Cape Hatteras is the jewel of the Outer Banks. A gem of a destination where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Pamlico Sound. Did you know that this narrow strip of islands features some delicious places to eat amongst its breathtaking scenery?
The dining scene here is as diverse as the landscape, with options ranging from luxurious gourmet restaurants to cozy, budget-friendly bistros. Consider this your guide to the best restaurants in Cape Hatteras. In Cape Hatteras, local seafood and delicious flavors are the shining stars of these restaurants.
High-End Dining in Cape Hatteras
Cafe Pamlico
Nothing beats eating a good meal with spectacular views. At Café Pamlico, you can savor the flavors of any dish with uninterrupted view of the Pamlico Sound.
This intimate restaurant is not just about the view. It’s a dining experience that marries local ingredients with gourmet flair. Café Pamlico has its own garden on the property where they grow their own fruits and veggies – talk about farm to table! From fresh local seafood to organic meats, the menu is a tribute to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
Seasonal menus ensure that every visit gives you something new, while special dietary needs are met with grace – offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Reservations are highly welcomed, not just for the food, but for the chance to witness one of the most stunning sunsets on the East Coast.
Breakwater Restaurant
Perched atop Oden’s Dockstore, Breakwater Restaurant serves up good food and good views simultaneously. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area without spending a fortune. The menu features a variety of American and seafood dishes, with options like lowcountry she crab soup, buttermilk fried chicken, or Scottish salmon.
Breakwater Restaurant is known for its upscale atmosphere, providing relaxed dining and seasonal menu options. Breakwater is a great option if you’re seeking a romantic dinner with your loved one, or a celebratory dinner with the family (especially for Valentine’s Day!). At Breakwater, delicious meals and stunning sunsets are accessible and enjoyed by all.
Mid-Range Must-Visits for Every Foodie
Stay tuned for our next section, where we’ll explore the mid-range must-visits that offer a perfect blend of quality, ambiance, and value. The culinary landscape of Cape Hatteras extends beyond its high-end dining experiences, offering a variety of mid-range restaurants that promise delicious meals, friendly service, and a memorable dining atmosphere without the gourmet price tag.
Dinky’s Waterfront Restaurant
Dinky’s is celebrated not just for its location but for a culinary experience that leaves you raving. The ambiance here is one of understated elegance, where the water views become the perfect backdrop to your meal.
One cannot talk about Dinky’s without mentioning its standout dishes such as the Blue Crab Ravioli, a luxurious combination of cheese-filled ravioli and lump crab meat, bathed in a chardonnay cream sauce and finished with asiago cheese. Or the Cajun Shrimp Gratin, where Carolina shrimp and andouille sausage come together in a Cajun cream sauce, topped with breadcrumbs and asiago cheese, then baked to perfection. These dishes showcase Dinky’s ability to blend flavors and textures in a way that’s innovative and deliciously satisfying.
The restaurant provides a memorable dining experience, from the food to the service. Celebrate happy occasions or treat yourself to a good meal at Dinky’s!
Rusty’s Surf & Turf
Next, let’s venture to Rusty’s Surf & Turf, where the vibrant atmosphere just invites you right in. Chef Rusty Midgett, a surfer with a penchant for good food, infuses his dishes with flavors discovered on his travels.
This Buxton favorite is where local Outer Banks seafood meets international flair, offering diners a unique taste experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a succulent steak, low country shrimp and grits, or Pamlico paella – Rusty’s promises a uniquely memorable meal.
The restaurant’s commitment to community and innovation is evident in every dish, and its casual yet fine dining setting makes it a perfect spot for any occasion.
Froggy Dog Restaurant & Pub
Another gem in the mid-range dining category is the Froggy Dog Restaurant & Pub, a venue that combines the charm of a long-established restaurant with fresh, from-scratch fare. The nautical themed pub and dining room set the stage for a variety of dishes, from seafood and burgers to steaks and pasta. The Froggy Dog is all about quality and variety. They offer gluten-free items, vegetarian options, and a kids’ menu to nobody leaves hungry.
The full bar’s focus on craft brews and North Carolina beers, along with an impressive wine selection curated by their in-house sommelier, enhances your experience. Special occasions are marked with a six-course wine-pairing dinner, and the popular Sunday Brunch is a must-try!
Good Winds Seafood & Wine Bar
Next on our list of mid-range must-visits is Good Winds Restaurant, situated in a prime location that offers breathtaking views of the sound. Known for its inventive coastal cuisine and fresh-caught local seafood, Good Winds caters to those looking for great food with stunning natural beauty. The restaurant boasts the widest selection of wine and regional craft beer in the Tri-Villages, making it a favorite among beverage enthusiasts.
Whether you’re refueling after a day of kiteboarding or looking for a scenic spot for a family dinner, Good Winds delivers quality and affordability in one of the most beautiful places on the Outer Banks.
Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill
For those seeking a mid-range dining option that doesn’t compromise on quality or experience, Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill is a must-visit. Located right on the water, this Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill offers amazing views that differ from the aforementioned restaurants. The menu at Hatteras Sol is diverse, catering to a range of dietary preferences with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
The seafood Alfredo, crab dip, and oysters Rockefeller are just a few of the starters that many guests favor. Everything is prepared well and packed with flavor.
What sets Hatteras Sol apart is not just its food but its atmosphere. With outdoor seating available, diners can enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful surroundings. It’s the perfect place to come for dinner and drinks. The live music adds to the ambiance. Hatteras Sol is a prime choice if you’re looking for quality dining without the high price tag.
Now It’s Time for Budget-Friendly Bites
Each of these mid-range restaurants offers a unique dining experience that reflects the diversity and richness of Cape Hatteras’s culinary scene. Stay tuned as we explore budget-friendly bites that prove delicious dining doesn’t have to break the bank.
Diamond Shoals Restaurant
At the heart of Hatteras Island’s dining scene is Diamond Shoals Restaurant, a family-owned establishment that has been welcoming locals and visitors alike for over 30 years.
Known for its extensive selection of fresh fish, award-winning clam chowder, and a full-service sushi bar, Diamond Shoals speaks to the island’s rich seafood traditions.
Come here for a hearty breakfast, a casual lunch, or settling down for a dinner with family and friends. At lunch time, the large salad bar and the unique offering of a sake bar make it a great choice for a boozy and enjoyable lunch option.
Mirro’s Cafe
Mirro’s Cafe in Waves serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a genuine smile, offering a range of dishes that cater to early risers and sunset chasers. Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring omelets, wraps, biscuit sandwiches, and pancakes. Perhaps you’d rather dive into their lunch and dinner options that include burgers, baskets, wraps, salads, and seafood, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat after a day on the beach. With its welcoming pet-friendly porch, Mirro’s Cafe embodies the laid-back beach lifestyle of Cape Hatteras, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
Muffins and Scones
For those with a sweet tooth or in search of a quick, satisfying start to their day, make a stop at Muffins and Scones in Avon. Muffins and Scones provide budget-friendly option for breakfast and snack times.
This charming spot offers baked goods like fresh New York-style bagels, an assortment of muffins, and delectably sweet scones! Take something with you to enjoy by the water or make yourself comfy in this cozy bakery and sip a delicious cup of coffee with your pastry.
Low in Price, Rich in Flavor
These budget-friendly options in Cape Hatteras showcase the area’s ability to offer diverse dining experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets. From the homely charm of Mirro’s Cafe to the sweet delights of Muffins and Scones, visitors can enjoy the flavors of the Outer Banks without breaking the bank.
Dining Experiences Unique to Cape Hatteras
Cape Hatteras’s dining scene offers unique experiences along with tasty menu options. Dining by the waterfront makes a meal memorable. Stunning sunset views over the sound or ocean coupled with flavorful seafood will make you return to Cape Hatteras year after year. When good food is paired with live music or the quiet ambiance of a seaside evening, the moment is unforgettable.
Many restaurants in Cape Hatteras take pride in their community involvement, hosting local events or showcasing local produce and seafood. It’s this blend of good food, great views, and a sense of community that makes dining in Cape Hatteras something special.
Explore These Options and So Much More with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging
As we wrap up our culinary journey through Cape Hatteras, let’s not forget that finding the right place to stay is essential. After a day of exploring and dining at the island’s diverse restaurants, having a cozy, welcoming place to rest is paramount. If you’re planning to come explore the restaurants on this Cape Hatteras restaurant guide, consider the beautiful rental options available at Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging. Lighthouse View offers a variety of accommodations that cater to every need and budget, from charming cottages to spacious beach houses.
Choosing a vacation rental with Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging places you at the heart of Cape Hatteras so you’ll be geographically close to good eats! Staying with Lighthouse View ensures that you’re never far from the island’s best dining experiences—from cozy cafes serving up fresh, local seafood to charming restaurants where every meal is infused with the unique flavors of the Outer Banks.
Start your day with a sunrise coffee on your oceanfront deck, and then take a short drive to any of these nearby restaurants for a breakfast or lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients. As the day unfolds, you’ll have the freedom to explore a wealth of dining options, each offering a taste of Cape Hatteras’s rich culinary landscape.
With Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging, you’re not just booking a place to stay; you’re securing a front-row seat to the foodie paradise of Cape Hatteras. These rentals not only provide you with easy access to the island’s best dining spots but also place you steps away from the serene beaches and breathtaking natural beauty the Outer Banks are known for. Whether you’re coming to enjoy the food, the views, or both, Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging is your home away from home, providing the perfect base for all your culinary adventures in Cape Hatteras.
So, as you plan your next getaway to this unique slice of culinary paradise, make sure to consider where you’ll be staying. Lighthouse View offers comfort, convenience, and local charm that will make your trip unforgettable.
As you plan your next visit to Cape Hatteras, remember that the best dining experiences are those that bring together great food, wonderful views, and the company of friends and family. From sunrise breakfasts to sunset dinners, every meal will be enhanced by the knowledge that you have a beautiful, restful place to return to at the end of the day. Explore the accommodations at Lighthouse View Oceanfront Lodging and be sure to select the perfect spot to complete your Cape Hatteras experience.
Get ready to dive into the culinary delights of the best restaurants in Cape Hatteras and discover the foods that make this island a must-visit destination for foodies and travelers. Happy dining, and happy staying!
