These North Carolina Seafood Buffets Are Worth The Indulgence
North Carolina’s coastline stretches for miles, bringing with it a bounty of fresh seafood that locals and visitors alike can’t resist. Seafood buffets have become a beloved tradition across the state, offering endless platters of crab legs, shrimp, oysters, and so much more.
Whether visiting the Outer Banks or exploring coastal towns, these all-you-can-eat spots deliver both quality and quantity. Get ready to discover the best seafood buffets that make any trip to North Carolina truly unforgettable.
1. Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant, Kill Devil Hills
Snow crab legs piled high, steaming hot and ready to crack open, that’s the welcome guests receive at this beloved buffet spot. Located at 705 S Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, this nautical-themed restaurant has built a solid reputation for delivering an impressive spread.
Over 70 items grace the buffet line, ranging from Alaskan king crab to oysters Rockefeller, she-crab soup, and a dessert bar that could easily tempt anyone into a second round.
The atmosphere leans into coastal charm with maritime décor and a lively energy that feels welcoming whether dining solo, with family, or celebrating something special. Service tends to be attentive, with staff quickly clearing plates and refilling drinks so guests can focus on the food.
Crab legs are replenished frequently, which keeps the line moving and ensures everything stays fresh and hot.
Pricing sits around $49.99 per person, reflecting the quality and variety available. Arriving early, especially on weekends, helps avoid longer waits during peak dinner hours.
Sundays between noon and 4 PM offer a slightly lower price, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious seafood lovers. The salad bar, dessert station, and hot entrées round out an experience that consistently draws repeat visitors year after year.
2. Cape Fear Seafood Company, Wilmington
Right along the Cape Fear River, this Wilmington favorite combines waterfront views with a seafood selection that highlights local catches. The address is 140 Hays Ln Unit 140, Wilmington, placing it in the heart of the historic downtown riverfront district.
While not a traditional all-you-can-eat buffet, the restaurant offers expansive seafood platters and family-style options that bring a similar indulgent feel.
Guests often rave about the She-Crab soup, a Carolina classic that balances rich flavor with just the right amount of spice. Fresh oysters, steamed shrimp, and grilled catches of the day round out a menu that changes with the seasons.
The outdoor patio seating provides a breezy, relaxed vibe perfect for warm evenings, and the interior maintains a casual elegance that feels approachable yet refined.
Service tends to be friendly and knowledgeable, with servers ready to recommend dishes based on what’s freshest that day. Pricing reflects the quality and location, so expect to spend a bit more than at a typical buffet, but the experience and flavor justify the cost.
Visiting during weekday lunch can offer slightly lower prices and a quieter atmosphere. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season when the riverfront draws crowds eager for both the food and the scenery.
3. Carolina Crab House, Wilmington
Casual, laid-back, and unapologetically focused on seafood, this spot has earned a loyal following among locals and travelers alike. Situated at 341 College Rd #55, Wilmington, the restaurant keeps things simple with a menu built around steamed seafood, fried baskets, and hearty portions.
The vibe leans toward a no-frills seafood house where the food does all the talking.
Steamed buckets arrive at the table loaded with shrimp, clams, crab legs, and corn, all seasoned with Old Bay and ready to dig into. Fried platters offer crispy shrimp, scallops, and fish, paired with classic sides like hush puppies, coleslaw, and fries.
The casual atmosphere encourages rolling up sleeves and enjoying the meal without fuss, making it a hit with families and groups looking for a relaxed dining experience.
Service is straightforward and efficient, with staff focused on keeping drinks filled and tables cleared. Pricing remains reasonable for the portion sizes, making it a solid value for those craving a seafood feast without the buffet format.
Visiting during off-peak hours, like early weekday evenings, can mean shorter waits and a quieter setting. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so arriving early or being prepared to wait during busy times is part of the experience.
4. Front Street Fish Co., New Bern
Nestled along the waterfront, this New Bern gem offers a seafood experience that feels both upscale and welcoming. The address is 520 S Front St, New Bern, placing it right on the Neuse River with views that enhance every meal.
While not a traditional buffet, the restaurant’s seafood platters and family-style options provide a generous, indulgent dining experience that rivals any all-you-can-eat setup.
The menu highlights fresh, locally sourced seafood with dishes like grilled mahi-mahi, blackened tuna, and a seafood pasta loaded with shrimp, scallops, and clams. The raw bar offers oysters and clams on the half shell, perfect for starting a meal.
The dining room features large windows overlooking the water, and the outdoor patio seating is especially popular during sunset hours when the views are at their best.
Service is polished and attentive, with servers knowledgeable about the menu and happy to suggest wine pairings or daily specials. Pricing reflects the quality and location, so it’s a bit of a splurge, but the combination of food, service, and ambiance makes it worthwhile.
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly on weekends and during the summer season when tourists flock to New Bern. Front Street Fish Co. remains a top choice for anyone seeking a memorable seafood meal in a beautiful setting.
5. Jerome’s Steak & Seafood, Shallotte
A family-run spot that’s been serving the Shallotte area for years, this restaurant has earned a reputation for generous portions and friendly service. Located at 4909 Main St, Shallotte, it sits just a short drive from the coast, making it a convenient stop for beach-goers looking for a hearty seafood meal.
The buffet features a rotating selection of fried and steamed seafood, along with classic Southern sides.
Fried shrimp, flounder, and oysters are staples, alongside steamed crab legs and peel-and-eat shrimp. The sides include hush puppies, coleslaw, and collard greens, rounding out a meal that feels comforting and satisfying.
The dining room has a casual, no-frills vibe that prioritizes function over fancy décor, which keeps the focus on the food and the company.
Service is warm and efficient, with staff who treat regulars like family and newcomers with genuine hospitality. Pricing is reasonable, especially for the amount of food available, making it a great value for families or groups.
Visiting during weekday lunch hours can mean even better deals and a quieter atmosphere. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so arriving early, especially on weekends, helps avoid longer waits.
Jerome’s Steak & Seafood remains a local favorite for anyone craving a straightforward, delicious seafood buffet without the tourist crowds or inflated prices.
6. Swain’s Seafood and Cut Restaurant, Oak Island
Just a stone’s throw from the beach, this Oak Island staple has been feeding hungry beachgoers for decades. The address is 8317 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, placing it in a prime spot for anyone spending the day on the sand.
The buffet offers a solid lineup of fried and steamed seafood, with a focus on fresh, local catches that reflect the area’s coastal roots.
Fried shrimp, scallops, and fish are buffet mainstays, along with steamed clams and crab legs. The salad bar and dessert station provide lighter options and sweet finishes to round out the meal.
The dining room is spacious and family-friendly, with a casual atmosphere that welcomes sandy feet and sunburned noses without judgment.
Service is friendly and efficient, with staff who understand the rhythm of beachside dining and keep things moving smoothly. Pricing is fair for the quality and quantity, making it a popular choice for families looking to feed everyone without breaking the bank.
Visiting during early dinner hours can help avoid the peak rush, especially on summer weekends when the island is packed with vacationers. The restaurant’s longevity speaks to its consistency and ability to deliver a satisfying seafood experience year after year.
It’s a dependable choice for anyone seeking a classic coastal buffet that doesn’t try to be anything other than good, honest seafood.
7. Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp, Wilmington
Perched on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway, this Wilmington favorite offers a seafood experience that blends elegant dining with coastal charm. The address is 2 Ann St, Wilmington, placing it in the heart of the historic downtown waterfront.
While not a traditional buffet, the restaurant’s seafood platters and family-style options provide an indulgent, shareable dining experience that feels generous and satisfying.
The menu features dishes like blackened mahi-mahi, shrimp and grits, and a seafood platter loaded with fried shrimp, scallops, and oysters. The raw bar offers fresh oysters and clams, perfect for starting a meal with a taste of the sea.
The dining room features large windows overlooking the water, and the outdoor patio seating is especially popular during warm evenings when the sunset paints the sky in shades of pink and orange.
Service is attentive and professional, with servers who know the menu well and offer helpful suggestions based on daily specials and seasonal availability. Pricing reflects the upscale atmosphere and quality ingredients, so it’s a bit of a splurge, but the combination of food, service, and views makes it worthwhile.
Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekends and during the busy summer season. Elijah’s remains a top choice for anyone seeking a memorable seafood meal in a beautiful waterfront setting that captures the essence of coastal North Carolina dining.
8. The Shrimp Boat, Gastonia
Perched right in the heart of Gastonia, at 120 S Broad Street, Shrimp Boat is the sort of seafood spot that proves great coastal flavor doesn’t have to come with a coastal zip code. What it lacks in ocean views, it more than makes up for with down‑home hospitality, generous portions, and straightforward, satisfying seafood that keeps diners coming back.
Walk in, and you’ll immediately notice the welcoming vibe, think colorful décor, friendly staff who know the menu inside and out, and the smell of shrimp and seafood cooking just right. The menu is packed with classics and creative favorites alike, from fried shrimp and seafood trio plates to shrimp alfredo, stuffed flounder, and more, all served with hearty Southern‑style sides.
This isn’t the kind of place where presentation overshadows taste, here it’s all about bold seafood flavors, comforting portions, and a vibe that feels like a neighborhood favorite even on your first visit.
Whether you’re stopping in for a casual lunch, a relaxed dinner with friends, or just craving shrimp done right, Shrimp Boat delivers meals that hit the spot and a dining experience that feels familiar and fun.
With its friendly service and menu that keeps people coming back, it’s easy to see why this hidden seafood jewel has earned a loyal following across the region.
9. Dockside Seafood Restaurant, Wilmington
Right on the water’s edge, this Wrightsville Beach spot offers a seafood experience that feels as fresh as the ocean breeze. The address is 1308 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, placing it just off the main beach route with easy access and ample parking.
While not a traditional buffet, the restaurant’s seafood platters and family-style options provide a generous, indulgent dining experience that rivals any all-you-can-eat setup.
The menu highlights local catches with dishes like grilled grouper, fried shrimp baskets, and a seafood boil loaded with shrimp, clams, and crab. The raw bar offers fresh oysters and clams, perfect for starting a meal with a taste of the coast.
The dining room features large windows overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, and the outdoor patio seating is especially popular during sunset hours when the views are at their best.
Service is friendly and knowledgeable, with servers who offer helpful suggestions and keep things moving smoothly. Pricing is fair for the quality and location, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking a memorable seafood meal without the formality of fine dining.
Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekends and during the summer season when the beach draws crowds. Dockside remains a favorite for locals and visitors alike who appreciate fresh seafood served in a relaxed, waterfront setting that captures the essence of coastal living.
10. LuLu’s Express, Charlotte
Located at 2400 Tuckaseegee Road in Charlotte, LuLu’s Express is more than just a place to grab a meal, it’s a local institution that’s won over the hearts of Charlotteans with its incredible blend of Southern comfort food and seafood classics. This cozy spot brings the bold flavors of Maryland-style fried chicken and seafood right to the Queen City, offering a menu that’s as satisfying as it is mouthwatering.
Whether you’re craving crispy fried shrimp, blackened catfish, or a perfectly seasoned salmon filet, LuLu’s delivers perfectly cooked seafood that’s always fresh and packed with flavor. The fried chicken here is another standout, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with all the classic Southern sides, garlic mashed potatoes, collard greens, sweet yams, and cornbread, that take your meal from ordinary to unforgettable.
What makes LuLu’s Express even more special is its laid-back, welcoming vibe. The friendly staff make every visit feel like a trip to a favorite family spot, and the portions are generous enough to leave you with leftovers for the next day (if you’re lucky!).
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert, where indulgent sweets like homemade pound cake and banana pudding are the perfect finish to a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends and family, LuLu’s Express is a Charlotte staple where great food, warm hospitality, and an unbeatable Southern vibe come together in a way that keeps locals coming back time and time again.
