• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Howard's Pub - Fresh Seafood and Classic American Fare in Ocracoke, NC

Howard's Pub, nestled on Ocracoke Island, NC, is a vibrant American restaurant renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and hearty pub fare. Highlights include Ocracoke Oysters, conch fritters, crab cakes, and perfectly seared tuna bites, each prepared with care and bursting with coastal flavors. The atmosphere strikes a balance between lively and laid-back, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual nights out. Their use of fresh-cut fries and attention to detail elevate classic dishes like cheeseburgers and ribeye steak. Friendly service and carefully crafted cocktails complete a memorable dining experience that truly captures the island’s spirit.

Howard's Pub at a glance

  • Address 1175 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
  • Phone +1 252-928-4441
  • Restaurant type American restaurant .

Photos & Gallery

Howard's Pub: Reviews & Ratings

Delane Bairrow
5

My family visited this restaurant during the Thanksgiving holidays. The atmosphere in the pub was great and the food was delicious. I had a burger and fries and it was definitely one of the best burgers that I have had. It's hard to find a great burger nowadays. Too bad it's on an island that you have to take a ferry to get to. I will definitely visit again and hopefully have another delicious burger. Man, I'm hungry now! I would definitely recommend to anyone.

Jean C
5

My friends and I had a fantastic time at this seafood restaurant/bar. The tuna bites were absolutely delicious—perfectly seared and seasoned. The fish of the day was fresh and flavorful. We had a choice between 3 fresh fish. The portion size was just right. I highly recommend the taco salad, which was satisfying with fresh toppings and a crispy shell. The atmosphere was lively with a fun, laid-back vibe, which made for a great night out. Prices were reasonable for the quality, making it a good spot to enjoy seafood without breaking the bank. We’ll definitely be back!

Melissa Hensley
5

Great place on the Island! We came over on the ferry from Hatteras so we could see the Ocracoke lighthouse. Ate at Howard’s because it was Sunday night (and that’s about the only place open past 4p on a Sunday) but it did not disappoint. I had the local fish sandwich and a unicycle beer. Great last meal on my vacation.

Mrs. A Stephens
5

Great fresh food everything we tried was delicious and freshly cooked. The corn and shrimp chowder was to die for my blackened fish was good. I was glad to see fresh cut fries on the menu instead of frozen there were cooked to perfection. Husband had the oyster Rockefeller which he enjoyed along with the conch fritters Service was great

Krissy Ward
5

If you are a local or a visitor, Howard’s Pub is a must place! Anytime of the week. Kind friendly! The night we stopped in, there was a kid’s princess birthday party. They were separated from the rest of the guests to not interrupt. The atmosphere is friendly and cheerful! Friendly and cheerful staff! Good Food! We got the Oysters and a Bloody Mary. A tad harsh on the pocket book, BUT worth it for a celebration! (Was my birthday!) You get a sense of a hometown at Howard’s.

leeshelp
4

My wife and I both had the BBQ burger and we both loved them. Friendly staff and attentive service. The collection of personalized license plates all over the walls and rafters held our attention for quite a while. We highly recommend a stop here.

Mike Pulaski
5

Great food cleverly disguised as a beach dive bar. Can get ridiculously busy early in day as everyone comes off the ferry and this is literally the first place to eat. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Even in July, we were able to walk in past lots of people waiting for a table and sit at the bar. Had the blackened mahi sandwich with hush puppies. Tartar sauce is obviously homemade and completed the sandwich and then some. Mrs got the shrimp basket with a side of cole slaw that is again obviously homemade. Great food and portions as well great selection of mixed drinks and craft brews. Lunch and drinks little over $60 and no disappointment. As long as I'm in Ocracoke, will be stopping at Howard's.

Amber Chase
5

Always tasty and the atmosphere is definitely more on the pub side. Just a heads up for those who are sensitive to noise. -Fried Red Drum sandwich -Blackened Tuna sandwich

Location

  • Howard's Pub
    Howard's Pub
    1175 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States Hotline: +1 252-928-4441

Nestled on the picturesque Ocracoke Island, Howard's Pub stands out as a vibrant American restaurant that truly captures the spirit of coastal hospitality. This local gem, located at 1175 Irvin Garrish Hwy, offers a welcoming atmosphere that feels both lively and laid-back—a perfect blend for those seeking comfort and quality in one place. Whether you arrive by ferry or car, the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by friendly staff and the enticing aroma of freshly prepared seafood and classic pub fare.

The menu at Howard's Pub is a celebration of the ocean's bounty and American flavors. Highlights like the Ocracoke Oysters and Conch Fritters are a testament to the freshness of the local catch, delivering a crisp, briny taste that seafood lovers crave. The Seafood Platter shrimp and the Tuna Bites are masterfully seasoned and cooked to perfection, revealing the kitchen's attention to detail and respect for quality ingredients.

One can't talk about Howard's without mentioning their Crab Cake Sandwich—a delectable mix of tender crab meat paired with fresh-cut fries that go beyond the usual frozen fare, echoing the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and authenticity. The Ribeye Steak and Tuna Steak cater to those seeking hearty, flavorful dishes with just the right balance of seasoning and richness.

For a light yet satisfying choice, the Taco Salad stands out with its fresh toppings and crispy shell, bringing vibrant textures and colors to your plate. And for dessert, the Key Lime Pie suits the coastal vibe perfectly, offering a refreshing and tangy finish to your meal.

What truly elevates Howard's Pub is not just the food but the experience. Customers like Delane Bairrow rave about the unforgettable burgers, while Jean C praises the fresh fish selections and reasonable prices. Melissa Hensley and Mrs. A Stephens highlight not only the flavors but also the perfect execution—from the blackened fish to the rich shrimp chowder. The sense of community is palpable, with family-friendly events and a warm, hometown feel that guests like Krissy Ward cherish.

In essence, Howard's Pub embodies the best of island dining: fresh, well-crafted dishes, a hospitable and cheerful atmosphere, and a genuine taste of coastal North Carolina. It’s a destination worth the ferry ride, leaving you eager for your next visit and your next bite of that perfectly seared tuna or succulent seafood platter.

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Outdoor seating
    • On-site services
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
    • Delivery
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • Credit cards