Roanoke Island Restaurants

If you want to see the water while you dine, Avenue Waterfront Grille is a good place to do it. Shallowbag Bay and Roanoke Sound are visible from every seat in the house, and their patio seating overlooks the Manteo docks. Whether you boat up to the Manteo docks or walk up from the waterfront, Avenue is all about maintaining the relaxed and fun attitude of an Outer Banks vacation, yet the quality of the food and service will match your highest expectations. The food is sourced locally whenever possible, and it's always fresh and chef-prepared. The menu lends itself to seafood prepared with a modern touch and a nod to the classics. And there are many options other than seafood. The laid back menu offers a wide variety, and the dinner specials focus on artisanal-style dishes with meticulous attention to detail. What this restaurant offers above and beyond most others on the entire Outer Banks is a legitimate selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meals. The separate bar and lounge area offers mixed drinks, eight beers on tap, microbrews, bottled beers and an outstanding selection of wine. They also have locally brewed root beer and kombucha available on tap. Look for live music on the patio in the summer. Avenue Waterfront Grille is well-prepared for in-house events like wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners and private parties, and they offer both in-house and off-premise catering. Reservations are not required but are accepted. Call ahead for hours of operation.

For a tasty treat, head to Big Buck’s Homemade Ice Cream. Choose from more than 50 flavors of made-from-scratch ice cream plus sherbet, sorbet and soft serve. You can get any flavor made into a shake, split, sundae or float, even a brownie sundae — yum! Big Buck’s has an espresso bar and all the espresso-based coffee drinks you need to pick up your day. Handmade Belgian chocolate and fudge are made fresh daily, and they also accept custom orders for wedding favors, baby showers and other events. And don't forget the ice cream cake! They have a flavor for every occasion. Their newest location, The Coffeehouse, is right in the middle of downtown Manteo and offers all the same great things as the other Big Buck's plus an expanded selection of fresh coffees, pastries and muffins.

For a tasty treat, head to Big Buck’s Homemade Ice Cream. Choose from more than 50 flavors of made-from-scratch ice cream plus sherbet, sorbet and soft serve. You can get any flavor made into a shake, split, sundae or float, even a brownie sundae — yum! Big Buck’s has an espresso bar and all the espresso-based coffee drinks you need to pick up your day. Handmade Belgian chocolate and fudge are made fresh daily, and they also accept custom orders for wedding favors, baby showers and other events. And don't forget the ice cream cake! They have a flavor for every occasion. Their newest location, The Coffeehouse, is right in the middle of downtown Manteo and offers all the same great things as the other Big Buck's plus an expanded selection of fresh coffees, pastries and muffins.

Darrell’s is a family-style seafood restaurant that’s a locals' favorite and has been operated by the Daniels family for more than five decades. It dates back to 1960, when Darrell Daniels started the Polar Bear Drive-In. When the second generation came on board in 1972, the family changed the focus to a seafood restaurant and renamed it Darrell's Seafood Restaurant. Now the third generation is working here. Seafood is still the specialty, and locals know that Darrell’s does seafood right. The fried oysters, served with the traditional fixings of cole slaw, French fries and hush puppies, are widely touted as the best anywhere. The blackened tuna over black beans and rice is both healthy and delicious. Land food, children’s fare and light dishes are also available. Darrell's also has a wood-fired grill for barbecue. Helpings are heaping, and the desserts are delicious, if you have room. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served Monday through Saturday, and on-site and off-site catering for groups and events of 20 people or more are available. Darrell's has a second location, Darrell's 2 BBQ & Seafood, at Outer Banks Mall in Nags Head.

At the Hungry Pirate Waterfront Café you’re sure to find something to satisfy all your cravings. Bringing tastes of the Old World to the Outer Banks, their mouthwatering menu presents a top-quality selection of imported meats, cheeses and specialty seasonings, served with freshly baked breads and baguettes. Honoring Italian traditions, they prepare healthful fare focused on freshness and an international flavor that is simple, with a touch of refinement. The chefs at Hungry Pirate take a health-conscious approach to mid-day favorites such as sandwiches, paninis and pizzas, all made to order. Their low-sodium dishes and appetizers are seasoned with heart-healthy olive oils, balsamic vinegars and house-made roasted vegetables. You can also create your own salad using crisp, organic ingredients. With the feel of a European bistro, the cozy eatery offers both indoor and outdoor seating that showcases some truly spectacular water views in downtown Manteo. Prepare to relax as you also enjoy a glass of wine or sangria with your meal. Be sure to sample their tempting homemade desserts, like the rich chocolate mousse, a popular choice winning rave reviews. 

If you have been a fan of Full Moon Cafe for years (and who hasn't been?), fear not! The same friendly folks who have served you great food and drink under that moniker are still at the helm. But with the growing popularity of their attached brewery that was known as Lost Colony Brewery, they decided it was time to choose one name for the whole enterprise. The brewery has gained national and international awards and fame over the past few years (it swept the recent World Beer Championship, grabbing eight medals for eight entries), and that popularity created a need for the owners to open a huge brewing space in nearby Stumpy Point. What this means for you when you visit this Manteo establishment is that you'll drink some of the freshest and most flavorful beer you've ever had, and it will wash down some pretty darn good food too. The café has long been a locals’ favorite for its relaxed atmosphere, friendly service and eclectic eats. Notable for bringing a touch of big-city style to the downtown Manteo waterfront, the restaurant and pub are located at the intersection of Queen Elizabeth Avenue and Sir Walter Raleigh Street. Take a seat at one of the umbrella-covered outdoor tables on a sunny day or balmy summer night and watch the world go by as you dine. The menu features creative cuisine and offers something for everyone, from grilled Angus steaks and delicious seafood entrees to tasty vegetarian dishes. The wine list is extensive, with more than 50 choices available. The outside terrace is dog friendly — they even serve your pooch homemade dog chews. The café is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week in-season. Call for off-season hours. Dinner reservations are accepted.