Located on the northernmost part of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Corolla is a picturesque seaside village known for its stunning beaches, beautiful wild horses, and rich history. With its laid-back atmosphere and scenic views, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing vacation. But, one of the things that truly makes this charming town stand out is its impressive selection of restaurants.
From seafood to pizza, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious dining options in and around Corolla perfect for a true Corolla local or for the visitor coming for their family vacation. In this article, we’ll explore 11 of the most delicious restaurants near Corolla, NC.
- Uncle Ike's Sandbar & Grill
- Mike Dianna's Grill Room
- North Banks Restaurant & Raw
- Broken Plate Kitchen
- Pizzazz Pizza
- Low Tide Bar and Grill
- Fat Crabs Rib Company
- Outer Banks Boil Company
- Lighthouse Bagels
- Urban Kitchen
- Mama Easley's Grub Hut
- Giant Slice Pizza
- Oishii Poke and Sushi
- Corolla Village BBQ
- Big Buck's Ice Cream
- The Bottom Line
Uncle Ike’s Sandbar & Grill
A popular spot among locals and tourists alike, Uncle Ike’s Sandbar & Grill offers friendly service and delicious food. Known for their tasty burgers, fresh seafood, and creative cocktails, it’s a great place to unwind after a long day at the beach.
One of the standout dishes at Uncle Ike’s is Ike’s famous tacos, served with your choice of mahi, tuna, or shrimp either blackened or grilled. It’s finished off with a side of black beans and Spanish rice. For the little kids, they’ve got mac and cheese, chicken fingers, and quesadillas. And don’t forget to try one of their refreshing cocktails, like the Corolla Crush or the Ike’s Lemonade.
When it comes to atmosphere, Uncle Ike’s is hard to beat. With its casual beach vibe and welcoming staff, you’ll feel right at home. Plus, they often host live music and events, making it a fun and lively spot to enjoy a meal during your Corolla vacation. They are located inside the Corolla Light Town Center, so it’s to find. Plus their late-night menu is available until 1AM, so if you’re a night owl be sure to check it out.
Mike Dianna’s Grill Room
For an upscale dining experience in Corolla, look no further than Mike Dianna’s Grill Room. This elegant restaurant is known for its high-quality steaks, fresh seafood, and incredible wine selection. Located in the Timbuck II Shopping Center, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
One of the standout dishes at Mike Dianna’s is their Filet Mignon, which is perfectly cooked and melts in your mouth. Seafood lovers will enjoy their crab cakes or fresh Price Edward Island Mussels, which are both bursting with flavor.
The atmosphere at Mike Dianna’s is warm and inviting, with a sophisticated touch. The attentive staff ensures that you have an enjoyable dining experience from start to finish. Plus, with their extensive wine list, you’re sure to find the perfect pairing for your meal. And although they give you a more upscale dining experience, they have a great kids menu, so the whole family can enjoy coming here.
North Banks Restaurant & Raw
North Banks Restaurant & Raw is a popular spot for seafood lovers, offering the finest seafood in town. They pride themselves on having the freshest seafood in town.
Start your meal with one of their delicious appetizers, like the hand-chucked regional oysters or their fresh cream of crab soup. Their hush puppies are delicious little gems to pique your appetite.
For your main course, try one of their popular seafood dishes, like their Grilled Atlantic Yellowfin Tuna or the Shrimp and Grits. If you’re not in the mood for seafood, they also offer a variety of tasty non-seafood options, like steaks, chicken, and sandwiches. They are also vegetarian friendly and have a number of delicious dishes featuring mushrooms. Don’t forget to save room for dessert – their Key Lime Pie and Strawberry Tiramisu are both divine.
In addition to their delicious food, North Banks is also known for its extensive wine, but their bartender-made craft cocktails really stand out here. Like many other restaurants on our list, North Banks is located in the Timbuck II Shopping Center.
Broken Plate Kitchen
For a more upscale, intimate dining experience, look no further than Broken Plate Kitchen. This charming, rustic-chic restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and exceptional service, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. With its eclectic menu, innovative food, and focus on fresh, local ingredients, Broken Plate Kitchen has quickly become one of the top-rated restaurants in the area.
One of the things that sets Broken Plate Kitchen apart from other restaurants in the area is its menu, which is Caribbean-inspired and all made in-house. The chefs here are passionate about creating delicious dishes that showcase the bounty of the Outer Banks, from seafood and produce to herbs and other local products. Executive Chef Sean Clanz prides himself on the “New American” menu.
They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While their lunch and dinner is outstanding and worth a visit, they also have the best breakfast in the area. It has classic dishes, like pancakes, french toast, eggs, and more, but with the Broken Plate signature spin. Their churro french toast, inspired by its namesake Mexican dessert, is dusted with powdered sugar and comes with all-natural maple syrup. Their lighter side menu bruschetta toast, crab cakes, breakfast tacos, and omelets.
Finally, they offer an impressive wine list, featuring a carefully curated selection of wines from around the world. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a great bottle to accompany your meal, the knowledgeable staff can help guide you to the perfect choice.
Pizzazz Pizza
For a satisfying slice of pizza, head to Pizzazz Pizza. This popular eatery offers a variety of delicious pizza options, as well as salads, subs, and wings, making it the perfect spot for a casual meal during your vacation. They have several convenient outer banks locations, including Corolla, Ducks Head, Nags Head, and Grandy.
One of the standout pizza pies at Pizzazz Pizza is their signature Hurricane White, featuring a garlic and pepper white sauce, tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and mozzarella. They also let you build your own pizza so you can have it the way you want it. We love their salad bar, which has a big assortment of different toppings for your salad starter.
In addition to their delicious pizza, Pizzazz Pizza also offers a variety of other menu items, like their popular Philly Cheesesteak Sub and their crispy Chicken Wings.
Low Tide Bar and Grill
For a fun and casual dining experience, head to Low Tide Bar and Grill in Corolla. Low Tide offers a variety of tasty menu options, from fresh local seafood to juicy burgers, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. They pride themselves on offering “Island-inspired, low country dishes.”
Start your meal with one of their delicious appetizers, like the Peel and Eat Shrimp or Mussels. They’ve also got delicious pretzels and even Fried Green Tomatoes. For your main course, try one of their popular dishes, like the Caribbean Lobster Roll or the Low Tide Burger, made with a brisket and short-rib blend and topped with bacon, cheddar, and their signature sauce.
Fat Crabs Rib Company
If you’re craving some delicious comfort food during your Corolla vacation, look no further than Fat Crabs Rib Company. This great local spot offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes, from slow-smoked ribs to fresh seafood, making it a must-visit spot for foodies in the area.
One of the standout dishes at Fat Crabs Rib Company is their Baby Back Ribs, which are slow-smoked to perfection and slathered in their signature barbecue sauce. Seafood lovers will enjoy their Carolina Blue Crab Cakes or their Steamed Seafood Sampler, complete with oysters, clams, scallops, jumbo shrimp, and mussels. The kids will appreciate their peanut butter and jelly or mac and cheese. Takeout and catering are both available.
Although you might not know it from its namesake, this restaurant is vegetarian friendly. They offer both gluten free and vegetarian options to be sure everyone in your family has something they can enjoy.
Outer Banks Boil Company
For a truly unique dining experience in Corolla, head to Outer Banks Boil Company. This popular eatery specializes in traditional seafood boils, which are a delicious and fun way to enjoy fresh, local seafood. They take the freshest ingredients, like jumbo shrimp, Andouille Sausage, and corn on the cob and cook them to perfection with this classic cooking method.
Unlike a traditional restaurant where you order and receive your food, Outer Banks offers both takeout and catering options for the boil. The takeout option comes packed with good stuff. All you need to do is add liquid (water, beer, or white wine), place on the stovetop, and let the magic happen. With their catering option, they’ll show up about an hour before your event and prepare the boil for you.
Lighthouse Bagels
For a tasty breakfast or lunch option, head to Lighthouse Bagels in Corolla. This place serves up bagels made fresh daily, boiled in their signature kettle and baked to perfection. Don’t miss this one – they have the best bagel in Corrola!
Start your day off right with one of their delicious breakfast sandwiches, like the Southern Gentleman Bagel which features ham, egg, and Swiss on a freshly baked bagel. Also be sure to check out their Steak, Egg, and Cheddar Bagel, loaded with steak and cheese and packed with flavor. For those with simpler tastes, they offer bagels served up with just butter or cream cheese, too. Vegetarians will appreciate their Grace’s Way bagel, an avocado sensation.
Urban Kitchen
With its sleek, industrial design and open kitchen concept, Urban Kitchen exudes a cool, urban vibe that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a special date night. The menu features a variety of classic American dishes, reimagined with a modern twist.
Their Halloumi Cheese is served up with pomegranate molasses, golden raisins, red pepper, and pistachio dukkah. They offer fresh fish served with farro, as well as land lubber options like pork and chicken.
To complement their creative coastal cuisine, Urban Kitchen also boasts an extensive drink and cocktail menu, featuring creative cocktails and a wide selection of craft beers. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing mojito or a robust IPA, you’re sure to find the perfect beverage to enhance your dining experience.
Mama Easley’s Grub Hut
For a taste of true Southern hospitality, don’t miss out on Mama Easley’s Grub Hut. This charming, family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious, home-style cooking since 2004. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, it’s no wonder that Mama Easley’s has become a favorite among both locals and visitors.
At Mama Easley’s Grub Hut, you’ll find a wide variety of dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From mouthwatering barbecue and fried chicken to hearty seafood platters and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and satisfying, making Mama Easley’s the perfect spot to refuel after a day of exploring Corolla’s beautiful beaches and attractions.
They serve up delicious versions of classics that everyone loves, like the Shrimp Basket, served with fries or their famous hush puppies, the Jack Burger, and locally-caught, beer-battered fried fish.
Giant Slice Pizza
Craving a slice of authentic New York-style pizza? Look no further than Giant Slice Pizza, one of the most popular and beloved restaurants near Corolla NC. With its thin, foldable crust, tangy tomato sauce, and generous toppings, Giant Slice Pizza offers a taste of the Big Apple right here in the Outer Banks.
At Giant Slice Pizza, you can build your own pie from a wide selection of fresh, quality toppings, or choose from one of their many specialty pizzas. Some customer favorites include the classic Margherita, the spicy Buffalo Chicken, and the indulgent Meatman. And for those with dietary restrictions, Giant Slice also offers gluten-free crust options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious pizza experience.
In addition to their fantastic pizza, Giant Slice also offers a variety of other menu items, including calzones, strombolis, salads, and sandwiches. Their garlic knots are a must-try, as are their homemade desserts, like the creamy cannoli and rich cheesecake. This outstanding restaurant is located in the Timbuck II Shopping Center.
Oishii Poke and Sushi
For a lighter, healthier dining option, be sure to check out Poke Oishii Sushi, one of the newest and most buzz-worthy restaurants near Corolla NC. This Hawaiian-inspired eatery specializes in poke bowls, a popular and delicious dish made from raw, marinated fish served over rice and topped with a variety of fresh ingredients. They offer a variety of styles, including Japanese, which they state are their most raw and pure bowls.
In addition to their signature poke bowls, Poke Oishii Sushi also offers a variety of sushi rolls, from traditional favorites like the California roll and spicy tuna roll to more unique offerings like the “Outer Banks Roll,” which features tempura shrimp, avocado, and eel sauce.
They also serve a selection of appetizers, like crispy gyoza and tender beef skewers, as well as refreshing bubble teas and smoothies.
Corolla Village BBQ
For a taste of mouthwatering Southern barbecue, head to Corolla Village BBQ. This casual eatery is located in the heart of Corolla, making it the perfect spot for a quick and delicious meal during your beach vacation.
The menu at Corolla Village BBQ features all of your favorite barbecue classics, like pulled pork, ribs, and smoked chicken. Be sure to try their signature Eastern North Carolina Vinegar Sauce, which adds the perfect tangy kick to your meal. Don’t forget to order a side of their creamy coleslaw or Mac and Cheese to complete your barbecue feast.
Big Buck’s Ice Cream
No trip to the beach is complete without a scoop (or two) of ice cream, and Big Buck’s Ice Cream in Corolla is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth. They have over 50 flavors of soft serve ice cream, all made in-house daily using fresh milk, cream, and sugar for a treat packed with flavor.
Some of the fan favorites at Big Buck’s include their Chocolate Cookie Dough, a rich and creamy chocolate ice cream with chocolate chunks, and their refreshing Key Lime Pie, which perfectly captures the flavor of the classic dessert.
In addition to ice cream, Big Buck’s also offers a variety of other sweet treats, like homemade fudge, milkshakes, and smoothies. Their espresso bar can get you your afternoon pickup to power through your day. This shop is conveniently located in the Timbuck II Shopping Center, with two other locations in Manteo and Kitty Hawk.
The Bottom Line
If you’re planning a trip to Corolla, NC, be sure to check out these best restaurants near Corolla, NC. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering barbecue to homemade ice cream, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re in the mood for an upscale dining experience or a casual meal with friends and family, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Corolla vacation today and be sure to add these 11 amazing restaurants to your itinerary. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
