06/05/2025
Nestled along the scenic coast of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Hatteras Island is more than just a beach destination. While its windswept dunes, picturesque lighthouses, and endless ocean vistas attract surfers, fishermen, and families year after year, the island also harbors a rich culinary landscape shaped by centuries of maritime tradition and a deep appreciation for local ingredients.
For the discerning foodie, Hatteras Island offers a journey filled with flavor, community, and unforgettable seaside meals. From casual food trucks to waterfront fine dining, Hatteras restaurants embrace the rhythm of the tides, the spirit of the South, and the creativity of its chefs.
Whether you’re waking up to a sunrise breakfast by the water, enjoying fish tacos barefoot in the sand, or toasting the sunset with a plate of seared scallops and a glass of wine, every meal becomes a moment worth savoring. This guide will take you through the best culinary experiences on Hatteras Island, helping you plan the perfect food lover’s vacation.
Morning Delights: Breakfast and Bakeries
There’s something magical about mornings on Hatteras Island. The sound of waves lapping at the shore, the fresh scent of salt in the air, and the promise of a day filled with discovery. What better way to start than with a memorable breakfast?
Toucana Grill (Hatteras Village)
Toucana Grill is not your average food truck. It’s a culinary destination housed in an unassuming setting—the parking lot of Teach’s Lair Marina. Helmed by Chef Tyler Naughton, who previously worked at the acclaimed Konbi in Los Angeles, Toucana Grill brings a big-city flavor sensibility to the relaxed vibe of the Outer Banks.
The menu rotates with the seasons and features inventive takes on breakfast classics. The spicy chorizo burrito, loaded with smoky sausage, fluffy scrambled eggs, potatoes, and house-made salsa, is a local favorite. Their sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit hits that perfect note of flaky, buttery indulgence. It’s the type of meal that doesn’t just fuel your morning—it makes your morning.
Diners often eat on picnic tables overlooking the marina, where the hum of boat engines and seabird calls create a soundtrack of coastal life. Toucana’s fusion of creativity and comfort makes it a standout morning stop.
Sonny’s Waterfront Restaurant (Hatteras Village)
A Hatteras Island institution, Sonny’s has been serving breakfast to locals and visitors since 1976. Step inside, and you’ll find a dining room that feels like home: warm wood tones, sea-inspired decor, and smiling servers who know many guests by name.
The menu is a tribute to Southern breakfast traditions—fluffy three-egg omelets, golden pancakes, creamy stone-ground grits, and biscuits that practically melt in your mouth. Their sausage gravy is made from scratch, rich and peppery, and generously ladled over freshly baked biscuits.
Sonny’s opens early (6:30 AM), making it a perfect stop for early risers looking to beat the beach crowds. The hearty portions ensure you won’t be hungry for hours. Pair your meal with a strong cup of coffee and enjoy the views of the waterfront—there’s no better way to welcome the day.
Orange Blossom Bakery & Café (Buxton)
A rite of passage for anyone visiting Buxton, Orange Blossom Bakery is best known for its “Apple Uglies.” These oversized fritters—craggy, golden, and overflowing with cinnamon-spiced apples—have earned a cult following. They’re part breakfast, part dessert, and entirely unforgettable.
Arrive early, the line forms fast, especially during summer months. In addition to Apple Uglies, the bakery serves hearty breakfast burritos, their famous “bagel burner”, and a selection of muffins, donuts, and pastries. Coffee is strong, and service is quick, despite the bustling crowds.
Orange Blossom embodies the relaxed, unpretentious vibe of the Outer Banks. It’s a place where families gather before hitting the beach and surfers fuel up before chasing waves.
Mirro’s Café (Waves)
Tucked away in the village of Waves, Mirro’s Café offers a bit of everything—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—served in a cheerful, pet-friendly setting. The breakfast menu includes wraps, omelets, pancakes, and biscuit sandwiches, all prepared with care and local ingredients when available.
Mirro’s is especially known for its easygoing vibe. The covered porch is a great place to sip coffee and watch the morning go by, and their dog-friendly policy makes it a hit with traveling pet owners. Whether you’re in the mood for something light or a full plate, Mirro’s balances quality with comfort.
Midday Munchies: Lunch Spots and Casual Eats
After a morning of beachcombing, kiteboarding, or simply lounging in the sun, nothing satisfies like a flavorful, casual lunch. Fortunately, Hatteras Island delivers with a variety of midday eateries perfect for laid-back dining.
Isola Pizzeria & Bar (Hatteras Village)
For a delightful midday meal, Isola Pizzeria & Bar offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Hatteras Village. Known for its handcrafted pizzas, Isola provides a casual yet refined dining experience.
The menu features a variety of specialty pies, such as the bold “Truffle Shroom” and the sweet and savory “Hawaiian”. Beyond pizza, patrons can enjoy fresh salads, flavorful sandwiches, and a variety of classic pastas. The full bar offers a wide selection of wines, beers, and spirits, perfect for pairing with your meal. With a newly renovated dining room and a relaxed atmosphere, Isola is an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a casual dinner. They also offer takeout, making it convenient for beach picnics or enjoying a meal at your vacation rental. Open from 11am-9pm Wednesday-Sunday, this year-round
Buxton Munch Company (Buxton)
Colorful, funky, and filled with surf art, Buxton Munch Company feels like a beach shack straight out of a coastal dream. This local favorite has earned a loyal following thanks to its inventive, flavor-packed menu.
The mahi-mahi tacos are legendary—grilled fresh fish topped with tangy slaw and a bright house salsa. But don’t stop there. Their wraps, quesadillas, burgers, and vegetarian options mean there’s something for everyone. Portions are generous, and the vibe is as laid-back as it gets.
Expect casual counter service and seating that invites you to linger. Whether you’re barefoot from the beach or just passing through town, Buxton Munch is a can’t-miss stop.
Pop’s Raw Bar & Grill (Buxton)
Pop’s Raw Bar is the place to go when you want authentic, no-frills Outer Banks seafood. It’s a beloved hole-in-the-wall where steamed shrimp, raw oysters, and fried clam strips are served with cold beer and a side of local lore.
Inside, the walls are adorned with nautical memorabilia, and the bar is often full of locals swapping stories. The steamed shrimp—perfectly seasoned with Old Bay and garlic butter—is a must-order, as are the oysters, shucked fresh and served on ice.
The service is casual, the drinks are strong, and the seafood is the star of the show. It’s one of those rare places that hasn’t changed much over the years—and that’s exactly how fans like it.
Evening Indulgences: Dinner with a View
As the sun sinks below the horizon, Hatteras Island transforms into a romantic and serene haven. Dinner here isn’t just about eating—it’s about lingering over flavors, watching the sky change color, and connecting with the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Café Pamlico (Buxton)
For a fine dining experience that captures the essence of the island, Café Pamlico at The Inn on Pamlico Sound delivers elegance, innovation, and an unbeatable view. With a menu focused on local seafood and seasonal produce, the cuisine here is both sophisticated and deeply rooted in the coastal landscape.
Start with a craft cocktail on the deck, then dive into a meal that may include seared tuna with wasabi sticky rice, grilled scallops in a saffron broth, or tender filet mignon served with a red wine reduction. Desserts are as impressive as the mains—think chocolate lava cake or key lime tart with fresh whipped cream.
The service is attentive, the ambiance is intimate, and the sound-front views are breathtaking. Café Pamlico is ideal for special occasions or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable night out.
Breakwater Restaurant (Hatteras Village)
Perched atop Oden’s Dock, Breakwater Restaurant offers panoramic views of the Pamlico Sound that are almost as memorable as the food itself. The menu is a celebration of coastal cuisine, with a rotating selection of fresh-caught seafood, steaks, and creative appetizers.
Firecracker Shrimp—crispy, spicy, and addictive—is a crowd favorite, while the Fat Daddy Crabcake offers a delightful fusion of coastal and southern flavors. The upstairs dining room is warm and welcoming, but many opt for a table on the deck to catch the sunset over the marina.
Breakwater strikes a balance between upscale and approachable, making it a favorite for families, couples, and groups alike.
Dinky’s Waterfront Restaurant (Hatteras Village)
Overlooking the Village Marina, Dinky’s combines intimate ambiance with a surprisingly adventurous menu. The chef’s creative use of local ingredients shines through in dishes like Blue Crab Ravioli in a rich cream sauce and Cajun Shrimp Gratin served bubbling hot.
With a small but carefully curated wine list and one of the best views in town, Dinky’s is an ideal dinner spot for those seeking both comfort and creativity. The service is warm, the vibe unpretentious, and the food consistently memorable.
Hatteras Sol Waterside Grill (Hatteras Village)
Hatteras Sol is where locals go for a special night out. Perched at the southern end of the island, the restaurant boasts a sweeping view of the Pamlico Sound that’s best enjoyed with a glass of wine and a slow-cooked meal.
Their menu features everything from tasty pasta dishes to hand-cut steaks, all made from scratch with local ingredients. The laid-back yet upscale setting makes it a favorite for date nights and sunset dinners.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
No beach vacation is complete without a few indulgent desserts—and Hatteras Island offers plenty.
Scratchmade Snackery (Hatteras Village)
A charming bakery with a devoted following, Scratchmade Snackery lives up to its name. Expect a rotating lineup of cookies, cakes, bars, and other goodies, all made fresh daily. Their cinnamon rolls and lemon bars are particularly beloved.
Happy Belly Ice Cream (Hatteras Village)
A family-friendly spot with a whimsical vibe, Happy Belly serves up cones, sundaes, and milkshakes in dozens of flavors. It’s a must-stop for anyone craving a cold treat after a hot day on the sand.
Local Seafood Markets and Take-Home Options
For those staying in a rental home with a kitchen, Hatteras Island’s seafood markets offer a chance to cook like a local.
Risky Business Seafood (Hatteras Village)
This iconic market offers everything from freshly caught fish to shrimp steamed with their house seasoning. Their smoked tuna dip is legendary, perfect for snacks or appetizers.
Buxton Seafood (Buxton)
One of the best-kept secrets for fresh seafood. Buxton Seafood offers fillets, whole fish, and shellfish, and they’ll even steam your selections for easy take-home dining. They also have a new for 2025 produce stand and a variety of sauces and condiments that make it your one stop shop for a night filled with the island’s freshest local seafood fare!
Tips for Restaurants in Hatteras, NC
Ask About Daily Specials: Many Hatteras restaurants base their specials on the day’s catch, which could include local shrimp, flounder, drum, or even soft-shell crab in season.
Try Local Specialties: Sample the clear-broth Hatteras-style clam chowder or the OBX take on crab cakes—flaky, flavorful, and lightly pan-fried.
Make Early Dinner Plans: Most restaurants in Hatteras, NC close by 9:00 PM, so plan accordingly, especially if dining with a group or in high season.
Final Bite: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Hatteras Island is more than just a vacation—it’s a place to reconnect with the simple pleasures of life: fresh air, salty breezes, and meals that linger in your memory. Whether you’re nibbling on an Apple Ugly at sunrise, digging into a plate of just-caught shrimp, or enjoying a fine dining experience with a view of the sound, the island feeds both body and soul. For food lovers, every bite is a celebration of the sea, the season, and the unique charm of this coastal gem.
