2025 Buxton Restaurants Guide

An Italian and American restaurant with a huge recreation room including pool tables. 

Tucked away just off of N.C. Highway 12 in Buxton, Cockeyed Clam is a popular restaurant with families, fishermen, and visitors of all tastes, thanks to its expansive and crowd-pleasing menu, and a variety of local staples and fresh seafood dishes that are sure to please everyone in the crew. Open nightly for dinner, Cockeyed Clam is a solid option for anyone who wants a large sample of what Outer Banks flavors are all about.

The Inn on Pamlico Sound is a full body experience. They offer the services of a European boutique hotel, the amenities of a small resort, and the comfort and charm of a North Carolina coastal bed and breakfast. What this translates as is waterfront lodging ranging from queen-size rooms with private baths to luxurious king-size rooms with Italian tile baths, whirlpool tubs, and private decks. 

Unwind after a long day at the beach with a little entertainment, an ice cold drink, or even a bit of uniquely delicious fare with a trip to one of Buxton’s best kept local secrets, the Lighthouse Sports Bar. Situated in a small building that’s tucked away along NC Highway 12, this popular local hang-out has a world of great drinks, great people, and plenty of ways to have fun, which makes it a popular post-beach destination for visitors and locals alike.

A sweet choice for breakfast foods!  

Located in the heart of Buxton on Hatteras Island, Reel Swirly is a sweet little spot that’s big on flavor and fun. This locally loved frozen yogurt and dessert shop is the perfect place to cool off and treat yourself after a sunny day at the beach or a surf session at the Lighthouse.

Tucked away in the heart of Buxton on Hatteras Island, Roots & Leaves is a local coffee, donuts, and bagels food truck that celebrates nourishing, wholesome food with a local twist. This charming, plant-forward eatery is all about fresh ingredients, creative flavors, and feel-good vibes—making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking to eat well and feel great.

Rusty’s Surf & Turf Outer Banks restaurant brings the bold flavors of the tropics to Hatteras Island. Owner Rusty Midgett left the island and honed his restaurant and kitchen skills in some of Philadelphia’s best restaurants with top chefs in the industry. He is inspired in the kitchen by the places he has traveled on surf trips and by his training in classic French and Italian restaurants. Let him surprise you with creative yet simple preparations. Offerings on the menu include fresh fish, shellfish, all natural chicken, pork, steaks and pasta in styles ranging from local to global, all served in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Chef Rusty and his team have the resources and knowledge to turn all of these dishes into mouthwatering creations that will please the whole family.