I Never Visit Beaufort Without Stopping at Beaufort Grocery for Crab Dip

Situated along the stunning Crystal Coast, this seaside town in North Carolina is a seafood lover's dream. While the area is best known for its scenic harbor filled with sailboats and luxury yachts, wild horses that graze on nearby islands, and for being the home of Blackbeard, the infamous pirate, Beaufort is one of my favorite destinations in the country for fresh seafood. 

After a long day of searching for seashells at Cape Lookout National Seashore or spotting wild Banker ponies at Shackleford Banks, fuel up at one of the best restaurants in town. Nestled just off the center of Beaufort’s historical core, Beaufort Grocery Co. is located on Queen Street, just steps away from the purported home of Blackbeard. Opened in 1991 inside the former Owens Grocery Store, the store quickly expanded into the adjoining historic home (one of many that you’ll see scattered around Beaufort). 

Step inside to reveal timbered walls, soaring ceilings, and whimsical paintings from local artists that adorn every inch of the walls. You’ll see a shimmering dessert case to your right, where you’ll no doubt find yourself ogling pies, before being seated in the open dining room. It’s always a blur of friendly staff, locals, and tourists, shimmying by each other in hopes of snagging a table or dropping off a steaming plate of something delicious. They also have a gorgeous, shady patio in the back and a beautiful bar area if you’re stopping in for a quick drink.

While the menu varies depending on whether you’re coming for brunch, lunch, or dinner, one dish is an absolute mainstay. The Hot Carolina Crab Dip is an ooey, gooey cauldron of creamy cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and lump crab. Served with grilled pita and homemade lavash crackers, this bubbling pot of pure decadence is the pinnacle of seafood appetizers. It can easily serve two to three people as an hors d'oeuvre — or be devoured on its own as an entree. 

Aside from the crab dip (which I frequently daydream about), the flaming saganaki cheese is another popular appetizer and is served with homemade bread. When it comes to mains, don’t skip the Sonnamabeach sandwich, doled out with Carolina caviar or potato salad at lunch, or the smoked sea salt seared tuna from the dinner menu.

I also highly recommend you order a slice of the chocolate peanut butter torte to really seal the deal, although any of their homemade desserts are worth sampling. While there are endless spots in town for delicious eats, like the grouper bites from Rhum Bar or a pizza from Black Sheep, Beaufort Grocery Co. takes the cake in my humble opinion. I’ve been visiting Beaufort since I was a toddler and can’t imagine coming to town without making a reservation at Beaufort Grocery Co. 

After you’re finished, walk off the crab dip and sweet treats by perusing some of the shops in town, taking the ferry over to Shackleford Banks, or walking over to one of the oldest cemeteries in North Carolina, the Old Burying Ground. Over 300 years old, a little girl buried in a rum barrel, and a Revolutionary War hero are among those who were laid to rest here. If the crab dip wasn't evidence enough, these activities show why Beaufort is so perfectly southern.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to Beaufort using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.