When visiting the Crystal Coast - perhaps one of the most favorite things our visitors and guests enjoy doing is eating some of our local seafood.
Supporting local seafood has several important benefits, both for communities and the environment.
Economic Benefits: Purchasing local seafood helps support local fishermen, fish markets, and restaurants. Not only does this contribute to the local economy, it helps preserve jobs in the community.
Freshness and Quality: Local seafood is often fresher than seafood that has traveled long distances. It is typically caught and sold within a short time frame, which can enhance flavor and quality.
Sustainability: Many local fisheries emphasize sustainable practices, ensuring that fish populations remain healthy and ecosystems are protected. In fact, we have several family owned oyster farms that make it possible for us to enjoy oysters all year long. Supporting these local fisheries/oyster farms encourages responsible practices and conservation efforts.
Want to enjoy local seafood while visiting Emerald Isle? Here is a list of some of the popular eateries and there local specialties:
Caribsea: Located at 8921 Crew Drive; they are known for their locally sourced seafood. The most popular item is their famous crab cakes. A local favorite as well as a popular destination for our vacationers. They do take reservations. You also need to visit the rooftop lounge - the only one in Emerald Isle.
Gaffer's: Located on Coast Guard Road; they are known for their seafood pasta. I cannot resist their Steamed Shrimp with PBR appetizer. During the peak season - there can be a wait - so get there early. Live music occurs on the weekends.
Surf's Up Bar & Grill: Emerald Isle's only oceanfront restaurant located at the Bogue Inlet Pier. Enjoy their peel and eat shrimp, shrimp burger or shrimp plate while enjoying the view of the pier, fisherman and surfers. Tuna Nacho's are a favorite as well as the grouper in any form.
Rucker Johns: Located in the Emerald Isle Plantation Shopping center is a local favorite, Known for their "famous" lightly battered shrimp. Not a seafood lover? Rucker Johns is also known for their grilled pork chops.
Fish Hut Grill: Located on Mangrove Road in Emerald Isle; the Fish Hut Grill has become a popular destination for both locals and vacationers. Known for their shrimp taco's; you must try their Whole Fried Fish! Enjoy dining in or outside. Belly up to the menu bar to order and the food is delivered to your table. Self serve beverages make it a favorite.
Snapperz Grill & Steam Bar: Family owned for over 20 years, Snapperz is known for their steam pots. Their Shrimp and Grits is another favorite as well. With tons of local seafood items on their menu, it is easy to see why Snapperz is a local favorite. Located at 8106 Emerald Drive.
Flipperz Family Bar & Grill: Located at 311 Mangrove Rd and family owned since 2001, Flipperz specializes in local seafood such as peel-n-eat shrimp, fried oysters, flounder and more. Music on weekends is always a plus. Enjoy eating inside or out. Open year round.
The Trading Post: Located at 8302 Emerald Drive and family owned since 2016, The Trading Post is known for their Shrimp-N-Grits. In fact, their Oysters Over Grits is a fan favorite as well. Great atmosphere with music on the weekends - enjoy eating inside or out. Open year round.
By choosing local seafood, you are also showing your support for local restaurants and supporting the local economy. We hope when you come to visit our local area you will take an opportunity to visit these local restaurants that support our local seafood industries.
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