Sure, we all love the ambiance and atmosphere inside a nice restaurant every once in awhile. But, you know what’s even better? Nature as a backdrop to your meal. Particularly, when it involves a beautiful view of a body of water. There’s just something calming and relaxing about sitting near a river or a lake and these North Carolina restaurants not only know it, they’ve used it to their advantage by offering premium waterfront seating at their establishments. So next time you’re passing through one of these towns, make sure to stop in for a bite, while taking in the beautiful waterways of the Tarheel State.
The Oceanic, Wrightsville Beach
When The Oceanic says they offer oceanfront dining, they’re not exaggerating. Not only do many of the tables inside the restaurant offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean through their large picture windows, but the restaurant also features a large, wooden pier that extends 475 feet into the water. Customers can dine outdoors under the canopy that covers the first half of the pier and then take a relaxing stroll out over the water after their meal. It’s a rich experience for all your senses between the smell of the salt air, the views of the ocean and the sounds of seagulls flying above. Of course, don’t forget about the food – The Oceanic offers a selection of mouth-watering seafood and inland specialties including stuffed flounder, shrimp and grits, chipotle salmon and filet mignon. They also serve brunch from 11 am to 2 pm on Sundays – a perfect time to relax on the pier with an omelet or some French toast and a “Seaside Mojito,” made with fresh mint, sugar, lime and Naked Turtle rum.
Port City Club, Cornelius
Located on Lake Norman, the largest man-made body of water in North Carolina, the Port City Club is a massive 13,500 square foot waterfront restaurant that offers multiple options for dining on the water. For those that prefer to stay indoors, there’s a large, open and airy main dining room with bright colors and classic, comfortable furnishings. The enclosed deck area gets you a step closer to the water and offers more casual wicker furnishings as well as year-round climate control. Then, in the summer, why not go all the way and sit outside on the outdoor deck, lined with comfy couches in cozy, cabana-type set-ups. All of the food at Port City Club is made from scratch, using farm-fresh vegetables, organic chicken and fresh, line-caught seafood from Charleston, SC. You’ll also find local beers and wines and a couple of televisions over the indoor bar if you want to catch the game while you eat.
Inlet View Bar and Grille, Shallotte
If you’re looking for the best place to catch a waterfront sunset, the Inlet View Bar and Grille in Shallotte may be hard to beat. Located at the intersection of the Shallotte River and the Intracoastal Waterway, this restaurant and tiki bar offers both great food and a fun experience. Not only will you find gorgeous, panoramic views of the water from the first floor restaurant and the second floor bar that is surrounded by decks, but you’ll also find locally-caught seafood, live music and hush puppies that are made from “Mama’s” recipe. Just one stop in here and you’ll see why it’s a favorite with locals and a must-do stop for travelers and guests.
River's End Restaurant, Bryson City
Adventure lovers will love the River’s End Restaurant, located literally right on the Nantahala River in Bryson City. Every seat in the restaurant has a view of the river, as well as the rafters and hikers sailing down it. You can enjoy a wide variety of traditional American dishes including salads, burgers and even a trout-cake sandwich. You’ll also find a large selection of beer and wine, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of rafting, biking, kayaking or zip-lining.
Miller's Waterfront Restaurant, Nags Head
Miller’s Waterfront Restaurant has been an Outer Banks favorite since it first opened in 1982. Overlooking the Roanoke Sound in beautiful Nags Head, NC, the restaurant offers captivating views of the water, as well as plenty of people-watching opportunities with numerous kite-boarders and windsurfers taking to the waves. On the menu, you’ll find some Southern favorites like fried green tomatoes and “low country style” BBQ shrimp, as well as a wide selection of seafood and some land-lovers selections like chicken, pork chops and filet mignon. Upstairs, at the Waterfront Steamer Bar, you’ll find plenty of shared bites and casual dishes like fish tacos, king crab legs and a softshell crab BLT sandwich. Wash it all down with a fruity cocktail from the bar and you’ll feel like you’re on vacation every time you come. Miller’s closes during the cold winter months, so keep that in mind if you’re visiting this time of year.
