Really impressed with this place! Food was phenomenal. Pictured are a pecan crusted mahi mahi with kahlua sweet mashed potatoes and chicken skewers that were part of a halloween special. Also, the best caesar salad I've ever had! Also, attention to detail is so great. They noticed my mom walking with a cane and walked us around the ramp inside rather than showing us to our table with stairs. Prices also fantastic.
Overview
Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant in Kitty Hawk, NC, stands as a gem among the Outer Banks’ dining scene, blending breathtaking views with exceptional seafood and an inviting atmosphere. Located at 3848 N Virginia Dare Trail, this spot offers diners a unique experience that feels both relaxed and upscale, perfect for a meal with family, friends, or a romantic outing.
As soon as you step inside the restaurant, the vibe hits you-cozy yet expansive, with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. The decor is laid-back but sophisticated, reflecting the local coastal charm. Whether you’re sitting near the large windows, watching waves crash against the shore, or in a more intimate booth, the ambiance makes it clear that this isn’t just a place to eat-it’s a place to savor a truly special moment.
The Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant is renowned for its diverse menu, which boasts an array of seafood dishes that highlight the freshest catches from local waters. If you're a fan of seafood, you’ll want to try their famous crab cakes, which have earned rave reviews for their delicate texture and bold flavors. For something a little more adventurous, the grilled tuna with a tangy citrus glaze is a standout, offering a perfect balance of freshness and zest.
Aside from seafood, the restaurant also offers a solid selection of steaks and pasta dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone. The lobster mac and cheese, rich and creamy with a generous portion of lobster, is a must-try for those looking for comfort food with a twist. For a lighter option, the seared scallops with a roasted vegetable medley provides a delightful combination of flavors, ideal for those who want to enjoy the local catch without feeling too weighed down.
What sets the Black Pelican apart from other restaurants in the area is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. Whether it’s the fresh seafood, the local produce, or the regional wines, each dish is crafted with care and consideration for both quality and flavor. This dedication to fresh, local ingredients ensures that the menu is as dynamic as the seasons, with new dishes popping up regularly to keep things exciting.
Another highlight at the Black Pelican is its stellar drink menu. Their wine list is carefully curated to pair perfectly with the seafood offerings, featuring selections from both local vineyards and renowned global producers. The bar also serves a variety of creative cocktails, such as the signature “Pelican Punch,” a refreshing mix of tropical fruit flavors that perfectly complements a summer evening on the coast.
The restaurant’s service is attentive yet relaxed, with staff that know the menu inside and out. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, you’ll feel welcomed from the moment you step in the door. It's clear that the team behind Black Pelican values the experience as much as the food, making it a great choice for special occasions or casual dinners alike.
For those planning to visit, be sure to check the restaurant's hours and make a reservation if you're heading there during peak seasons, as it can get quite busy, especially during the summer months. The location also offers ample parking and easy access, making it a convenient choice for both locals and tourists exploring the Outer Banks.
If you're in the area and looking for a dining experience that combines incredible views, mouthwatering dishes, and top-notch service, the Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant should be at the top of your list. With its blend of local seafood, fresh ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere, it truly offers something for everyone, whether you're a seafood lover or someone who enjoys a great steak. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a memorable meal and soak in the natural beauty of Kitty Hawk.
Good to know
Service options
✓ On-site services ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Fireplace ✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine list ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Late-night food ✓ Private dining room ✓ Small plates ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Historic ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservations ✓ Usually a waitPayments
✓ Cheques ✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
First time to outer banks. Found this restaurant and its the only place we will ever eat!!! My husband had the nut and berry salad.. OUTSTANDING! , and the blt wrap. I had the oyster orville and the baked brie they were excellant! Our waitress, Casy (sp) was fantastic!
Service was quick and courteous. The crab bake was great but the prime rib was not so great. The mashed potatoes and vegetables were also very good. We will return to try other offerings on the menu.
The black pelican by far is the best seafood restaurant we found. When we got in they told us it was a 30 minute wait we only waited about 10 minutes. The place was packed. The servers are hustling. I started off with the crab and shrimp dip appetizer that was so delicious. My meal was the shrimp and crab broiled in a Bernaise sauce. That was also the most delicious thing I had all week! Lastly, we all got dessert because everything looks so delicious Keylime pie, banana pie, brownie sundae and peanut butter pie again best thing we had all week even our neighbors at the table next to us We’re trying to get us to share our food! So they ordered all what we ordered because it all looks so good. They did say that the cheesecake was not that great. Our waitress was very attentive, came around and gave us drinks checked on us often and was always right there to clean up empty plate plates. The parking lot has plenty of spots to park in and if you do have a long wait, there’s a bar outside with a patio you could sit and watch the beach. Go there and enjoy!
Had a fantastic time dining with my family here including 2 small children. Pictured is the Phillys Pecan Crusted Mahi, it was delicious and the Mahi was cooked perfectly. I'd like to mention that our server Tatiana (Hopefully spelled correctly) was an absolute sweetheart and gave us the best service I've ever had at any restaurant. Will be coming back during our next trip to Kitty Hawk.
Waitress very attentive and food arrived quickly. Both of us had the fried flounder meal which came with coleslaw and fries. Portion of cocktail sauce and tartar sauce comes with meal. Fish lightly breaded with one side still having skin on. Perfect crunch and inside tender. Also had Greek salad which was large enough for two people. Got dessert to go, key lime pie and coconut pie. Both delicious. Was there for lunch
Absolutely delicious food, but the worst service I've ever experienced. The vegetarian option was very well thought out and presented. Our waitress acted like she worked at one of those restaurants where the wait staff is meant to be mean and couldn't be bothered to make us feel welcome or answer any questions.