25 Best American Restaurants near Newport

“We had a delightful lunch on the way back from Pine Knoll Shores. So glad I drove a little extra to give it a try. I will be back.“

“Great food, staff, and atmosphere. The food prices are very reasonable as well. if you haven't been, go!! You won't be disappointed.“

“We stopped in to pick up some BBQ and sides to take to the condo. The BBQ was yummy. The hush puppies were good. We enjoyed the Cole slaw. The potato salad could use more seasoning but it was okay. I wouldn't recommend the banana pudding, kinda disappointing. We sure wish they would add some green beans and potatoes to the menu.“

“TOT has always been the spot for my friends and I to enjoy food, fun and laughter. They have been so good to us! We have never been discriminated against ever! Best food around! Best bartenders around. We love TOT !!!!“

“The food, our waitress, the decor was all perfect. Our first time there and will certainly go back when we are on our way to Morehead. Hannah was great. My grandson recommended it and it was spot on.“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If you’re looking for great food served with salty air vibes and a whole lot of coastal charm, this spot in Morehead City, NC is an absolute gem. 🌊🐚 From the moment you walk in, it feels like vacation—laid-back, welcoming, and full of good energy. The food? Always on point. We make it a rule to try something new every visit, and somehow it never disappoints. Fresh flavors, generous portions, and that kind of cooking that makes you want to sit back, relax, and stay awhile. What really sets this place apart is the family-friendly atmosphere mixed with unbeatable beach-town vibes. Whether you’re local or just passing through, it’s the kind of place that makes you say, “Yep… this is why I love the coast.” Great service, amazing food, good vibes, and a true Morehead City coastal feel. We’ll be back again and again—highly recommend! 🌴🍽️✨“

“My wife and I were here last night for our anniversary dinner, second time dining here to celebrate. I cannot say enough how impressed we were. From the warm greeting we received the second we walked in to the speedy seating, to the cozy atmosphere . The wait staff was wonderful, informative, and friendly. The food? Incredible! Lobster and crab dip very tasty ....the Scallops were truly amazing and fresh cooked to absolutel PERFECTION. Tuna, amazing . Veggies, perfect. Everything was hot and served very quickly. To top it off the owner took the time to speak with us at the end of our dinner. He was incredibly nice and educated us on seafood. One of the things that really speaks volumes about this restaurant was him and the fact that the waitress told us later it's a wonderful place to work and the staff is treated well! That's rare to hear. Great job by all and we will be back“

“Absolutely amazing breakfast spot! We loved it so much that we came back 2 mornings in a row. The rooftop overlooking the ocean is beautiful and makes for such a relaxing start to the day. Also dog friendly, which is a HUGE plus. Parking was super easy, which is always a plus. The owner is incredibly friendly and genuinely cares about making sure everything is perfect for every guest. And the hoop biscuits… WOW. Absolutely incredible and a must-try! Overall, just an amazing experience from start to finish. Can’t wait to come back!“

“My husband and I decided to check this place out for breakfast during our visit in Morehead City. So glad we did!! . The breakfast was delicious! Prices were very reasonable. It was fairly busy and wait staff kept the place hopping!!. Busboy was on top of every vacant table and immediately cleaned it. Upon people entering the restaurant, there was always someone looking to provide seating. While we were there a party of eleven came in and within 10 min they were accommodated. Will definitely be back!!“

“Delicious food, friendly service! I love that you can come as you are and walk up and order fine restaurant quality food at a great price! Wishing you the best season ever! We love that your home is AB!“

“I give 5 stars to this place. The best breakfast we could eat on that island. The waitress who attended us was very kind. We did not speak English and she helped us kindly.

The only thing I did not like is that the man who brought the payment receipt was asking us for tips. We had already given the cash tip to the waitress.
Tipping is not compulsory, this gentleman should not demand it from anyone. But we liked the place. That alone was not right.“

“We had a wonderful evening at Circa 81 today! The food and staff are fabulous! Peter and Jared the reservation host were a pleasure! Thanks for everything! Loved the steak, pork Wellington, and sea food Mac & Cheese Tapas. We even had room for delicious desserts! 😉 The Fox family!“

“Hands down the best BBQ around! Staff here is great & always friendly. Restaurant is always nice & neat also. One of my favorite places. Five stars, highly recommend!“

“The flounder & oysters were good, the blonde waitress was very nice , place was clean , friendly atmosphere. Would recommend you trying it if you or ever in the area .“

“First time and by far the best seafood in the area. Will be back next year. Definitely make reservations we did not but was earlier enough and they seated us. Staff was so friendly and exceptional. Our server was a college student and he gave us some great food choices that did not disappoint. He was extremely a fantastic server. Food was beyond expectations. 10/10“

“I've been dining at both restaurants for years and enjoyed myself ,the food , and the staff! The food and sides at Morehead have a better flavor, taste better ,and the portions are much bigger. I ve notice that recently on my last couple times that the sides are much better at both restaurants. The mash potatoes in Morehead are so delicious. I wish that was the same case at the emerald isle restaurant. The Cole slaw is the best that I have taste recently. I swear if the food was as good as the sides have been lately I wouldn't eat anywhere else. SNAPPPERZ KEEP IT UP!“

“Thanksgiving meal perfectly prepared with great attention to detail. This is exactly how takeout is supposed to look. 5⭐️“

“Had a wonderful Thanksgiving buffet today. Food was amazing! Staff was friendly and welcoming. Overall, a great time.“

“I went when it was not busy. It was after lunch, but not quite dinner time. Waitress recommended the Parmesan crusted chicken and the salmon I ended up getting the salmon was not disappointed great atmosphere was not busy when I went in, but started to pick up when I was on my way out very clean bathroom look really good.
Salmon was amazing. Must try this place good vibe low-key atmosphere.“

“Consistently the best wings we have ever had great food cold beer.“

“We are here from PA and took our NC grandsons out to breakfast! Great!“

“It’s the best!! Super fresh food- always friendly staff...well done!!“

“I am amazed this place is not packed with lines out the door. We come in for vacation and always try a few new restaurants every trip. This place is what I have been looking for. Absolutely great food and generous portions. Such friendly staff. Will definitely be back every trip“

“We eat here at least once a week sometimes twice a week. We love our server and our food is always exceptionally delicious! It is always clean, tidy with a great happy atmosphere.
We enjoy the music ( we are senior citizens😂🤣) our favorite place to eat in Morehead City!!❤️“

“We love Havelock Waffle House!“