08/20/2024
If there is one thing we can appreciate while on vacation (well, anytime really), it’s some delicious eats. A way to experience the history and culture of any given location, it’s how we connect with people and their land, and simultaneously liven our senses (and fill our bellies). Below is a foodie’s tour of Hatteras Village, the southernmost village on Hatteras Island, that explores a dinnertime extravaganza of tastes for all palettes. Ideas for dining in Hatteras are listed north to south when driving down Highway 12.
Isola Pizzeria & Bar:
First stop on the foodie tour is Isola Pizzeria & Bar, which longtime vacationers will remember as the once island staple, Rocco’s Pizza. Recently purchased, gutted, and rebranded, this fun little pizzeria now boasts family-friendly sports bar vibes. Three sizeable TV’s line the bar that seats roughly 20 guests, which is perfect for grabbing a drink, a couple of apps, dinner, or all the above. While customers of all palettes can find a tasty bite, pizza lovers will rejoice in their delicious slice. One crust (two if you include the gluten free cauliflower crust), two sizes, and loads of fresh topping selections including vegan cheese!
Pro Tip:
For a pizzeria they have an unexpectedly chic bar menu that is worth checking out. With cocktails such as their Picante Pineapple, Limoncello Gin Fizz, and the Mariner’s Mark, their menu explores the unique flavors of several different types of spirits. They also have a unique selection of specialty pizzas that always hit the mark. Our favorite? It’s a toss-up between the Hawaiian (hot honey anyone?!) and the Truffle Shroom. So good!
Breakwater Restaurant:
Perched atop Oden’s Dock, this is one dining experience you don’t want to miss, if for nothing else other than the unbeatable sunset views. Breakwater is the only restaurant in the village that also offers outside dining, making this stop on the tour a must! The dining room is outfitted in chic furnishings with classic hardwood floors and a selection of stylish artwork, but most notably, it’s lined with soundfront-facing windows for dinner with a view. The copper-topped bar offers even more seating for a fun night of sipping cocktails while also sampling their delicious menu.
Pro Tip:
They are currently open 5 nights a week and offer al fresco dining with live music on their sun and shaded deck overlooking Oden’s Dock! The back bar is also convenient for basic cocktails when you’re in need of uninterrupted deck jams and views!
Sonny’s Restaurant:
Get back to basics with a plate of perfectly golden fried seafood at the family-friendly Sonny’s Restaurant! Sonny doesn’t joke around about changing his fryers, going above and beyond to keep them obsessively fresh at all times. Using the same fresh ingredients and recipes that his grandmother and father used before him, you may not always find their platters encrusted, dipped, or topped with a gourmet sauce, but they will always, always, always be fresh and delicious!
Pro Tip:
For the true taste of Hatteras, don’t sleep on the Hatteras Style Clam Chowder or the hushpuppies! You can thank us later.
Dinky’s Waterfront Restaurant:
True to their name, Dinky’s Waterfront Restaurant, has an intimate dining space overlooking Village Marina in Hatteras Village. With a phenomenal menu bursting with flavor, their cocktails are equally as delicious. While their whole menu is a foodie’s heaven, if you have someone in your party who doesn’t do seafood, they have some particularly stunning dishes for the land-lover! Try their sugar-cured roasted duck with a cracked pepper bourbon cream sauce or their pork tenderloin with caramelized granny smith apples and toasted pecans. And don’t even get us started on their steaks—several options, all to die for!
Pro Tip:
They make their desserts in-house. If they have cheesecake, never second guess it. It will be worth it! Even if you can’t fit it in, get it to-go!
Hatteras Sol:
A fan-favorite, Hatteras Sol recently changed hands, but new owners Nate and Shannon have had no trouble slipping into their new roles as head chef and front of house manager, keeping the fire going for the cult-like following of this casually sophisticated dining experience.
Pro Tip:
Because of their increasing popularity, you may run into a wait, but the longtime bartenders at their full bar inside are drink wizards of whom you’ll quickly land on a first-name basis if you like a good beer or cocktail, and they are happy to serve you a drink while you wait. Additionally, their back bar overlooking the backside of Teach’s Lair Marina offers a more streamlined drink menu but is the perfect spot to listen to music and sip on your favorite drink while you watch the sunset or gaze at the stars as you wait for your table.
The Wreck Tiki Bar and Food:
This little tiki bar offers a unique selection of staples that will fuel up your day or night at Hatteras Landing. Definitely a more laidback dining experience, it’s also a lot of fun with a rotating line-up of nighttime entertainment, often staying open the latest in this sleepy fishing village (11pm, depending). Offering both inside and outside dining in Hatteras, it’s important to note that you have to order inside, at which point they’ll give you a number and deliver your food to your table. Outside dining overlooks Hatteras Landing Marina and is shaded thanks to awnings and umbrellas. A major win with perfect views!
Pro Tip:
With a variety of entertainment options from live music to tastings to movie nights and beyond, Tuesday nights are always a hit with back-to-back trivia and karaoke!
