North Carolina’s coast is famous for its rich seafood traditions. NC’s local waterways supply fresh, flavorful seafood that countless seafood restaurants in Morehead City, NC, celebrate and take great pride in preparing for guests. If you’re planning a visit, here’s your guide to understanding the types of seafood, prep styles, and favorite dishes you’ll find along the Crystal Coast.
Popular Types of North Carolina Seafood
Thanks to its long coastline and thriving estuaries, North Carolina offers an impressive variety of seafood.
Local Favorites:
- Shrimp – Fresh, sweet, and available year-round—especially famous in the summer
- Blue Crab – Caught in local sounds and perfect for crab cakes or steamed feasts
- Oysters – Prized in the colder months (October to March) for their briny flavor
- Flounder – A mild, tender white fish that’s perfect for frying or baking
- Mahi-Mahi – Known for its firm texture and rich taste—often featured in fish tacos
- Tuna (Yellowfin and Blackfin) – A must-try if you love sushi-grade or seared fish
- Clams and Scallops – Sweet and delicate—often served in pastas or fried platters
NC Seafood Preparation Styles
At many restaurants Morehead City, NC, you’ll notice classic preparation methods that bring out the best in fresh seafood.
Fried:
- Lightly breaded and fried seafood (or Calabash-style) is a North Carolina staple, especially for shrimp, flounder, and oysters
- Served with sides like hushpuppies, coleslaw, and fries
Grilled:
- A healthier favorite for fish like mahi-mahi and tuna
- Often seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a hint of citrus
Steamed:
- Traditional seafood boils often feature steamed crab legs, clams, and oysters
- Seasoned with Old Bay or other regional spice blends
Blackened:
- Fish fillets coated in a bold spice mix and seared for a crispy, flavorful crust
- Common for mahi-mahi, flounder, and snapper
Must-Try Dishes at the Coast
When visiting waterfront towns and seafood restaurants in Morehead City, NC, keep an eye out for these iconic dishes:
- Shrimp and grits – creamy, cheesy grits topped with seasoned shrimp
- Flounder or shrimp burgers – a crispy classic, often topped with tartar sauce
- Fish & chips – locally sourced and fried to perfection
- Crab cakes – lump crab meat breaded with herbaceous spice blends and fried
- Fish or shrimp tacos – Light, fresh, and perfect for a beachside meal
Taste the Tradition in Morehead City, NC
Whether sampling oysters in the winter or grabbing a fried shrimp basket in the summer, North Carolina seafood offers something for every taste. Stop by local favorites like Sugarloaf Island Deli & Yellowfin Pub, one of the most popular seafood restaurants in Morehead City, NC, for an authentic Crystal Coast experience you won’t forget!
