A visit to Kitty Hawk during the summer season without stopping at John’s Drive In just isn’t complete in our book. The Outer Banks of North Carolina is known for long-running, established restaurants that have served generations of families and John’s Drive In is right up there at the top with the best of them.

If you spend any time at all in Kitty Hawk, then chances are more than good that you've at least passed right by John's Drive In.
Google/Bobby Dunn
It's located right on NC-12 (N Virginia Dare Trail), the coastal highway that runs right along the beach, which is precisely where you'll find John's, an unassuming little seasonal roadside attraction with a walk-up window for service and plenty of outside seating.
Google/John's Drive In
John's opened all the way back in 1977 in this very spot and has served delicious fried fish and milkshakes to generations of families that either live in the Outer Banks, or make their way here during the summer for vacation.
Google/Andrew Behm
With a menu that features both baskets of fried fish as well as sandwiches, John's is a perfect spot to answer a craving for delicious fresh fish on the coast.
Google/Brent Larson
From fried dolphin to Cajun shrimp, a crab cake sandwich, Cajun grilled tuna steak, and more, everyone in your family is sure to find something to love at John's.
Facebook/John's Drive In Outer Banks

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Don't leave, though, without indulging in one of John's famous milkshakes. They come in a variety of flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, and root beer.
TripAdvisor/EAIVY
And you can choose from a 16-ounce version (seen below), or bring an extra hearty appetite and order of a 24-ounce milkshake. Wow. Dee-licious and filling!
Google/James Davalos
John's also has soft serve in vanilla and chocolate!
Google/Benjamin Dictus
Is it any wonder this family-run roadside stand in Kitty Hawk has been in business for more than 40 years?? Nope.
Google/greg green
Be sure to add John's Drive In to your bucket list the next time you're anywhere within 50 miles of this little roadside eatery in the Outer Banks.
Google Maps
You'll be so glad you did!

John’s Drive In is open seasonally from spring to late fall. Learn more about it, see the menu, and check on open/close status throughout the year by visiting the restaurant’s official website, here. You can join more than 15,000 other people who follow John’s on Facebook, here.

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John's Drive In, 3716 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949, USA