30+ Years In Business — Open Year-Roundish (10+ Mos.) — Dine-In Available

By Jess Gray

Each year, we at Outer Banks Coastal Life highlight off-season restaurant options for folks looking to dine out during the cooler months. As shoulder season visitation numbers rise, the sidewalks aren’t “rolled up” after Labor Day as some remember. But businesses often still close for a couple months or more, leaving us looking elsewhere for truly year-round, sit-down dining options. Being open year-round is nothing new, as you’ll see, as the residents that live on the Outer Banks 365 days a year need to eat out as well. A surprising number of these “year-round” restaurants have been here for decades, providing locals and visitors alike with a reliable, friendly place to dine throughout the year. So, when choosing a theme for this issue’s Local Eats article, I was tasked with finding restaurants that fit this very specific criteria.

My first thought was, “Wow, this is going to be a very short list.” With the many difficulties associated with owning a restaurant, let alone one on a rural barrier island chain, I couldn’t fathom there would be many that would meet all three requirements. I quickly found myself to be mistaken, as at least twenty restaurants qualified! My sincere apologies if I have omitted anyone, but without further ado here are the “Iron Skillets of the Outer Banks,” that have long served, and are still serving, our intrepid off-season diners.

Henry’s – An early ‘90s photo of Henry Ezzell and daughter Kim Ezzell Parker of Henry’s Restaurant, shortly after their doors opened in 1989.

From the Northern Beaches to Hatteras
The Blue Point – Located on the Duck boardwalk, The Blue Point was opened in 1989 by local restauranteurs John Power and Sam Mcgann. Serving quality food ranging from fine dining to comforting classics with a beautiful view of the soundside and great wine selection, this restaurant’s success is being continued by new local owners, siblings Ryan, Jamie and Leigh Raskin. Located on the boardwalk in Duck, their sunset view is accompanied with the locally popular Back Bar. Featuring music, cocktails, and snacks, kick back in an Adirondack chair and enjoy.

Pizzazz Pizza – Pizzazz Pizza was founded in 1986 in Duck, and has expanded to three more locations in Grandy, Corolla, and Nags Head. This family-owned pizzeria is celebrated for its use of fresh ingredients and premium meat toppings. They offer dine-in, carry-out, and delivery services across the Outer Banks, from Corolla to South Nags Head and Powell’s Point to Aydlett. Their commitment to quality shines through in their daily-made dough and sauces, and the freshest produce. With a dedicated, well-trained staff, Pizzazz Pizza ensures exceptional customer service, making every visit a delightful experience.

Cosmo’s Pizzeria (Southern Shores) – Originally opened in 1995 by Cosimo “Cosmo” Caggese (now of Josephine’s and Vinny’s), Cosmo’s continues to provide quality New York style pizza by the pie and by the slice. In 2007, Deborah Parker purchased the eatery, after working under Cosmo for seven years. With almost daily off-season specials and a casual dining room, locals and visitors alike find happy respite here throughout the year.

Ocean Boulevard – Opened in 1995, also by Sam McGann and John Powers, and owned and operated by Donny King and Heather McCarthy since 2002, this upscale restaurant is in the former Virginia Dare Hardware store built in 1948. Featuring amazing wine lists, creative cocktails, chef driven specials and casual menu options, this dinner destination is perfect for that special night or a night of dinner and drinks all year long. Reservations are also accepted, and in summer, recommended.

Art’s Place – Way back in 1978, Arthur “Art” Glidden was slinging breakfast and lunch sandwiches and selling fishing gear and bait, with a parrot on his shoulder and a yard full of camping tents. His spot served as the lively center for those early Kitty Hawk visitors. Though Art is gone, his special place in the community remains, shepherded by friend Tammy Nichols and family. Bait is no longer available, but the burgers are still consistently rated top in the area. Be sure to check the views from the Sway Bar, and music in the yard, newer, but welcomed additions.

La Fogata (Kitty Hawk) – Beginning in 1993, Robert Moncada and brothers Carlos and Robert Angel saw a need for a family style Mexican restaurant on the Outer Banks and opened La Fogata, which means “campfire” in Spanish. Serving their family’s take on comforting classics alongside an extensive margarita and bar menu, the name fits especially well when piling into a booth with friends on a cold night. Now hosting two other locations in Nags Head and Avon, it’s clear they lit their fire in the right spot.

Black Pelican – In 1993, Paul Shaver had a vision when looking at a former Kitty Hawk lifesaving station built in 1874. Creating one of the first year round restaurants on the Outer Banks, he chose the name based on the legendary bird that watched over the brave surfmen who rescued victims of shipwrecks. It took a big personality like Paul’s to bring success to such a venture, and though lost too soon in 2006, the Black Pelican family continues to honor his larger than life legacy. Come visit this historic place and sample their time honored seafood centered menu and believe us—do not skip dessert.

Black Pelican – The Black Pelican building, originally built in 1874 on the beach as the Kitty Hawk Lifesaving Station, prior to being moved three-quarters of a mile south and 2,900 feet west to its current location. Photo Courtesy of Black Pelican

Stack’em High (Kitty Hawk) – Perry Kiousis immigrated from Greece in the 1960s. He worked for his uncle’s hot dog stand in Pittsburgh, but on a trip to Virginia Beach with his bride Kiki, they discovered the Outer Banks. They moved here and ran a restaurant for 10 years, but when Perry took a break from cooking, he dreamed of Stack’em High. In 1981, that dream became a reality. The original in Kill Devils Hills is run by son Nick and wife Dawn with their family but is not open year round. However, in 1985 Perry and Kiki opened a second location in Kitty Hawk, run year round by son Steven and wife Kristine. They offer all the breakfast classics, and even have lunch options.

Capt’n Franks Hot Dogs – In 1975 the bypass in Kitty Hawk was mostly sand and scrub. People often camped freely along the road, bringing in what they needed or couldn’t buy at Wink’s Market, which opened in 1953. The Hess family saw an opportunity to open a Hot Dog stand offering hot food and cold drinks, and Capt’n Franks was born. The menu has evolved to include many types of hot dogs but also cheesesteaks, chicken tenders, fries and more. They even make their own BBQ.

Henry’s – After 11 years managing the kitchens at Duck Woods Country Club, Henry and Linda Ezzell decided to start their own place. Along with daughter Kim Parker Ezzell, Henry’s has been cooking up breakfast, lunch and dinner since 1989. With several fine dining options on the scene, they wanted to give families an affordable “no-frills American style food” option. Of course, being on the Outer Banks means seafood, especially since daughter Kim married a local fisherman.

Chilli Peppers – Started by creator of the “OBX” moniker Jim Douglas, Chilli Peppers has been serving internationally influenced cuisine since 1993. With a family dining room on one side, a dog-friendly courtyard on the other and lively bar in between, this place has something for everyone. Locals especially love their tapas specials and Sunday brunch. The bar is also popular, and you’ll find quite a crowd until closing time.

Awful Arthur’s – Owner, Jo Whitehead with Chef AJ. Awful Arthur’s is the only copper-topped oyster bar on the Outer Banks.

Awful Arthur’s – Celebrating its 40th anniversary in May 2024, Awful Arthur’s in Kill Devil Hills, Outer Banks, is a beloved local landmark. Known for its authentic oyster bar and casual atmosphere, it offers a diverse menu featuring fresh, locally-sourced seafood like oysters, fish, shrimp, and crab legs, as well as burgers, steaks, and pasta. Owner Jo Whitehead emphasizes the importance of consistent food and service, attributing the restaurant’s success to its long-tenured staff. The lively copper-topped oyster bar and community support further enhance its charm.

Jolly Roger – Converted to a restaurant from a gas station and store in 1972, this pirate themed stalwart of the beach road is a must stop for many vacationers as well as a much loved local staple. At the helm for over 40 years is the inimitable Carol Ann, who has managed to keep the heart of Jolly’s beating through growth, storms, and changing times. Open year round for breakfast lunch and dinner, offering affordable, family friendly favorites, with a lively bar and music venue.

Jolly Roger – Initially built as a filling station in 1936, the original building evolved into the Jolly Roger in 1972. By 1984, current owner Carol Ann Angelos began serving breakfast, lunch & dinner. Back in May, Jolly opened a 4,800 sq. ft. bar expansion, which includes a covered outdoor deck. Courtesy of Jolly Roger. Aerial, Courtesy of Wes Snyder Photography

Goombays – Local restauranteur John Kirchmeyer broke out the bright paint and under the sea decor in 1992, and Goombays has been delighting guests ever since. Offering seafood and classic fare with a Caribbean twist for over three decades, he decided to pass the torch in 2001 to Charles and Karen Hennigan who kept the flame until 2023. The new owners are not new faces however, as Tony Sipe and Chris Miller had been indispensable team members for much of their careers, and faithfully continue the tradition.

Thai Room – Brothers Vachara “Jimmy” and Vachira “Ta” Ngeonjuklin opened The Thai Room on the beach road in 1985. From a mother that ran a noodle shop in Bangkok, they came to the Outer Banks by way of Washington DC, where Jimmy’s son Scott was born. Scott came to work at his dad’s restaurant as young as 16 and now he and his wife Pai carry on the tradition. Whether you’re looking for take out or a friendly dine in experience, try the Thai food that’s held a place in our hearts for many years.

Thai Room – The late Jumrussri Ngeonjuklin of the Thai Room (mother of original owner, Jimmy Ngeonjuklin) stacking egg rolls.

Dare Devils Pizzeria – During the 80s three college friends enjoyed visiting Kill Devil Hills to surf so much they decided to open a pizza shop to finance their endless summer dreams. While two of the friends have drifted away from pizza, the third, Bill Golden, set down permanent roots on our sandbar. Later joined by GM John Voight, he and his family are still slinging pies year round, right across from the Martin St. beach access he’s been checking the surf from since 1987.

Country Deli – Originally located in SurfSide Plaza in Nags Head, Bill and Geri Hutchens bought the sandwich shop in 1990 and ran it with help of son Mark. Their overstuffed sandwiches became a great success and Mark and his wife Karla took over when his parents retired in 2015, and now run the larger, relocated shop in Kill Devil Hills. Order one of their specialties or customize your own and see why this spot has stood the test of time.

Painting Courtesy of Red Dawn Designs

Tortuga’s Lie – Started by Bob Sanders and Will Thorp with chef and partner Richard Welch in 1991, where both Gandalfs and the original Quagmires were located, their Caribbean themed restaurant is named after an island north of Hispaniola. A menu filled with favorites for which both visitors and locals are willing to wait, they also offer daily specials based on the freshest local seafood.

Mulligan’s Grille – First opened on the Beach Road in what was the Miller’s pharmacy and soda counter building, Chuck Powell opened Mulligans in 1986. Taking the reins in 1998, Gus Zinovis and Shannon Moody operated it there until 2006 when they moved to the current location, the once Midgetts then Bad Barracudas. In 2022 Gus and Shannon consolidated their efforts into Snow Birds, and sold to Colin Wiseman, restauranteur from Charleston South Carolina. Relocating to the Outer Banks, he has kept the Orange Crushes flowing in classic Mulligans fashion. Open year round for homestyle dining, it features friendly faces and a beautiful view from both the dining room and the very popular (and dog-friendly) deck bar.

The Dunes – Owned by Rufus and Roxie Pritchard since 1983; they met while Rufus came from Elizabeth City to work at the Ebb Tide motel while Manteo local Roxie hostessed at The Seafare. The Dunes continues to offer a classic American breakfast year round, but expands their hours, and menu, during the busiest months where they also have a full bar and Roxie’s curated retail. Their children continue the tradition of caring for this family run Nags Head landmark.

Poor Richard’s – In 1984 Richard Brown came from Chicago to Manteo. Seeing an available space in a building built in 1902, he envisioned a sandwich shop worthy of his hometown. With a rocky start under the name Ships Galley, often mistaken for a seafood restaurant, he was now “Poor Richard” and signaled such with his new sign. That was the turn needed and it has been growing ever since. Purchased by Tod Clissold in 1998, sales manager of the radio station that once occupied the bar area, he has well kept this local favorite. Be sure to stop by for an epic sandwich at this Manteo landmark.

Darrell’s – In 1960, Darrell and Dora Daniels opened the simple Polar Bear Drive-In to serve the growing number of people living in, visiting and passing through the Manteo area. Selling homemade barbecue, they made a name for themselves quite literally when Darrell and family decided to expand into the eponymous seafood and American fare restaurant with their son Allen and his wife Lorna in 1972. With grandson Tanner now involved, check out this three generation restaurant, now the second oldest on the Outer Banks.

Froggy Dog – Starting out as a hot dog stand in the 1970s, this Hatteras Island icon in Avon has changed a bit over its history. Known for its comfortable pub style bar, extensive menu, bar nightlife and wine selection, The Froggy Dog has welcomed many guests over its decades. In 2019, it welcomed new owners, mother and son duo, Julia and Blake Taft, who moved to Hatteras is 2001 and also operate Muffins and Scones. They kept what people already loved and improved on a few things, adding a bit of pirate whimsy on the way.

Hatteras Island Pizza
Home of the Gingerbread Bakery
Originally just Gingerbread Bakery, this Grimms fairy tale looking building has been serving guests since 1975, when Doris Caruso relocated from Michigan to open the first bakery on Hatteras Island. An author, she opened a new chapter in her life and current owner Tom Volkmann and team make handcrafted stone oven pizza, topped with premium ingredients, as well as their top shelf bakery items. This Fall they’ll be adding a fresh juice bar with smoothies and açaí bowls, a fresh start to the 50th year of operation.

Author: Jes Gray