Southern Shores keeps things quiet, and that’s exactly why people love it here. It’s more neighborhood than tourist town, but that doesn’t mean you’re far from good food. Whether you’re grilling fresh fish back at the rental or heading out to eat, you’re in a great spot to enjoy Outer Banks seafood without the crowds.
The Best Fresh Outer Banks Seafood in Southern Shores, NC
Southern Shores sits right between the ocean and the sound, so fresh local seafood is always close. You’ll see a little bit of everything depending on what’s in season: clams, tilefish, swordfish, shrimp, and whatever came off the boats that morning. Menus tend to change often, and that’s part of the charm.
Where to Eat Seafood in Southern Shores
Seafood Highlights in Southern Shores
Whether you venture just a few minutes north or south, you’ll find plenty of fresh seafood dishes that showcase the flavors of the Outer Banks, including:
- She-crab soup and seafood chowders
- Lightly grilled swordfish or tilefish (in season)
- Blackened flounder and grouper
- Crab cakes and traditional seafood platters
- Outer Banks seafood boils with shrimp, crab legs, and more
- Seafood pasta with local shrimp and scallops
Before You Pull Up a Chair
Because Southern Shores is a smaller village, some restaurants can run out of popular seafood specials by the evening rush. For the best selection and a more relaxed meal, consider planning lunch or an early dinner before sunset.