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  3. Coastal North Carolina
  4. Outer Banks
  5. Nags Head
Rusty's Surf & Turf, Buxton, NC

Rusty's Surf & Turf

4.4
4.4
266 Reviews
$30 and under
Seafood
Adventure at Rusty's Surf and Turf!
Indulge in a culinary journey that will transport you to exotic shores and create cherished memories with your loved ones. At Rusty's, we're passionate about delivering the highest quality seafood and steaks, prepared by our chefs using global techniques.
Immerse yourself in a symphony of flavors as you savor our mouthwatering shrimp and grits, lovingly crafted with homemade country sausage. Or dive into our tantalizing Spanish-style paella, brimming with a delightful fusion of ingredients.
Our mission is to make every moment unforgettable, evoking nostalgia for past vacations and igniting the joy of shared experiences. We cater to locals, Island visitors, tourists, families on vacation, and adventure seekers like you, creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home.
Reserve your table now.

Make a reservation

2 people

11:00 PM


Booked 5 times today

Additional information

  • Dining style

    Casual Dining

  • Cuisines

    Seafood, American, Global, International

  • Hours of operation

    Dinner Wed–Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm

  • Phone number

    (252) 995-4184

  • Payment options

    MasterCard, Visa

  • Dress code

    Casual Dress

  • Neighborhood

    Nags Head

  • Parking details

    Private Lot

  • Additional

    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Full Bar, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Popular dishes

What 266 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.4
4.4 based on recent ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.3Service
  • 4.2Ambience
  • 4.4Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Coastal North Carolina

    Good for business meals

  • Coastal North Carolina

    Good for groups

  • Outer Banks

    Best Overall

  • Outer Banks

    Best Food

  • Outer Banks

    Best Service

  • Outer Banks

    Best Ambiance

  • Outer Banks

    Best Value

  • Outer Banks

    Good for special occasions

  • Outer Banks

    Lively

Sort by

  1. ReneeS

    Phoenix

    10 reviews

    vip
    1.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on May 21, 2023

    overall1food3service1ambience1
    We were finally seated 1 hour after our reservation. We didn’t see even a glass of water for another half hour. When our drink order finally arrived, only 1 of 4 drinks was correct. We were finally served our dinner 1 hour and 45 minutes after our reservation time. The place was totally disorganized and the wait staff couldn’t seem to get anything right. Don’t waste your time here.
  2. DavidP

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 21, 2023

    overall3food5service1ambience3
    I'm not going to rule out a place on 1 visit, staff mentioned they had a call off which I can understand can cause delays. However the dining room was not very busy and our drinks were often empty and alcohol service often arrived 30 minutes after ordering.
  3. BriannaR

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Very nice staff, food was phenomenal, it was quiet but it was nice to be able to talk to others at my table, overall good experience
  4. BobbieL

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Best crab cakes I’ve had at any restaurant in Hatteras
  5. OpenTable Diner

    Chicago

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food and service! Highly recommend this establishment.
  6. AnitaL

    Raleigh

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 30, 2023

    overall2food3service1ambience1
    Food was alright, expensive for the price but this is Buxton. Service is subpar. The waitress had an attitude, for reasons unbeknownst to us. She didn't bother to tell us the specials (which she did with the table just behind us) and was simply unfriendly. We still enjoyed our dinner --- why not, it is our vacation --- but that was no credit to Rusty's and the waitress.
  7. ChrisB

    Denver

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on April 28, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    Simply outstanding! So why did I only give service 4 stars, because every place is short staffed and the bartender was brand new and didn't know how to make a Old Fashioned.
  8. OpenTable Diner

    Orlando

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was wonderful and the staff were very welcoming and polite. Our waitress answered all of our questions about menu items and had her favorite recommendations that were delicious.
  9. LeandraL

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The tuna and mahi is the best on the Outer Banks.
  10. KeithS

    New York Area

    7 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on April 5, 2023

    overall3food3service4ambience3
    Fair food at a very reasonable price. Server was terrific!
  11. Linda

    Raleigh

    15 reviews

    5.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on March 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I had scallops that were served on a bed of succotash using edamame instead of lima beans. The scallops are pan seared and served with a bacon jam that is a nice touch for a delicate dish. The number of scallops were plentiful - a hearty dish. I finished with the house made key lime pie. Rusty's standard menu items very good and his specials are unique or a unique twist on a standard fare. And I love that you can make reservations.
  12. Karen63

    Baltimore

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on March 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent variety of food to choose from. We had wings, ribs, spinach ravioli, Brussels sprouts and hush puppy oysters. Everything was delicious.
  13. TimD

    Wilmington

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on March 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had the beef and scallop stir fry and the BBQ rib platter both were outstanding
  14. OpenTable Diner

    Wilmington

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on February 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is must visit when in Buxton, fresh local fare meets chef’s noble flair! There clam chowder (broth base) is a perfect twist to the Northeastern classic. All the appetizers are cooked to perfection and entrees offer plenty of food for hungriest of diners. Don’t miss a chance at eating here, make a reservation because get packed quickly.
  15. Karen63

    Baltimore

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on February 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Food was excellent and our server Paul was very accommodating.
  16. Obxlocal777

    New England

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on December 16, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We all enjoyed our meals! It was a nice atmosphere, friendly staff! We will return again!
  17. SteveM

    Cleveland

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on December 11, 2022

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    You wouldn't be sorry to dine here. It was our first brunch visit and we will return to try lunch entrees but the breakfast items were good enough that we would order them again without hesitation.
  18. AuntieS

    Washington DC

    8 reviews

    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on October 7, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    The shrimp and grits were wonderful and our server, Kat, was delightful. We had a lovely time.
  19. ConnieB

    Richmond

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on October 5, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Delicious meal. Friendly staff. Had a great time!
  20. Teamsimple

    Washington DC

    10 reviews

    1.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on October 2, 2022

    overall1food1service4ambience3
    Bland and way way way overpriced!
  21. MarkR

    Pittsburgh

    24 reviews

    4.0

    24 reviews

    Dined on September 25, 2022

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Waitress was attentive and nice. Food excellent as usual. Overall great experience.
  22. pGecko

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 22, 2022

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    Go for the specials! The printed menu items didn’t grab me but when our excellent server, Paul, described the specials my taste buds woke up. There were several enticing options and Paul included the prices which is sooo appreciated and ranged from teens to 30s. We ended up w the Mahi-Mahi and fish tacos and shared. We were hungry so added the calamari from the appetizer menu, typically pedestrian but what a pleasant surprise. The calamari was very creatively spiced as were our entrees. The fish tacos were fresh and crispy and the Asian twist on the Mahi gave the mild fish a nice zing. The side veggies were bright and perfectly cooked and portions were ample. The beer and wine menu is not vast but the selection is decent. I’m sure there are winners from the regular menu (I hear the shrimp and grits are good) but we’d go again for the specials and Paul’s well-timed attention.
  23. Good

    Tampa

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 21, 2022

    overall4food4service5ambience3
    Rather stark dining area where there was more space than tables. Server was attentive and always ready to help. Food was good, but like many places on Hattaras Island, was a bit pricey.
  24. JesseG

    Wilmington

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 21, 2022

    overall2food2service5ambience2
    Way too expensive for what it is. Ordered steak medium and it was just about burnt. Okay quantity. Server was great though.
  25. Stephenm

    Wilmington

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 17, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The starters were very good. The main course was amazing. the homemade desserts stole the show though...will definitely return on another visit
  26. RossW

    Baltimore

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 14, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Had an incredible meal..Rusty and his staff were awesome..we will be back
  27. OpenTable Diner

    Wilmington

    1 review

    1.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 4, 2022

    overall1food3service1ambience2
    Made reservations for date night at 7:45, we arrived a little early around 7:40 and when we got there we were told we would have to wait a few minutes to give the kitchen a break(?). 15 mins passed, and the hostess sat 3 other people prior to us. We asked about it, and was sat within minutes of asking. Like they basically forgot. We were seated at a dirty table, I used to work in a restaurant so I know how things can be, I try to let that go. We stopped a bus boy to clean off the table and he had a pretty crabby attitude about it, wiped it and said “is that better?” Did put any cleaner or anything on the table just wiped it with a dirty cloth. At this point I was kinda ready to go, but we had waited for late for these reservations that there was not very many options to chose from if we had left. Browsed over their very limited menu. Decided to go with the garlic shrimp, which did not taste very fresh, more like frozen and very much rubbery from either the fact it was frozen or the cooks didn’t cook it correctly. Enough said, I could’ve made it better at home. I can’t say I’ll be back or if I would even recommend this place to anyone.
  28. LaurieM

    West Virginia

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 4, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Very friendly staff, excellent service, delicious food (including dessert), good portion sizes. Can’t wait to go back again and love that they use OpenTable!
  29. carltonPm

    Richmond

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 4, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Outstanding food and excellent service! We routinely travel from KDH to Buxton just for a great meal that isn’t overpriced OBX style!!
  30. TabithaH

    Wilmington

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 2, 2022

    overall3food3service5ambience4
    Rusty's was okay. The tuna I had was good but not a lot of flavor. The green beans listed as garlic beans were refrigerator cold but had a nice crunch and little garlic flavor. Ifbthey had been warm/hot, would have been better. My husband had the seafood pasta which didn't have a lot of flavor either. The sauce was a bit too thin to cling to the pasta and seafood. We maybe would try again. The service was great and staff was friendly and welcoming.
  31. IrishDog33

    Philadelphia

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 1, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Appetizers: fried oysters and hush puppies Drinks: Local Mexican lager, local Kolsch and a mule Dinner: swordfish special, Asian mahi mahi special, seared tuna and fried scallops with fried fish. All of the food was delicious. Drinks were flowing and the server was excellent. Highly recommend.
  32. DougA

    Wilmington

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 1, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is our third annual visit to Rusty's.. we have never been disappointed!! The food was excellent and the service was top notch. We're looking forward to our next vacation so we can visit again!!
  33. MJM06

    Wilmington

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 28, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Very yummy food! We especially liked the shrimp linguine, hush puppies, and seared tuna.
  34. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 21, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    The food is original and and plated so beautifully!! So Delicious! Amazing service too! We will come back again and again!
  35. BethW

    Wilmington

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 19, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Every bite was delicious! Even days later we are still talking about how great our dinner was. We will definitely go back.
  36. DebbieH

    Wilmington

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 19, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Mahi-mahi was the best ever. Congrats to the cook. Shrimp was awesome too. Hush puppies yum. Drinks were excellent. Kat our waitress was the best. Great meal and service
  37. THERESAM

    Greensboro

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 18, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Everyone enjoyed our meals. From Mahi mahi, shrimp to the ribeye. Our waiter was attentive and answered all our stupid questions. Thank you for making our dinner special.
  38. BradS

    Washington DC

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 17, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, drinks and the waitress was outstanding!
  39. OpenTable Diner

    Wilmington

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 14, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Rusty’s is always delicious, one of our favorite restaurants on the island.
  40. JohnH

    Detroit

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 11, 2022

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Had a great dinner with fantastic service at a very reasonable price. Two thumbs up! 👍👍

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
  • Physical distancing

    • Limited number of seated diners
    • Distancing maintained in common areas
    • Extra space between tables
  • Protective equipment

    • Waitstaff wear masks
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
    • Staff temperature check required

FAQs

Rusty's Surf & Turf is rated 4.4 stars by 266 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

11:00 PM


Booked 5 times today
Google Map for Rusty's Surf & Turf

47355 N.C. Highway 12, Buxton, NC 27920

Additional information

  • Neighborhood

    Nags Head

  • Hours of operation

    Dinner Wed–Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm

  • Cuisines

    Seafood, American, Global, International

  • Dining style

    Casual Dining

  • Dress code

    Casual Dress

  • Parking details

    Private Lot

  • Payment options

    MasterCard, Visa

  • Additional

    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Full Bar, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Wheelchair Access, Wine

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