10 North Carolina Seafood Shacks That Taste Like Summer
When summer rolls around in North Carolina, locals and tourists alike flock to coastal seafood shacks for fresh-caught delights. These humble eateries serve up the ocean’s bounty with no-frills presentation but maximum flavor. From crispy fried flounder to steamed shrimp piled high, these spots capture the essence of summer on a plate.
1. Calabash Seafood Hut
This family-owned gem in the ‘Seafood Capital of the World’ has perfected the legendary Calabash-style frying technique since 1969. Light, crispy batter envelops ultra-fresh fish and shrimp.
Locals swear by their hushpuppies, which arrive golden and steaming at your table within minutes of ordering. The casual paper-plate service keeps prices reasonable while focusing on what matters – incredible seafood.
2. Bowens Island Restaurant
Perched on a marshy island near Charleston, this James Beard Award winner looks more like a weathered fishing shack than a culinary destination. Graffiti covers nearly every interior inch, testament to decades of devoted diners.
Oysters roasted over an open fire remain their signature offering. The no-frills approach extends to communal seating and paper towels as napkins, creating an authentic experience that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere.
3. El’s Drive-In
Since 1959, this Morehead City landmark has been serving classic shrimpburgers to generations of coastal visitors. The simple combination of fried shrimp, tartar sauce, and ketchup on a steamed bun creates flavor magic.
Car-hop service adds nostalgic charm – just flash your headlights when ready to order. Their crispy seafood platters come with legendary corn nuggets that perfectly complement the briny flavors of the ocean.
4. I Got Your Crabs Seafood Market
Captain Stevie’s family fishing heritage shines through every dish at this Outer Banks hotspot. The blue crabs, pulled from local waters that morning, get a perfect seasoning blend before steaming.
Picnic tables covered in brown paper invite messy, hands-on dining. Don’t miss their seafood corn – sweet kernels mixed with crab meat, shrimp and signature spices that locals drive hours to enjoy.
5. Provision Company
Waterfront dining reaches peak casual at this Southport institution where dolphins frequently swim past while you eat. Order at the counter, grab your drinks, then wait for your name to be called.
Their shrimp and grits showcases creamy stone-ground cheese grits topped with plump local shrimp. The outdoor deck offers unmatched sunset views over the Intracoastal Waterway, making even a brief wait for a table worthwhile.
6. The Crab Pot
Salter Path’s hidden treasure operates on a simple principle: fresh seafood needs minimal interference. Their steamed seafood platters arrive overflowing with whatever was caught that morning.
Family recipes for clam chowder and cornbread have remained unchanged for decades. The unassuming cinder block building might not look impressive, but locals know appearances can be deceiving when it comes to authentic coastal cuisine.
7. Seaview Crab Company
Starting as a roadside seafood stand, this Wilmington favorite now offers both market-fresh seafood and ready-to-eat specialties. Their crab dip, loaded with lump meat and just the right seasonings, has achieved legendary status.
Watch fishing boats unload their daily catch at the adjacent dock. The steam pots to-go, packed with crab legs, shrimp, potatoes and corn, make for perfect beach picnics without the cooking hassle.
8. Yana’s Ye Olde Drug Store Restaurant
Housed in a former 1950s pharmacy, this Swansboro establishment serves up nostalgia alongside excellent seafood. Vintage soda fountain equipment and Elvis memorabilia create a time-capsule dining experience.
Their flounder sandwich comes perfectly fried with a pillowy bun. Between bites, explore the walls covered with thousands of dollar bills signed by visitors from around the world – a tradition started by fishermen leaving emergency funds for their next visit.
9. Saltwater Grill
Overlooking the Atlantic Beach causeway, this local favorite balances casual atmosphere with sophisticated seafood preparations. Their signature crab cakes contain barely enough binder to hold together the sweet lump meat.
Sunset happy hour brings locals for the freshly-shucked oysters and craft cocktails. Despite its popularity, the restaurant maintains its unpretentious coastal charm with weathered wood interiors and fishing gear decorations.
10. Big Oak Drive-In & BBQ
A Newport institution since 1981, this roadside spot draws lines of cars for their famous shrimpburgers. The family-run operation maintains quality by hand-breading every shrimp that goes into their signature sandwiches.
Carolina-style pulled pork shares menu space with fried seafood platters. Don’t skip the hushpuppies – these sweet cornmeal delights arrive crispy outside and fluffy inside, perfect for sopping up the tangy homemade cocktail sauce.
