You’ll never have difficulty trying to figure out what to eat for lunch in the Outer Banks, which offers some of the best variety of dining options in North Carolina, ranging from seafood and pizza to barbecue and beyond. When you head out from your Outer Banks vacation rental to refuel in-between the day’s festivities, these are the 10 best places to get lunch in the Outer Banks that you need to check out during your next vacation.

1. Food Dudes Kitchen

Started as a partnership between “two dudes”, this chill eatery is known for serving up Caribbean and Mexican seafood and burgers in a surf shack atmosphere. At the same time, their dishes stay true to the local roots of the Outer Banks cuisine and classic Southern dishes. Recommended dishes to try include their Pulled Pork Tacos, Cornmeal Fried Mahi Mahi Wrap, and the BBQ Chicken Quesadilla.

2. Kill Devil Grill

Experience the chance to have lunch at a former diner on the National Register of Historic Places at this local business, which has been around for the past 13 years. Dishes to try include the Softshell Crab Sandwich, Steak Seazar Wrap, and the Grill-Fil-A Sandwich.

3. Art’s Place

For over 30 years, Art’s Place has been serving classic American eats and burgers in a beachside spot that offers live music. Choose from a variety of burger choices, including the Carolina Burger served with chili and slaw, and the Five Alarm Burger, which is made with Pepper Jack cheese, grilled onions, jalapenos and spicy mustard.

4. Buxton Munch Company

Known for making some of the best fish and shrimp tacos in the area, Buxton Munch makes all dishes fresh for each order accompanied by high quality ingredients. With more than 70 items on their menu, you won’t be disappointed with anything you order.

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5. Blue Moon Beach Grill

Indulge in seafood and Southern comfort food in this cozy restaurant that features original artwork and a charming nautical theme. Dishes to try include the fried calamari, seared sea scallops, Portobello sandwich, and the Oyster Po’boy.

6. High Cotton Barbeque

If you’re craving dishes like brisket, fried chicken and pull pork, look no further. This local hotspot is dedicated to serving authentic southern dishes, so be sure to try favorites including the Texas Beef Brisket, Hushpuppies, baked beans, and Whole Chess Pies.

7. Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant

Kick back and enjoy views of the sound while indulging in a menu featuring some of the area’s finest seafood and steak. From nachos and Hushpuppies to fried green tomatoes and crab dip, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to the diverse and delicious menu.

8. Tortugas’ Lie

Variety is the name of the game at this seafood spot that includes a bar and also serves burgers, sushi and Caribbean cuisine. Be sure to try their Hatteras Style Chowder, local Lie Salad, and the Big Wave Dave sandwich, which features grilled chicken breast served with fresh pineapple and Swiss cheese.

9. Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop

Open since 1984, this waterfront spot offers quick and friendly service at reasonable prices. Choose from an assortment of grilled and cold sandwiches, in addition to soup, chili and tasty sides like onion rings, bakes beans and French fries.

10. Dajio

Partake in fine food made from scratch paired with live catering in a restored building at this trendy restaurant, which showcases the best of local ingredients, artisans and musicians. Their menus change seasonally, but typically include dishes like grilled oysters, grilled cheese and local shrimp served with chorizo grits.


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