Foodie Finds in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina
Of course! As your friendly Outer Banks local, I'm thrilled to guide you through the culinary heart of Kill Devil Hills. This isn't just a list of places to eat; it's a journey through the flavors that define our beach town, from the salt-kissed casual bites to the sophisticated dinners with a view. So, pull up a chair, imagine the sound of crashing waves, and let's explore the top ten spots that make Kill Devil Hills a true foodie destination.
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of Kill Devil Hills**
Kill Devil Hills is more than just the birthplace of aviation; it's where Outer Banks traditions take flight on a plate. Here, dining is an experience woven into the fabric of the vacation itself—a sandy-footed celebration of sun, sea, and spectacular food. We're going to journey from the essential, can't-miss casual joints to the elevated eateries that will make your evening unforgettable.
---
#### **1. Kill Devil's Frozen Custard & Beach Fries**
*Location: 1002 S Croatan Hwy*
Let's start with the holy grail of beach-day sustenance. This isn't just an ice cream stand; it's an institution. The vibe is pure, unadulterated joy—the sound of a custard machine whirring, the scent of hot oil and Old Bay, and a line of sunburnt, happy people that's a testament to its quality. It’s the first stop after a morning on the sand and the last stop before heading back to the rental house.
**What to Order:**
* **The Must-Have:** You simply cannot go wrong with the **Beach Fries**. These are not your average boardwalk fries. They're thick-cut, golden-brown, and come smothered in a legendary blend of melted cheese and rich, savory beef chili. It’s a meal in itself.
* **The Frozen Gold:** The **Frozen Custard** is the star. Denser and creamier than ice cream, it’s a dream. For the classic experience, get a **vanilla cone dipped in chocolate shell**. For pure indulgence, the **Oreo Concrete Mixer** is a thick, spoonable masterpiece.
* **Local's Tip:** Pair a side of their crispy **Onion Rings** with a **Root Beer Float** made with their vanilla custard for the ultimate sweet-and-salty beach combo.
---
#### **2. Ten O Six**
*Location: 1006 S Virginia Dare Trail*
Just a stone's throw from the custard stand, Ten O Six offers a cozy, no-frills atmosphere that feels like a well-kept local secret. It's the kind of place you pop into for a hearty, no-nonsense breakfast to fuel a day of exploring, or for a satisfying lunch that doesn't break the bank. The service is fast and friendly, and the portions are generous.
**What to Order:**
* **Breakfast of Champions:** The **Breakfast Platter** with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, home fries, and a fluffy buttermilk biscuit is the perfect start. Their **Pancakes** are legendary—light, fluffy, and plate-sized.
* **Lunch Standout:** The **Classic Cheeseburger** is a masterclass in simplicity. A juicy, hand-patted patty, melted American cheese, and all the fixings on a soft bun. It’s everything a great burger should be.
* **Local's Tip:** Ask for a side of their sausage gravy for your home fries or biscuits. It’s a game-changer.
---
#### **3. 3 Tequilas - Restaurante Mexicano | Outer Banks**
*Location: 804 S Croatan Hwy*
When you need a break from seafood, 3 Tequilas is your vibrant, flavorful sanctuary. The atmosphere is warm and festive, with colorful décor and the lively hum of conversation. The menu is extensive, but the quality is consistently high. And yes, the namesake tequila list is impressive, but the food is the real headliner.
**What to Order:**
* **The Showstopper:** The **Molcajete** is a must. Sizzling hot, this volcanic stone bowl arrives filled with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, nopalitos (cactus), and cheese, all bathing in a rich, aromatic sauce. It’s a dramatic, shareable feast.
* **Perfect Pair:** You can't go wrong with the **Tacos al Pastor**. Marinated pork, roasted on a trompo with pineapple, served on soft corn tortillas with fresh cilantro and onion. They are sublime.
* **Starter & Sip:** Begin with the **Queso Fundido** with chorizo and pair your meal with a **Top-Shelf Margarita** on the rocks, no salt. The balance of sweet, sour, and the bite of good tequila is perfect.
---
#### **4. Noosa Beach Grille**
*Location: 2003 S Croatan Hwy*
Noosa marks a shift towards a more refined, coastal dining experience. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with a sophisticated yet relaxed beach-house vibe. It's the place for a date night, a special occasion, or when you just want a beautifully crafted cocktail and an expertly prepared meal. The service is attentive and knowledgeable.
**What to Order:**
* **Coastal Elegance:** The **Pan-Seared Scallops** are a signature dish. Perfectly caramelized on the outside, tender and sweet on the inside, they're often served with a risotto or puree that highlights their delicate flavor.
* **Land & Sea:** The **Filet Mignon**, often offered with a crab cake, is a surf-and-turf dream. The steak is always cooked to perfection, and the crab cake is packed with lump meat and minimal filler.
* **Local's Tip:** Sit at the bar and let the bartender craft you a custom cocktail. Start your meal with their **Ahi Tuna Poke**, which is always fresh and vibrant.
---
#### **5. Stonefish Beachbar**
*Location: 2111 N Virginia Dare Trl*
If you're looking for the quintessential toes in the sand experience, Stonefish is your spot. This open-air, palapa-topped beach bar is pure, unadulterated Outer Banks bliss. Reggae music, the sound of the waves, and the smell of salt air and grilled food create an atmosphere you’ll never want to leave. It’s casual, fun, and utterly unforgettable.
**What to Order:**
* **Beachside Bite:** The **Fish Tacos** are legendary. Grilled or blackened local catch, topped with a crunchy slaw and a zesty sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They are the taste of summer.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** The **Coconut Shrimp** are large, sweet, and crispy, served with a tangy dipping sauce. They’re the ideal snack to share with the table while you sip a cold drink.
* **The Vibe in a Glass:** Order a **Painkiller** or a **Rum Runner**. These tropical, rum-based cocktails are what beach dreams are made of.
---
#### **6. Dare Devil's Pizzeria**
*Location: 1112 S Virginia Dare Trail*
Sometimes, after a long day in the sun, nothing hits the spot like a great pizza. Dare Devil's delivers with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere that’s buzzing with energy. The smell of baking dough and simmering tomato sauce is intoxicating. They offer both New York-style thin crust and Sicilian square pies, all made with care.
**What to Order:**
* **The Classic, Perfected:** The **Margherita Pizza** is a test of any pizzeria's skills, and theirs passes with flying colors. Fresh mozzarella, basil, and a bright tomato sauce on a perfectly charred crust.
* **Local Favorite:** The **Outer Banks Pizza** often features shrimp and other local seafood, offering a unique coastal twist on a classic.
* **Local's Tip:** Don't sleep on their **Garlic Knots**. They're pillowy, buttery, and garlicky, and absolutely irresistible.
---
#### **7. Blue Crab Tavern**
*Location: 1180 Colington Rd*
Venture just a bit off the beaten path to the Colington Harbour area, and you'll find this hidden gem. The Blue Crab Tavern feels like stepping into a classic, Old-School fish camp. It’s rustic, unpretentious, and focused on one thing: incredibly fresh, local seafood. The screened-in porch is the perfect place to enjoy a meal on a warm evening.
**What to Order:**
* **The Reason You're Here:** The **Steamed Blue Crabs**, when in season, are an experience. Covered in Old Bay, you’ll need a mallet, a pile of napkins, and a cold beer. It’s a messy, joyful, and utterly authentic OBX ritual.
* **Can't-Miss Platter:** The **Seafood Platter** is a fantastic sampler of fried oysters, shrimp, scallops, and flounder, all lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp.
* **Local's Tip:** This is the place to try **She-Crab Soup**. Theirs is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor and lump crab meat.
---
#### **8. Beachcombers Tiki Hut**
*Location: 1701 S Virginia Dare Trail (Second Floor)*
For the best views in Kill Devil Hills, you have to climb the stairs to Beachcombers. Perched directly above the beach, this is an open-air paradise where the soundtrack is live music and rolling waves. The vibe is pure island party, making it the ultimate spot for sunset cocktails and casual bites.
**What to Order:**
* **Sunset Snack:** The **Beachcomber's Burger** is a juicy, satisfying classic that holds up perfectly against their extensive list of frozen drinks and cold beers.
* **Fresh Catch:** Their **Blackened Fish Sandwich** on a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade is simple, fresh, and delicious.
* **The Essential Sip:** Your mission is to order a **Bahama Mama** or a **Lava Flow** in a souvenir tiki cup. Sipping a frozen drink while watching the sun dip below the horizon is a core Outer Banks memory.
---
#### **9. American Pie Pizza & Homemade Ice Cream**
*Location: 1600 S Virginia Dare Trail*
This place is a double threat and a family favorite. The atmosphere is cheerful and nostalgic, with checkered tablecloths and the promise of a sweet ending. It solves the age-old vacation debate: Pizza or ice cream? with a resounding Yes!
**What to Order:**
* **The Pizza:** The **Meat Lover's Pizza** is loaded with toppings and has a great, chewy crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the hungriest of beach-goers.
* **The Sweet Finale:** The **Homemade Ice Cream** is the real star. The flavors are rich and classic. You can't go wrong with a **Hot Fudge Sundae** or a few scoops of their creamy, dreamy **Butter Pecan**.
* **Local's Tip:** Get a slice of cheese pizza and a scoop of chocolate ice cream for the ultimate sweet-and-salty combo.
---
#### **10. The Kill Devil Grill**
*Location: 2008 S Virginia Dare Trail*
We end our tour at a landmark. Housed in a restored 1939 streamliner diner, The Kill Devil Grill is a piece of OBX history. The atmosphere is buzzing, retro-cool, and always packed—for good reason. The menu is a creative twist on American classics, and the quality is consistently outstanding. You haven't truly experienced Kill Devil Hills until you've eaten here.
**What to Order:**
* **The Iconic Dish:** The **Coconut Crusted Yellowfin Tuna** is their signature for a reason. The sweet, crispy coconut crust pairs magically with the rare, sushi-grade tuna and a spicy-sweet sauce.
* **Comfort Food, Elevated:** The **KDG Meatloaf** is legendary. Wrapped in bacon and smothered in a savory sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food, refined.
* **Local's Tip:** Put your name on the list early (they don't take reservations), and enjoy the wait as part of the experience. For a starter, the **Crab & Artichoke Dip** is rich, cheesy, and superb. Save room for dessert—their **Key Lime Pie** is tart, sweet, and the perfect finish.
### **The Final Bite**
From the custard-stained smiles at Kill Devil's to the last sip of a sunset cocktail at Beachcombers, the dining scene in Kill Devil Hills is as diverse and dynamic as the landscape itself. It’s a town that understands the deep connection between a great meal and a great memory. So come with an appetite, leave your shoes (and your worries) at the door, and taste your way through the true flavor of the Outer Banks. Bon appétit, and enjoy your stay
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of Kill Devil Hills**
Kill Devil Hills is more than just the birthplace of aviation; it's where Outer Banks traditions take flight on a plate. Here, dining is an experience woven into the fabric of the vacation itself—a sandy-footed celebration of sun, sea, and spectacular food. We're going to journey from the essential, can't-miss casual joints to the elevated eateries that will make your evening unforgettable.
---
#### **1. Kill Devil's Frozen Custard & Beach Fries**
*Location: 1002 S Croatan Hwy*
Let's start with the holy grail of beach-day sustenance. This isn't just an ice cream stand; it's an institution. The vibe is pure, unadulterated joy—the sound of a custard machine whirring, the scent of hot oil and Old Bay, and a line of sunburnt, happy people that's a testament to its quality. It’s the first stop after a morning on the sand and the last stop before heading back to the rental house.
**What to Order:**
* **The Must-Have:** You simply cannot go wrong with the **Beach Fries**. These are not your average boardwalk fries. They're thick-cut, golden-brown, and come smothered in a legendary blend of melted cheese and rich, savory beef chili. It’s a meal in itself.
* **The Frozen Gold:** The **Frozen Custard** is the star. Denser and creamier than ice cream, it’s a dream. For the classic experience, get a **vanilla cone dipped in chocolate shell**. For pure indulgence, the **Oreo Concrete Mixer** is a thick, spoonable masterpiece.
* **Local's Tip:** Pair a side of their crispy **Onion Rings** with a **Root Beer Float** made with their vanilla custard for the ultimate sweet-and-salty beach combo.
---
#### **2. Ten O Six**
*Location: 1006 S Virginia Dare Trail*
Just a stone's throw from the custard stand, Ten O Six offers a cozy, no-frills atmosphere that feels like a well-kept local secret. It's the kind of place you pop into for a hearty, no-nonsense breakfast to fuel a day of exploring, or for a satisfying lunch that doesn't break the bank. The service is fast and friendly, and the portions are generous.
**What to Order:**
* **Breakfast of Champions:** The **Breakfast Platter** with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, home fries, and a fluffy buttermilk biscuit is the perfect start. Their **Pancakes** are legendary—light, fluffy, and plate-sized.
* **Lunch Standout:** The **Classic Cheeseburger** is a masterclass in simplicity. A juicy, hand-patted patty, melted American cheese, and all the fixings on a soft bun. It’s everything a great burger should be.
* **Local's Tip:** Ask for a side of their sausage gravy for your home fries or biscuits. It’s a game-changer.
---
#### **3. 3 Tequilas - Restaurante Mexicano | Outer Banks**
*Location: 804 S Croatan Hwy*
When you need a break from seafood, 3 Tequilas is your vibrant, flavorful sanctuary. The atmosphere is warm and festive, with colorful décor and the lively hum of conversation. The menu is extensive, but the quality is consistently high. And yes, the namesake tequila list is impressive, but the food is the real headliner.
**What to Order:**
* **The Showstopper:** The **Molcajete** is a must. Sizzling hot, this volcanic stone bowl arrives filled with grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, nopalitos (cactus), and cheese, all bathing in a rich, aromatic sauce. It’s a dramatic, shareable feast.
* **Perfect Pair:** You can't go wrong with the **Tacos al Pastor**. Marinated pork, roasted on a trompo with pineapple, served on soft corn tortillas with fresh cilantro and onion. They are sublime.
* **Starter & Sip:** Begin with the **Queso Fundido** with chorizo and pair your meal with a **Top-Shelf Margarita** on the rocks, no salt. The balance of sweet, sour, and the bite of good tequila is perfect.
---
#### **4. Noosa Beach Grille**
*Location: 2003 S Croatan Hwy*
Noosa marks a shift towards a more refined, coastal dining experience. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with a sophisticated yet relaxed beach-house vibe. It's the place for a date night, a special occasion, or when you just want a beautifully crafted cocktail and an expertly prepared meal. The service is attentive and knowledgeable.
**What to Order:**
* **Coastal Elegance:** The **Pan-Seared Scallops** are a signature dish. Perfectly caramelized on the outside, tender and sweet on the inside, they're often served with a risotto or puree that highlights their delicate flavor.
* **Land & Sea:** The **Filet Mignon**, often offered with a crab cake, is a surf-and-turf dream. The steak is always cooked to perfection, and the crab cake is packed with lump meat and minimal filler.
* **Local's Tip:** Sit at the bar and let the bartender craft you a custom cocktail. Start your meal with their **Ahi Tuna Poke**, which is always fresh and vibrant.
---
#### **5. Stonefish Beachbar**
*Location: 2111 N Virginia Dare Trl*
If you're looking for the quintessential toes in the sand experience, Stonefish is your spot. This open-air, palapa-topped beach bar is pure, unadulterated Outer Banks bliss. Reggae music, the sound of the waves, and the smell of salt air and grilled food create an atmosphere you’ll never want to leave. It’s casual, fun, and utterly unforgettable.
**What to Order:**
* **Beachside Bite:** The **Fish Tacos** are legendary. Grilled or blackened local catch, topped with a crunchy slaw and a zesty sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They are the taste of summer.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** The **Coconut Shrimp** are large, sweet, and crispy, served with a tangy dipping sauce. They’re the ideal snack to share with the table while you sip a cold drink.
* **The Vibe in a Glass:** Order a **Painkiller** or a **Rum Runner**. These tropical, rum-based cocktails are what beach dreams are made of.
---
#### **6. Dare Devil's Pizzeria**
*Location: 1112 S Virginia Dare Trail*
Sometimes, after a long day in the sun, nothing hits the spot like a great pizza. Dare Devil's delivers with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere that’s buzzing with energy. The smell of baking dough and simmering tomato sauce is intoxicating. They offer both New York-style thin crust and Sicilian square pies, all made with care.
**What to Order:**
* **The Classic, Perfected:** The **Margherita Pizza** is a test of any pizzeria's skills, and theirs passes with flying colors. Fresh mozzarella, basil, and a bright tomato sauce on a perfectly charred crust.
* **Local Favorite:** The **Outer Banks Pizza** often features shrimp and other local seafood, offering a unique coastal twist on a classic.
* **Local's Tip:** Don't sleep on their **Garlic Knots**. They're pillowy, buttery, and garlicky, and absolutely irresistible.
---
#### **7. Blue Crab Tavern**
*Location: 1180 Colington Rd*
Venture just a bit off the beaten path to the Colington Harbour area, and you'll find this hidden gem. The Blue Crab Tavern feels like stepping into a classic, Old-School fish camp. It’s rustic, unpretentious, and focused on one thing: incredibly fresh, local seafood. The screened-in porch is the perfect place to enjoy a meal on a warm evening.
**What to Order:**
* **The Reason You're Here:** The **Steamed Blue Crabs**, when in season, are an experience. Covered in Old Bay, you’ll need a mallet, a pile of napkins, and a cold beer. It’s a messy, joyful, and utterly authentic OBX ritual.
* **Can't-Miss Platter:** The **Seafood Platter** is a fantastic sampler of fried oysters, shrimp, scallops, and flounder, all lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp.
* **Local's Tip:** This is the place to try **She-Crab Soup**. Theirs is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor and lump crab meat.
---
#### **8. Beachcombers Tiki Hut**
*Location: 1701 S Virginia Dare Trail (Second Floor)*
For the best views in Kill Devil Hills, you have to climb the stairs to Beachcombers. Perched directly above the beach, this is an open-air paradise where the soundtrack is live music and rolling waves. The vibe is pure island party, making it the ultimate spot for sunset cocktails and casual bites.
**What to Order:**
* **Sunset Snack:** The **Beachcomber's Burger** is a juicy, satisfying classic that holds up perfectly against their extensive list of frozen drinks and cold beers.
* **Fresh Catch:** Their **Blackened Fish Sandwich** on a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade is simple, fresh, and delicious.
* **The Essential Sip:** Your mission is to order a **Bahama Mama** or a **Lava Flow** in a souvenir tiki cup. Sipping a frozen drink while watching the sun dip below the horizon is a core Outer Banks memory.
---
#### **9. American Pie Pizza & Homemade Ice Cream**
*Location: 1600 S Virginia Dare Trail*
This place is a double threat and a family favorite. The atmosphere is cheerful and nostalgic, with checkered tablecloths and the promise of a sweet ending. It solves the age-old vacation debate: Pizza or ice cream? with a resounding Yes!
**What to Order:**
* **The Pizza:** The **Meat Lover's Pizza** is loaded with toppings and has a great, chewy crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the hungriest of beach-goers.
* **The Sweet Finale:** The **Homemade Ice Cream** is the real star. The flavors are rich and classic. You can't go wrong with a **Hot Fudge Sundae** or a few scoops of their creamy, dreamy **Butter Pecan**.
* **Local's Tip:** Get a slice of cheese pizza and a scoop of chocolate ice cream for the ultimate sweet-and-salty combo.
---
#### **10. The Kill Devil Grill**
*Location: 2008 S Virginia Dare Trail*
We end our tour at a landmark. Housed in a restored 1939 streamliner diner, The Kill Devil Grill is a piece of OBX history. The atmosphere is buzzing, retro-cool, and always packed—for good reason. The menu is a creative twist on American classics, and the quality is consistently outstanding. You haven't truly experienced Kill Devil Hills until you've eaten here.
**What to Order:**
* **The Iconic Dish:** The **Coconut Crusted Yellowfin Tuna** is their signature for a reason. The sweet, crispy coconut crust pairs magically with the rare, sushi-grade tuna and a spicy-sweet sauce.
* **Comfort Food, Elevated:** The **KDG Meatloaf** is legendary. Wrapped in bacon and smothered in a savory sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food, refined.
* **Local's Tip:** Put your name on the list early (they don't take reservations), and enjoy the wait as part of the experience. For a starter, the **Crab & Artichoke Dip** is rich, cheesy, and superb. Save room for dessert—their **Key Lime Pie** is tart, sweet, and the perfect finish.
### **The Final Bite**
From the custard-stained smiles at Kill Devil's to the last sip of a sunset cocktail at Beachcombers, the dining scene in Kill Devil Hills is as diverse and dynamic as the landscape itself. It’s a town that understands the deep connection between a great meal and a great memory. So come with an appetite, leave your shoes (and your worries) at the door, and taste your way through the true flavor of the Outer Banks. Bon appétit, and enjoy your stay
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