2025 Morehead City Restaurants Guide

Visitors who are in the mood for a casual appetizer or meal, or just a Happy Hour drink after a long day of exploring Downtown Morehead City, can settle into a table or bar stool at Beach Bumz Pub & Pizzeria.

Captain’s Table may not be the fanciest dining destination in the Crystal Coast and southern Outer Banks region, but visitors who crave big portions and home cooking will be pleased with the extensive menu and nice-sized portions.

Casa San Carlo is a traditional Italian cuisine venue, serving the best dishes and drinks from authentic Italian recipes. Located in Morehead City, and a short drive from both Beaufort and Atlantic Beach. Come enjoy an a uthentic Italian meal in the...

Circa 81 offers an extensive menu of tapas and cocktails that is sure to entice guests of all tastes. Specializing in brunch, small plates, and larger entrée-sized plates, this Morehead City favorite features an eclectic selection of modern...

Simple no-frills dining meets exceptional southern fare at Cox Family Restaurant – an established and well-loved eatery that’s conveniently found in the heart of Morehead City along central Arendell Street. This budget-friendly...

There’s nothing more traditional and beachy than indulging in an ice cream cone or some burgers and fries after a long day on the sand, and  Dairy Queen is a time-tested spot to feast on easy-going fare. Open throughout the summer months...

Dank Burrito started as a Food Truck and a side project for Clarke Merrell – the Executive Chef and Owner of Morehead City’s acclaimed Circa 81 Tapas & Cocktaileria. But with a new location and a devout following, as well as...

With two locations in the heart of the Crystal Coast, and a familiar menu that is packed with pizza, appetizers, pasta, and more, Domino’s Pizza is a reliable choice for an easy-going meal that the entire family can sink their teeth into...

Located along busy Arendell Street and flanked by palm trees, El’s Drive-In is a perfect post-beach spot for Crystal Coast vacationers. The small brick restaurant looks like it’s been a classic Morehead City icon for years, and in fact...

Using the freshest ingredients and preparing every dish to order, Fiesta Burrito Mexican Kitchen and Cantina is a refreshing destination for Mexican food lovers thanks to its homemade cuisine and assortment of both traditional and unique dishes...

Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant and Catering is a longstanding Morehead City destination for inspired lunch, dinner and catering services, and has been a Crystal Coast landmark of sorts since first opening its doors in 2005.

Charming and unique, Full Circle Café is a welcoming destination in the downtown Morehead City area for any diner who appreciates a little creativity and a world of flavor with every meal. Located within a small and unimposing structure along...

Settle in for a bright and cheerful start to the morning with a hearty breakfast or lunch at Georgia B’s This small and colorful restaurant is found on the edge of Downtown Morehead City along Arendell Street, and is tucked in between several...

Visitors and locals in the mood for familiar flavors and hearty fare can head to this popular destination that has all of a food fan’s favorite dishes on the menu. Serving breakfast all day long and late into the evening, IHOP Morehead City...

Tucked away along busy Arendell Street in central Morehead City, Ioanni's Grill is a fine destination for visitors and locals who are in the mood for something a little different. Specializing in pizza, pasta, Italian fare, and Greek specialties...

Locally inspired Coffee combined with Family Friendly Play. We’re a high-end town “hub” where everyone is welcome. But first, coffee! We’ll be serving locally inspired signature drinks like the Atlantic, a toffee crunch...

When it comes to classic southern home cooking, Crystal Coast visitors will find it hard to find a larger selection or a more down-home atmosphere than Morehead City’s Kountry Kitchen. This family restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner...

Crystal Coast vacationers can satisfy a pizza craving with a quick visit to Luigi’s Pizza. Well-known among Carteret County locals as one of the most satisfying pies around, Luigi’s features gigantic, New York-style pizzas that barely...

Dive into a satisfying dinner experience with a visit to Minoda’s Japanese Steak House, Izakaya & Sushi Bar. This expansive restaurant is found along Highway 70 on the edges of Morehead City, and offers a fantastic dining experience to...

Casual and convenient, Morehead Burger Company is a solid spot for visitors to sink their teeth into a big and decadent burger during a Crystal Coast getaway. Featuring a short but enticing menu where burgers are the star, this easy-going eatery is...

From scratch-made breakfast to unique spins on tacos, salads, and wraps, food fans of all tastes will find something to love at this unique eatery that has everything from coffee to cocktails. Mug Shot is a one-of-a-kind destination in the Crystal...

Though the exterior of Musashi Japanese Steak & Seafood Restaurant may dissuade new patrons from thinking of the restaurant as a “date night” destination, the cozy interior and beautifully composed plates will soon change their...

Hungry downtown Morehead City visitors who are in the mood for a big sandwich and a local craft brew will feel right at home at Next Door Deli, a unique sandwich spot that has plenty of personality and exceptional flavor. Featuring a long list of...

Don’t let the name – or rather, the lack of a name – fool you. No Name Pizza and Subs is a popular eatery that has been a local and longtime vacationer recommendation since it first opened in 1982. Subtly located in a small...

Now open at 8am in Morehead City at the corner of Arendell + Friendly! Join us for brunch 'n lunch!

The secret to Papa John's is much like the secret to making a better pizza - the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Our pizza family is as hungry for perfection today as we were when we first opened our doors more than 30 years ago...

Parrott’s on 11this a carefully crafted neighborhood restaurant that has plenty of warm southern hospitality and historic appeal. Found within the original Phillips Bell house – a historic residence in Downtown Morehead City - the...

Vacationers who are exploring the abundance of stores and shopping centers along Arendell Street and Highway 70 can enjoy a relaxed and refreshing lunch at the Pita Plate. Specializing in easy-going Greek and Lebanese fare, this well-reviewed eatery...

We invite guests into an elevated dining experience that marries the classic with the contemporary, featuring wood-fired steaks, fine seafood, house-made pasta, and a robust wine menu.

Located in the heart of Downtown Morehead City along the community’s main drag of Arendell Street, Promise Land Market is much more than an enticing spot for lunch, brunch, or dinner, thanks to its extensive menu, unique event space, and cool...

Diners can admire the adjacent Morehead City waterfront while dining on a feast of fresh local seafood with a visit to Red Fish Grill. Located in the heart of the downtown area, this small but popular eatery has a selectively varied menu that offers...

Head to the heart of Morehead City for a sumptuous dinner on the edge of the waterfront. RedFish Grill & Bar features all the aspects of Down East cuisine that locals and visitors adore, such as a stunning location, fresh ingredients, local...

Embrace a healthy lifestyle without skimping on flavor at this unique Morehead City destination that delivers fresh and ready-to-prepare meals right to your doorstep. With an always rotating and seasonal menu that can cater to all tastes, (including...

Hungry night owls along the Crystal Coast will find plenty of hearty pub-style fare and a fun and local atmosphere at Riptidez Bar & Grill, a cool destination that’s located in the heart of Morehead City. Offering a full menu and plenty of...

After exploring Morehead City’s many shops and attractions, take a budget-friendly break and enjoy a hassle-free lunch or dinner at this casual eatery that has a hearty sample of filling appetizers, salads, subs, and entrees to go around...

Ruddy Ruck Tavern is a popular spot with the Happy Hour crowd, thanks to a fun pub-style atmosphere and a fantastic waterfront location along Evans Street in the heart of Downtown Morehead City. The menu is causal and varied, with a heavy emphasis...

Located just a block away from the Downtown Morehead City waterfront, Sammy’s Seafood House & Oyster Bar is a fine destination for hungry visitors to satisfy a seafood craving. The menu is a fine representation of what the Crystal Coast...

Hungry night owls can get their fill of food and fun at Shipwrecks Bar & Grill – a casual restaurant and nightlife spot that is located in the heart of Morehead City. Featuring a fun local atmosphere with plenty of good drinks and food to...

For over 30 years, Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q, has focused on creating an enjoyable dining experience for our customers.At Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q, we strive to be the best host. From the moment you walk through...

Snapperz Grill & Steam Bar is a solid destination for a little Crystal Coast vacation atmosphere – an environment which perfectly complements a varied menu chock-full of seasonal and local seafood specialties. The restaurant is decked out...

Hungry visitors in the Morehead City area who love a little southern flavor will want to plan a stop at this hidden gem of an eatery where the barbecue steals the show. Social Q Smokehouse uses high-quality meats, like USDA Prime briskets, pork...

Locally-owned SoundSide Restaurant is a top destination for seafood and steak fans, with a friendly atmosphere and convenient locale along Highway 70 / Arendell Street. The restaurant utilizes a wealth of top ingredients for its staple creations...

As the name aptly implies, Southern Salt Seafood Company and Waterfront Restaurant is the place to go to get a big helping of Morehead City’s inherent coastal charm, and to enjoy a great meal that is brimming with local, Down East flavor...

There’s a world of fun waiting at Taps & Tackle, the only bar, restaurant, and tackle store located in the heart of Morehead City. Perched along the waterfront and open late for patrons who want to gather, socialize, and keep the fun...

Head slightly inland from the popular Morehead City waterfront and you’ll discover this Italian gem which offers curbside take-out, delivery, or on-site dining in a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Taste of Napoli Restaurant and Bar is a fine...

Morehead City visitors who are in the mood for something a little different during a Crystal Coast getaway won’t have to venture to far to find exceptional Thai cuisine, thanks to the downtown region’s own local eatery, Thai Sticky Rice...

Settle in for a big hearty breakfast or a post-beach lunch with a visit to The Banks Grill. Known for classic breakfast and mid-meal staples, this small restaurant with a diner-style menu has a loyal following among vacationers and Morehead City...

Situated along the Morehead City waterfront and featuring a casual but enticing menu that echoes the relaxed atmosphere of the downtown area, The Galley is a great gathering spot for locals and visitors who want to unwind with a cool drink and a...

Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company is a haven for Morehead City beer lovers, thanks to an extensive selection of more than 30 craft beers on tap. Most varieties are regional, and change regularly with the season, ensuring that visitors can try a...

Tsunami Buffet is where the locals go for an all-you-can eat feast that has every Japanese dish under the sun. Located in a busy section of Morehead City, and surrounded by shopping centers and large department stores, this eatery is a fine...