Washington has always been a “sea to table” kind of town. Its geographical location on the Pamlico Sound, one of the largest estuaries on Earth, has provided Washington with a flourishing seafood industry and generational recipes. Whether you desire to catch your own seafood or have it prepared from a James Beard Award nominated chef, the Washington Seafood Trail is for you.
From Sea to Table
Down on Mainstreet
This is the locals favorite lunch spot for a reason. Friendly, casual, and bustling with people, Down on Main Street runs a tight ship during its lunch service. Order up some shrimp and fried cheese grits, grilled tuna, crab cakes, or citrus grilled salmon. All the seafood is brought in daily and served with crushed ice in your sweet tea to make for a satisfying tasty, midday break. Don’t worry if there’s a line, it moves pretty quick.
Home to James Beard nominee Chef Jamie Davis, the Hackney offers visitors a true Sea to Table experience. The menu changes almost daily based upon the freshest produce and the catch of the day. From tuna and grouper to shrimp, oysters and the sweetest blue crabs, each dish is prepared with bold flavors, using different techniques to really let the ingredients shine and speak for themselves. Have one of those meals that you will be thinking about for years to come.
Come hungry and get ready to get your seafood fix at Slammin Sammy’s! This local favorite serves up oysters, shrimp, flounder, crab and other coastal classics in a relaxed, lively atmosphere. Whether you’re cracking into a plate of seafood, enjoying oysters at the bar, or settling in for a cold drink and a game, Slammin Sammy’s brings together good food, local flavor and the laid-back spirit of Washington.
Make a stop at The Stubborn Mule, where Washington’s coastal character comes to the table. This downtown oyster bar celebrates the bounty of North Carolina’s waters with fresh oysters, seafood favorites, and coastal-inspired dishes served alongside a full bar and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re settling in for oysters on the half shell, chargrilled oysters, or a hearty seafood dinner, The Stubborn Mule is a delicious way to experience the flavors of the coast in the heart of Washington.
If you love seafood then you are going to love the Washington Crab and Seafood Shack. Fish, shrimp, oysters, crabs, clams, and more cooked to order. Everything is freshly caught, and you can taste it. So what will it be? Low country boil, bacon wrapped sea scallops, fried oyster burger, seared tuna. Maybe a combo plate is in order.
Eastside Bait and Tackle can help you channel your need to bait, cast, hook, and reel. This is a full service tackle shop that caters to the needs of brackish and salt water: inshore and offshore. They offer lures and lines for anything from hickory shad inshore to blue marlin offshore. Come here first and that fish doesn’t have a prayer.
Warren’s Sport Headquarters Is here to keep you honest. They can tell you what fish are in season. They can set you up with the correct rods, reels and lines you need to reel in the big one. The rest of the day comes down to a little talent, lots of luck or a convincing story about what might have been.
If you are better with a shopping cart than you are with a fishing rod, Washington Crab is the place for you. Every day their market offers fresh fish (whole and filets), blue crabs, crabmeat, shrimp, oysters (shelled and shucked) clams, crab legs, crab cakes, lobsters, and much more. Shop the local market or order online and have it delivered to your doorstep. Eat like you’re on vacation in Washington, even when you’re not.
Sail the same waterways as the infamous pirate Blackbeard and experience all that the Pamlico River has to offer. Located in Moss Landing Marina, Pamlico Boat offers many options to get out on the water. Rent a deck boat or Pontoon if you want to fish or swim. Grab a kayak or canoe if you feel like exploring the coastline. Or, take your chance on a paddle board if you need a good core workout.
Get out and explore the Inner Banks from the water with Inner Banks Outfitters. Paddle through Washington’s waterways and experience the Pamlico River up close, with opportunities to spot wildlife, take in waterfront views, and discover the natural beauty surrounding the city. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or looking for a new way to explore, it’s an easy way to make your Washington adventure a little more memorable.
Discover the waters behind Washington’s seafood story at the North Carolina Estuarium. Explore more than 200 exhibits showcasing the Pamlico River, coastal wildlife, and the unique estuary where fresh and saltwater meet. From live aquatic life and interactive displays to artifacts from the region’s watermen, the Estuarium offers a deeper look at the waters that have shaped Washington’s seafood culture for generations.
Take your adventure to the water with River Vibes Kayak Rentals. Grab a kayak and explore Washington from a whole new perspective as you paddle along the Pamlico River and its surrounding waterways. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing paddle, a little adventure, or a chance to soak up the scenery, River Vibes makes it easy to get on the water and experience the coastal side of Washington.
The Ell Hotel offers an intimate and stylish retreat for a romantic weekend in Washington, NC. With thoughtfully designed rooms, modern comforts, and a prime downtown location, it’s the perfect place to unwind together after a day of exploring—close enough to everything, yet quiet enough to feel like your own private escape.
Retreat to The West Main, above 1906 Bistro & Burbon for a stay that blends historic charm with modern comfort. Nestled in the heart of downtown Washington, these thoughtfully designed accommodations place you just steps from the waterfront, boutique shopping, and exceptional dining. After a day of exploring, unwind in your stylish suite and enjoy the perfect home base for a relaxing and romantic getaway.
Washington has always been a “sea to table” kind of town. Its geographical location on the Pamlico Sound, one of the largest estuaries on Earth, has provided…
Warmer weather means it’s time to explore “a little” with Little Washington! As a river town, our most popular feature is undeniably the Pamlico River.
