Welcome to John's Drive In
Nestled along the picturesque Virginia Dare Trail in Kitty Hawk, NC, John's Drive In serves as a beloved local gem. This iconic drive-in boasts a welcoming atmosphere, featuring clean outdoor seating that invites diners to unwind after a day at the beach. Guests rave about the tantalizing dolphin boat, the fresh fried Mahi Mahi, and the standout chocolate cherry milkshake—crafted with real cherry chunks. With a long-standing reputation for incredibly friendly service and quality food at reasonable prices, it's no wonder patrons return time and again. John's Drive In embodies the charm of classic American beach dining, leaving visitors craving more.
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3716 N Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949, United States Hotline: +1 252-261-6227
When you find yourself at 3716 N Virginia Dare Trail in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, you’ve stumbled upon a treasure known as John's Drive In. This charming drive-in restaurant has been earning its reputation with a mix of delightful dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. With its clean outdoor seating and inviting picnic tables, it’s the perfect spot to relax under the shade of umbrellas while enjoying a taste of local culinary magic.
Customers rave about the dolphin boat, a standout dish featuring fresh fried Mahi Mahi, hailed as “brilliantly and consistently delivered” by loyal patrons. Its generous portions make it easily shareable, ensuring no one leaves here hungry. You’ll find a delightful array of options, from delicious tacos that pack a flavorful punch to burgers topped with irresistible sauces that leave you longing for a second bite.
Don’t skip out on the must-have milkshakes—another highlight of this local gem. From the classic chocolate cherry, brimming with real cherry chunks, to the decadent peanut butter chocolate shake, these frozen treats have been described as some of the best you’ll ever taste. With friendly service that adds a personal touch to every order, it’s no wonder that many like Gerald Journey are drawn to this eatery every single day of their beach vacation.
Overall, John's Drive In stands out as a beloved fixture in the community, offering reasonable prices without compromising on quality. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick meal after a day on the beach or seeking the perfect place to sit and savor your lunch, this drive-in restaurant is ready to deliver an experience that’s every bit as delicious as it is memorable. Come savor the flavors that have created such a fervent local following—you’ll be glad you did!
First place we ate at on our vacation. We love these hole in the wall places. The tacos had a little bite to them but were oh so good and the sauce on the burger made me want another.
Long standing well earned local reputation. New owners are staying true to what is almost local legend. It's a drive-in with clean outdoor seating and some umbrellas. Dolphin Boat and a chocolate malt are my favorite things. It's fresh fried Mahi Mahi... just brilliantly and consistently delivered.
The best milkshake ever! Tell them what you want and they will astound you with the quality. My favorite is the chocolate cherry milkshake, with real chunks of cherry in it
Stopped for a milkshake this afternoon about 2:30 pm—no lines! Yay! We shared a peanut butter chocolate shake—delish! This place always satisfies. The dolphin boat is amazing and will feed two easily. Enjoy!
"John's Drive In" has quick & friendly service and great food. The burger & toppings were so good !! The young man delivered ours to us and he was so cute !! We ate on the picnic table provided. (plenty of tables) It is located at 4.5 mile marker on the beach. road in Kitty Hawk. Good place to go right off the beach.
Man. I can't tell you how good these people are. This is the best place to eat on the beach. Me and my wife ate there everyday. Dolphin boat is want you need in your life. Super friendly. Super good food. You must visit. 4.5 mile marker on the beach road. Love yall. Best food in obx 4 sure.
Great surprise find! Reasonable prices, and quality food! Dolphin basket and Sub were good. Hush puppies were good too. Great value for the chicken strip basket too, lots of fries.
First time coming here and the food was AMAZING. Nice little place right off the beach. Service was A1 and also food came out fast. Had some tables right off the side that you can sit at outside. I would definitely visit again when I visit the area again.