John's Drive In

John's Drive In has been a beloved Outer Banks institution since 1977, serving beach road classics to locals and visitors alike for over four decades. Located at 3716 N Virginia Dare Trail in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, this iconic drive-in was founded by Big John and his wife Pat, who created signature dishes that have become synonymous with summer in OBX. The legendary dolphin boat with homemade tartar sauce remains the most talked-about meal on the sandbar, while the iconic chocolate peanut butter milkshake keeps customers coming back year after year. In July 2020, Jason and Chelsea Jordan purchased John's Drive In, promising to preserve its traditions for future generations. The menu features authentic beach fare including cheeseburgers, BBQ, fried okra, hush puppies, and crispy fries. Dog owners delight in the famous pup cups, making it a pet-friendly destination for families. The restaurant is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays but welcomes guests the rest of the week with summer and fall hours varying by season. Parking can be challenging during peak season, so visitors are advised to be patient. Whether you're craving nostalgic flavors from your childhood or discovering OBX cuisine for the first time, John's Drive In delivers an authentic American drive-in experience steps from the beach.