What’s Cookin’?
As a chain of barrier islands, the Outer Banks are constantly shifting and changing.
By Jes Gray
The wind and sea have dune lines carved away then rebuilt as the shoreline retreats and advances, making each journey down the beach a unique experience. Off the beach, change occurs at a different pace. Some stretches along 12 have had the same houses and businesses for decades, while at a different MP, or on the bypass, a year passes, and one can hardly recognize the same intersection.
To help navigate the new additions to our thriving restaurant and cafe community here, Outer Banks Coastal Life reached out to folks that are opening new spots or expanding or moving their long loved operations. Building a business on a barrier island is not easy, as each season is as unpredictable as the weather, so we want to introduce these hardworking people by asking a few of them to let us know a bit about themselves, and their businesses, so you’ll have the opportunity to check out their efforts. From North to South, we present a sampling of the new developments in food, drink, ice cream and coffee shops open on the Outer Banks.
Theodosia
1461 Duck Rd., Duck
A new concept by Chef Vivian Howard to be located at The Sanderling Resort in Duck, this restaurant strives to be a reflection of historic roots with a fresh start. Chef Howard named the reimagined space after Theodosia Burr, Thomas Jefferson’s Vice President Aaron Burr’s daughter. She was said to have been lost at sea in a storm off of the Outer Banks during the War of 1812, but some speculate otherwise, yet another mystery of the Graveyard of the Atlantic. Thus, this beautiful name with its local history is a perfectly fitting new start for the 40th anniversary of the Sanderling. The cuisine and atmosphere will mirror the area’s historical and still thriving seafaring community. From Chef Vivian Howard, “The Outer Banks is a singular place with a distinct culture rooted in fresh, local seafood. Over the past year, I’ve been immersing myself in recipes and community cookbooks of the region and I’m looking forward to bringing my perspective to the Outer Banks dining scene.”
Located at Southern Shores Crossing, Shore Coffee Roasters features carefully crafted coffees, scratch-made breads, pastries & breakfast items. Photo: Bright and Social Co.
Shore Coffee Roasters
1 Ocean Blvd., Suite 101, Southern Shores
After 20 years of visiting the Outer Banks, Lauren and Matthew Kneisel founded Shore Coffee Roasters in 2023, creating “the first roastery-cafe in Southern Shores.” They describe their choice to make the move to the area, “Southern Shores has always felt like home: a remarkably beautiful place that evokes peace and calm,” so they have found it, “the perfect place to marry their love of coffee and of the Outer Banks by supporting local nonprofits with every cup or bag they sell.” Located in Southern Shores Crossing, they offer, “carefully crafted sustainable specialty coffees, scratch-made breads, sweet and savory pastries, and breakfast items, along with healthy grab-and-go fare. Gluten-free and vegan options are always included in the offerings, and seasonal Coastal Carolina ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible, pairing with Shore’s modern craft coffee lineup.” Ultimately they hope their business, “pays it forward for people, the planet, and, most importantly, the Outer Banks community. Their mission is to inspire greater connection through coffee, and to support nonprofits doing great work in the community.”
After more than a year of planning, Laura and Phil Wayland of Front Porch Café will be opening their newest location, after acquiring the old McDonald’s building in Kitty Hawk.
Front Porch Cafe
5336 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk
Certainly not new to the Outer Banks, visitors and locals alike have been enjoying Front Porch’s house roasted coffee and friendly service since 1999. Over the years two more locations have been added to serve their many fans, and this year they’re adding a fourth in front of the Harris Teeter in Kitty Hawk, taking over the old McDonald’s building. Owners Laura and Phil Wayland say, “This new spot will continue our tradition of serving high-quality, locally roasted coffee, delicious pastries, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.” I asked what will make this new Front Porch different: “Our new location brings the same community-focused energy as our other cafes but with the added perk of a drive-thru, making it easier for locals and visitors to grab their favorite drinks on the go. We’re still committed to crafting quality coffee, supporting our community, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome—whether they’re stopping in for a quick pick-me-up or staying to connect. Don’t worry it will still have a space for the community inside or outside on our new deck!” Why do they keep investing in the Outer Banks? “The Outer Banks community is what makes it so special. We love being part of a place where locals and visitors alike appreciate quality coffee, great conversations, and the charm of a locally owned business. The support from our customers over the years has been incredible, and we’re excited to keep growing and serving this amazing area.”
Two Roads Tavern
3383 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk
A locals’ favorite for nine years, owners Kyle and Casey Forbes are, as they say, “in it for the long haul.” That’s why, when a large building that has hosted several businesses over the years became available, they said, “Let’s take this opportunity.” Thankfully for their local fans, the new space is just up the bypass, one of those “two roads,” and will have even more space for the food and friends they love. In fact, when asked what he likes about having a business on the Outer Banks, Kyle listed two things: “my staff” and “giving the community a place to go to,” He explained that giving back is important to him because “he grew up here.” and having a permanent location to them means, “being able to continue to give back to the Outer Banks.” He added, “it’s cliche but true, it’s not a business it’s a family.” Why did he pick this spot? “It’s ‘Outer Banksy’, there’s a big deck, an outside bar and a glimpse of the dunes and ocean.” They’re clearly looking forward to sharing their new space with the community they love.
High Tide Taphouse
3723 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk
Located in Kitty Hawk in the former Growlers To Go spot, the new tap house owners will focus on North Carolina, Virginia, and other regional breweries. With 44 taps and a packaged section that includes wine, cider and Prosecco, there will surely be something for everyone. New owners Scott and Kelly Kenner explain their decision to invest on our sandbar. “The Outer Banks has been a favorite vacation spot of ours for years and at the top of our list as a place to retire. As customers of Growlers To Go, we were very excited when we learned that the Kitty Hawk location was for sale. Previously living in Delaware, we decided to make the leap to the Outer Banks!” They also wanted to thank their predecessor. “The previous owner, Austin Allen, has been great in sharing information and helping us get set up for success. When in Duck, please consider visiting her Growlers To Go store.”
Noosa Scoops
2005 S Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills
Owners Rob and Susie Stanovsek describe their dessert and coffee shop as a “convenient spot where diners could indulge in a post-meal treat or an evening espresso.” The idea came to them, “with an open building available right next door… [they] seized the opportunity, and in the summer of 2024, Noosa Scoops opened its doors.” They offer, “a wide variety of treats for the whole family, featuring 24 flavors of ice cream—perfect for scooping into a bowl, cone or blending into a thick, creamy shake. For those seeking a lighter option, the menu also features acai bowls and fresh fruit smoothies, catering to the health-conscious crowd.” The spot also, “boasts a full espresso bar, serving up lattes and specialty coffee drinks – hot or iced – well into the evening, making it the perfect stop for an after-dinner caffeine fix.” Unlike most Outer Banks ice cream shops, Noosa Scoops has kept the fun going in the off-season. Locals have enjoyed family-friendly events, from cookie decorating to crafting hot cocoa bombs – perfect activities for weekend afternoons. And what do they have in store for 2025? “Their latest offering includes freshly baked takeaway cookies and brownies, now available in their bakery case, along with custom specialty cakes and cookies, all made in-house.”
Noosa Scoops, offers more than just ice cream. It also features espresso, açaí bowls, smoothies, & fresh-baked goods.
OBX Wake & Take
2910 S Croatan Hwy #15, Nags Head
This breakfast bakery is located at the Central Square Shops in Nags Head at Mile Post 11. Owner and co-baker Jaclynn Peters describes their unique location as “tucked away in Nags Head’s Central Square Shops (or the colorful antique mall, as it’s more commonly known)” and describes her and her future husband John’s handmade offerings as “a delicious selection of freshly baked pastries, responsibly sourced coffee, and more.” She adds that “in addition to the storefront, OBX Wake & Take offers breakfast catering, with both pick-up and delivery options. It is a unique and delicious way to feed all types of large groups on the Outer Banks.” Jaclyn is a longtime local. After working in dentistry for the last decade, she decided to turn her passion for feeding people into a career. She started OBX Wake & Take in 2023, baking catering orders out of her family’s bed & breakfast in KDH, The Cypress House Inn. After a year’s long search for the right location, she finally was able to set up shop in her own storefront. She and her fiancé, John “spent months turning an empty room into a bakery. Now the two of them wake and bake every morning, to serve you the freshest pastries” in what Jaclynn calls her “dream bakery.”
Sea Level Coffee and Kitchen
6705 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head
This new “coffee and kitchen” spot recently opened in Nags Head early this spring, just north of the expanding Soundside Event Site by Harrell and Associates. The self-described group responsible for this new spot are “Chef Andy Blankenbaker (Former Executive Chef of Kill Devil Grill) joined by his wife Heather, as well as another OBX transplant couple, Derek Shelton and Catherine Foley, all equal partners.” They explain, “Each member brings a different unique skill set to the table, with countless years of industry experience in the front and back of house. All Nags Headers, they met at Nags Head Elementary where their kids go to school, and ideas quickly turned into actions.” What they will be offering is described as, “focusing on NC roasted specialty coffee, as well as fresh, made from scratch breakfast and lunch, perfect for a quick meal on our patio or picnic by the sea. We are excited to serve breakfast all day. In addition to food and coffee, we will offer craft cocktails, local draft beers, and plenty of mimosas for those who wish to properly brunch.” When asking each about their goals, Heather said, “Our goal is to provide a quick experience without compromising quality or hospitality.” Cat added, “We are humbled to be joining our friends in the community, offering a great experience for locals and visitors. Curating this coffee menu has been a dream that’s been a longtime coming.” Derek added “After years behind the bar, I’m pumped to finally curate my own cocktail menu. I plan to offer thoughtful yet accessible cocktails, as well as a wide variety of local beers.”
Located at the scenic Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, Sea Chef Dockside Kitchen uses only local whole fish, cut daily for the menu, typically caught right off the boat.
Sea Chef Dockside Kitchen
8770 Oregon Inlet Road, Nags Head
Mac Buben, alongside his dad, Jeff Buben, own and operate Sea Chef Dockside Kitchen at the Oregon lnlet fishing center. Their location influences their menu as he explains, “One of the best parts about our restaurant is how the seafood makes it to your table. We only use local whole fish that I cut daily for the menu. You can always count on everything to be wild, USA caught but everything from fish to shrimp, crabs and oysters is usually right off the boat. We start most days talking to fishermen or in Wanchese seeing what’s being landed, it can get tricky! That’s just my philosophy though, I will not import seafood it’s just not the right choice, it’s not easy but nothing worth it ever is right? I would love to see more seafood caught here stay here.” Though their goals are lofty, he assures their approachability, “I think we’ve got something for everyone…pets and kids are welcome on our deck, menu options range from a gourmet shrimp burger to salads. There is also a full bar featuring ice cold beer, cocktails, and a small but unique wine list. All of this is best enjoyed outside on the deck which we just added seating to. We are revamping a few things based on what we learned in our first year but be sure to look forward to our specials and new menu items.”
Roots & Leaves owners Luke and Natalie Harris offer Aussie style coffee and fresh-made donuts daily at their Buxton spot on Hatteras Island.
Roots & Leaves
47437 NC-12 Buxton
Though established a few years back, this coffee and donut food truck rolled down to Buxton across from Connors Grocery just over a year ago. Owners Luke and Natalie Harris describe their offerings as “Aussie style coffee and fresh made donuts daily.” They also just happen to be vegan. From the Barrier Reef to a Barrier Island, I had to ask what brought them to Hatteras. “The people, the natural beauty, the sense of adventure and the history of the island. We came here in 2021 to buy donut making equipment, fell in love with the place and never left.” Natalie added, “It reminds Luke of his home beaches in Australia. We are stoked to be a part of such an amazing community and feel super lucky to be able to raise our two youngest kids here.”
In addition to the businesses listed above, several other new places have opened or will be open this year.
Hokkaido Bubble Tea & Ramen
1726 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills
From the owners of Sanya, this new ramen and boba tea spot is located in the Dare Centre in Kill Devil Hills. No opening date has been announced, but the local buzz is building.
Huanchaco Lounge
1006 S Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills
Owners Jharixa and Seth Pugh say Huanchaco Lounge is a unique wine and beer bottle shop and retail space that emphasizes local art and products. “We offer a curated selection of wines and an exciting wine cocktail list. In addition to local beers on tap, we are introducing a range of healthy non-alcoholic drinks. Our mocktails feature health benefits from ingredients like lion’s mane, collagen, CBD, and adaptogen drinks, making Huanchaco a destination for both health-conscious individuals and beverage enthusiasts.”
Shaka’s Beach Bar & Grill
2217 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head
A beach themed bar and restaurant focused on seafood and cocktails; they’re occupying the space that was previously Mahi Mahi’s. Owner of sister restaurant YROC Coastal Grill and Lounge in Gloucester, VA, they promise fresh food and pressed crushes in a fun environment with tropical flare.
South of KDG
4900 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head
From your friends at Kill Devil Grill, South of KDG expands your opportunities to enjoy some of your Grill favorites a little further south in Nags Head. It’s not all the same though, so you’ll have to stop in and see what they’re doing a bit different.
Reel Swirly
46928 NC-12, Buxton
Located across from the entrance to Cape Hatteras National Park, this new soft serve spot on Hatteras Island is in the works now.
From the look of this list, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting season if you like trying new places or a fresh take on your favorites. As a personal note, I would like to thank everyone for responding to my questions during this busy time in their lives, and I encourage our readers to check out their efforts and follow their websites and social media for updates.
Author: Jes Gray
