7 North Carolina Shrimp Burger Spots Steps From The Shore

Nothing beats sinking your teeth into a juicy shrimp burger while salt air tickles your nose and sand still clings to your toes. North Carolina’s coast has perfected this delicacy, fresh-caught shrimp patties nestled in soft buns, often topped with tangy tartar sauce and crisp lettuce.

These shrimp burger joints are so close to the beach that you can practically order while still dripping from the ocean.

1. El’s Drive-In: The OG Shrimp Burger Experience

Holy seafood heaven! El’s has been slinging the same legendary shrimp patties since 1959, and locals would riot if they changed a single breadcrumb in the recipe. The patties are packed with whole shrimp pieces that practically snap between your teeth.

Parked in Morehead City just minutes from Atlantic Beach, this retro drive-in keeps it simple yet spectacular. No pretentious foodie nonsense here, just paper-wrapped bundles of crispy-edged shrimp perfection delivered right to your car window.

2. Big Oak Drive-In & BBQ: Where Shrimp Meets Southern Charm

Though unassuming from the outside, this Salter Path institution serves up shrimp burgers that’ll make you slap the table and call your mama. Big Oak doesn’t mess around with portion size, these babies are stacked with more plump shrimp than should legally fit between two buns.

Families fresh from Emerald Isle’s waves line up here daily, creating a salty, sandy parade of hungry beachgoers. The secret tartar sauce recipe remains locked in a vault somewhere, guarded more carefully than Fort Knox gold.

3. Captain’s Kitchen: The Hidden Harbor Jewel

Where the magic happens is behind an unassuming counter that wouldn’t catch your eye if not for the line snaking out the door. Captain’s Kitchen crafts shrimp burgers that taste like they were pulled from the ocean approximately seven minutes ago.

This Atlantic Beach staple marinates their shrimp in a secret blend that’ll have you interrogating the staff (they won’t crack, I’ve tried). Nestled just a salty breeze away from the fishing pier, you can watch boats return with the day’s catch while devouring what might be their relatives.

4. Crab Shack: Not Just About The Claws

Are you kidding me with this shrimp-to-bun ratio? The Crab Shack might be named for their crustacean cousins, but their shrimp burgers deserve their own billboard on Highway 58. Each patty contains so many whole shrimp pieces, it’s practically a structural engineering marvel they hold together.

Located in Atlantic Beach with sand practically spilling through the front door, this joint feels like eating in your beach buddy’s kitchen. The owner’s grandmother’s recipe hasn’t changed in decades, proof that perfection needs no improvement.

5. Pier Bites: Family Fun By The Sea

Pier Bites is all about family fun and great food. Situated right on the pier, this eatery offers breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Their shrimp burger is a crowd-pleaser, served with a side of laughter and joy. The place buzzes with energy, as families and friends gather to share stories and meals by the sea.

With its welcoming vibe and delicious offerings, Pier Bites is a must-visit for those seeking both flavor and fun.

6. Flipperz Family Bar & Grill: The Locals’ Secret Spot

Did your taste buds just high-five your soul? That’s the Flipperz effect. This unassuming joint in Surf City stays packed with locals who’d rather I didn’t tell you about their beloved shrimp burgers, so maybe keep this recommendation between us.

Just steps from Topsail Beach, Flipperz serves these delicacies with a side of zero pretension and ice-cold beer. Their shrimp patties have a peppery kick that distinguishes them from coastline competitors. The outdoor seating area lets you feel the ocean breeze while contemplating ordering a second burger.

7. The Spot: No-Frills Shrimp Burger Perfection

However did such a tiny shack produce such massive flavor? The Spot in Atlantic Beach is exactly what it sounds like, THE spot for shrimp burger authenticity. Their recipe hasn’t changed since bell-bottoms were first in fashion, and thank Neptune for that.

Barely bigger than a lifeguard tower, this cash-only stand slings perfectly crispy-edged patties faster than you can say “extra tartar sauce, please.”

Grab your burger and plant yourself on their weathered picnic tables with the sand between your toes. The slightly sweet bun somehow enhances the briny shrimp flavor in a way that borders on sorcery.