This Outer Banks Spot Serves The Best Clam Chowder In North Carolina

I still remember the moment I walked into Henry’s Restaurant for the first time. The smell of sizzling bacon and fresh coffee greeted me like an old friend. My stomach growled louder than the seagulls circling outside on the Outer Banks coast.

I had heard whispers from locals about this family-owned spot on 3396 N Croatan Hwy in Kill Devil Hills. They promised the best clam chowder in North Carolina, and I needed to see if it was true. Spoiler alert: it absolutely was.

Henry’s turned out to be more than just a restaurant serving incredible food. It became my go-to spot for comfort, warmth, and that rare feeling of being genuinely cared for. Every visit reveals something new to love about this coastal treasure.

1. A Family-Owned Legacy Since 1989

Henry and Linda Ezzell, alongside their daughter Kim Ezzell Parker, opened this restaurant over three decades ago. Their dream was simple: create a place where families could gather over delicious, affordable meals. Walking through the doors, you immediately sense that dedication.

The walls seem to whisper stories of countless birthdays, anniversaries, and casual Tuesday night dinners.

What strikes me most is how this family has maintained their original vision through changing times. They haven’t chased trends or sacrificed quality for quick profits. Instead, they’ve stayed true to their roots, serving honest food with genuine hospitality.

The Ezzell family’s presence is felt in every corner, from the carefully curated nautical decor to the warm greetings at the door. Their commitment to the Outer Banks community shows in how locals speak about them with affection and respect. This isn’t just a business; it’s a labor of love passed down through generations.

Knowing the history makes every bite taste better. You’re not just eating breakfast or lunch. You’re participating in a tradition that has nourished thousands of visitors and residents since 1989.

2. That Award-Winning Breakfast Everyone Talks About

In 2025, Henry’s won gold for Best Breakfast in Kill Devil Hills. But honestly, I could have told you that years ago. My first breakfast there featured fluffy pancakes the size of dinner plates and eggs cooked exactly how I requested.

The hash browns arrived crispy on the outside, tender inside, seasoned with just enough salt and pepper.

What sets breakfast apart here is the attention to detail. The coffee stays hot because servers refill it without you having to ask. The biscuits come fresh from the oven, steaming and begging for butter or sausage gravy.

Popular dishes like the crab Benedict and specialty omelettes showcase local ingredients prepared with care. I watched a family of four devour their meals with pure joy on their faces. Even the pickiest eater, a young boy around seven, cleaned his plate completely.

Breakfast service runs from 7 AM, making it perfect for early risers heading to the beach. The portions are generous enough to fuel a full day of swimming and exploring. You won’t leave hungry, that’s guaranteed.

3. The Legendary New England Clam Chowder

Let me be clear: this clam chowder changed my life. I’m not exaggerating. The creamy, perfectly seasoned broth arrived in a bowl so full it nearly spilled over the edges.

Chunks of tender clam mingled with soft potatoes, creating a texture symphony in my mouth.

The first spoonful warmed me from the inside out. I could taste the ocean in every bite, but not in an overwhelming way. The balance between cream, clams, and seasonings was absolutely perfect.

No wonder people claim it’s the best in North Carolina.

What impressed me most was the consistency. I’ve returned multiple times, and every single bowl tastes just as amazing as the first. That kind of reliability is rare in restaurants these days.

The kitchen clearly follows strict recipes and uses quality ingredients.

You can order it as a cup or bowl, but trust me, go for the bowl. Pair it with their homemade biscuits for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a meal that will haunt your dreams. I still think about it when I’m stuck eating lunch at my desk.

4. Seafood So Fresh It Tastes Like The Ocean

Being located in the Outer Banks means access to incredibly fresh seafood. Henry’s takes full advantage of this geography. Their menu features shrimp, flounder, scallops, crab cakes, and soft shell crab, all sourced locally when possible.

The difference between fresh and frozen seafood is night and day.

I ordered the broiled local platter on my third visit. It came loaded with perfectly cooked shrimp, sweet scallops, a crab cake that held together beautifully, and tender flounder. Each component had its own distinct flavor, yet they worked together harmoniously on the plate.

The kitchen offers both fried and broiled options, catering to different preferences and dietary needs. I appreciate having choices without feeling limited. Whether you want crispy fried oysters or lighter broiled fish, they’ve got you covered.

The hush puppies deserve their own paragraph, but I’ll mention them here. Golden brown, slightly sweet, with a crispy exterior and soft center, they’re addictive. I watched a couple at the next table order a second basket, and I completely understood why.

5. All You Can Eat Seafood Dinners For Serious Appetites

Some nights you just want to eat until you’re completely satisfied. Henry’s understands this primal need. Their all-you-can-eat seafood dinners attract hungry beachgoers who’ve worked up serious appetites swimming and surfing all day.

The concept is simple: keep the seafood coming until you wave the white flag.

I witnessed a group of teenagers take on this challenge with enthusiasm. Plates of fried shrimp, fish, and sides kept arriving at their table. The joy on their faces was priceless.

They laughed, ate, and made memories that will last forever.

What makes this option special is the quality doesn’t decrease just because it’s unlimited. Each round tastes just as good as the first. The kitchen maintains high standards regardless of quantity, which shows real integrity.

This is perfect for families trying to feed growing kids without breaking the bank. Instead of worrying about portion sizes, everyone can eat their fill. The relaxed atmosphere makes it feel like a celebration rather than just another meal out.

6. Nautical Decor That Transports You To The Coast

Walking into Henry’s feels like stepping onto a ship’s deck. Nautical decorations cover the walls without overwhelming the space. Fishing nets, vintage buoys, and maritime artwork create an authentic coastal vibe.

It’s beach themed but done tastefully, avoiding the tacky tourist trap aesthetic.

The decor tells stories of the ocean and the people who make their living from it. I noticed details like old fishing photographs and weathered wooden signs that add character. These touches show respect for the maritime culture that defines this region.

The lighting is warm and inviting, perfect for both early morning breakfast and evening dinners. Tables are spaced comfortably, giving families room to spread out without feeling cramped. The overall atmosphere is casual and relaxed, exactly what you want when you’re on vacation.

I appreciate that the decor enhances the dining experience rather than distracting from it. You feel connected to the Outer Banks environment while enjoying your meal. It’s immersive without being gimmicky, which is a difficult balance to achieve.

7. Gluten-Free Options For Every Dietary Need

Finding gluten-free options at restaurants can be frustrating. Henry’s recently added gluten-free bread to their menu, showing they listen to customer needs. This seemingly small addition makes a huge difference for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Suddenly, sandwiches and toast become possibilities again.

I spoke with a family who had a child with celiac disease. The relief on the parents’ faces when they learned about the gluten-free bread was touching. Their daughter could finally order what she wanted instead of settling for limited options.

The staff is knowledgeable about cross-contamination and takes dietary restrictions seriously. They don’t make you feel like a burden for asking questions. Instead, they work with you to find meals that fit your needs safely.

Beyond bread, many menu items naturally accommodate various dietary preferences. The broiled seafood platters work for low-carb diets. Fresh salads satisfy vegetarians.

This inclusivity means everyone in your group can find something delicious to eat, making dining out actually enjoyable rather than stressful.

8. Affordable Pricing That Respects Your Budget

Eating out in tourist areas usually means inflated prices. Henry’s breaks this pattern by offering reasonable rates that locals and visitors appreciate equally. You can feed a family of four for under eighty dollars, including drinks and tip.

That’s remarkable value considering the quality and portion sizes.

I compared their prices to other Outer Banks restaurants and was shocked. Henry’s charges significantly less while delivering equal or better food. This isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about fair pricing and respecting customers’ budgets.

The affordability doesn’t mean tiny portions or cheap ingredients. My meals have always been generous, often leaving me with leftovers for later. Getting quality and quantity at this price point feels almost too good to be true.

This pricing philosophy reflects the family-owned values that guide the restaurant. They want everyone to enjoy good food, not just wealthy tourists. That democratic approach to dining creates a welcoming environment where all kinds of people gather and share meals together.

9. Service That Makes You Feel Like Family

Great food matters, but exceptional service transforms a meal into an experience. The servers at Henry’s treat you like old friends returning home. They remember preferences, joke around appropriately, and genuinely care about your satisfaction.

This warmth isn’t fake or forced; it flows naturally from people who love their jobs.

On my second visit, my server remembered my coffee preference from weeks earlier. That attention to detail blew my mind. She kept drinks filled, checked on our table regularly, and made helpful menu suggestions based on what we’d enjoyed before.

I’ve read reviews praising specific servers by name, which speaks volumes. When customers remember and request certain staff members, you know something special is happening. These aren’t just employees punching a clock; they’re hospitality professionals who take pride in their work.

Even during busy weekend rushes, the service remains attentive and friendly. The kitchen and front-of-house staff work together smoothly, ensuring food arrives hot and orders come out correctly. That coordination requires training, teamwork, and genuine care about the customer experience.

10. The Gift Shop Surprise At The Exit

After paying your bill, you walk through a charming gift shop on your way out. This unexpected bonus features typical beach souvenirs like t-shirts and keychains, but also unique craft items and specialty goods. It’s perfectly positioned to catch you in a good mood after a satisfying meal.

I bought a Henry’s t-shirt on my fourth visit, and I wear it proudly back home. It serves as a conversation starter and a reminder of wonderful meals. The quality is better than typical tourist shirts; it has survived multiple washes without fading or shrinking.

The shop also carries local artisan products that make great gifts. I found handmade soaps, coastal-themed decorations, and regional food items like hot sauces and jams. Supporting local craftspeople while grabbing a memento feels good.

This retail element adds another revenue stream for the family business while enhancing the customer experience. You leave with both a full stomach and a tangible reminder of your visit. It’s smart business that benefits everyone involved.

11. Year-Round Service With Seasonal Hours

Unlike many Outer Banks restaurants that close during winter months, Henry’s operates year-round. This commitment serves the local community when tourist season ends. Residents need reliable dining options during quieter months, and Henry’s delivers consistently.

The hours adjust seasonally to match customer traffic patterns. During peak summer season, they’re open longer to accommodate crowds. In winter, they scale back slightly but remain accessible.

This flexibility makes good business sense while still serving the community.

I recommend calling ahead during off-season months to confirm current hours. The staff is always helpful on the phone, answering questions and even taking to-go orders. This accessibility shows they value every customer, whether you’re a regular or first-time visitor.

Operating year-round requires dedication and financial investment. Many restaurant owners take winter breaks to recharge. The Ezzell family’s decision to stay open demonstrates their commitment to Kill Devil Hills and the people who call it home.

That loyalty runs both ways, creating a strong bond between restaurant and community.

12. Takeout And Catering For Any Occasion

Sometimes you want Henry’s food without the dining-in experience. Their takeout service makes this possible with a separate entrance for pickup orders. I’ve used this option when staying at nearby beach houses, bringing their breakfast back to enjoy on the deck overlooking the ocean.

The takeout packaging is sturdy and well-designed. Hot foods stay hot, cold items remain chilled, and nothing spills during transport. These details matter when you’re carrying food to your car or vacation rental.

Poor packaging can ruin a meal, but Henry’s gets it right.

They also offer catering services for events, which opens up exciting possibilities. Imagine having their famous clam chowder or seafood platters at your beach wedding or family reunion. The quality you experience in the restaurant translates to catered events.

I attended a local gathering where Henry’s provided the food. Everyone raved about the crab cakes and sides. The hosts looked relaxed instead of stressed because they trusted the restaurant to deliver.

That peace of mind is worth its weight in gold when planning special occasions.