Flying Melon

4.7 ( 415 reviews )
Checking... 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM See Hours
$30–50
181 Back Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960, United States
+1 252-928-2533
Flying Melon, located at 181 Back Rd in Ocracoke, NC, is more than just a restaurant—it's a culinary destination that showcases the best of local seafood. The menu features an impressive range of dishes, including blackened local drum and cashew-crusted yellowfin tuna, all expertly prepared and served with inventive sauces that highlight the fresh flavors. Diners rave about the oysters, both raw and baked, celebrated for their freshness and flavor depth, while the vibrant atmosphere—made even cozier with outdoor seating—is inviting and relaxed. The attentive service, noted in reviews, adds to the overall charm. Patrons like Noelle and Ron laud the quality of both the food and the staff, creating an experience that feels personal and welcoming. Flying Melon also caters to families with a kids' menu offering delightful options like fried fish dinners and macaroni and cheese, ensuring an inclusive dining experience. Desserts and creative cocktails further enhance the meal, making it truly unforgettable. Despite minor hiccups, such as a misunderstood hamburger order, overall impressions lean profoundly positive. With fresh, local ingredients at the forefront and a friendly atmosphere, Flying Melon is a must-visit for anyone in the area, setting a high bar for culinary experiences on Ocracoke Island.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves dinner
    • Has counter service
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has toilet
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Plenty of parking
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed outside

Reviews For Flying Melon

Noelle Scored
May 28,2025
Spectacular food, excellent service, and fun cocktails. I tried the tilefish, not knowing what to expect, and was very happy with my choice - it was scrumptious. Hubby had the pecan crusted red drum which was equally fresh and delicious. Appetizer was oysters Bienville - so good we seriously considered another round of it. Highly recommend this lovely restaurant if you are in town. Nice atmosphere (bring a shawl, the AC is cranked up.)
Erin Dunphy Dean
Apr 28,2025
We had the oysters (so fresh!), shrimp bisque and gumbo for apps, then the linguine and fish of the day. Great food and excellent service, thanks Kevin!
Ron Shelby
Apr 13,2025
We enjoyed dinner at the Flying Melon yesterday. I had baked oysters as a starter. They were wonderful. Just done, the oysters were juicy and flavorful. My main course was an encrusted red drum. Caught just off the island this was fresh and delightfully flavorful. I'd have these two things any day.
Emily Crow
Apr 1,2025
A very nice dinner. All of our seafood was delicious, the drinks are nicely done. Delicious desserts. Pretty space. We had issues with getting a hamburger cooked.
Kelly Bowers (KB)
Mar 15,2025
We loved our meal and drinks. Great menu with fresh, local offerings. We sat outside at the picnic tables so we could bring our dog. They let us order inside and eat outside from to go boxes. Full menu was available to us. The service was fantastic and everyone was so friendly. *Pictured is the duck with strawberry gastrique and root vegetables*
Jason VP
Feb 26,2025
If you're looking for fine dining with down to earth country appeal, this is the place. If it's five people or more, they suggest reservations. Be ready to loosen the wallet a little, and feel good about it when the evening concludes. Flying Melon is a several course meal experience. The bar prepares well made mixed drinks. Fried green tomatoes on the apps list aren't to be missed. Fresh seafood selections are favorites, though the filet mignon choices are also delectable. Find room for dessert. The key lime pie and chocolate torte are especially decadent. As befits such an establishment, staff goes out of the way to bring a memorable evening. Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience in an unforgettable place.
matt marchesani
Feb 17,2025
We always make it to the Flying Melon when we visit so this time was no exception. Even though we walked in with a party of six with no notice, they accommodated us rather quickly. Not sure if this would happen on a busy evening. Adam was pleasant and attentive, the food is always delicious and fresh. Overall, another wonderful evening.
Carrie Klutz
Feb 8,2025
One of the best meals and experiences we have ever had hands down. We sat at the bar. Would def recommend reservations if you aren’t a bar person or have a group of people. Nat was extremely helpful in helping us pick out appetizers, entrees and cocktails/wine. Extremely knowledgeable about the food and drinks (he is a sommelier FYI). We had raw local oysters, tilefish and sheepshead as well as creme brulee for dessert. The vinaigrette on the house salad was amazing! This was our last night of vaca so we wanted to splurge and we were not disappointed. Top 5 dining experiences of my life.

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