12 Best Restaurants in Morehead City NC

Morehead City offers an extensive dining scene anchored in local flavor, reliable service, and access to fresh seafood. Whether you're downtown, near the waterfront, or off the main roadways, you'll find a strong selection of places serving quality meals across different styles and cuisines. Restaurants in Morehead City NC are often independently owned and managed, adding to the sense of local connection.

This guide covers standout restaurants in town, each known for something distinct—from regional seafood dishes to international flavors, upscale plates, and dependable casual options.

Circa 81 is known for its small plates, craft cocktails, and modern Southern dishes. The menu includes crab cakes, seared scallops, and bacon-wrapped dates. The kitchen focuses on fresh ingredients and presentations highlighting local flavors without being overly complex. The restaurant is also known for its catering services and private dining options. Regulars often return for happy hour specials and a cocktail list that changes with the season. Circa 81 works well for casual evenings or quiet weekday dinners with consistent quality and attentive service.

Mug Shot is a coffee shop and café located in the heart of downtown Morehead City. It serves espresso drinks, teas, smoothies, and a rotating menu of baked goods and sandwiches. Seating includes indoor tables and a small sidewalk area, making it a casual place to stop for a quick breakfast or a relaxed afternoon drink. Their bagel sandwiches, avocado toast, and cinnamon rolls are popular, especially during the weekend brunch hours. The shop also showcases local artists and frequently hosts live acoustic music.

Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant, Bar & Catering is set inside a historic home just a few blocks from downtown. The restaurant offers indoor dining, a large outdoor patio, and an upstairs lounge. The menu includes shrimp and grits, smoked meats, fried green tomatoes, and daily seafood specials. The bar features an extensive wine list and regional beers, and many guests enjoy drinks in the lounge before dinner. Among restaurants in Morehead City NC, Floyd’s 1921 stands out for its local following and traditional yet refined cooking.

The Banks Grill is located in a small plaza off Arendell Street and is known for its breakfast and lunch menus. Inside, you’ll find booth and table seating, counter service, and a casual dining setup. The restaurant focuses on classic American diner-style meals like omelets, pancakes, burgers, and sandwiches. Locals come for the early breakfast hours and consistent portions. The crab cake Benedict and shrimp omelet are frequently recommended. The Banks Grill also serves house-made sauces and fresh-brewed coffee, which add to its reliable appeal.

Mi Cabana Mexican Restaurant brings traditional Mexican food to Morehead City with an extensive menu and bright interior. The restaurant is off Highway 70 and includes plenty of booth seating and a full-service bar. Popular items include fajita plates, combination platters, and carne asada tacos. They also serve margaritas by the glass or pitcher with various fruit options. The restaurant offers daily lunch specials and to-go orders for convenience.

Parrott’s on Eleventh is a neighborhood favorite tucked along Eleventh Street near the water. The restaurant features fresh seafood, steak, and rotating specials that reflect seasonal ingredients. Menu staples include blackened mahi, grilled shrimp, and crab-stuffed flounder. The restaurant also includes a small bar area and outdoor patio seating. Many guests stop in after visiting nearby waterfront attractions or walking through local parks.

Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company is a restaurant and local brewery. Its space includes an indoor bar, dining room, and outdoor patio with live music on weekends. It’s a short walk from the waterfront and serves fried oysters, shrimp tacos, burgers, and house-smoked wings. The brewery produces a rotating list of beers, including IPAs, porters, and seasonal ales. Flights and growlers are available for take-home. This location frequently hosts trivia nights, live performances, and food events.

Sugarloaf Island Deli & Yellowfin Pub are located directly on the Morehead City waterfront. This combined space offers deli sandwiches, seafood baskets, and drinks with outdoor views of the marina. The casual atmosphere draws boaters, locals, and tourists looking for a quick but scenic meal. The deli serves tuna salad, BLTs, and pulled pork sandwiches. The pub offers beer, wine, and cocktails in a relaxed setting. Outdoor tables are shaded and positioned for views of boats and nearby docks.

RedFish Grill & Bar offers an upscale dining experience with a mix of seafood, steak, and pasta dishes and a contemporary presentation. The interior is clean and modern, and the bar offers wine pairings and seasonal cocktails. Popular dishes include grilled mahi over risotto, filet mignon, and seafood linguine. The dessert menu features house-made options that rotate weekly. RedFish is often booked in advance for holidays and weekend dinners.

Taste of Napoli Restaurant and Bar serves authentic Italian cuisine in a low-key setting off Bridges Street. The restaurant is operated by a team with roots in Naples, and the menu reflects traditional recipes. Dishes include lasagna, veal marsala, gnocchi, and house-made pizzas baked in a stone oven. The interior is simple but comfortable, with attentive service and wine pairings for each course. It’s a good choice for those seeking a break from seafood while still enjoying a full-service meal.

Cox Family Restaurant is a long-running diner located just off Highway 70. It serves classic Southern comfort food with a daily breakfast and lunch menu. Menu items include biscuits and gravy, grilled pork chops, chicken salad plates, and rotating daily specials like pot roast and fried chicken. The restaurant opens early and closes mid-afternoon, making it a breakfast and brunch destination. For locals, Cox Family Restaurant is part of the city’s dining routine.

Full Circle Cafe serves breakfast and lunch with a focus on house-made ingredients. The menu includes omelets, grain bowls, pressed sandwiches, and in-house soups. The café also offers espresso drinks and smoothies, with seating indoors and outside on a small patio. Regular customers enjoy the relaxed pace and made-to-order meals. Items like quiche, black bean burgers, and avocado toast make the café a popular mid-morning or early afternoon stop.

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