Local Gems: Top 15 Most Loved Local Businesses in Ocracoke, NC

Supporting local businesses while on vacation is a great thing! Fortunately, in Ocracoke, nearly all businesses are locally owned. By spending your money here, you'll be directly contributing to the well-being of the community.

Wondering which local businesses are the most beloved? This blog brings you a list of the Top 15 Most Loved Local Businesses in Ocracoke, as chosen by locals.

Before we jump in, here's a little bit about us...

From the serene satisfaction of waking up to soundfront or harbor views to the joy of a pet-friendly vacation home where every member of the family is welcome, we at Ocracoke Island Realty offer an array of amenities designed to elevate your stay and ensure an unforgettable vacation.

Want more tips about Ocracoke Island? Then head to our destination blog! From the best events happening year-round on the island to the perfect spots to have breakfast, we have you covered. And there's much more content coming soon, so stay tuned.

Now, let's talk about these local gems!

 

Beloved Local Tours in Ocracoke, NC

 

 

1. Outerlore Tours

Owned by two locals inspired by their memories of a self-guided, immersive audio tour they discovered in Cambodia, Outerlore Tours brings a similar experience to Ocracoke Island. Their self-guided tours delve into Outer Banks history, hauntings, legends, and lore, complete with incredible sound effects and music.

All you need is a smartphone to access their content. Simply select a tour of your preference, and after purchasing it and creating an online account, you'll have access to a tutorial and an interactive map to get started.

As you follow the map, you'll listen to hand-selected stories related to the place you're touring, each with its own unique narrator, cinematic soundtrack, and soundscapes. This creates a truly immersive experience and transforms a simple walk into an unforgettable journey through the rich stories and mysteries of the Outer Banks. Tours are available on Ocracoke Island and Roanoke Island.

 

2. Ocracoke Charter Boat

When it comes to boat excursions for small families and groups, Ocracoke Charter Boat is highly recommended by locals. The variety of tours, professional guides, top-notch boats, and excursions to places most vacationers never get to see make it a local business worth supporting. 

Their tours include visits to secluded beaches, swimming in shallow clear waters, shoal hopping, anchoring on private islands for a picnic, and enjoying light tackle fishing and clamming (fishing license included).

That's not all! They also offer sunset, dinner, and even karaoke cruises. Whatever tour you pick, exploring Ocracoke from the water is one of the best things you can do while visiting this North Carolina gem.

 

Beloved Local Restaurants in Ocracoke, NC

3. Thai Moon

Here's a local gem that offers authentic Thai cuisine to Ocracoke Island with a unique flair. This take-out-only spot serves freshly prepared dishes such as Pad Thai, Satay Chicken, Tom Yum Goong, and Panaeng Curry, all crafted using fresh ingredients.

For those who cannot handle spicy food, they're very flexible, tailoring each dish to your desired spice level. Make sure to call ahead for takeout orders, as their delicious food tends to sell out quickly.

When picking up your order, check out their selection of Thai groceries and clothing for sale, and indulge in the enticing aroma of traditional spices that fill the air.

 

 

4. Eduardo's

Craving Mexican food for breakfast or lunch? Eduardo's is known for its excellent tacos, tortas, burritos, and other Mexican delights served throughout the day.

One of the highlights of this beloved window-service food truck is the Seafood Hot Mess burrito—generously loaded with shrimp and scallops, potatoes, bacon, fried egg, chorizo, avocado, refried beans, queso fresco, Oaxacan cheese, jalapenos, and habanero salsa. The burrito is tightly rolled, grilled to perfection, and all the ingredients blend together seamlessly, creating a spicy, filling, and delightful meal.

Breakfast is available from 8 am to 11 am, featuring specialties like the Chilakiller burrito, burrito bowl, and Mexican Hotcakes. The food truck is entirely outdoors, with a couple of picnic tables offering shaded seating, making it a laid-back and comfortable spot to enjoy a casual meal.

 

5. Dajio Restaurant 

Dajio Restaurant is a top choice for elevated Southern fusion cuisine right in the heart of Ocracoke Island.

The menu offers innovative twists on Southern classics, featuring standout dishes like Dajio Mac & Cheese topped with blackened tuna, Chargrilled Oysters, Shrimp and Oyster Platters, Crab Cakes, Shrimp Po'boy, and Oyster Po'Boy. All ingredients are locally sourced, and every dish is made from scratch.

Whether you choose to sit indoors or on the charming patio, the restaurant's welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by live music, and the staff will always make you feel at home. For those looking to unwind with a drink, Dajio also offers a selection of beers, wines, and exceptional cocktails, including a fresh take on the Brazilian classic caipirinha.

 

6. Howard's Pub

Howard's Pub has been serving locals and visitors with great food and drinks for over three decades. This is the go-to place to relax in a casual atmosphere, recharge with hearty food, and grab a drink after a day of adventures on Ocracoke.

Their menu is diverse, with all-time favorites like Buffalo Shrimp and Oysters Rockefeller. American classics such as Chicken Wings and Fried Pickles are also popular, making perfect accompaniments to a cold glass of local craft beer. Howard's menu includes vegetarian, gluten-free, and kids' options, with the latter served on take-home Frisbees, adding to the fun for families dining with little ones.

 

 

7. SmacNally's

This casual open-air restaurant on the dock at Silver Lake Harbor allows you to savor flavorful food while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings of Ocracoke.

Their menu is vast, offering a variety of options from fresh salads to seafood sandwiches and platters. A standout dish is the Fried Oysters—a must-try. If you dine around 4 p.m., you'll have the chance to see charter boats returning to the marina to unload their catch, adding to the allure of this sea-to-table restaurant. Additionally, SmacNally's boasts stunning lake views, good music, and delicious cocktails, all contributing to an amazing dining experience.

 

8. Ocracoke Oyster Company

Ocracoke Oyster Company is a local institution. If you're looking for a fun, family-friendly atmosphere and, of course, fresh oysters, this is the place to go and support. 

Grab a table in their casual space boasting rustic island vibes and indulge in their famous Oyster Rockefeller. The menu also offers a great selection of other delicious dishes such as wood-smoked barbecue, chicken, and vegetarian options. Don't skip dessert here, as their Key Lime Pie is to die for. 

Adding to the superb food experience is the cozy ambiance, complete with a screened porch and a pet-friendly deck with games.

 

Beloved Local Coffee Shops & Bakeries in Ocracoke, NC

9. Ocracoke Coffee Company

Offering an idyllic setting to enjoy the perfect cup of coffee and delicious pastries, Ocracoke Coffee Company has always been a cozy corner of the island for visitors and locals to sit back, relax, and mingle.

Every morning, you can indulge in a great selection of freshly baked goods like scones, muffins, cakes, breads, donuts, and bagels. For a caffeine fix, the menu features a wide variety of espresso-based drinks. Besides the delicacies and great coffee, the outdoor seating, surrounded by beautiful jasmine and birds, is an incredible feature for a relaxing island time.

 

10. Fig Tree Bakery & Deli

Whether you're in the mood for a convenient breakfast or lunch or just want to skip right to the sweet stuff, the Fig Tree Bakery and Sweet Tooth candy shop have you covered. Located in the heart of Ocracoke village, this popular destination has been delighting families for nearly 20 years with all the goodies that islanders crave.

The bakery offers a daily selection of freshly baked treats, along with made-to-order breakfast and lunch sandwiches, homemade salads, and an array of pies, cookies, and pastries. Their candy shop also features a wide selection of candies and treats, including homemade fudge, fine chocolate confections, and ice cream. To make the best of your visit, pair homemade desserts with coffee or one of their specialty drinks.

 

Beloved Local Shops & Boutiques in Ocracoke, NC

11. Mermaid's Folly

Discover the unique offerings at Mermaid's Folly, where you'll find an eclectic array of clothing, jewelry, bags, and hats that capture the essence of a sea-spirited wanderer. This charming local shop features a curated selection of Ocracoke-themed T-shirts, stylish hats, accessories, towels, blankets, and even fresh flowers.

Whether you're looking for a quirky gift for a friend or a unique item for yourself, Mermaid's Folly has it all. The friendly and attentive staff make shopping here a pleasure, making it a must-visit shopping destination on Ocracoke.

 

12. Variety Store

As the only grocery store on the island, the Variety Store is a must-visit during your stay. Since its beginnings, it has offered a great range of products in a convenient and welcoming setting where you'll find everything you need—groceries, snacks, drinks, ice, beach goods, hardware, and much more.

In search of fresh-cut meats, gourmet cheeses, dairy products, bread, spices, sauces, and vegan and gluten-free options? Variety Store has it all!  They also sell grab-and-go sandwiches and pre-packed foods, perfect for your beach day and picnics. Speaking of the beach, this is a mandatory stop if you need beach essentials such as chairs, shades, sunscreen, and more.

 

 

13. Village Craftsmen

This charming store is where you'll find high-quality American-made handcrafts, featuring pottery, jewelry, wooden kitchen utensils, bells, soaps, kaleidoscopes, prints, and much more. Village Craftsmen has been around since the 1970s, making it extra pleasant to support this local business.

Here you'll find something for every budget, and their extensive collection of crafts makes for unique souvenirs to take home. The staff and owner are exceptionally friendly, adding to the welcoming atmosphere of the store. Be sure to check out their beautiful old-school cash register during your visit—you'll definitely want to take a picture for your social media.

 

14. Zillie's Wine Shop

Looking for wine and gourmet snacks? There's no place like Zillie's Wine Shop, often described as a quaint New England-style sundry shop.

This is the go-to place for high-quality wines and micro-brews, with a selection that will satisfy every taste bud. They also sell gourmet snacks and cheeses that pair perfectly with their wines and beers. While Zillie's is not a restaurant, you can hang out and relax on their deck, savoring your purchases in a cozy environment.

 

Beloved Local Breweries in Ocracoke, NC

 

 

15. 1718 Brewing Ocracoke

1718 Brewing Ocracoke is a local treasure serving outstanding craft beer and boasting a festive ambiance and a rooftop deck with fantastic sunset views.

Beer lovers will revel in their selection of handcrafted beers—ranging from IPAs and stouts to lagers and sours — all made with high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. Standouts include their flagship IPA, "Blackbeard's Breakfast" (a coffee-infused stout), and the seasonal "Fig & Raisin Ale." Beyond the superb beer, the rustic decor and nautical theme create a delightful ambiance for unwinding and meeting locals.

Moreover, 1718 Brewing is a hub of local culture and community, hosting meetings and events. If you're traveling with pets, they're more than welcome to join in the fun.

 

Where to stay in Ocracoke Island, NC

If you choose to vacation with Ocracoke Island Realty, you'll have an unparalleled experience of relaxation and adventure on the stunning shores of Ocracoke Island.

Our local expertise means you'll have access to insider tips on the best activities, dining, and attractions on Ocracoke Island. Our rental properties are top-notch, equipped with all the amenities and comforts you and your family need for a memorable vacation by the sea.