Archive for June 2, 2012
Lunch Anyone? Try This One
Many of my friends ask where locals go for a real good meal. I tell them that there are many excellent places to eat both on and off the beach. But, yes there are several that we patronize whenever possible.
One of our favorite spots for lunch is Sam and Omie’s Restaurant. It is located on the beach road in South Nags Heads. It is conveniently located across the street from the new Jennette’s Fishing pier.
The restaurant opened in 1937 and served as a meeting place for commercial fisherman. As time passed this became the place were visitors could hook up for a recreational fishing charters. Commercial fishermen were only happy to make a few extra dollars by taking the visitors out. This was probably the beginning of charter fishing here on the Outer Banks.
Times continued to change and so did the owners. This happened several times over the years but the camaraderie between anglers and visitors continued to grow. And a real love for this unique gathering place grew.
My first visit had to be over forty years ago. Back then, one of the prime seats was near the windows. This seat afforded you the view of the old pier, beach road and a catch that fresh ocean breeze. No air conditioning back then. And you were always welcome; even in your bathing suit and sandy bare feet. The old wooden floors covered in sand were as normal as was the local faire.
We continue to frequent this famous landmark as often as possible. Summers are very busy but the off season is ours. The staff is just as friendly as the original Sammy and Omie’s one.
If you go, my recommendations are the fried vegetable baskets and she crab soup. And make sure you tell them an old local fisherman told to come.
Their motto has a certain angling ring – “Everyone should believe in something; I believe I’ll go fishing.” –Henry David Thoreau
Until next time, Tightlines
NCsaltaire 