Let's eat!

A reader asked me to post a blog about restaurant options on the island. I apologize that it has taken me a while to do so, but here you go. I've tried to list everyone, along with a few random thoughts about each place. Let me know if I missed any! FYI, there is nothing new this year in the space that was most recently Riley's.

My personal favorite top three:
- Cafe Atlantic (everything they put on a plate at the Cafe is good, starting with the fresh, warm bread through the salad with homemade dressing, varied entrees, and most importantly their fantastic desserts!)
- Flying Melon (it's all good here, too - terrific brunch, somewhat of a Cajun/New Orleans flair)
- The Back Porch (wonderful romantic ambience, great food (some French-inspired cuisine, but plenty of variety) and terrific desserts)

There are several others, in no particular order, including "snack" type places as well as full-meal restaurants:
- Dajio (delicious entrees, shrimp hour, patio and indoor seating)
- SmacNally's (casual, outdoor dining on the harbor - burgers, seafood, etc.)
- Jolly Roger (burgers, seafood, Mexican items - waterfront right on the harbor with gorgeous sunset views; live music Sunday nights)
- Howard's Pub (seafood, steak, raw bar, 200+ kinds of beer)
- Jason's (fabulous pizza, Italian specialties (pasta, lasagna, etc.) in a casual setting, sushi on Tuesday nights)
- Jimmy's Buffet (all you can eat seafood buffet (there are also non seafood items), live music some nights)
- Creekside Cafe (casual: salads, sandwiches, wraps, live music on some nights)
- Fig Tree Bakery & Deli (sandwiches, ice cream, candy)
- Ocracoke Coffee Company and Island Smoothie (mostly beverages, but they also have bagels with several kinds of cream cheese and other spreads/toppings including my personal favorite, lox (smoked salmon), plus a delicious granola fruit & yogurt bowl)
- Pony Island Restaurant - casual, great breakfast (try Pony Potatoes!), daily specials
- Ocracoke Pizza Company (pizza, obviously! take out only, occasional Greek nights)
- Thai Moon (fantastic authentic Thai food - takeout only, cash only)
- The Slushy Stand (mostly ice cream and smoothies, but they also have muffins in the morning I believe)
- The Station (gas station - sandwiches, pizza, that sort of thing - good for fast pickup if you're headed to a ferry)

Okay, I'm officially hungry now...