Great old school drive in!! Outstanding food, ambiance, and service! It's like I stepped back in time! Lv it! Highly recommend!

We came here while checking out the Morehead area as it was suggested to us. It was pretty busy when we pulled up, a little line but it went quick .I ordered the crabcake sandwich that had slaw and ketchup on it and a side of hush puppies. The sandwich tasted great ,the crabcake wasn't overcooked or anything it was flavorful. I didn't feel heavy after eating it and the hushpuppies were decent. I'll come back again and try a different dish. read more

Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que - Hush puppies - Barbeque Near Me - Salter Path, North Carolina

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Not until 2 years ago, when I first came to Emerald Isle, did I know there was a sandwich called a scallop burger. I learned then, that I'd been missing out on one of the best ways to eat scallops for way too long! The shrimp burger might be the special, but the scallop burger is worth the price difference, and literally overflowing with seared (not deep fried) scallops. I don't usually like coleslaw or tartar sauce, but get this sandwich "all the way," as the Lord intended. We tried the flounder sandwich today too on a recommendation, and it was a giant filet of perfectly fried flounder, nearly double the size of the bun. It's a grab and go, with just a couple of picnic tables to eat at and a big lunch crowd, so we generally grab it and bring it back to the house. We happened to go for a late lunch today and there was NO LINE!! I will go post 3pm from now on. read more

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Had a group of hungry hikers after taking the trip out to Shackleford Banks. Stopped in to this little gem. I'd seen videos of the world famous shrimp burger, it did not disappoint. My wife got a burger with no bun and we shared fries, onion rings and someone in our group got the fry cake, which was like really unique. service was quick and efficient. would go again and recommend! read more

It's official; I've tried everything on the menu and I'm starting over again with the BBQ being next on my list.. shout out to Jamie and the crew for some of the best food on the crystal coast read more

"All good things must come to an end." Had lunch at the Big Oak. We ordered shrimp burgers and scallop burgers. No way were the shrimp local. They had a horrible flavor. No local salt water flavor to be found here. They actually tasted suspiciously Syscoesque, if you catch my drift. Immediately upon leaving the Big Oak we stopped at the Captain's Kitchen. These shrimp burgers were the real deal. And HALF the price! What?! I had heard about this place but I was always satisfied with the Big Oak. Well, when things change--things change. read more

I love eating at drive-ins at Atlantic Beach and my boyfriend's dad had recommended this place. We went here for lunch and were so pleased to see that the burgers and sandwiches we'd ordered were very packed, delicious, and were very filling! We had ordered the oyster, scallop, clam and shrimp burgers and some hush puppies. Sandwiches come with ketchup, tartar sauce and slaw! The hush puppies were amazing - they're good with ketchup but superb when eaten with butter. The lady that took our orders and the other missus that gave us our food were both very sweet and kind to us. They gave us ketchup, tartar sauce, and butter whenever we asked and ran out (we were eating in the car in the lot). I love the homey atmosphere of the drive-in shack. They put up articles that the drive-in was featured on the walls on either side of the ordering window, which were protected from seaspray and beach breeze behind glass casings, which added some flair and credibility to their history as a business. I really love this place and it quickly became one of my favorite places to go to for seafood when I'm in the area. My only qualms were that the oyster and scallop sandwiches were pretty expensive ($17.33 a piece), but they did use large, restaurant quality scallops and loaded up the sandwiches. I also got a bit unlucky as when I opened my scallop burger, it had a pretty strong smell. Scallops (and other fresh seafood) aren't supposed to really smell that strong so I think it wasn't too fresh and unfortunately upset my stomach in the wee hours of the morning (I woke up every few hours and had to use the bathroom ). I think it was just that unfortunate batch because it honestly still tasted great. Because of this I'm rating it at 4 stars, but I would really recommend giving this drive-in a try! I'm definitely coming back to grab these sandwiches again and maybe try other things, too! read more

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Big Oaks was in North Carolina's "Our State Magazine" about the NC Shrimp Burger. We go to Emerald Isle every summer and had never heard of it, so we tried it. The shrimp burger is the main attraction at Big Oak, and while the barbecue isn't an afterthought, it's also not all that great. I'd call the sandwich a slightly below-average one, with little smoke and heavily reliant on Cole Slaw to give it moisture. The hush puppies are a bargain at $0.89 for a bag of six, but unfortunately, they weren't much better than the pork Sammy. The shrimp burger is nothing to write home about. The regular fries were super. There were only a few picnic tables, so we went to Crystal Coast Brewing, bought adult beverages, and ate there. Big Oak was better than a 3 rating but not quite a 4. read more

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Every day we are on the island we have to have Big Oak! The shrimp burgers are amazing!

The best cheeseburger on the Crystal Coast! I also ordered their fried green beans, which were very good, but a bit pricey.

I've eaten here way to many times over the years, but enjoy every last bite. I have always had great service here, even in the heat of summer when it is slam busy. Keep up the great BBQ, chicken salad, scallop burger etc etc. I saw a few negative reviews in service and wanted to put in my 2 cents. read more

Outstanding shrimp burgers! I remembered them from 40 years ago, and they're still as good! We like spicy food so we got hot sauce along with the other toppings -- overpowered the shrimp a bit so I think we'll skip that next time. I won't wait 40 years to come back! If you want to eat there, be prepared for a rustic experience -- 2 picnic tables to share, and many flies trying to share the picnic! read more

I was last here 16 years ago when I coerced my (no seafood eating) wife to eat here three times during our one week's stay. Each time I had the shrimp burger. Today I had another shrimp burger after 16 years and I didn't even finish it all because it grossed me out a little and I threw it out. My son had a cheeseburger and fries and they were pretty good. So the problem is that I ate at Captain's kitchen three times already this week and Big Oak shrimp burger unfortunately does not come close. I was also a little grossed out to see all three kitchen help sitting outside of Big oak smoking. read more

We ordered pick-up for burgers & fries. One of the best hamburgers that I have had in many years! I am going back tomorrow for another one! The orders of fries were huge! read more

As always, the best food ever! Year after year we've eaten here and never have been disappointed.

Food is amazing as always. Service as quick as can be expected for made fresh to order. The prices have risen immensely in last 4-5 years. But the fully dressed oyster sandwich is mind-blowing. read more

Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que - Menus 2024 - Barbeque Near Me - Salter Path, North Carolina

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We were really hoping this would be a fantastic little food spot, maybe a hidden gem, but it wasn't. My shrimp burger was just ok - came with ketchup and slaw on it but the shrimp were so soggy. The other five in our party had a variety of corn dogs, burgers, hot dogs, and fries and nothing tasted fresh. The fries and corn dogs tasted like they were fried in old seafood oil, the burgers tasted like we were going to have food poisoning, and the fries were soggy and had zero flavor. They forgot to give us our corn dog that we paid for and the girl at the counter questioned several times if we paid for it as did her boss. We ordered it and my husband confirmed our order with her so whether we did or not, truly was their issue and not ours. Skip it, get food before you get to Indian Beach. read more

Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que - Barbeque Near Me - Salter Path, North Carolina

Absolute Cinema!! Went there hoping it was a little gem and it was. The BBQ plate was perfect for 2, they had good portion sizes. The meat was juicy and tender. I dont like hush puppies so cant speak on that but everything was good. read more

This place has lost its charm. Very little love goes in to the cooking. Onion rings are super greasy, shrimp burger has more tartar sauce than shrimp. Inflation is tough but their prices are next level ridiculous. Sadly, there are times when traditions have to die. That time has arrived for my family and shrimp burgers from the Big Oak. read more

I finally stopped to try this place today after driving by repeatedly. I normally frequent a place just up the road so by the time I pass by, I'm already full. This time, my regular spot was already closed for the day which gave me the perfect opportunity to try something new. I arrived a little before 3:30 pm and they closed at 4:00 pm. Since they are a to-go spot, I figured it would be no huge deal. After waiting behind another family, I placed my order for a shrimp burger hold the tartar sauce and a small fries. While waiting, I realized I didn't buy a sun visor before coming and saw they offered them in their advertised merchandise. I went back to the window to purchase and was told I would have to wait. I said, "No problem, take your time." to which the cashier replied, "Well, we're about to close." Which I thought was strange to say to a paying customer who came back to further support your business more than 30 minutes prior to closing but shrugged it off. She ultimately thanked me for supporting the business, possibly realizing that the comment was a bit off-handed. After 5 minutes, my order came out. I got to the car and began unwrapping my meal. The fries were fresh, hot, and perfectly crispy, definitely perfect. I took a bite into the shrimp burger and was underwhelmed. The shrimp were cold and the sandwich was drowning in ketchup and coleslaw much to my dismay. The shrimp were pretty small and pitful but the outer breading had good flavor and texture even cold. For $11 + tip (more than $31 with the visor) this was a bit disappointing. I ended up scrapping off half of the coleslaw and removing the half of the bun that had too much ketchup. I was glad that there was no tartar sauce because it would've been more sauce than shrimp which would have only made things worse. Given my experience and the other Yelp reviews, I'm not sure that I'll be back but I wouldn't be completely opposed to giving them another try. read more

Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que - Large Shrimp Burger - Barbeque Near Me - Salter Path, North Carolina

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I had my first shrimp burger, so why not choose the place where it originated?!? It was good. It comes with ketchup, slaw and tartar sauce. I enjoyed it, and would probably choose it again. The hush puppies were good also! The staff was helpful and knowledgeable and the food came out quickly. We definitely recommend trying this spot! read more

Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que - Regular shrimp burger - Barbeque Near Me - Salter Path, North Carolina

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Salter Path, North Carolina location. Well...it's fried seafood. And it's pricey, but it is what it is. I still went through with the order. The shrimp burger was ok...made up of small, salad-size fried shrimp. Would've liked to have seen larger shrimp at that price. Pretty good flavor, though. The onion rings were a bit over-crispy, but had a decent flavor. I wasn't a fan of the hush puppies at all. So, all in all, not a bad visit. Just decent enough. read more

Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que - Get a bottle of their hot sauce! It was good stuff! - Barbeque Near Me - Salter Path, North Carolina

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We got a little bit of everything from the menu. My portion was the large BBQ sandwich with slaw. The meat was minced in the eastern N. C. style and I don't mind that. Flavor wise, there wasn't much but heat. Not a bad heat but it could have used some sweetness or something. I wish there was more slaw and probably would get the BBQ plate if I went back. I tried a neighbors hush puppies and enjoyed them and those come on the plates. All the rest of the party got fried seafood and seemed happy enough, but I'll leave that for others to comment. The prices for the plates are pretty steep ($22+) but the sandwiches are reasonable. Portions on the plates are good sized. Each comes with fries, hush puppies, slaw, and your choice of sweet or unsweetened tea. As of July 2022, they are now accepting cards vs. being a cash only business. read more

Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que - Looking forward to some classic beach food. - Barbeque Near Me - Salter Path, North Carolina

When we saw "BBQ" we were looking forward to it, but once we got up to the window we were very disappointed to see the only thing barbecue was a pulled pork sandwich. We ordered one with coleslaw on top and one without, along with hush puppies and onion rings. Another disappointment - there was no seating so we took our food back to our hotel. Our final disappointment came when biting into the pulled pork sandwich only to taste pure sweet vinegar. The sandwich was also very light in color contrast to what we typically think of barbecue with red sweet savory stickiness. The hush puppies were good and the onion rings were greasy. Perhaps we should have tried a more typical drive in food and the review might be different. Since we were only in town for a few day visit, I can say we won't be back. read more

We stopped by after a round of golf in the way back to the house. Had to try the shrimp burger as several people had recommended it to me. We were not disappointed. The shrimp burger was delicious as were the fries. The fries are enough to share. Will definitely go back and try some of the other items. read more

Big Oak Drive In's shrimp burgers came highly recommended! I was in town for a wedding and several people told me how great the shrimp burger was, so I definitely had to try it. I believe Big Oak used to be cash only, and they do have an ATM onsite, but it appears they are now taking cards. I ordered the large shrimp burger with just shrimp and slaw. It comes with tartar sauce and ketchup as well, but I decided to skip those. The bun was soft and warm, the popcorn shrimp were pretty plentiful, nicely fried. The slaw was perfectly sweet for my taste! I purchased a bottle of their signature hot sauce to add to mine, but they also have Texas Pete packets. The signature sauce was good, but fairly similar to Texas Pete. Overall, I really enjoyed the shrimp burger though! Super unique offering and I would definitely recommend getting that flagship item when you come to Big Oak. My mom ordered the shrimp plate and I was pretty shocked at the price. I believe it was $26... now I know we are at the coast, but the max I think the charge should've been for this platter was maybe $17-20 At home, those family style restaurants offer a popcorn shrimp plate with probably more shrimp than this for $13-15. I couldn't really tell that the shrimp was any better at Big Oak. The fries were kind of lack luster as well, and it seemed like the majority of the plate was fries. The hush puppies were sweet and very good. The plate was very good and plenty of food, but I just can't justify the price on this one. The large shrimp burger (not sure of the difference in the large and small) was a little over $8 and didn't come with a side. The side of onion rings was $6 and some change which was also a little steep, although they were very good. Overall, stick to the shrimp burger! It's the most reasonably priced! The service was nothing outstanding, but not terrible either. Bear in mind there is no seating here - most people were eating in their car, so be sure to grab plenty of napkins and condiments. Salter Path Park is a short (.2 miles) walk away, and would be a great place to sit down dig in to your Big Oak meal! read more

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This place is great every time ! Had been since I was a kid. My wife and I came in and got lunch and it was great! I had the pulled pork plate with collards and black eyed peas and my wife got the dark chicken plate with Mac n cheese and green beans. All the food was great and seasoned well! We love the corn sticks as well! So good and great service ! Also a great price for the quality of food! Always look forward to coming back!! read more

Best beach food on the beach! Every hometown has its own yummy hamburgers and hotdogs and Big Oak has that and shrimp burgers and other yummy options. Big Oak is the Salter Path hometown fav. read more

Insulting to have to review. Used to be so good. Hot sauce fell apart. Used to be just carrot, lime, habanero, salt, I think. Now it's all kinds of nonsense. Then the scallop burger and the bbq were bad, then the island pizza disappeared, then the "all the way" all came out of a grocery store bottle. Such a decline. Such mighty, such fallen, such sad. Also now it's super expensive? And you still have to deal with their weird parking lot and pissy system of ordering and unclear method of tracking the orders and odd laziness and it has zero of its original fun, and they're just trying to run it into the ground until it loses its cachet? The hardest, sharpest of passes. Still way better than El's or whatever near Morehead. read more

Not as good as it used to be. The Captains Kitchen food truck was better -it had tastier shrimp and buns. I had not been here in 20 years and it's not as quaint as it used to be. This place could be so cute if they cleaned it up. We ate at the picnic tables behind the building - near the dumpsters! Lots of trash out back and the building could use some cleaning/maintenance/love. Captains kitchen is where I will go from now on! read more

Best shrimp burger on the coast! The shrimp are lightly breaded and tender, fresh slaw and tartar sauce. Classic and very, very good!

Great little place that has amazing shrimp burgers! Very friendly service and reasonably priced menu items. We had the regular shrimp burger, which tasted outstanding, hush puppies, and sweet potatoes waffle fries which were a little over-fried that we couldn't finish them. One downside is they only take cash or checks, but there is an ATM on site. Worth the drive and next time we'll try the crab cake! read more

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I was a little hesitant to go here for the first time because of some of the recent reviews, but MAN I am glad I went! The shrimp burger was amazing - so fresh, completely loaded up, and swimming in awesome sauce. The onion rings were perfectly breaded and fried, and the fries were hot and fresh. There were two picnic tables around back and tons of shade. I'll be back for sure! read more

I don't care about customer service. Ultimately I deal with subtle rudeness on a near daily basis and it's not a big deal. However, yesterday the cashier literally for no reason started being hostile when I tried to change my order on a very slow time of day. I didn't realize how expensive one of the items was and I didn't get enough cash out (as it is like .01% of businesses that don't take ccs - think $122 and I only had $120) so I just tried to take one item off. "I can't do that" "the menus right there, I didn't change it" "can you not do math?" Etc etc. This has happened before at Big Oak but never as direct. It's pretty simple business 101, don't do that lol. Ill also add the shrimp burger is decent but the shrimp are tiny / greasy while the sides are nothing to write home about. There are other solid options around. read more

Still the one after all these years. There are other good shrimp burgers to be had but I still think these are the best. Other items of note: 1) great sweet tea, 2) love the crispy, always fresh onion rings, 3) very solid hush puppies, 4) flounder sandwich, which has generous portions, and 5) my wife digs the scallops burger, 100% awesome is the actual quote. Now takes credit cards! A nice upgrade. read more

Scallop burger was soggy, greasy, mush. Cheese stick were the best thing we ordered. The back area where the picnic tables are is disgusting, old bulk food boxes and cigarettes EVERYWHERE. read more

Food was pretty good. But not great. Shrimp from the shrimp burger were a little soggy and had some "chew" to them. Burgers and hot dogs were good. Chili on the hot dogs was greasy. read more

Scallop burger and shrimp burger keeping us coming back whenever we visit this area from Ohio. Note that the shrimp burger comes with tarter sauce, slaw, ketchup, shrimp, and the bun. The items taste great together, but if you don't like some of those things be aware they come with it. Sometimes the parking lot is full and it's hard to get a spot. We've parked across the street before to get our food. read more

A must at the beach, we usually eat here several times over the course of a trip. Shrimp Burger is the old standby.. cheeseburger is ok too. Milkshakes are good. Definitely a comfort food destination on the coast . read more

Big Oak Drive In & Bar-B-Que - Shrimp Burger in paradise! - Barbeque Near Me - Salter Path, North Carolina

Known for the best shrimpburgers on the Crystal Coast, you have to stop by for one of those or a barbecue sandwich. Have a car picnic in the parking lot or take it back to your lodgings, it's worth the drive to eat at this popular, iconic beach spot. Cash only, walk-up window. Hushpuppies are only 85 cents and you could hula hoop using the onion rings here. DON'T SLEEP on their crabcake sandwich. Served on a soft bun with creamy coleslaw, it was probably the best surprise of our time here. The shrimpburgers are served with ketchup and coleslaw, which are not my first choices for condiments, but for what it's worth, you can get it how you want. As a matter of fact, I think you should not get it that way and try it your own way. I like mine pure with just shrimp and bread. Maybe with the slaw on the side, if I'm feeling like I need a vegetable. I've not tried the tartar sauce, but I suspect it's not very good if they are drowning the shrimp in ketchup. The barbecue sandwich is pretty standard. Nothing special or spectacular, it's really just a humble sandwich. But when you're at the beach with your family and friends, it's nice to enjoy a no-frills meal in the car and people watch sometimes. The lot is very tiny, gets very full and the line gets very long, so plan your trip accordingly, especially in the middle of the summer. Next summer when we go, I want to try the soft shell crab. And maybe a burger. But I'm definitely making somebody order me a crabcake sandwich. read more