The 2019 Outer Banks Taste of the Beach is now a part of history. It was a good—a very good. No doubt when the historians record the event they’ll be sure to call out how much fun it was.
The two big events are the Wings & BBQ Showdown and the Outer Banks Grand Tasting & Bartenders Bubbly Bash. Both seemed to be sold out events so be sure to reserve early for next year.
The concept for both is pretty simple—sample some really tasty food from about 15 or so chefs, check a box for what you think is best then give serious consideration to going back for seconds.
Although, we will admit, just trying everything once is a daunting task.
We’re not going to call out all of our favorites, but there was one rib that seemed to garner universal praise…including ours. Aqua Restaurant and Spa won the People’s Choice, and the Judge’s Choice for Best Ribs. We agree. Slightly spicy, wonderfully tender with a fruit glaze. Tough to think of ribs as gourmet food, but those ribs could change our minds.
We were pretty careful about trying the bubbly with the Bubbly Bash. We did think the lemonade melon champagne cocktail was quite refreshing.
We really liked the seafood salad served in a cocktail glass from Coastal Cravings. Liked it a lot. That came in second on the People’s Choice and Judge’s Ballots.
Great music too. On Saturday Jonny Waters and Company at the the Wings & BBQ Showdown. Sunday it was Soul One at the the Grand Tasting.
Don’t miss the special times on the Outer Banks. Make your reservations with Brindley Beach Vacations today.
Winners: Wings & BBQ Showdown
Best BBQ – Pigman’s BBQ
Best Ribs – Aqua Restaurant & Spa
Best Wings – Pigman’s BBQ
Best In Show – Striper’s Bar & Grill
JUDGE’S CHOICE WINNERS
Best BBQ – Striper’s Bar & Grill
Best Wings – Jolly Roger Restaurant
Best Ribs – Aqua Restaurant & Spa and Coastal Cravings (a tie!)
Winners: Grand Tasting & Bartenders Bubbly Bash
1st Place – Striper’s Bar & Grill
2nd Place – Coastal Cravings
3rd Place – Jolly Roger
JUDGE’S CHOICE
1st Place – Black Pelican
2nd Place – Coastal Cravings
3rd Place – Striper’s Bar & Grill
CHEFS AWARD
Black Pelican
BEST BOOTH
Striper’s Bar & Grill
BEST DESSERT
1st Place – Outer Banks Brewing Station
2nd Place – Red Sky Cafe