There are a lot of places associated with food in the United States. Chicago has deep-dish pizza. New Orleans has Jambalaya. And Maryland has crab.
But for a town known primarily for its history, this place has some truly awesome, award-winning restaurants. And, 2024 and 2025 have been good to the food scene around Edenton. Some of our mainstays have become even more convenient, and some really exciting restaurants have opened. A lot has changed over the last 18 months, so it’s time to review both the old and the new in the restaurant scene.
Whether you want a quick breakfast, a midday break, or a romantic dinner, you’ll find something for everyone here.
Let’s start with coffee.
No day of exploring Edenton is complete without a little caffeine to start things off.
Edenton Coffeehouse Bakery and Cafe
The Edenton Coffee House is a welcoming, family-run spot that has been part of downtown for years. They serve locally roasted coffee, fresh-baked treats, and more. It’s a great place to grab coffee and a breakfast sandwich before heading out, or to stop by for lunch if you’re downtown.
The Kracken Coffeehouse
Edenton’s newest coffee spot serves artisanal brews every day of the week. You’ll find a variety of brewed coffee, specialty drinks, and espressos.
American classics
If you’re craving American classics like juicy burgers, steaks, or fresh seafood, you’re in the right place.
309 Bistro
309 Bistro, right in downtown Edenton, has been a favorite for years. They serve steaks, chicken, pasta, and seafood, and both locals and visitors love the friendly service and well-prepared dishes. With local seafood, classic American food, and a full bar, it’s a go-to spot for lunch or dinner. (closed 3/17/26)
Broad Street Diner
Broad Street Diner serves all-day breakfast in a cozy, welcoming spot on Broad Street, with fresh ingredients and hearty meals.
Waterman’s Grill
Waterman’s Grill offers two dining areas, a bar, and a friendly vibe. You can sit downstairs to watch the game or head upstairs for a quieter meal. They serve salads, sandwiches, steaks, pasta, and standout seafood from the steamer and raw bar, all in a relaxed yet elegant setting.
Governors Pub
Known as “Edenton’s living room,” this friendly neighborhood spot serves classic pub food like pizza, wings, burgers, subs, soups, and fish & chips. The beer list is long, with domestic drafts, rotating craft beers, and imports. It’s a family-friendly sports bar with plenty of big screens for watching the game and hanging out.
Italian
Enjoy authentic New York-style pizza and Italian pasta that will make you feel like you’ve traveled far, without leaving Edenton.
Carrozza
Edenton’s newest Italian restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy authentic Italian dishes there or take them to go. Carrozza features a changing menu of delicious pastas and flatbreads, known as pinsas.
Ralph’s Pizza
After more than thirty years in finance in NYC, Ralph moved to Edenton and noticed there was no New York pizza around. He decided to share his pizza-making skills with the community. Since opening a few months ago, Ralph’s has become a hit, thanks to its fresh dough and house-made sauce.
Sandwiches and salads
Sometimes you just want a sandwich, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Emilio is a chef who has worked with top names like Martha Stewart, and his passion shows. His sandwiches are among the best you’ll find.
Emilio’s General Store & Takeaway
Emilio’s General Store & Take Away is a local favorite, serving specialty sandwiches and a handpicked selection of local, international, and organic groceries. Whether you want a quick bite or unique ingredients, Emilio’s is a great choice. (closed 3/17/26)
Mexican
Here in Edenton, we have not one, but three awesome Mexican restaurants.
La Mesa
La Mesa Mexican restaurant & bar is a charming spot that marries authentic Mexican cuisine with a lively bar scene, delivering a feast of flavors to the town. Conveniently located near the Edenton Steamers stadium on N. Broad Street, it’s the perfect destination to savor zesty tacos, delectable burritos, and hand-crafted margaritas.
La Oaxaqueña Mexican Food
La Oaxaqueña is the home of authentic Oaxacan cuisine. This restaurant started as a food truck, which can still be seen around town, but it became so popular that they expanded into their own restaurant, serving big burritos, sopes, barbacoa, tortas, and more. It’s like visiting Oaxaca.
Mamasita’s Restaurante Mexicano Y Cantina
Mamasitas is always alive and full for both lunch and dinner, and one meal there will tell you why. A huge menu means everyone in your party will find the item they want. Quick service, killer margaritas, and a great atmosphere make this place awesome.
Snacks and sweet treats
The Patisserie at Edenton Bay
Delicious desserts and baked goods are located in the Edenton Bay Trading Co. building. Get scratch-made cinnamon rolls, fresh-baked bread, and an ever-rotating assortment of treats, meaning there’s always something delicious to try. It’s perfect for an afternoon snack.
Blount’s Mutual Drugs
This neighborhood pharmacy is famous for its old-fashioned soda fountain, serving hand-dipped ice cream and freshly squeezed orangeade or lemonade. Locals say an orange aid is a must whenever you’re downtown.
Huckleberry’s Ice Cream Parlor
Huckleberry’s serves hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream in the newly restored Sears building downtown. It’s the perfect place for a sweet treat on a hot day or dessert after dinner.
A perfect nightcap
Edenton Bay Trading Company
Known locally as “Malcolm’s,”
Southern Living calls this “one of the must-see places in Edenton.” They offer the area’s best selection of beer and wine, premium cigars, imported cheeses, and more. The highlight is the back patio, where you can relax and enjoy a drink in a unique setting.
There’s more coming; we’ve only scratched the surface of all of the different things Edenton has to offer you, from a locally-owned cigar bar to a downtown Sandwich shop that pays homage to Edenton’s history. There’s more to come.
And there’s more coming, too!
Right now, in downtown Edenton, there’s another bakery coming, too.
More is coming about that soon!
