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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...