When only lo mein, egg rolls, or sweet and sour chicken will do, Outer Banks Chinese restaurants are ready to satisfy the craving. Whether you’re ordering takeout for the whole beach crew or looking for a quick, cozy lunch, you’ll find plenty of spots serving the classics you know and love.
Where to Get Chinese Food on the OBX
From Corolla to Hatteras, Chinese restaurants on the OBX tend to lean traditional, family-owned, casual, and focused on fast service and big portions. Menus typically feature staples like General Tso’s chicken, beef and broccoli, fried rice, and crab rangoons, along with vegetarian-friendly options and combination plates that make takeout easy.
These spots are a go-to for rainy days, beach house dinners, or a no-fuss meal after a long day in the sun.
Best Outer Banks Chinese Restaurants
Popular Chinese Dishes to Try
Menu Staples You’ll Find Across the OBX:
- General Tso’s or sesame chicken
- Pork, chicken, or shrimp fried rice
- Lo mein or chow mein with vegetables or protein
- Egg rolls and crab rangoons
- Beef with broccoli or Mongolian beef
- Sweet and sour chicken with white rice
Takeout Like a Local
Most OBX Chinese restaurants are takeout-focused, so don’t be surprised if seating is limited. Locals know to call in their order early, especially on weekends or rainy evenings when everyone’s skipping the grill.
If you’re staying nearby, it’s smart to order ahead and pick up before the dinner rush hits. Many spots get slammed between 5 and 7 PM.
Double-check your order before leaving, and don’t forget the soy sauce, hot mustard, or extra fortune cookies (some places tuck in house-made sauces if you ask). Chinese takeout and a beach house deck make for a pretty unbeatable combo.
Beyond the Basics
Most OBX Chinese menus follow a familiar format, but there are often house specialties tucked into the back or in a “chef’s suggestions” section, worth checking out if you’re craving something beyond the usual.
Combination plates are great for sharing and often come with rice and an egg roll. And if you’re ordering for a group, ask if they offer family-style trays or bulk portions to make serving easier.