Nestled in the charming coastal town of Oak Island, NC, the Oak Island Restaurant stands as a beacon for food enthusiasts and locals alike, offering a diverse menu that beautifully captures the essence of Southern coastal cuisine.
Whether you’re a visitor seeking authentic flavors or a resident craving a familiar taste, this restaurant provides a culinary journey that is both comforting and innovative. The menu is thoughtfully curated, blending fresh seafood, classic Southern dishes, and contemporary favorites to satisfy every palate.
With its warm ambiance and attentive service, Oak Island Restaurant has become a favorite destination for gatherings, celebrations, and casual dining experiences.
Exploring the Oak Island Restaurant menu reveals a commitment to quality ingredients and a passion for culinary excellence. From appetizers that tease your taste buds to hearty entrées that leave you fully satisfied, each dish is crafted with care and a deep respect for tradition.
The menu also thoughtfully includes options for various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can find something delightful. Pairing your meal with locally sourced beverages or specialty cocktails further enhances the dining experience.
This comprehensive guide dives into the different facets of the Oak Island Restaurant menu, offering detailed insights to help you navigate its rich offerings with confidence and excitement.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Beginning
The appetizer selection at Oak Island Restaurant is designed to whet your appetite and set the tone for a memorable meal. Emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold flavors, these starters offer a perfect balance of classic comfort and creative twists.
Whether you prefer something light or a bit more indulgent, the appetizer menu caters to a variety of tastes.
One standout appetizer is the Southern Crab Cakes, featuring lump crab meat seasoned with just the right blend of spices and herbs. The cakes are lightly pan-fried to a golden crisp and served with a tangy remoulade sauce that complements their richness perfectly.
This dish embodies the coastal spirit of Oak Island and highlights the restaurant’s dedication to seafood excellence.
For those seeking a vegetarian option, the Fried Green Tomatoes are a must-try. These slices are breaded with cornmeal and fried until crispy, topped with a creamy pimento cheese spread.
This appetizer offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that evoke the heart of Southern cooking.
Key Appetizer Highlights
- Calamari Fritti – Lightly battered and fried, served with a spicy marinara dip
- Oysters Rockefeller – Fresh oysters baked with spinach, cheese, and herbs
- Peel and Eat Shrimp – Served chilled with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges
“Our appetizers are crafted to bring guests a perfect start to their meal, combining classic recipes with a touch of modern flair.” – Oak Island Restaurant Chef
Seafood Entrées: Fresh Catches from the Coast
At the heart of Oak Island Restaurant’s menu lies an impressive array of seafood entrées that celebrate the bounty of the Atlantic. Each dish showcases fresh, locally sourced fish and shellfish, prepared with techniques that enhance their natural flavors.
From grilled to fried, the seafood offerings are both diverse and satisfying.
The Grilled Mahi-Mahi is a popular choice, featuring a delicate fillet seasoned with lemon and herbs, then grilled to perfection. It is served alongside seasonal vegetables and a light, citrus beurre blanc sauce that elevates the dish without overpowering the fish.
This entrée perfectly balances freshness and richness, making it a favorite among regular patrons.
For a heartier option, the Seafood Platter offers an assortment of fried shrimp, scallops, and flounder, accompanied by hush puppies and coleslaw. This dish is a great way to sample multiple seafood varieties in one sitting, delivering a satisfying crunch and a medley of flavors that capture the essence of coastal dining.
Comparing Popular Seafood Entrées
| Dish | Cooking Method | Accompaniments | Flavor Profile |
| Grilled Mahi-Mahi | Grilled | Seasonal Vegetables, Citrus Sauce | Light, Fresh, Citrusy |
| Seafood Platter | Fried | Hush Puppies, Coleslaw | Crispy, Savory, Rich |
| Blackened Grouper | Blackened Pan-Seared | Rice Pilaf, Steamed Broccoli | Spicy, Smoky, Bold |
Each seafood entrée is crafted to highlight the natural sweetness and texture of the ingredients, ensuring a memorable dining experience. The Oak Island Restaurant’s commitment to sourcing fresh seafood from local fisheries also supports sustainable practices that benefit the community and environment.
Steaks and Land-Based Favorites
While seafood is a highlight, Oak Island Restaurant also offers a compelling selection of steaks and other land-based dishes for those seeking hearty comfort foods. These options appeal to guests who prefer robust, savory flavors paired with classic sides.
The Ribeye Steak is a prime cut, expertly grilled to your preferred temperature and served with garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans. This dish emphasizes quality meat and simple, well-executed accompaniments that allow the steak’s flavor to shine.
Another popular choice is the Southern Fried Chicken, which features crispy, golden-brown chicken seasoned with a special blend of spices. Served with creamy mac and cheese and collard greens, this entrée pays homage to traditional Southern comfort food with a refined presentation.
Steak and Land Entrée Options
- Filet Mignon – Tender and lean, served with a red wine reduction
- Pork Chop – Grilled with a cider glaze, paired with roasted root vegetables
- Vegetarian Pasta – Seasonal vegetables tossed in a light garlic olive oil sauce
“Our land-based dishes are crafted with the same care as our seafood, ensuring every guest finds a favorite.” – Sous Chef Oak Island Restaurant
Soups and Salads: Light and Refreshing Choices
The menu also features a variety of soups and salads that offer lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. These options are perfect for starting a meal or enjoying as a main course on warmer days.
The She-Crab Soup is a rich, creamy delight made from fresh crab meat and finished with a splash of sherry. It’s a beloved regional specialty that reflects the coastal heritage of the area.
Served with a crusty roll, it provides a warm and comforting experience.
For something crisp and refreshing, the Oak Island House Salad features mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions tossed in a house-made vinaigrette. The salad can be customized with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for added protein.
Popular Soups and Salads
- Clam Chowder – A creamy New England-style soup with tender clams and potatoes
- Caesar Salad – Romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese
- Beet and Goat Cheese Salad – Roasted beets, goat cheese, candied walnuts, and mixed greens
| Dish | Key Ingredients | Calories (Approx.) |
| She-Crab Soup | Crab Meat, Cream, Sherry | 350 |
| Oak Island House Salad | Mixed Greens, Vinaigrette | 150 |
| Beet and Goat Cheese Salad | Beets, Goat Cheese, Walnuts | 280 |
Sandwiches and Burgers: Casual Coastal Classics
For those looking for a more casual dining option, Oak Island Restaurant offers a range of sandwiches and burgers that bring coastal flavors to handheld favorites. These dishes are perfect for lunch or a laid-back dinner with friends and family.
The Blackened Fish Sandwich is a customer favorite, featuring a spicy blackened fish fillet topped with lettuce, tomato, and a zesty remoulade sauce on a toasted bun. It pairs wonderfully with crispy fries or a side salad.
Another highlight is the Classic Cheeseburger, made from a juicy beef patty cooked to order, with melted cheddar cheese, pickles, onions, and the restaurant’s signature sauce. This burger combines simplicity with bold flavors that satisfy the most discerning burger lovers.
Sandwich and Burger Menu Highlights
- Crab Cake Sandwich – Served with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce
- Veggie Wrap – Grilled seasonal vegetables with hummus and mixed greens
- Chicken Club – Grilled chicken breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo
“Our sandwiches and burgers capture the spirit of Oak Island’s coastal lifestyle: fresh, flavorful, and fun to eat.”
Desserts: Sweet Endings to Delight
No meal at Oak Island Restaurant is complete without indulging in one of their decadent desserts. The dessert menu features a selection of classic Southern sweets and innovative creations that provide the perfect finish to any dining experience.
The Key Lime Pie is a standout, with its tangy lime filling and graham cracker crust. It offers a refreshing contrast after a rich meal and is a nod to the nearby coastal influences.
Served chilled, it’s a dessert that guests often rave about.
For those craving something warm and comforting, the Chocolate Lava Cake delivers with a molten center of rich chocolate, accompanied by vanilla ice cream and fresh berries. This dessert combines elegance with indulgence, making it a popular choice for celebrations.
Dessert Selections
- Pecan Pie – Traditional Southern pie with a buttery, nutty filling
- Banana Pudding – Layers of vanilla wafers, bananas, and creamy pudding
- Seasonal Fruit Cobbler – Made fresh daily with locally sourced fruits
| Dessert | Description | Serving Temperature |
| Key Lime Pie | Tart lime custard with graham cracker crust | Chilled |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Warm chocolate cake with molten center | Warm |
| Pecan Pie | Sweet, nutty, and buttery traditional pie | Room Temperature |
Beverages: Complementing Every Dish
The beverage menu at Oak Island Restaurant is thoughtfully designed to complement the flavors of the food and enhance the overall dining experience. From handcrafted cocktails to local craft beers and an extensive wine list, there is something to satisfy every preference.
The bar features signature cocktails like the Oak Island Breeze, a refreshing blend of rum, pineapple, and citrus juices that capture the island’s laid-back vibe. For beer lovers, a rotating selection of local breweries offers seasonal and classic brews that pair well with seafood and grilled dishes.
Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse collection, which includes both domestic and international options. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to assist with pairing recommendations, ensuring that each meal is perfectly complemented by the right glass.
Beverage Highlights
- Signature Cocktails – Including Oak Island Breeze, Coastal Mule, and Spiced Rum Punch
- Local Craft Beers – Seasonal selections from nearby breweries
- Wine List – Reds, whites, and sparkling varieties from top regions
“A great meal deserves a great drink; our beverage menu is curated to elevate every dining moment.” – Oak Island Restaurant Sommelier
Conclusion
The Oak Island Restaurant in Oak Island, NC, offers an exceptional dining experience that is deeply rooted in the flavors and traditions of the coastal South. Its diverse menu, featuring fresh seafood, hearty steaks, light salads, and indulgent desserts, caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Every dish reflects a commitment to quality, local sourcing, and culinary craftsmanship, creating meals that are both memorable and satisfying.
Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a festive gathering spot, Oak Island Restaurant’s menu provides versatile options that delight and inspire. The thoughtful beverage selection, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive service further enhance the experience, making each visit special.
For anyone exploring Oak Island or calling it home, this restaurant remains a treasured culinary destination that consistently delivers on flavor, freshness, and hospitality.
