Discover the best Corolla and Duck dining stops on an Outer Banks Restaurant Tour—from wood-fired pizza and fresh seafood to wine tastings and chef-driven dishes. A delicious way to explore OBX.
Looking to taste the best of Corolla and beyond?
An Outer Banks Restaurant Tour is the perfect way to dive into the local food scene. With walking and driving options, these tours take you behind the scenes of Corolla, Duck, and Kitty Hawk restaurants while introducing you to chefs, owners, and regional flavors.
From wood-fired pizzas to fine wines and fresh-caught seafood, every stop adds another layer to the OBX dining experience.
Below, we've rounded up the highlights from our recent tour—each one a reason to eat your way through the Outer Banks.
1. MIKE DIANNA'S GRILL ROOM
Fine dining meets local personality
Our tour kicked off at Mike Dianna's Grill Room, where we got the story behind the restaurant, the Mustang Music Festival, and the Honolulu Fish Company. Mike himself prepared a grilled shrimp and vegetable medley before our eyes, paired with a Wild Horse Chardonnay.
Why You'll Love It
- Chef-driven dishes with seasonal seafood and fresh vegetables.
- Local stories from Mike himself—he's as much a host as he is a chef.
- Perfect wine pairings that elevate every bite.
2. COSMO'S PIZZERIA
Classic Corolla pizza with a local twist
Owner Matt welcomed us with Corolla Classic pizza: a hearty combination of sausage, pepperoni, meatball, mushrooms, onions, and spices. It paired beautifully with Natty Greene's Buckshot Amber Ale. And yes, the fried pickles with avocado ranch are a must.
Why You'll Love It
- Generous, loaded pies that locals rave about.
- Pairings with North Carolina craft beer.
- Crispy fried pickles worth the trip alone.
3. Bambino's Little Italy (Closed)
New Orleans-inspired flavors with Italian flair
Chef Randolph served a BBQ shrimp dish kissed with lemon, butter, and cracked pepper, followed by house-smoked duck breast over sheep's cheese polenta. Dessert? A taste of tiramisu that left us wanting the full-size portion.
Why You'll Love It
- In-house creations like cured duck and pickled vegetables.
- Elevated Italian with creative southern twists.
- Indulgent desserts made with care.
4. Pasquale's Pizza Pub (CLOSED)
Old-school Naples charm in Corolla
Pasquale, originally from Naples, shared stories of cooking with his family in Italy while serving up his signature Margherita pizza—perfect crust, homemade tomato sauce, and fresh basil. He even treated us to prosciutto on ciabatta and lightly fried conch.
Why You'll Love It
- Authentic Italian recipes passed down through generations.
- Handmade sauces, fresh mozzarella, and specialty requests.
- Pasquale himself—warm, passionate, and unforgettable.
5. BACCHUS WINE & CHEESE
Wine flights and sweet finishes
The tour wrapped up at Bacchus Wine & Cheese with a six-wine tasting featuring Childress Vineyards. From Chardonnay to Late Harvest Viognier, each pour was paired with palate-cleansing bites and brownie nibbles.
Why You'll Love It
- Six rotating wine flights with local and regional bottles.
- Tuesday night tastings with paired small plates.
- Relaxed, educational atmosphere for wine lovers.
At a Glance: Outer Banks Restaurant Tour Stops
| Stop | Highlight | Why You'll Love It |
|---|---|---|
| Mike Dianna's Grill Room | Shrimp & veggie medley with wine pairing | Chef-led demo, local stories, seasonal flavors |
| Cosmo's Pizzeria | Corolla Classic pizza & fried pickles | Hearty pies, NC craft beer pairings, crispy pickles |
| Bambino's Little Italy (Closed) | BBQ shrimp & house-smoked duck | Creative southern-Italian fusion, in-house specialties, tiramisu |
| Pasquale's Pizza Pub (Closed) | Margherita pizza & Italian bites | Authentic Naples recipes, handmade sauces, passionate owner |
| Bacchus Wine & Cheese | Six-wine tasting & brownie bites | Regional wines, palate-cleansing nibbles, relaxed wine education |
Bonus: How to Join an Outer Banks Restaurant Tour
An Outer Banks Restaurant Tour isn't just about food—it's a way to meet local chefs, hear their stories, and taste the flavors that make OBX unique. Here's how you can join in:
Driving Tours
Hop in and let someone else do the navigating while you sample the best of Corolla and Kitty Hawk. Driving tours often include stops at local gems plus add-ons like the Weeping Radish Farm Brewery, a regional wine tasting, or even a chef-led cooking demo. It's a relaxing way to cover more ground without worrying about logistics.
Walking Tours
If you prefer a slower pace, the Duck walking tour is perfect. Meander through the heart of town, pausing at eateries and cafes along the way. With sunshine overhead and the sound of the water nearby, it feels less like a tour and more like a leisurely afternoon with friends. Just don't forget the essentials—sunscreen, a hat, and a bottle of water make the experience more comfortable.
Special Experiences
For those who want something hands-on, look into the cooking class tours. These give you the chance to not only taste but also create dishes alongside local chefs. It's equal parts education, entertainment, and indulgence—a true treat for anyone who loves food.
Where to Stay at the Outer Banks
The secret to a great OBX getaway? Finding the perfect place to stay.
Our rentals range from oceanfront homes with stunning views to cozy cottages perfect for families or couples. Many properties include amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and fully equipped kitchens, ensuring your stay is as relaxing as it is adventurous.
When you book with Village Realty, you can skip the stress and dive straight into everything the Outer Banks has to offer.