Circa 81 is such a hidden gem. It doesn't feel overly fancy or stuffy, just really thoughtful food…read morein a relaxed, cool space. We ordered the Half Chef's Tour, which is their charcuterie, and it was honestly one of my favorite parts of the night. Great variety, really well balanced, and perfect for sharing. It set the tone for the whole meal. The scallop nightly special was perfectly cooked with that golden sear and super tender inside. The rosemary steak had so much flavor and was cooked exactly right. The Brussels were crispy and savory, and even the potstickers were a standout. Nothing felt like an afterthought. Service was perfect for the tapas setting too. Not rushed, we didn't feel over bothered, but not neglected either. Overall, it felt elevated but still comfortable. A great experience without feeling over the top. We'll definitely be back.

Circa 81 quickly became one of my most memorable meals along North Carolina's Crystal Coast: a…read morerestaurant that understands both timing and tone. We arrived with a reservation (always a wise move), though we were seated immediately, greeted by a gracious host who set our lunch off on the right note. Once settled, we were welcomed by Philip, whose ease and genuine enthusiasm made the experience feel less transactional and more personal. He spoke about the menu with confidence and curiosity, the mark of someone who truly enjoys being there. Drinks came first: my husband ordered a Painkiller easily one of the best we had during our time on the coast while our son stuck with a classic Coke, and I opted for water. As we ordered, it became clear we were leaning fully into the small plates philosophy. When Philip smiled and dubbed us "tapas aficionados," it felt like an acknowledgment rather than a joke and in that moment, we felt perfectly at home. The table filled quickly. Spanish lamb meatballs arrived first, glazed with sriracha and paired with whipped feta and cilantro bold, balanced, and deeply satisfying. Pork pot stickers followed, tender and flavorful, with a soy-ginger dipping sauce and sweet Thai chili providing just the right contrast. The Gambas al Ajillo shrimp bathed in extra-virgin olive oil and garlic, served with crostini, was classic and comforting. But the standout was the Potatoes Bravas: sliced potatoes grilled to a crisp and finished with a spicy brava aioli. They were addictive in the best way, the kind of dish you keep thinking about long after the table is cleared. Circa 81 is polished yet relaxed, clean, and thoughtfully maintained, a place where the food arrives hot, the service feels human, and the atmosphere invites you to linger. It's a restaurant I would happily return to, and one that earned its place among my favorites on the Crystal Coast.

We chose Aqua Restaurant for our anniversary dinner, guided by the kind of recommendations that…read morematter most: a local in the know and a friend who never tires of Beaufort. Aqua announces itself quietly, and even our brief misstep on arrival felt intentional an elegant sign gently redirecting us around back, where we later realized there's a convenient entrance directly across from the parking lot. A small discovery we tucked away for our next visit. From the moment we stepped inside, the hospitality set the tone. The host greeted us with genuine enthusiasm and an ease that made it clear he knew exactly why we were there. His warmth felt celebratory without being performative, just right. We were led to our table and introduced to Iesha, whose presence defined the evening. Iesha guided us through the menu with confidence and care, highlighting a thoughtful anniversary tradition: a complimentary glass of champagne or crème brûlée. We happily chose both. She struck that elusive balance of attentiveness and restraint present when needed, graciously invisible when not allowing the evening to unfold at its own pace. Our table sampled a range of the menu. The rare curry-seared local tuna arrived with curry riced cauliflower and traditional accompaniments unexpected in flavor but satisfying nonetheless. The The special for that evening, was rich and comforting. Even the simplest order, the kids' shrimp and fries was met with enthusiasm from our youngest diner, always a good sign. Aqua delivers food that is thoughtful, distinctive, and well-suited for a celebration. It's the kind of place that feels special without trying too hard a reliable choice for marking a meaningful moment. And when you go, do yourself a favor and ask for Iesha. She's the kind of server who turns a good dinner into a memorable one.

Visiting Beaufort, NC with friends and when we ate at Clawson's for lunch, we were told that their…read moresister restaurant, Aqua was excellent. We dined at Aqua this evening and were not disappointed! Everything was excellent and they treated my shellfish allergy with much care and attention. The server was friendly and excited about all of the food. The small plates are a wonderful idea and although what they consider "small", the flavor and size were perfect for us. Two in our party had the small plate Filet over Truffle dusted hash browns (yummy) while another member had the clams in saffron sauce that was amazing. Another member asked to substitute the Grouper on the Crab Cake small plate which was no problem for the kitchen and wonderful tasting. We had Creme Brulee and Chocolate Mousse for dessert and both were awesome. We will definitely return to this restaurant in the future.

The Sorrow Drowner is always an amazing experience. Adventure awaits at this immersive experience…read moreTiki venue with its carefully curated decor, narrative theme, craft cocktails that go beyond the imagination, and culinary delights. The Sorrow Drowner is the best escapist experience in North Carolina with table service that is exciting and engaging and top tier stage entertainment such as VibeXotica, a musical act that performs classic exotica music with vibraphone. Even better, arriving costumed as your favorite explorer or wearing your Aloha finery just adds to the pageantry. Chart a course to The Sorrow Drowner!

This place is a whole experience. I had a fabulous time. I am a self-professed tiki and exotica…read moreenthusiast. It's located on a street corner in a neighborhood and has parking around back. It's easy to make a reservation online. They really lean into the performance that they are an institute and they collect artifacts. It's delightful. Their cocktails are amazing. They follow the true culture of tiki and serve traditional exotic drinks. These aren't boat drinks!! Also the Pu-Pu platter is amazing as well as the spam musbui. Just delicious! Not gonna lie, I also bought tiki mugs to go! I highly recommend this place as a true tiki bar and Donn Beach would be proud.

Food is delicious. We definitely will be back. First time at this establishment. Blueberry's grill…read morethe best brunch place.

I Absolutely loved the environment, it's a must visit, loved those blueberry hush puppies. Thanks…read moreto Savannah for the great service.

Pros: Hidden hem! You can find this place right above Yosake at the top of the stairs. Worth the 3…read moreflights.Groovy music selection, low key atmosphere with trendy decor and couches. Our waitress, Victoria was knowledgeable and friendly. Large tapas selection which paired perfectly with their craft cocktails. We weren't disappointed! We had 5 tapas, 3 drinks, and our bill was $55, not bad! I honestly didn't want to leave a review so that we could keep this place to ourselves PS: ask your server about their "last Sunday of every month" special gathering. 5 stars yall! CONS: Wish I knew sooner about this place.

This is the type of place I always come back to when I'm in town as I always leave happy…read more The food is great, the service is attentive and the mood is right. It is casual enough for a first date but a little more dressed up then some of the other bars in the area. I will continue to support this business. 4.8/5

Cute spot - decorated beautifully - the drinks are amazing - the night I was there the bar was busy…read moreso the waitress suggested we order 1 at a time - there was also a band this night outside on the patio - it was November so we prepared in advance - jackets, blankets and the restaurant had a number of heat lamps and fire pit tables so I wasn't cold at all - I ordered the Brie appetizer which was really good - my cousin ordered a steak dish medium rare and when I tell you it was well done - however the owner I have to say was on the floor the entire time watching and serving - he came right over when we got his attention and a medium rare steak came out quickly and was delish - next time I'm in town I will def be back

Perfectly prepared ribeye ... one of the best I've ever had. Music was great- not too loud…read more Perfect anniversary dinner. Will definitely be back.

In my many trips to the AB area, I've driven by the old Mosquito often but it's always, always,…read morealways packed no matter the time of year. New plan for this trip. Step one should be the same for everyone. Get there when they open at 4:45 because damn does this place get busy quick even on weekdays. When I rolled into the parking lot at 4:40, I had probably 15-20 already at the door. Step two, if you get there at open, consider bar seating. Clam Chowder - Scalloped Scallops - Key Lime Pie I'll just keep it at this. Is anything I ordered going to reinvent the culinary wheel? No, and one could argue that the only negative here is that most everything is on the pricey side. But with that said, everything was extremely consistent, everything was brought out perfectly timed, my cup never runnethed (sure, it's a word) empty and the bar staff are all excellent conversationalists. Also one big upside, the ambiance. The bar area is kept dark as it should be in any bar type situation and the music selection was mostly a fantastic mix of classic R&B and Blues. Can't tell you the last time I enjoyed seafood while listening to John Lee Hooker (well, I can and it would be never which is why my mind was sort of blown). Groaney, groan, groan on some of the pricing but the overall situation here is worth the five stars. I get the hype and I get why it's always busy. Also, kudos to the owner who was up front and making sure to thank every single person that walked by/out the door. Very classy.

Can't go wrong here. We enjoyed the drinks, food, etc. We ordered 2 things that they came later and…read moresaid they were out which was disappointing. Settled on the fried pickles instead of buzz-buzz shrimp they were out of. They were good and the sauce was awesome. I had the mixed seafood grill which was excellent. Service was very friendly, etc. We will be back when we come visit our son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.

Wonderful Staff: Warm & welcoming. Delightful experience…read more Delicious Food: Consistently good! Three of us ate at the bar. Bartender was attentive even at "rush hour". Drink & food orders turned around quickly. We had the pleasure of meeting the owner earlier in the day and decided to pop in for a drink. When the kitchen got going and the aroma wafted out we knew we'd stay for food. Recommend the 10 oz RIBEYE steak, which comes with their signature Soup & Salad Bar (in fact full dinner entrees include this). Ribeye lovers' heaven in Beaufort, NC!

Cindy was absolutely amazing. The steak was cooked to perfection. great service, great food.read more

If you're in the area do not miss this restaurant! Then menu is expansive with so many good…read moreoptions, I tried the bacon wrapped scallops, lobster bisque, chicken piccata, and pistachio cheesecake for dessert. Each dish was delicious, hot, and flavorful. The service was wonderful and I received warm chocolate chip cookies with the check which was a nice treat to take with me. The restaurant is in an unexpected location next to Taco Bell and Hampton Inn but superb quality. The interior is decorated nicely and restrooms are clean.

My husband and I went here for our 25 anniversary. We loved the upscale steakhouse vibe. I had the…read moreBeet salad and the short rib special, my husband had the Oysters Rockefeller and the NY strip. Everything was delicious and cooked perfectly, and our server I believe her name was Naomi was wonderful. Drinks were good also. Would definitely recommend.

Drop what you're doing and make a reservation. Then go here. This place is amazing…read more The drinks are fantastic. The food is delicious. It's a little crowded, but that's only because every seat in the house has someone in it tantalizing their tastebuds. I don't think you can go wrong with anything you order here. Just awesome. Keep up the great work!!!

We returned to Blue Moon Bistro this week and again had a wonderful meal! Judy was our server again…read moreand she remembered us. The food was outstanding and the evening very enjoyable. I had the Filet Mignon over sweet potato mash with snap peas and my husband had the Duck Confit. For dessert we had a rich chocolate brownie with ice cream. All was very delicious. We will definitely return in the future.