Salty sea air, the sound of seagulls and warm sand beneath your toes, OBX is about sea, sand and the freshest seafood. It is what makes this place a seafood lovers paradise. The Outer Banks is where the ocean's bounty is transformed into culinary masterpieces that tantalizesthe taste buds leaving one longing for more. It is where the seafood is fresh and hearty, and every bite is a celebration of the sea. From freshly-caught fish to classic seafood dishes, OBX has something for every seafood enthusiast.
OBX is particularly known for itssea-food comprising of fish, shrimp, crab, and oysters. The unique geography of OBX, with its location on the coast and proximity to the Gulf Stream, helps a diverse array of sea fish and food to thrive and be harvested year-round.
Ideally located near the Atlantic Ocean, the Outer Banks’ staple is seafood and local fishermen bring in a wide variety of fresh seafood daily, allowing the area's restaurants and markets to take advantage of the sea’s rich bounty.The place is scattered with seafood restaurants and markets in that offer a wide variety of dishes, from classic fish and chips to seafood chowder and crab cakes.
Among the popular seafood spots in the area are Sam &Omie's, Dirty Dick's Crab House, and Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar.
Let’s explore some of the musttry seafood delicacies in the Outer Banks.
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One extremely popular seafood dish in OBX is the classic North Carolina-style shrimp and grits. This is a classic Southern staple, and OBX beautifully does justice to it. The shrimps are cooked in a savory sauce made with bacon, onions, and garlic and served over a bed of creamy grits. The tantalizing combination of the creamy grits and the tangy sauce makes for a delicious and lip-smacking meal.
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Another seafood dish that cannot be missed when visiting OBX is the crab cakes. These delectable cakes are made from fresh crab meat and seasoned with herbs and spices. They are served with a side of tangy tartar sauce and can be had as the perfect appetizer or main course. Some of the best crab cakes in OBX can be found at The Blue Point, which uses jumbo lump crabmeat and a delicate blend of spices to create a melt-in-your-mouth dish.
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For something a little more unique, there is the OBX specialty dish, steamed blue crabs. This dish is prepared by steaming whole blue crabs in a seasoned broth until they are cooked to perfection. The crabs are then served with a side of melted butter for dipping, making for a truly unforgettable meal. This dish is messy, but it is worth it.
In addition to these classic seafood dishes, OBX is also known for its bounty of fresh fish. The local fishermen catch a variety of fish, including tuna, mahi-mahi, and flounder, which are served up in various ways. Whether you prefer grilled, blackened, or fried, eating fish at OBX will make you want to come back again.
One restaurant that stands out for its fresh fish is the Fish Heads Bar and Grill in Nags Head. This restaurant is located on the beach and serves a variety of seafood dishes, including the popular fish tacos. The tacos are made with grilled or blackened fish, topped with slaw, and served with a side of black beans and rice. This dish is not only delicious, but it is also a great way to take in the stunning ocean views while enjoying your meal.
To complement your seafood meal, OBX has a large selection of local craft beers or wines. It is home to several local breweries and wineries, each offering a unique selection of refreshing beverages to enjoy your seafood feast.
One of the most popular breweries is the Lost Colony Brewery and Cafe in Manteo. This brewery is located in the historic downtown area and offers a wide range of craft beers, including the popular Lost Colony Ale which is a light, refreshing beer that pairs perfectly with seafood.
For wine lovers, there is the must visit Sanctuary Vineyards in Jarvisburg, located on a 300-year-old family farm. This winery produces some of the best award-winning wines, including the popular Wild Pony White which is crafted from a blend of locally grown grapes and pairs perfectly with seafood.
OBX is also known for its fishing charters, which takes visitors out to the ocean for fishing to catch their own fresh seafood. Whether you're interested in catching your dinner or just enjoying a delicious seafood meal, whether you prefer classic dishes or unique specialties, OBX is a great destination for seafood lovers and has something to satisfy every palate. With its stunning coastal views, warm hospitality, and fresh seafood, OBX makes an amazing place to spend a lovely vacation.