Menu of Aviator Tavern in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, USA

Menu Overview

Located in the heart of Kitty Hawk, NC, Aviator Tavern offers a compelling blend of comfort and coastal charm in its menu. At first glance, the focus on hearty, thoughtfully crafted dishes is clear, particularly their standout Western Omelet, which has become a local favorite due to its robust flavors and generous portions. This signature breakfast item perfectly captures the essence of a satisfying morning meal, combining classic ingredients with a satisfying, home-cooked feel.

The menu’s diversity is impressive, stretching across breakfast, sandwiches, appetizers, and entrées with an emphasis on quality and balance. Sandwich lovers will appreciate the Chicken Club, where pan-seared chicken, hardwood smoked bacon, and cheddar cheese meet crisp lettuce and tomato on a toasted brioche bun. Each bite is rich and layered, striking a fine balance between hearty and fresh. The Wagyu Dog also stands out, bringing gourmet beef to the table with a distinctive shack sauce that adds a tangy kick without overwhelming the palate.

Appetizers such as Sticky Hot Wings and Dynamite Shrimp highlight the kitchen’s skill in marrying crispy textures with bold, nuanced sauces. The wings’ secret sweet and spicy buffalo sauce offers a memorable dance of heat and sweetness, perfectly complementing the dry rub technique. Meanwhile, the Dynamite Shrimp, hand-breaded and tossed with Napa cabbage and peanuts in a creamy, spicy sauce, delivers an addictive crunch and flavor depth.

For dinner, Aviator Tavern pivots toward refined comfort with dishes like the Cheese Tortellini featuring wild mushrooms, peas, and prosciutto in a luscious white wine cream sauce. This entrée exemplifies balance: earthy, creamy, and savory without heaviness. The Shrimp and Grits marry Southern tradition and Creole spice, with sautéed shrimp, andouille sausage, and peppers melding seamlessly over stone-ground cheese grits. And for steak lovers, the 12oz Grilled Ribeye adorned with sautéed cremini mushrooms, onions, and housemade garlic butter is a robust, satisfying centerpiece.

Service consistently garners high praise here. Guests like John W. and Summer Sanderlin highlight how attentive and friendly the staff are, enhancing the dining experience without overshadowing the food. The bartending team also earns commendations for knowledgeable recommendations and fostering a welcoming ambiance.

While the menu impresses with its variety and quality, some patrons have expressed a desire for additional options such as fish tacos or complementary sides like dinner rolls and garlic bread alongside pasta dishes — suggestions that would further round out an already strong offering.

In sum, Aviator Tavern stands out as a destination for both locals and visitors seeking elevated casual dining near the ocean. Its menu is a testament to the art of balancing familiar comfort with refined ingredients and thoughtful execution. Whether indulging in a hearty breakfast omelet or savoring coastal-inspired entrées, diners can expect a well-curated, satisfying meal supported by genuinely warm service.