Carolina Beach, North Carolina, is a coastal paradise that beckons visitors with its sun-kissed shores, vibrant boardwalk, and a laid-back atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease. But beyond the picturesque scenery, Carolina Beach boasts a culinary scene that’s as diverse and delightful as the ocean itself. From fresh, locally caught seafood to comforting Southern classics and sweet treats that will satisfy any craving, this charming beach town is a haven for food lovers.
If you’re planning a trip to Carolina Beach or simply looking to explore the best places to eat, you’re in for a treat. This article will be your guide to navigating the delicious landscape of Carolina Beach, showcasing a curated selection of must-try food places that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and discover the flavors that make Carolina Beach a true gastronomic gem.
Seafood Sensations
Given its prime location on the Atlantic coast, Carolina Beach naturally has a deep-rooted connection to seafood. The waters surrounding the island are teeming with a variety of fish, shrimp, oysters, and crabs, and local restaurants take full advantage of this bounty. If you’re a seafood enthusiast, prepare to be amazed by the freshness and quality of the dishes you’ll find here.
First on our list is Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar, a waterfront institution known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Perched right on the beach, this spot is perfect for enjoying a casual lunch or a romantic dinner while watching the waves roll in. Their menu is a celebration of coastal cuisine, featuring standouts like the Carolina Shrimp Boil, a generous platter loaded with succulent shrimp, corn on the cob, and potatoes seasoned to perfection. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, their grilled fish tacos are a crowd-pleaser, filled with flaky white fish, crisp slaw, and a zesty lime crema. Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar offers a mid-range price point and is the perfect spot for those looking for stunning views with their delicious meal.
Next, we head over to Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar, a lively and popular spot that’s all about fresh oysters and good times. This isn’t your fancy, white-tablecloth oyster bar – it’s a place where you can roll up your sleeves, slurp down some oysters, and enjoy the company of friends and fellow seafood lovers. The oysters are sourced from local waters and are served raw, steamed, or grilled, with a variety of flavorful toppings to choose from. Beyond the oysters, their menu also includes other seafood favorites like shrimp and grits, crab legs, and fish sandwiches. Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar is known for its casual atmosphere and its mid-range prices.
Finally, for a seafood experience that’s both elegant and memorable, look no further than Michael’s Seafood Restaurant. This upscale establishment has been a Carolina Beach staple for many years and is renowned for its impeccable service and exquisite seafood dishes. Their menu features a wide range of options, from classic seafood preparations to innovative creations that showcase the chef’s culinary expertise. Highlights include the pan-seared scallops, served with a creamy risotto and a delicate lemon butter sauce, and the grilled swordfish, perfectly cooked and topped with a vibrant mango salsa. While Michael’s Seafood Restaurant is on the higher end of the price spectrum, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience make it well worth the splurge.
Casual Bites & Beach Eats
While Carolina Beach is undoubtedly a seafood lover’s paradise, the town also offers a plethora of casual dining options that are perfect for a quick bite, a laid-back lunch, or a family-friendly dinner. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, a crispy basket of fries, or a satisfying sandwich, you’ll find plenty of choices to satisfy your appetite.
One such place is Nollie’s Taco Joint, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This casual eatery specializes in gourmet tacos with creative and flavorful fillings. Forget your average ground beef tacos – Nollie’s offers a range of options, from the Korean BBQ taco with tender bulgogi beef and kimchi slaw to the Baja fish taco with crispy fried fish and a spicy chipotle aioli. Their tacos are made with fresh ingredients and are bursting with flavor. Nollie’s also offers a selection of sides, including their famous queso dip and their house-made guacamole. With its affordable prices and fun, beachy vibe, Nollie’s Taco Joint is a must-visit for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal.
Another Carolina Beach institution is The Southerly Biscuit & Pie. While the name suggests only biscuits and pies, they are so much more. They offer southern comfort food that will stick to your ribs. Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and of course biscuits and pies. The atmosphere is casual and family friendly. The prices are affordable.
For a classic burger experience, head to Havana’s Restaurant. This casual spot has been serving up delicious burgers and sandwiches for many years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Their menu features a variety of burger options, from the classic cheeseburger to the specialty burgers like the Carolina Burger, topped with chili, slaw, and mustard. Their burgers are made with fresh, locally sourced beef and are cooked to perfection. Havana’s Restaurant also offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and sides. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
Sweet Treats & Dessert Destinations
No trip to Carolina Beach is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Whether you’re craving ice cream, pastries, or a decadent dessert, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
One of the most popular dessert destinations in Carolina Beach is Britt’s Donut Shop. This iconic donut shop has been serving up delicious donuts since the 1930s and is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their donuts are made fresh daily and are known for their light and airy texture and their perfectly sweet glaze. Britt’s Donut Shop is only open during the warmer months, so be sure to check their hours before you go. The prices are very affordable, and the atmosphere is nostalgic and charming.
For ice cream lovers, Squigley’s Ice Cream and Treats is the place to be. This family-friendly ice cream shop offers a wide variety of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to unique creations like salted caramel pretzel and strawberry cheesecake. Their ice cream is made with high-quality ingredients and is incredibly creamy and flavorful. Squigley’s also offers a selection of sundaes, milkshakes, and other frozen treats. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is fun and festive.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more decadent, head to Crush and Grind. This spot is technically a coffee shop and wine bar, but it has also has an impressive menu of specialty desserts. If you visit, be sure to get an Italian soda and a slice of cake.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants and tourist hotspots, Carolina Beach is also home to a number of hidden gems and local favorites that are worth seeking out. These are the places where the locals go to eat, and they offer a glimpse into the true culinary heart of the town.
One such gem is Olde Salty’s Restaurant. This family-owned restaurant is located just a short drive from Carolina Beach and is known for its delicious seafood and its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Their menu features a variety of seafood dishes, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include the fried oysters, the shrimp and grits, and the she-crab soup. Olde Salty’s Restaurant is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s well worth the trip. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is casual and cozy.
Another local favorite is Hang Ten Grill. This casual eatery is located right on the boardwalk and is known for its delicious burgers, sandwiches, and wraps. Their menu features a variety of options, all made with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. Highlights include the Hang Ten Burger, topped with bacon, cheese, and avocado, and the Surfer Wrap, filled with grilled chicken, black beans, and rice. Hang Ten Grill is the perfect spot for a quick and delicious meal while enjoying the sights and sounds of the boardwalk. The prices are affordable, and the atmosphere is fun and lively.
Last but not least, don’t miss Wake N Bake Donuts, a local donut shop that offers a variety of unique and creative donuts. Donut flavors vary from savory to sweet. Check out their website for the daily flavors before you go!
Conclusion
As you can see, Carolina Beach is a culinary destination that offers something for everyone. From fresh seafood to casual bites, sweet treats to hidden gems, this charming beach town is a haven for food lovers. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner with ocean views, a quick bite on the boardwalk, or a family-friendly meal, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Carolina Beach, be sure to bring your appetite and get ready to explore the delicious landscape of this coastal paradise. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the tourist hotspots and discover some of the local favorites. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the flavors that make Carolina Beach a true gastronomic gem. We encourage you to explore these food places and discover your own favorites. After all, enjoying a meal is one of the many ways you can experience the joy of Carolina Beach!
