Watermen's Bar & Grill - Waves, NC

Attraction: Watermen’s Bar & Grill
Location: 25706 NC-12, Waves, NC 27982
Industry: Restaurant
Website: https://www.watermensbarandgrill.com

At Watermen’s Bar & Grill in Waves, magic happens every day.

Located behind the famous REAL Watersports flagship store, this waterfront restaurant has been serving up scratch-made cuisine and unforgettable sunset views since 2013.

What makes this place truly special goes beyond the incredible location.

The entire restaurant is trimmed with reclaimed hardwood that spent over 100 years as part of the original 1921 Coney Island Boardwalk, giving the space an authentic, storied character that you can literally touch and feel. This unique blend of coastal Carolina charm and historic New York nostalgia creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else on the Outer Banks.

Menu Highlights That’ll Make Your Mouth Water

Signature Crab Cakes: These aren’t your typical tourist-trap crab cakes. Watermen’s signature made-from-scratch lump crab cakes are loaded with sweet, fresh crab meat and served with their house cocktail sauce. The generous portions and authentic coastal preparation make these a must-try for any seafood lover.

The Famous Tuna Bites: Thick cut and uniquely seasoned tuna bites come with their renowned wasabi cream sauce that has customers raving. The fresh local tuna is perfectly prepared, and that signature sauce adds just the right kick without overwhelming the fish’s natural flavors.

Prime Rib Perfection: For those craving something heartier, the herb-encrusted prime rib is cooked to order and served with horseradish sauce and fresh homemade au jus. The generous 12-ounce cut pairs beautifully with their grilled jumbo shrimp skewer for the ultimate surf and turf experience.

Local Blackened Tuna: The blackened local tuna topped with lump crab and wasabi cream sauce showcases the best of both land and sea. The spice blend perfectly complements the fresh fish, while the crab topping adds richness and the wasabi cream provides a subtle heat.

Devon’s Carolina BBQ Ribs: These slowly braised ribs are finished on the char grill for that perfect smoky flavor. The meat falls off the bone, and they’re served as part of their impressive BBQ trio with chicken kabob and BBQ shrimp skewer.

Rum Bar Specialties: Don’t miss their exclusive rum bar featuring top-shelf rums from around the world. From classic rum punches to creative tropical cocktails, the drink menu is as impressive as their food offerings.

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Coffee & Espresso Excellence: They serve their own locally roasted coffees, making this a perfect spot for caffeine lovers. The coffee program is taken seriously here, with beans roasted just days before brewing.

Atmosphere & Waterfront Magic

Historic Coney Island Boardwalk Wood: The reclaimed hardwood throughout the restaurant tells a story that spans over a century. This authentic piece of American boardwalk history adds character and conversation to every meal.

Indoor/Outdoor Flexibility: You can choose comfortable indoor seating with flat-screen TVs and wood ceilings, or head out to the expansive deck with picnic tables overlooking the water. The movable furniture can accommodate everything from intimate dinners to large family gatherings.

Live Music Venue: The waterfront stage hosts live music several nights a week, with their famous Sky Blue Summer Concert Series featuring over 100 performances. The family-friendly atmosphere makes these shows perfect for all ages, and most evening concerts are free admission from 6-9 PM.

Kiteboarding Action: The location offers front-row seats to some of the world’s best kiteboarding action on the Pamlico Sound. Watching these colorful kites dance across the water while you dine creates an entertainment experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Spectacular Sunsets: The western-facing location provides unobstructed sunset views over the Pamlico Sound that are absolutely breathtaking. The combination of water, sky, and kites creates a natural show that changes every evening.

Other Considerations

Mid-Range Pricing: The pricing falls into the moderate range for Outer Banks dining, offering excellent value considering the waterfront location, generous portions, and quality ingredients. You’ll find appetizers in the $8-15 range, entrees from $18-35, making it accessible for most budgets while still feeling special.

Family-Friendly Space: The large waterfront lawn gives kids plenty of room to run around while parents enjoy their meals. The atmosphere is casual enough for families but refined enough for romantic dinners.

Parking Convenience: Located directly behind REAL Watersports with ample parking, you won’t have to worry about finding a spot even during busy summer months.

Takeout Available: You can call ahead at 252-987-2000 for easy grab-and-go meals, perfect for taking to the beach or back to your rental. They handle large group orders well, though it’s best to call early.

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Seasonal Operation: Open Monday through Saturday from 12 PM to 8 PM, with coffee service starting at 9 AM. They close for about one month during winter, so check ahead if visiting in the off-season.

No Reservations Needed: They operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but the large space and efficient service keep wait times manageable even during peak season.

Local Ingredients Focus: The commitment to locally sourced produce, fresh local seafood, and North Carolina craft beers on tap shows their dedication to supporting the regional food scene while ensuring the freshest possible ingredients.

Watermen’s Bar & Grill
📍 25706 NC-12, Waves, NC 27982