5 Restaurants to Try on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast

Warm weather is upon us, meaning it’s also time for outdoor dining season, and there’s nothing better than a tasty meal with a view. Along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, you’ll find many delicious restaurants, but there are five exceptional restaurants worth the visit for both food and views.

Moonrakers

In the heart of Beaufort’s Historical District, along the waterfront, Moonrakers is a three-floor restaurant with both indoor and outdoor dining, including the outdoor sky deck. Enjoy coastal-inspired cuisine like tuna poke, as well as other dishes like pimento dip and seasonal flatbreads, accompanied by craft beers, curated wines and creative cocktails.

34 North Restaurant © North Carolina’s Crystal Coast

34° North Restaurant

This eatery, in The Beaufort Hotel, offers a modern take on Southern comfort food on its wrap-around porch overlooking Taylor’s Creek and Rachel Carson Reserve. Dine on fried pork belly, roasted pumpkin bisque, shrimp and grits, and caviar service with possible sightings of dolphins, wild horses, more than 200 species of birds and more.

Sugarloaf © North Carolina’s Crystal Coast

Sugarloaf Island Deli and Yellowfin Pub

This open-air dining spot is perfect for a casual meal with standout views. Situated in the middle of Morehead City waterfront, this eatery serves up classics like peel-and-eat shrimp, pimento BLT and soft-shell crab tacos, best paired with a sweet tea or cold beer. With an on-site marina, the restaurant is a great spot to watch boats pulling in.

City Kitchen © North Carolina’s Crystal Coast

City Kitchen

Expect an unparalleled view of boats coming through the backside of Beaufort from this restaurant, positioned on the second floor of Town Creek Marina. Don’t forget to order a mojito or old fashioned at its outdoor tiki bar, too.

Oceanana © North Carolina’s Crystal Coast

Oceanana Pier House Restaurant

For some of the best and freshest seafood, consider this restaurant in Atlantic Beach along one of the area’s most popular fishing piers. Fresh fish is caught and cooked up daily on site and has been a beloved institution since 1959. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating on the fishing pier.