Article overview: Inspired by “Dining Options Along the Eastern Seaboard” by Capt. Jen Copeland, with contributions from Capt. Jon Zbyrowski of HMY Yachts, originally published in Marlin Magazine...
Inspired by “Dining Options Along the Eastern Seaboard” by Capt. Jen Copeland, with contributions from Capt. Jon Zbyrowski of HMY Yachts, originally published in Marlin Magazine on May 2, 2023.
If you’ve ever made a north-south (or south-north) run along the Intracoastal Waterway, you know how essential good food can be. For many captains and crews, including our own HMY Captain Jon Zbyrowski, choosing stops often centers on one critical question: Where are we going to eat?
From Florida to Cape Cod, here are some favorite dock-and-dine destinations that have earned their stripes among seasoned delivery captains and cruising enthusiasts alike.
St. Augustine, FL – Blackfly The Restaurant
Just a short stroll from Conch House Marina, Blackfly The Restaurant stands out with its Caribbean lodge-inspired menu, a robust 1,000-bottle wine selection, and an unwavering commitment to fresh, local ingredients. Must-tries include the spicy chili-lime shrimp starter and pan-seared triggerfish paired with black beans and jasmine rice. Even vegetarians will find something indulgent here, like the truffle and Asiago-stuffed puff pastry.
St. Simons Island, GA – Coastal Kitchen
Set right at the head of the Morningstar Marina docks, Coastal Kitchen is the epitome of convenience without compromise. Expect Georgia shrimp and grits in smoky tomato-bacon gravy, mountain trout in white Zinfandel butter, and even a satisfying bone-in pork chop with collards and creamed-corn grits. Hungry captains agree: this spot is worth timing your arrival around.
Hilton Head Island, SC – CQ’s Restaurant
When the weather is just right, don’t miss dining alfresco at CQ’s. Courtesy CQ’s Restaurant / Maggie Washo
Hidden in Harbour Town, CQ’s captures Lowcountry charm with vintage wood floors, intimate lighting, and classic dishes made from scratch. Chef Ferenc Bukta (dubbed “the people’s chef”) sticks to what works: braised short ribs with parsnip-potato purée, or crab cakes over a fall vegetable succotash. Dine under string lights outside for a truly memorable meal.
Hilton Head’s CQ’s Restaurant is famous for its fresh local seafood. Courtesy CQ’s Restaurant / Maggie Washo
Charleston, SC – The Ordinary
Housed in a former bank building on King Street, The Ordinary is anything but. This raw-bar-focused brasserie serves up East Coast oysters with ají dulce mignonette, wagyu tartare, crispy oyster sliders, and more. It’s a favorite for captains waiting out weather delays—and a must-visit in Charleston’s exceptional culinary scene.
A sampling from the raw-bar menu. Courtesy The Ordinary
Southport, NC – Mr. P’s Bistro
A Southport staple for more than 60 years, Mr. P’s Bistro combines family heritage with Lowcountry flavor. With a reputation for crab-stuffed flounder and oysters three ways (including Rockefeller), this charming spot—just a walk from the marina—is a culinary cornerstone of “America’s Happiest Seaside Town.”
Morehead City, NC – Floyd’s 1921
A short walk from Morehead City Yacht Basin, Floyd’s offers bold Southern fusion cuisine in a cozy converted home. Think cherry-glazed pork belly burnt ends, shrimp étouffée, and Cajun-fried flounder. Chef Floyd Olmstead’s commitment to local sourcing makes every bite taste like homegrown hospitality.
Coinjock, NC – Coinjock Marina & Restaurant
Coinjock’s redneck egg rolls hit the spot after a long day on the water. Courtesy Coinjock Marina & Restaurant
Mile Marker 50 on the ICW is home to the legendary Coinjock Marina, where every salty traveler eventually lands. Known for its redneck egg rolls (BBQ pork + collards) and massive 32-oz “Captain’s Cut” prime rib, this old-school spot fills up fast. Pro tip: call ahead for fuel and food—especially during delivery season.
Ocean City, MD – Sunset Grille
Located steps from your slip, Sunset Grille offers one of the best Orange Crush cocktails on the East Coast and a menu full of Maryland’s seafood pride. Try the jumbo lump crab and shrimp salad, or go big with the Baltimore Club sandwich (crab cake + shrimp salad + bacon). Fine wines like Stag’s Leap and Caymus elevate the experience.
Ocean City’s Sunset Grille is located literally steps from your slip at the marina. Chris Rabil
Hyannis Port, MA – Baxter’s Boathouse Club
A Cape Cod institution since 1967, Baxter’s serves lobster rolls, chowder, stuffed quahogs—and yes, the legendary “Binnacle” Bloody Mary. Whether dining on deck or onboard your own boat, the nostalgic New England vibe is strong here, and the seafood couldn’t be fresher.
A Note of Gratitude
HMY Yachts extends sincere thanks to Marlin magazine and writer Capt. Jen Copeland for spotlighting these fantastic dock-and-dine destinations. Special appreciation goes to our own Capt. Jon Zbyrowski—his on-the-water experience continues to guide boaters toward the best places to refuel—both their tanks and their appetites.
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