Big Oak Drive-In & Bar-B-Q

Food has always been good. Parking has gotten a lot better. I also really appreciate the gentleman directing traffic as making a left out of there on a busy beach saturday in the summer can be challenging. Shrimp burger is unreal.

Ordered several sandwiches including a double cheeseburger plate with no onions (allergic to onions). Got a double cheeseburger full of onions with no fries, hush puppies, or drink. Won’t go back!

Always stop here when in town. Good food, good people. Always got the shrimp burger, but not today. Cheeseburger did not disappoint. Hand pattie and homegrown tomato.

A FB post led me here - I was not disappointed! Easy to find and the lunch rush had gone, so parking was easy also. I got a burger & and fries, and both were delicious. I think at one point, they were cash only (they have an ATM on site), but they do take cards now. Nice area behind it with shade & picnic tables. I thought prices were fair, and everyone was incredibly nice.

Best all the way cheeseburger and hot dog with onion rings is the way to go here!

Great shrimp burger! Outdoor picnic table seating only

My go to for lunch!!

Best shrimp burger anywhere.

If you're searching for the best barbecue in North Carolina, look no further than Big Oak Drive-In and Bar B Q. This beloved coastal eatery has been serving up mouthwatering burgers, fresh seafood, and hickory-smoked BBQ since 1976 — and next year, they’re celebrating an incredible 50 years of flavor and tradition!

From the moment you roll into the lot, the scent of sizzling pork, fried shrimp, and that signature BBQ sauce lets you know you're in for something special. The menu may be simple, but every bite is unforgettable. Locals swear by the Shrimpburger—a coastal classic that’s perfectly crisp, buttery soft, and packed with flavor. Pair it with hush puppies or a side of slaw, and you’ve got a meal you’ll crave long after the last bite.

What makes Big Oak Drive-In so iconic isn’t just the food — it’s the history, the friendly service, and the feeling of stepping into a slice of North Carolina tradition. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, you’ll feel like part of the family. With 50 years of satisfied customers and countless glowing reviews, it’s no wonder this spot is considered a must-visit on the Crystal Coast.

So next time you're cruising down Highway 58, stop by this Emerald Isle institution and taste why Big Oak Drive-In and Bar B Q has been a local favorite for half a century. Trust us — one bite and you’ll be planning your next visit before you leave the parking lot!

Still the great place it’s been over the last four decades we’ve been going! And, recent menu and pricing changes (2024 to 2025) have made it an even better experience versus last year, simplified and many things with a lower price!! The best part, the food is as good as ever!!!

Best kept secret near emerald isle.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

My family have been coming to Emerald Isle for YEARS and have never tried Big Oak. Since El’s is closed we were looking for some place with the same vibe and food. We’ll lemme just say that the BBQ sandwich will make u smack ur momma!! It’s out of this world! My husband loved his super burger and funnel cake fries. Now we have a regular stop to make every year.

A must for lunch at Atlantic Beach or Emerald Island. We ordered BBQ platters, BBQ platters, Flounder sandwich, FFs, drinks and 1 banana pudding. All was great, except they forgot to add the banana pudding to my order. Not worth going back for $4 when the ocean was calling me.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Flounder Sandwich, Seafood, Sandwich, BBQ, Fried Pickles

Shrimp burger was amazing. GET THE ONION RINGS!!!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Love the shrimp burgers!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5