Kelly's Restaurant & Tavern

Runners Love the Outer Banks

Whenever vacationers head to the beach, for some reason, they decide to “start running.” We are not sure what causes this phenomenon but it always happens at any beach.

With the Outer Banks being a top vacation spot for summer vacationers, it is very common to see people out running—every level of runner. No matter the time of day, running on the Outer Banks is very cathartic. Whether watching the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean or taking in the sounds and sights in the preserves or on the trails as the day winds down, running on the Outer Banks is addictive.

While so many run during their stay here, many are unaware of how much runners love the Outer Banks. With an official running club, the OBX Running Club, there are tons of sanctioned and non-sanctioned races throughout the year. Distances vary but one thing is for sure—the races draw runners from all over North Carolina and surrounding states.

The OBX Marathon/Half Marathon is a major race that draws devoted and die-hard runners from all over the country. It takes place annually the second weekend in November and is a favorite long distance race for area and regional marathon runners. Many come with family and friends to spend a relaxing November weekend (absolute best time of the year on the OBX) capping it off with the race. The best part of this race is that there are other shorter distance races and tons of family fun all weekend.

As an established Outer Banks restaurant, Kelly’s Restaurant and Tavern and its sister restaurants sponsor races throughout the year usually by providing food and beverages after races. During the OBX Marathon weekend, Kelly’s plays host to Super Saturday events for runners and spectators. A lot of people seek out Kelly’s just hoping for one of their delectable sweet potato biscuits…ok and maybe an adult beverage or two after the races!

Another hugely popular race is the Kelly’s Running of the Leprechaun 8K which happens over one of the weekends around St. Patrick’s Day.  St. Patrick’s Day is a huge weekend on the Outer Banks and of course Kelly’s is in the center of all of the festivities.  For the 8K, runners and walkers dress in their best green running attire to participate then head to Kelly’s Tavern for the post-race party and even more Outer Banks entertainment. The festivities carry all the way through the weekend with parades and parties.

Whether here for one of the OBX Running Club races or simply to spend a week of vacation, there is nothing like going for a run on the OBX.  Not only are the beaches wide and perfect for a long run, there are lanes for bikers and runners on the roads as well as trails and hills in the maritime forests and nature preserves in Kitty weekly OBX Running Club social runs. Locations vary each week so it is best to check with the OBX Running Club for the upcoming run. They welcome local guests and vacationers to run with them.  Running with locals is a great way to find out the favorite spots that are sometimes kept secret from vacationers.

Make sure to check out the other races throughout the year as well on the OBX Running Club calendar. There are so many from which to choose and they run the gamut in lengths from fun runs to 10Ks to the highly touted marathon in November.

With the Outer Banks Marathon only three months away, now is the time to make plans to spend the weekend here.  As we said earlier, there is no better time to be at the OBX than November.

Services by Kelly's Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern has served a unique cuisine and featured entertainment for more than 3 million residents and guests of the Outer Banks. We are celebrating more than 28 years of delicious cuisine, coastal hospitality, and a diverse array of entertainment.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off

You can contact Kelly’s, order from our menu, and pick-up the food from our restaurant. If you would like “self-managed catering,” we can prepare your meal directly for serving or for cooking it later on. We will make sure to accommodate your needs.

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern delivers as well. We provide free estimates for this service. The meals for delivering will be customized for you and your needs. The meals stay in warming units while the food is delivered to the customer.

Catering

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern is the main caterer for the northeastern North Carolina area as well as for some places within southeastern Virginia. We have 25 years of experience with catering services. We have many delicious meals you can order, and we can also customize the meals for you. We provide a variety of catering services and make sure that they meet your expectations. Many types of events can be held in Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern, but we can also cater for your location.

The full-service catering by Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern includes a mobile kitchen or cooking units. We prepare for the catering at Kelly’s, and we will come to your location. Components of the catering service include dishes, silverware, serving and banquet tablets, servers, and cooks.

If all of these services are not needed, we can bring the necessary services for your event. Self-directed catering involves the drop-off and pick-up of meals by Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern. The meals are customized for you and your event. If you have a special recipe, we can make it as well. We are prepared to help you with catering at your special event. For more information on our catering services, contact Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern at 252-441-4116 or visit the following website: http://kellysrestaurant.com/catering-outer-banks/.

Our Menu

We are proud to have a variety of Outer Banks cuisine at our restaurant. One of our recent specials was the Broiled Grouper and Crab with pineapple orange marmalade. Another special was the Blackened Mahi with green onion vinaigrette and fried capers.

One of our starters on the casual menu is the Fried Green Tomatoes. This consists of Currituck greenies that are fried in cornmeal with a Tabasco pimiento cheese spread. We also recommend the Warm Mushroom Salad, which is sautéed wild mushrooms that are served on the top of baby greens with pecans, goat cheese, and balsamic dressing.

We have unique entrees to choose from as well. Try the Honey-Hickory BBQ Ribs that are served with a regional starch as well as a North Carolina slaw. Are you interested in our Outer Banks restaurant style pasta? Try the Pasta Alfredo pasta, which is our own Alfredo sauce over pasta. You can add chicken, shrimp, or crab.

We know many of our customers are interested in trying unique seafood dishes, and we have many great seafood dishes to choose from at our Outer Banks restaurant. Try the N.C. Seafood Collection, which includes N.C. flounder, shrimp, scallops, and crab cake, either fried or broiled.

We also have delicious desserts that are made every day by award-winning Chef Becky Miller. We know you will enjoy the wide variety of delicious coastal cuisine that we offer at Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern.

Whether it is by dining in, delivery, pick-ups, or catering, we are excited to serve you and your family at our Outer Banks restaurant. Come to Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern and have a wonderful dining and entertaining experience.

When and Why You Should Visit Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern has been a proud provider of Outer Banks cuisine as well as entertainment for more than 28 years. We enjoy serving a variety of Outer Banks dishes and providing coastal hospitality and performances.

Weekends

A common misconception during the summer season is that restaurants on the Outer Banks are busier during the weekends and on Mondays. However, the busiest time for restaurants during this season is Tuesday to Thursday. So come and enjoy a delicious Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern cuisine anytime!

We also have great summer entertainment on the weekends. For more information on events at Kelly’s, click here.

Reservations

Reservations are welcome at Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern by calling 252-441-4116. Online reservations are also available; they are accepted Monday to Friday until 3 p.m.

Mouth-watering Specialties

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern has a wide variety of Outer Banks cuisine that you do not want to miss. One of our favorites is the Coconut Fried Shrimp, which is a large Dare County shrimp that is dredged in flour, sweet coconut milk, and coconut.

Another favorite dish is the “Hatteras Style” Outer Banks Clam Chowder, which is a clear broth chowder that has vegetables, potatoes, and clams.

We serve a great Buffalo Fried Chicken sandwich, which is a deep, lightly breaded and fried chicken breast that is tossed in house Buffalo Sauce. It is served with blue cheese dressing.

We also recommend the Shrimp or Chicken Quesadilla. It is a Cajun-seared shrimp or chicken, and it is combined with cheddar cheese in a flour tortilla. It is served with pico de gallo and spring onion sour cream.

Another great dish to try is our Kelly Wings. The whole wing is served with celery and blue cheese dressing. We can make in different ways, such as BBQ.

One of our latest specials is the Pan-Seared Mahi with Crab and Spicy Thai Vegetable Salad. Visit Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and try these meals and other delicious dishes!

Entertainment

Kelly’s is a great place to visit for diverse Outer Banks entertainment. Performers and entertainers who will be visiting Kelly’s during July and August include

• Cazhmiere;
• Mirage;
• Naomi Black;
• Carbon Jam;
• Krunch;
• Tribal Seeds;
• Jonny Waters and Company;
• Pebble to Pearl; and
• The Original Rhondels.

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern has a wide range of entertainment that you do not want to miss!

Catering

We are the premier caterer for northeastern North Carolina as well as certain areas in southeastern Virginia. We have accommodations within our Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern for small gatherings as well as bigger events.

Kelly’s is a great place for many types of events, which include birthdays, anniversaries, wedding receptions, and business meetings. Through our catering service, we will personalize your meals for your event and needs. We will accommodate for your budget and your desired cuisine.

In addition, if you provide us with a special recipe you would like for us to make, we can make the dish for your event. Catering by Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern will meet your needs and make sure you are happy with the cuisine.

Stop by at Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern throughout the year for a diverse cuisine, a variety of entertainment and performances, and a great coastal hospitality experience. We hope to see you soon!

Celebrate St. Patty's Day at Kelly's! 

Mark your calendars for an upcoming Outer Banks event that you won’t want to miss out on! Set aside your shamrocks and pots o’ gold and get ready for the 24^th annual Kelly’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 17th. The Outer Banks will boast the largest St. Patrick's Day Parade in North Carolina as we travel the greenest mile in the Tarheel state. We’ve got an exciting parade lined up for all of our “Irish” residents and tourists alike! Join over 1,500 participants and approximately 10,000 smiling spectators as you enjoy an afternoon filled with floats, live music, marching bands and creative marching, walking and motorized units.

We are thrilled to announce the theme for this year: “Three Quarters of a Century of Outer Banks Theatre & Art in Dare Country.” From 1938 until today, The Lost Colony has been the nation’s premier and longest-running symphonic drama. Telling the story of the epic, unexplained disappearance that still baffles historians, The Lost Colony is the interpretation of a four century old mystery. It promises to be an Outer Banks event rich in history and suspense.

The story begins in 1587, when over 100 men, women and children journeyed from England to Roanoke Island and established the first English settlement in America. There, on August 18, 1587, Virginia Dare became the first English child born in the Roanoke County. Only nine days after her birth, Governor John White, who was also her grandfather, left her and the other colonists in their new home to fend for themselves. He returned later than expected with much needed supplies and found the colony eerily deserted. With the only clue being the word, “CROATAN” carved upon a tree, the colonists were never found by Europeans. Some legends suggest that they joined an Indian tribe; while others say that they were killed by more violent tribes or sold into slavery, or perhaps that they were killed by the Spanish. Either way, The Lost Colony is a tragic mystery that remains unsolved to this day. Watch it for yourself as you hold your breath and watch the timeless mystery unfold before you. The play opens May 31 and plays through August 23 at Manteo’s Waterside Theatre. To celebrate, The Lost Colony’s Queen Elizabeth shall be our Grand Marshall of the Kelly’s St. Patrick’s Day parade.

We hope you’ve geared up for another fun Outer Banks Event this March! The 5^th Annual Kelly’s Running of the Leprechauns 8k happens on Saturday, March 16^th. We’ve got some special prizes new for this year—Kelly’s Leprechaun and the top three males and females will have their own cars in the Kelly’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade the following day! The net proceeds of the race will benefit the Outer Banks Community Foundation and we are collecting items for the Food Bank as well as old, worn-out running shoes for refurbishment and recycling to support our sport, the environment and those in need. Visit www.oneworldrunning.org for more information. The deadline to register is midnight on March 7^th to guarantee a T-shirt. However, we will take paper registrations, exact cash only, if space remains, on March 15^th.

After the race, head on over to Kelly’s Tavern for a well-deserved, post-race Rock’n Leprechaun Party with DJ Buster Nunemaker!  It’s our own Gaelic Feast of Irish Stew, Kelly’s Signature Sweet Potato Biscuits, Sugar Cookies, Tea, Lemonade, and Guinness (runners only-No Bib, No Beer, No Buffet).  Keep posted often on Facebook by “liking” Kelly’s Leprechauns. For more information about the parade, head on over to http://kellysrestaurant.com/  . To brush up on the history behind the Lost Colony before the parade, go to http://thelostcolony.org/ . We’re very excited for our Outer Banks events in March and we hope all of you are too!

Love is in the Air at Kelly's! 

It is very common for people to have dinner with us to celebrate anniversaries, first dates, first meetings and more.  To go one step past that, many of these events take place out our restaurant.  Couple meet at the tavern or have dinner for the first time together at the restaurant then go over to the tavern to listen to music.  Sometimes the evenings go well and other times not so much.  

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, many couples feel that love is in the air and tell about how they met or their first date at Kelly’s.  We want to hear these stories so much so we are hosting a contest on Facebook.  Participants simply go to our Facebook page until February 11, 2013 to post a pic of the couple along with a story of how they met or their first date at Kelly’s.  At the end of the contest, we will read all of the stories and pick what we think is the best.  The winner receives a $100 gift certificate to Kelly’s (valid for six months).  

General Manager, Vicki Downs recalls, “One guy talked of how he had seen a girl at the Tavern several times and wanted to meet her.  He finally got the nerve one night to introduce himself to her while they were both standing at the bar during one of our famous Outer Banks concerts.  That was 15 years ago and now they have dinner with us every year on the same night they met.”  Another employee remembers “waiting on a couple a few years ago who were on a first date that was not going well and involved spilled drinks, no conversation and a quick end to a horrible evening.  Now, three kids later, they also come back each year and celebrate that dismal first date.”

Also, make plans now to celebrate a romantic evening by having dinner with us.  All ladies receive a beautiful red rose as a way for us to express our gratitude and love of the Outer Banks community.  

Stories and pictures will also be pinned to our Pinterest board for all of our followers to read.  Remember, the deadline is February 11, 2013 so do not delay.  We cannot wait to hear these funny and sweet stories.  For more information about this contest, another Outer Banks event, or to make reservations for your Valentine’s celebration, contact us at (252) 441-4116 or email us.

Kelly’s says Thank You to Its Customers 

When was the last time a local business owner said thank you and really meant it?  Most people receive a “thank you for your business” on a fairly consistent basis but that is like a flight attendant saying “bye-bye” as passengers exit a plane. 

In an effort to offer a true, heart-felt thank you to customers, Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern wants to offer this message to its customers for their continued patronage.  Over the past 28 years, more than three million hungry patrons have walked through their doors in search of a great meal or a little frivolity. 

“We have met some great people over the years who have become good friends,” says Mike Kelly, Owner and President of Kelly Hospitality which owns Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern.  “We would not be where we are today without their continued patronage and confidence.” 

Additionally, the support for live Outer Banks concerts has made the Tavern a top pick for popular local and regional bands to perform.  The Tavern is filled with nightlife and attracts people from all over the area looking for a little fun.

Lastly, but certainly not least, the staff at Kelly’s wants to express its warmest gratitude for the many local residents and businesses that look to Kelly’s to handle the many Outer Banks events.  Kelly’s has been a part of some great parties and community events that are favorites for the staff and community. 

No matter the occasion, Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern appreciates the many people who come to the restaurant and then, come back again.  This year promises to be a great one with some new things planned as well as participation in all that is the Outer Banks.

In the meantime, thank you for everything.                             

Spend Thanksgiving at Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurants

Thinking of a way to get out of the kitchen and spend quality time with the family? There are several Outer Banks events around Thanksgiving time and Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants is proud to offer our annual Thanksgiving dinner to families looking to escape to the Outer Banks and enjoy quality time together during the holidays.

Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants hosts several Outer Banks events, but nothing brings the family together better than Thanksgiving dinner at Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants. Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants is offering a succulent menu this Thanksgiving that will even out due last year’s feast! For seafood lover’s start with Hatteras clam chowder, clams casino, oysters Rockefeller, and oysters remick. Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants is also serving up some spicy Cajun shrimp jambalaya and broiled Carolina lump crab cakes! For guests looking for more traditional Thanksgivings menu items Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants will have you covered. Kelly’s will serve up its homemade cranberry relish, hand-carved beer brined turkey, traditional dressing, sliced ham, mash potatoes, veggies, mac and cheese, plus decadent brown sugar and pecan glazed yams.

While all that food is sure to fill up even the largest stomachs make sure to save room for deserts that are homemade by pastry chef Becky Miller. She will be cooking up the staple apple and pumpkin pies but will be offering so much more. Becky is baking several cakes including Hershey bar, mandarin orange, and several cheesecake options like pumpkin brandy, raspberry and white chocolate.

The cost is $28.99 for adults, seniors 65 and over pay just $20.99, kids 5-12 are $10.99 and children under five eat free.  Reservations are strongly suggested as this is one of Kelly’s most popular Outer Banks events. This Thanksgiving Outer Banks events will include a dinner buffet plus regular dinner from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. The Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants tavern will also be open Thanksgiving day from 11 a.m. until 1 a.m. A casual dining menu and a children’s menu will also be available on Thanksgiving for guests who want different options.

So get out of the kitchen, head to the Outer Banks and relax for once during the holidays. At Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants we are happy to do the heavy lifting for you this holiday season and hope to make your Thanksgiving dinner with us a memory that will last a lifetime for your family.

Kelly’s Outer Banks Restaurants Hosts the OBX Fun Run

Kelly Hospitality Group Outer Banks restaurants sponsors several Outer Banks events this fall and with the Outer Banks Marathon just around the corner, Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants will once again sponsor the marathon’s Fun Run. The Fun Run is a great event that Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants is proud to be a part of many Outer Banks events that the whole family can enjoy and the Fun Run is no exception. From the fittest runner to the novice, the Fun Run offers something for everyone.

The Fun Run is one of the more unique Outer Banks events and one of the more fun ways to participate in the marathon. The Kelly Hospitality Group Fun Run puts the participant in control by allowing the runner to complete the first 25 miles prior to the Fun Run and then finish your marathon by running or walking the last 1.2 miles. It is also not a requirement that a participant log miles prior to taking part in the Fun Run. Bring the whole family and walk together (even strollers are welcome), or get a group of friends together to enjoy the beautiful Outer Banks fall weather! Finisher’s medals and t-shirts will be provided for pre-registered participants. Outer Banks events will take place before and after with games and entertainment for all ages.

The Fun Run is one of the many Outer Banks events that Kelly Hospitality Group Outer Banks restaurants sponsors that is family friendly. The Fun Run includes lots of fun for kids including Pirate themed events like a pirate toss, walk the plank, and pirate tattoos. The Outer Banks events also include face painting, a rock climbing wall provided by Kitty Hawk Kites, and lots more. Kelly’s also sponsors the Buccaneer 5K which is also walker and family-friendly, but for those families who want more of a challenge. And remember after the races bring your friends and family over to Kelly’s Outer Banks restaurants for a great dinner and to enjoy live music in our tavern.

The 7^th annual Outer Banks Marathon starts November 9^th. The Kelly Hospitality Group Outer Banks restaurants Fun Run is Saturday, November 10^th starting at 10 a.m. at First Flight High School in Kitty Hawk. Registration is $20 for adults and $15 for kids. Add $5 to register on the day of the Fun Run. For more information or to register online visit the Outer Banks Marathon website at www.obxmarathon.org.