2021 American Guide

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...

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...

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...

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...

Bistro-by-the-Sea is an inviting restaurant and private banquet facility that is conveniently found in the heart of Morehead City along Arendell Drive. Overseen by husband and wife team Chef Tim and Libby Eaton, the...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Chowdaheads is a kid-friendly and beach lover-approved seafood shack that might not be fancy, but will nevertheless impress Emerald Isle visitors with a hearty menu that doesn’t skimp on the seafood or the flavor.

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Located on the southern end of Emerald Isle, and easy to reach for visitors staying throughout the Crystal Coast, Mac Daddy’s is the destination of choice for countless fun-seeking vacationers of all ages who want...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Pescara offers a wonderful combination of fresh seafood and Italian fare that impresses patrons with its inherent creativity. As a recent addition to the Atlantic Beach dining scene, the bistro-style eatery is already...

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...

Resort Grill, a tropically-adorned breakfast and lunch joint that’s found just off of Fort Macon Road in Atlantic Beach, is a good place for beach-goers to start their day, or for night owls to recoup after a...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Sanitary Fish Market & Restaurant may be one of the most famous restaurants in the Crystal Coast and southern Outer Banks region. Located on the edge of Downtown Morehead City, with a huge sign that can’t be...

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.

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...

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...

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...

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...

Sugarloaf Island Deli is located next to Sanitary Restaurant offering the finest meats and cheeses. They serve fresh-baked bread daily, fresh local produce, and NC craft beers. Come out with your friends and enjoy...

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...

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...

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...

Settle into a front row view of the Downtown Beaufort Harborfront, Taylor Creek and the Rachel Carson Reserve with a waterfront table at The Spouter Inn. This highly acclaimed Front Street restaurant and bakery has been...

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...

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...

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...

Whether a visitor is craving a big burger after a long New Bern exploration, or just a friendly spot to settle in and watch the big game, they can find what they are looking for and then some with a visit to the Triple...