Planning a vacation to the Outer Banks this summer? With a typical drive time of about five-and-a-half hours from NoVA, the North Carolina beaches make for a great road trip destination – just don’t forget to plan for a pit stop along the way.
Rather than settling for a highway rest stop or greasy fast food, stop at one of these five restaurants. They’re located conveniently along the route (or just a short detour away) so you can stretch your legs and have a satisfying meal to start your vacation off on the right foot.
And once you make it to your destination, check out Northern Virginia Magazine’s guide to North Carolina barbecue to find great food during your stay.
Scoot’s BBQ
Drive time from Dulles: 3 hours
You’ll hop off I-64 just past Williamsburg and head north for this tasty detour, and the barbecue is well an extra few minutes of driving time. You’ll find options for wings, brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, all smoked low and slow and served with the signature sauce, with options like fried okra, mac and cheese, and beet salad to complete the meal. 2091 George Washington Memorial Hwy., Gloucester Point
Water Street Grille
Drive time from Dulles: 3 hours
Take a rest on Yorktown’s waterfront at this bar and grill. There’s an abundance of fresh seafood, including crab cakes and locally caught oysters served raw, chargrilled, or fried. You can opt for patio seating to catch some of that sea breeze – it’s a fitting prequel to your seaside travels. 323 Water St., Ste. A-1, Yorktown
Handsome Biscuit
Drive time from Dulles: 3 hours, 30 minutes
No trip south could be complete without some good old-fashioned biscuits. Make a quick pit stop in Norfolk to try out the biscuit sandwiches at this little restaurant. The fried chicken versions come piled high with a huge piece of chicken and toppings that include pickles and coleslaw. For something less filling, opt for a tomato sandwich or a peanut butter and jelly. When the biscuits are the star of the show, even the simplest options will shine. 2511 Colonial Ave., Norfolk
Currituck BBQ Company
Drive time from Dulles: 4 hours
A father-son duo runs this barbecue joint, conveniently located just off the highway that leads to the Outer Banks. It specializes in hickory-smoked meats like pork, brisket, and chicken, that are doused in special rubs and housemade sauces. If you’re traveling in a group, family meals present a convenient way to feed everyone. 4467 Caratoke Hwy., Barco, North Carolina
Grandy Greenhouse & Farm Market
Drive time from Dulles: 4 hours, 15 minutes
For a pick-me-up at the tail end of the drive, grab a sweet treat and some fresh fruit at this farm market. Get frozen yogurt on its own, or try a fruit flurry, which combines frozen yogurt with peaches, berries, or bananas for a refreshing summer dessert. You can stock up on some locally grown peaches and berries for a fresh, healthy snack for the drive. 6264 Caratoke Hwy., Grandy, North Carolina
Feature image courtesy Handsome Biscuit
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