15 Best Restaurants in Atlantic Beach (NC)

Want to know the best restaurants in Atlantic Beach, NC? Atlantic Beach, NC is a beautiful barrier island town in Carteret County, North Carolina, in the United States of America.

The city’s population as of 2010 was 1,495, and it is one of the five communities on Bogue Banks.

Appleton Oaksmith envisioned Atlantic city in the 1970s. It is known for public beaches and friendly people, and a welcoming coastal environment.

This town is the best representative of the North Carolina Beach scene, and more so, the restaurants in the city proudly wear the emblem pride by providing loads of entertainment, amenities, and delicious family-friendly cuisine.

Vacationers enjoy the varied dining scene with historic restaurants and upscale diners serving abundant seafood, steak, and exotic drinks.

Are you planning a trip to Atlantic Beach, NC? Below is a list of the best restaurants Atlantic Beach, NC.

Best Restaurants in Atlantic Beach

1. Full Moon Oyster Bar

Full Moon Oyster Bar

Full Moon Oyster Bar is an American restaurant and bar featuring charcoal grilled meats, locally sourced seafood, and an excellent wine list. It is one of the best restaurants in Atlantic Beach, NC.

This interesting restaurant thoughtfully creates a blend of an elegant dining experience, and the interior decor is airy and upscale, featuring a cozy family atmosphere.

This restaurant is very clean. The floors are spotless the tables and chairs are quality for anyone who wants to sit in and dine with friends after a long day of work.

Full Moon Oyster Bar has an impressive collection of tasty dishes like Roasted Dan, Gin, Pumpkin Soup, Tostada, Chiles En Nogada, etc.

Full Moon Oyster Bar is open from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 505 Atlantic Beach Causeway, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-222-7667.

2. Table 9 Seafood Restaurant

Table 9 Seafood Restaurant

Table 9 Seafood Restaurant is an amazing American upmarket restaurant in Atlantic beach with an inviting atmosphere where residents can visit to enjoy warm conversations; it is one of the top restaurants in the city.

It doesn’t matter if it is your first time or if you are regular. The quality of service always stays the same. The employees are friendly, attentive to customers’ needs, and knowledgeable about the menu to offer suggestions.

The menu is extensive and varied, and customers enjoy working their way through it by ordering and sampling all the flavorful and tasty offerings that exceed their expectations.

The menu offers tried and trusted meal options at Table 9 Seafood Restaurant, including Grilled Salmon Fillet, Key West Chicken & Shrimp, Chicken Strips, Santa Fe Spinach Dip, Hot Fudge Cake Sundae, etc.

Table 9 Seafood Restaurant is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 1104 W Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-499-9032.

3. The Island Grille

The Island Grille

The Island Grille is a beautiful restaurant that provides light, fresh and tasty seafood meal options in Atlantic Beach, and it is one of the cool restaurants in the city because it is simple; you get what you really want.

The atmosphere is pleasant and welcoming. You can see the management team’s effort and admire their dedication to teamwork and customer satisfaction.

The interior setting is stylish and upscale, with modern power-saving fluorescent lamps and self-lighting floodlights and wall bulbs. The seating is adequate both inside and outside, and customers can have their pick or decide to sit at the bar stocked with amazing wines.

If you visit The Island Grille, you will find bright menu offerings like Ribeye Steak, Chicken Salad, Chicken Bacon Ranch Flatbread, Steakhouse Mac & Cheese with Applewood Smoked Bacon, and Four Cheeses, etc.

The Island Grille is open from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 401 Money Island Dr, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-240-0000.

4. Bahia Beach House & Surf Bar

Bahia Beach House & Surf Bar

Bahia Beach House & Surf Bar is a cute beach house restaurant and bar where residents of Atlantic Beach are treated to fresh meals made on-site with a well-rounded menu, including options for vegetarians.

This seasoned restaurant knows how to deliver a delicious dinner in a warm and hospitable atmosphere. This establishment is an oasis of fun and entertainment, even in the off-season.

The indoor area is designed by an enthusiastic decorator whose craft knowledge is surpassed only by the exquisite decorations and seating arrangement. The outdoor area offers some beach views in certain spots.

Bahia Beach House & Surf Bar is always ready to satisfy your taste buds with dishes like Steak Tips Sub, Poutine Hash, PBR, Steak Sandwich, Chicken Salad, Chicken Bacon Ranch Flatbread, etc.

Bahia Beach House & Surf Bar is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 208 West Dr, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-499-9033.

5. On The Rocks

On The Rocks

On The Rocks restaurant is a fantastic neighborhood place and among the top Atlantic Beach restaurants that are guaranteed to rock your world with an extensive menu of delectable meals, beer, imported wines, and curated cocktails.

This nostalgic seafood place has ample parking and a beautiful outdoor patio where customers can relax on the lounge chairs. The interior features a clean dining room, cozy booths for lovers, and newfound romance.

Everyone is treated like family, and tourists enjoy specials for their first visit and a complimentary glass of an exotic cocktail on the house. The prices are high, by the quality of service makes up for it.

On The Rocks restaurant is responsible for providing some of the town’s delicious meal combinations, which include Jumbo Chicken Wings, Wine, Fried Pickles, Nashville Hot Chicken Mac N’ Cheese, Hot Toddy, Bloody Mary, etc.

On The Rocks restaurant is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 2604 W Fort Macon Rd #5344, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-773-4114.

6. Venice Italian Kitchen & Delicatessen

Venice Italian Kitchen & Delicatessen

Venice Italian Kitchen & Delicatessen is a historic restaurant serving various authentic Italian meals from age-long recipes.

Customers are stunned when they find out this incredible restaurant has been around since 1947 and has served many generations in the city, the atmosphere is quaint and homely, and there is enough parking park space to accommodate a large crowd.

The team spirit is exceptional, and customers are treated like royalty whenever they visit. They uphold the standard of hospitality and ensure they win over first-time customers with professionalism.

Venice Italian Kitchen & Delicatessen has no shortage of finger-licking delicious meals on its menus, like Chicken Parmesan, Penne Rustica, Shrimp Portofino, Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Marsala, Rosemary Bread, Margherita Pizza, etc.

Venice Italian Kitchen & Delicatessen is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 407 Atlantic Beach Causeway street 9, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-499-9642.

7. Crab’s Claw Oceanfront Caribbean Seafood Restaurant

Crab's Claw Oceanfront Caribbean Seafood Restaurant

Crab’s Claw Oceanfront, Caribbean Seafood Restaurant, is a beautiful restaurant stop for a casual Caribbean fare of locally caught seafood, Mojito, and margaritas.

This restaurant is worth adding to your list of top restaurants in Atlantic Beach, NC, as it features two oceanfront decks, and a rooftop bar, customers know it is always crowded, so it is important to make a reservation.

The service customers enjoy throughout their dinner is worth the effort it takes to get a seat and order. The team handles everything effectively and efficiently despite how crowded it can be on weekends.

Crab’s Claw Oceanfront, Caribbean Seafood Restaurant, has an extensive menu that caters to people of all ages, which includes delicacies like Oysters on the Half Shell, Bacon Wrapped Shrimp, Ceviche Sampler, Sopes, Flan, Seafood Platter for 3, Tostada la Chule, etc.

Crab’s Claw Oceanfront, Caribbean Seafood Restaurant, is open from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 201 W Atlantic Blvd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-726-8222.

8. Monkey Bar & Grill

Monkey Bar & Grill

Monkey Bar & Grill is a hospitable watering hole with a full bar serving seafood and steak specials in cozy, kitschy surroundings. It is one of the cool restaurants in the city.

Customers love the vibrant atmosphere filled with many fun activities and games, from karaoke to pool or darts. There is a live band performance every Friday and Saturday.

Customers are not overwhelmed by the extensive menu but are given various options to cater to their needs.

The menu is easy to navigate with offerings like Cochinita Pibil, Carne Asada, Wine, Birria Tacos, Ostiones, Fish Tacos, Tacos Al Pastor, Tacos De Lengua, etc.

Monkey Bar & Grill is open from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 8:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 1010 W Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-726-2552.

Considering a food tour of North Carolina? Here is a guide on restaurants in Bryson City, restaurants in Elizabeth City and restaurants in Beech Mountain for a fun meal time.

9. Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant

Amos Mosquito's Restaurant

Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant is a cozy American restaurant that made it to this list of best restaurants in Atlantic Beach, NC, serving an eclectic seafood menu, beers on tap, and many foreign wines.

The inside seating area is huge, complemented by the spacious parking lot, usually filled with cars and RVs. Customers can also sit on the outdoor patio and enjoy great city views.

The wonderful team at this restaurant deserves to be applauded for their job. They carry out their duties seamlessly, and customers always enjoy top-notch service.

Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant has an outstanding menu that offers various food and drinks like Crispy Pork Shank, Brussel Sprouts, Charcuterie, Carrot Colada Tuna, Mac & Cheese, Sriracha Shrimp, New York Strip, etc.

Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant is open from 10:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 703 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-247-6222.

10. 4 Corners Diner

4 Corners Diner

4 Corners Diner is a historic American diner offering exceptional breakfast, lunch, comfort dinner, fast food, beer, cocktails, and local wines. .

This old-school diner is always clean from top to bottom. It features historical fans and long-running air-conditioning units that keep the interior cool and comfortable for customers.

The massive interior has different rooms for different purposes and menus, making it easy to have a new experience every time customers visit.

As one of the best places to eat in Atlantic Beach, NC, 4 Corners Diner has an extensive menu and serves an array of tasty meals such as Fried Chicken, Scallops, Wine, Duck, Magret De Canard, Pork Chop, Fish Tacos, Pork Belly, Baked Alaska, etc.

4 Corners Diner is open from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 6:00 am – 5:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 6:00 am – 4:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 100 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-240-8855.

11. El Zarape Mexican Restaurant

El Zarape Mexican Restaurant

Do you love Mexican dishes? If yes, add El Zarape Mexican Restaurant to your list of best places to eat in Atlantic Beach, NC.

El Zarape Mexican Restaurant is a community restaurant with a lengthy list of special Mexican dishes served with margaritas and colorful cocktails.

This place is a good restaurant to visit to start an adventurous trip of peaceful enjoyment. It is sure to satisfy your cravings and go beyond your expectations. Customers do not hesitate to come to this restaurant with their friends and loved ones to enjoy a memorable dining experience.

El Zarape Mexican Restaurant serves society by providing affordable meals like Yard House Golden Pilsner Pint, Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Lobster Garlic Noodles, etc.

El Zarape Mexican Restaurant is open from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 204 Atlantic Beach Causeway, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-808-2233.

12. Oceanana Pier & Pier House Restaurant

Oceanana Pier & Pier House Restaurant

Oceanana Pier & Pier House Restaurant is an elevated counter service tex mex joint serving local seafood dishes, beer, cocktails, and wines.

The building is newly renovated and upgraded with modern air conditioning units and electronic self-service options with seats offering great sea views. Customers can place their orders using the tablet on each table or scan the restaurant QR code if they are sitting outdoors.

The Oceanana Pier & Pier House Restaurant menu has plenty of exciting meals. You will find favorites like Whiskey Glazed Salmon, Chocolate Fudge Cake, Onion Ring Tower, Orange Chicken, etc.

Oceanana Pier & Pier House Restaurant is open from 7:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 7:00 am – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7:00 am – 6:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 700 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-726-0863.

13. Nacho’s Mexican Restaurant

Nacho's Mexican Restaurant

Nacho’s Mexican Restaurant is a convenient Mexican restaurant highly recommended for its outstanding dishes made with fresh ingredients and by professional Mexican chefs.

Atlantic Beach is lucky to have this beautiful family-owned and operated restaurant with modern decor depicting musicians and their craft on large canvases placed strategically in the restaurant.

If you are considering visiting Nacho’s Mexican Restaurant to explore its many options, consider trying out items like Pork Chop, Fish Tacos, Pork Belly, Baked Alaska, Salt Board, Shrimp Tacos, Crispy Pork Shank, etc.

Nacho’s Mexican Restaurant is open from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 10:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 1010 W Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-773-4005.

14. Prime 1079 Restaurant

Prime 1079 Restaurant

Prime 1079 Restaurant is a beautiful American restaurant and a choice location for special reception events and work dinners. Residents and young professionals quickly make it their top choice for hosting their family or colleagues.

The dining room is spacious and can accommodate large crowds. The seating can be arranged based on the number of guests expected or the customer’s preference.

There are beautiful high chairs by the bar and small tables with sofas to seat families and groups of friends while they enjoy a lovely night away from home.

The outstanding Prime 1079 Restaurant menu includes mouth-watering classics like Chocolate Fudge Cake, Onion Ring Tower, Orange Chicken, Chicken Wings, Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl, Jumbo Bavarian Pretzel, etc.

Prime 1079 Restaurant is open from 7:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 7:00 am – 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7:00 am – 9:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 2717 W Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252-240-1155.

15. Idle Hour Biergarten

Idle Hour Biergarten

Idle Hour Biergarten is a busy, family-friendly American restaurant in Atlantic Beach right around the corner with beach access that city residents quickly recommend to newcomers due to its excellent cuisine and German-style beers.

This great spot is a good stop for some drinks and snacks, there is plenty of seating despite being a smaller-spaced establishment, and a side parking lot is shared with a grocery store.

The outdoor seating area is much larger, with a sectioned beer garden, customers come to relax in the park after a long day of work to relieve stress, and the live band provides ample entertainment every night of the week.

Some delicious offerings on Idle Hour Biergarten’s menu include Crispy Pork Shank, Brussel Sprouts, Shishitos, Charcuterie, Carrot Colada, Tuna, Mac & Cheese, Sriracha Shrimp, etc.

Idle Hour Biergarten is open from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 am – 10:00 pm on Sundays.

Address: 153 Atlantic Blvd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512, United States. Phone: +1 252 773-0008.

Want to know more top places to visit in North Carolina for fun dining? Here is a guide on restaurants in Apex, restaurants in Bald Head Island, and restaurants in Henderson.

Plan a Trip to Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach is a tourist-friendly coastal city with a lot to offer its visitors through its many attractions that boast lots of fun.

As seen in this article, Atlantic Beach also has a notable food scene with its many award-winning restaurants offering delectable dishes.

What are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Atlantic Beach today to have a memorable vacation experience featuring new delicious dishes.