MP 6 3/4) 1836 N. Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills. (252) 441-6530 www.jollyrogerobx.com