Just got back from a short getaway to Nags Head. The weather was beautiful, our condo on the ocean front was ideal and the food was delicious.
When Nancy and I manage to be able to slip away to the beach, we like to rent a cottage or efficiency so we can cook a few meals. And we also like to splurge and go out a few times.
Last weekend, we ate at some of our tried and true restaurants, and they were okay, but the best food we had at the beach was on a fishing pier. Really!
I wanted to fish at least one afternoon on a pier. The surf had been extremely rough with a nor’easter in progress. When we drove down the South Nags Head beach road, I saw the Outer Banks Pier and stopped to see if anything was biting.
There was a restaurant on the pier called Fish Heads. Actually it was directly on top of the breaking ocean waves, and they had what appeared to be a well-stocked bar. Since it was noon and I had not had my first Bloody Mary, we got a table where I could watch the fishermen in action and ordered a couple drinks.
The food they were serving also looked good, so we decided to eat lunch there and enjoy the splendid views and atmosphere. When the food came, it was fantastic. I had a Carolina Hot Dog with slaw, homemade chili and onions. We also split a big Clam Basket with crispy fries and Cole slaw. The clams were as good as I have ever had and they were cooked perfectly. The chef at Fish Heads obviously knows what he’s doing.
Later that afternoon as I was leaving the pier after fishing, there were at least 80 people dining. Every table and booth was filled and this was on a Monday evening in the off season. The word is out that this is the place to be.
Next time you’re on the Outer Banks and get anywhere near Milepost 18 on Oregon Inlet Road, stop by Fish Heads for some libations and a bite to eat. You won’t regret it.
From now on, this will be a mandatory Eatin’ Out spot for Jim and Nancy Brewer when we’re at Nags Head.