Nags Head is a cozy beach town located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy sandy beaches situated within minutes of many Nags Head vacation rentals. This cozy beach community is known for its “winged horses” statues, which represent the wild mustangs that roam free on the northern beaches. Nag’ Head is also known for its family-friendly vibe and delicious food. The fresh local seafood and authentic North Carolinian barbecue can’t be beat. If you’re visiting Nags Head on your next family vacation, check out some great kid-friendly restaurants.
1. Fatboyz Ice Cream and Grill
There’s nothing better than loaded burgers and sweet treats when you’re on vacation, and Fatboyz Ice Cream and Grill has just the right stuff. This kid-friendly eatery offers casual outdoor seating in brightly colored wood booths, and the food is filling and delicious. If your kids love hot dogs, order up a “Garbage Dog” loaded with coleslaw, chili, cheese, and onions, or go for the classic Jr, Fatboyz burger with all the fixings. For dessert, share a banana split with the family, or let your little ones enjoy kid-size ice cream cones out on the porch.
2. Tale of the Whale
For some fresh seafood and the chance to dine at one of the most popular waterfront restaurants in Nags Head, have lunch or dinner at Tale of The Whale. Open for over 38 years, this beloved family-owned restaurant has a massive patio for spectacular views as you eat, and children of all ages are welcome. For the kiddos, Tale of the Whale has a special “Little Whaler’s” menu with junior portions of grown-up dishes such as broiled flounder and New York steak.
3. Grits Grill
For a hearty breakfast or lunch before a day of taking in the sights, head over to Grits Grill. Fill up on shrimp and grits while your little ones nibble on kid-size hot dogs or grilled cheese sandwiches, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and vintage decor. Your kids are sure to enjoy sitting at the counter and watching the chefs work, and you can even order a “Family Pack” of chicken, slaw, or your choice of BBQ to take away for a beach picnic or an al fresco meal at your vacation rental.
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4. Blue Moon Beach Grill
Blue Moon Beach Grill is a must-visit restaurant for anyone vacationing in Nags Head. This quaint restaurant is a favorite among locals, and it sits just minutes from the water for fantastic views and fun, outdoor dining. The kids are sure to love the Moon Beam’s chicken tenders and junior sized fried fish on the kid’s menu, and you can even take home a bottle of the restaurant’s signature hot sauce to always have a bit of North Carolina within arm’s reach. Pick up a T-shirt, hat, or even a baby onesie at the on-site store, and be sure to take some photos during your visit and send them to the restaurant via its website for a chance to get a snapshot or two posted online.
5. Pier House Restaurant
For a little sightseeing and a delicious meal all in one, visit Pier House Restaurant on the Nags Head fishing pier. The restaurant offers a full seafood menu of some of the freshest fish on the coast, and you can even bring in your catches from the pier, and the cooks will prepare a special dish complete with french fries, cole slaw, and tasty hush puppies.
6. Sooey’s BBQ and Rib Shack
For some authentic North Carolina barbecue or some of the best crispy fried chicken in the Outer Banks, take the family to Sooey’s BBQ and Rib Shack. This family-friendly restaurant is known for its half rack of ribs and other tasty morsels, and it even offers a “Little Piggies” menu for the kids with junior-size favorites such as Kid’s Ribs and Sooey’s signature mac and cheese. The brightly colored exterior ensures you won’t miss this gem when driving through Nag
7. Sugar Creek Seafood Restaurant
Sugar Creek Seafood Restaurant is so close to the Roanoke Sound that guests regularly mingle with birds, ducks, and geese, and the atmosphere combined with friendly staff members makes it a perfect place for a family dinner or lunch. Your kids are also sure to love the Sugar Creek Mascots (two staff members dressed up as a dog and a shrimp), who make the rounds and entertain the diners. Stop by for a seafood feast, and make sure to save some room for the house fried pickles and homemade desserts such as key lime cheesecake. The restaurant also has a special menu for the kiddos with favorites such as fried grilled cheese wedges and fried chicken lips – aka chicken fingers.
8. Pamlico Jack’s
Pamlico Jack’s sits along the Nags Head Sound with gorgeous waterside views and a highly recommended kid’s menu. Check the online schedule for live music events and “Dinner with Pirates” nights, or stop by any day of the week and soak up the fresh sea air while your kids dine on Stowaway Steaks, Captain Kidd’s Dungeon Dogs, or heaping plates of Pirate’s Pasta.
9. Kill Devil’s Frozen Custard and Beach Fries
If you want to treat your kids to some true Carolina decadence, pop next door to neighboring Kill Devil Hills and stop by Kill Devil’s Frozen Custard and Beach Fries. With a sign out front that says, “Home of the World’s Best Ice Cream,” you’re sure to enjoy your visit. Start off with some burgers marinated in a “special sauce” and delicious hand-cut beach fries reminiscent of old North Carolina boardwalks, then find out what all the hype is all about when you sample some amazing homemade frozen custard in chocolate, vanilla, or the daily special flavor.
10. American Pie
For some of the best pizza in town followed by a scoop of out-of-this-world homemade ice cream, take the three-mile trip into Kill Devil Hills and enjoy a family meal at American Pie. With fun pizza names such as “The Weed Eater” for vegetarians and “The Big 5” for meat lovers, this family-owned restaurant offers a pleasant atmosphere and some of the friendliest servers around. Order up a specialty pizza for the family, or build your own custom pie with the restaurant’s wide selection ofÆ‘ ingredients. When you’re stuffed but still have a little room for dessert, indulge in some waffle cones and delicious handmade ice cream with flavors that change daily.
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