Unearth The Voyage
When you think of po’boys, Louisiana probably comes to mind first. But North Carolina has quietly become home to some amazing spots serving authentic Gulf Coast sandwiches. From the beaches of the Outer Banks to the bustling streets of Charlotte, these restaurants bring that Bayou flavor right to your plate with crispy seafood, perfectly seasoned meats, and bread that makes all the difference.
Southern Pecan — Charlotte, NC
Tucked in the SouthPark neighborhood, Southern Pecan serves up Louisiana-style comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the Gulf Coast. Their fried shrimp po’boy is a standout, featuring plump shrimp with a perfectly crispy coating that stays crunchy bite after bite.
The sandwich comes dressed with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy remoulade sauce that ties everything together. What really sets this spot apart is the attention to authentic preparation methods.
Pair your po’boy with their baked mac and cheese for a complete Southern experience. The creamy, rich side complements the sandwich beautifully and adds that extra comfort food element everyone craves when enjoying Gulf Coast cuisine in the heart of Charlotte.
Two Roads Tavern — Kill Devil Hills, NC
Right in the heart of the Outer Banks sits a local favorite that knows how to do seafood right. Two Roads Tavern has built a reputation among beach-goers and locals alike for serving tasty, no-nonsense po’boys that capture that coastal vibe.
Their oyster po’boy features freshly fried oysters with a golden crust that delivers satisfying crunch. The bread holds up well to the juicy filling, and the toppings add just the right amount of freshness and tang.
Located in Kill Devil Hills, this tavern offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for refueling after a day at the beach. The combination of quality ingredients and beachy ambiance makes it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Gulf flavors on North Carolina’s coast.
Goombays Grille & Raw Bar — Kill Devil Hills, NC
With a Caribbean twist on classic Gulf Coast fare, Goombays brings something unique to the po’boy scene. Their oyster po’boy has become a local legend, drawing crowds who appreciate the restaurant’s creative approach to traditional recipes.
The menu blends island flavors with Louisiana traditions, creating sandwiches that feel both familiar and exciting. Fresh oysters get the perfect fry treatment before being piled onto quality bread with flavorful toppings.
The vibrant atmosphere matches the bold flavors on the plate. Colorful decor and a lively raw bar create an energetic dining experience that transports you straight to the tropics. Whether you’re a po’boy purist or someone who enjoys culinary creativity, Goombays delivers a memorable sandwich worth seeking out on your Outer Banks adventure.
Blue Moon Beach Grill — Kill Devil Hills, NC
Imagine biting into a perfectly crafted po’boy while ocean breezes drift through the open windows. Blue Moon Beach Grill makes this dream a reality with their well-regarded oyster po’boy that keeps customers coming back season after season.
This beachside spot understands that location matters, but great food matters more. Their oyster po’boy showcases quality seafood prepared with care and attention to Gulf Coast traditions.
The casual, laid-back setting feels authentically coastal without trying too hard. Locals and vacationers mix comfortably here, united by their appreciation for good sandwiches and ocean views. The combination of fresh ingredients, skilled preparation, and unbeatable atmosphere makes Blue Moon a go-to destination for anyone exploring the Outer Banks food scene and craving genuine po’boy satisfaction.
The Kill Devil Grill — Kill Devil Hills, NC
Sometimes the best spots are the ones locals keep returning to year after year. The Kill Devil Grill has earned that loyal following by delivering consistently delicious food in a comfortable, unpretentious setting that feels like home.
While they’re known for their Cajun sloppy joe and various seafood options, the restaurant captures that Gulf Coast spirit through bold seasonings and generous portions. The relaxed atmosphere encourages lingering over your meal and enjoying good conversation.
What makes this place special is how they balance authentic flavors with approachable dining. You don’t need to be a food expert to appreciate what they’re serving. The menu offers something for everyone, whether you’re craving traditional po’boy fare or want to explore other Cajun-inspired dishes that showcase the restaurant’s versatility and commitment to flavor.
Greentail’s Seafood Market and Kitchen — Kill Devil Hills, NC
Innovation meets tradition at this unique combination seafood market and restaurant. Greentail’s takes the classic po’boy formula and adds creative twists that surprise and delight without losing sight of what makes these sandwiches great in the first place.
Their shrimp po’boy with pesto represents this approach perfectly. Fresh shrimp gets paired with vibrant pesto, creating a flavor combination that respects Gulf Coast roots while exploring new territory.
Being both a market and kitchen means ingredients are incredibly fresh. You’re getting seafood at its peak quality, prepared by people who understand both traditional techniques and modern culinary creativity. The dual nature of the business creates a unique dining experience where you can grab ingredients to cook at home or enjoy expertly prepared dishes on the spot.
Seaboard Seafood & Oyster Bar — Raleigh, NC
Raleigh might sit hours from the coast, but Seaboard brings ocean flavors inland with impressive authenticity. This upscale seafood spot serves po’boys that rival anything you’d find in coastal towns, proving that great Gulf Coast food can thrive anywhere with the right commitment.
The restaurant’s focus on fresh seafood and proper preparation techniques shows in every bite. Their po’boys feature quality bread, perfectly fried or grilled seafood, and toppings that complement rather than overpower.
The oyster bar adds another dimension to the dining experience. You can start with fresh oysters before moving on to your po’boy, creating a complete Gulf Coast meal. The sophisticated atmosphere elevates casual sandwich dining without making it feel stuffy or pretentious, striking that perfect balance between refined and approachable.
Locals Oyster Bar — Raleigh, NC
Despite being located far from any beach, Locals Oyster Bar captures coastal dining culture with remarkable accuracy. Their po’boys deliver authentic Gulf flavors that transport diners straight to Louisiana, even while sitting in downtown Raleigh surrounded by city streets.
The menu showcases both traditional oyster and shrimp po’boys prepared with respect for time-honored methods. Fresh seafood arrives regularly, ensuring quality matches what you’d expect from restaurants actually located on the water.
What started as a vision to bring coastal cuisine inland has become a Raleigh staple. The restaurant proves that geographic location doesn’t determine quality when chefs are passionate and dedicated. Whether you’re a transplanted coastal native missing home flavors or a curious diner exploring new tastes, Locals delivers po’boys worth celebrating and sharing with friends.
