About
THE BRINE AND BOTTLE
Southern cuisine has a special way of drawing people in, with its rich flavors, comforting dishes, and warm hospitality. The Brine and Bottle in Nags Head, North Carolina, was a place that captured the essence of Southern cooking and elevated it to new heights. The moment you stepped through the door, you were welcomed not just by the incredible food but by an atmosphere that made you feel like family. It was a spot that expertly blended traditional Southern flavors with modern twists, all while offering an outstanding selection of boutique wines and local craft beers. Unfortunately, in late August 2014, due to the loss of their lease, The Brine and Bottle closed its doors for good. For those who had the chance to experience it, it's a place that will never be forgotten.
Even though The Brine and Bottle is no longer in business, we wanted to take a moment to look back on what made this restaurant so special and share it with those who may have never had the chance to dine there. From its creative menu to its impeccable service and live music, The Brine and Bottle was more than just a restaurant—it was a true Southern gem.
The Creative Touch of Chef and Owner
The heart and soul of The Brine and Bottle was its owner and chef, who was born and raised in North Carolina. His deep roots in the region were evident in every dish he served, but he wasn't afraid to put his own unique spin on traditional Southern favorites. The result was a menu that was both familiar and exciting, offering customers the opportunity to enjoy classic comfort food with unexpected twists. It was exactly the kind of change and improvement we love to see in the culinary world, where chefs take what they know and love and elevate it to something new and exciting.
For many, The Brine and Bottle became a go-to spot for unforgettable Southern cuisine, with standout dishes like the Soft Shell Crab and Deep Fried Pickles. These appetizers were a perfect introduction to the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and bold flavors. The Soft Shell Crab was crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, while the Deep Fried Pickles offered a perfect balance of tangy and crispy, making them a favorite for both locals and visitors alike. These dishes were just the beginning of what was sure to be a memorable meal at The Brine and Bottle.
Southern Cuisine Elevated: A Menu of Favorites
One of the most exciting things about The Brine and Bottle was the way they took traditional Southern cuisine and made it feel fresh and innovative. The menu was filled with Southern classics that were given a modern twist, and each dish was crafted with care and attention to detail. Some of the favorites that customers raved about included the Bacon Jam, Poached Grouper, and the quintessential Shrimp and Grits. These dishes not only captured the soul of Southern cooking but also showcased the chef's creative flair.
The Bacon Jam, for example, was a perfect blend of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Served as a topping or on the side, it was a great complement to many of the restaurant's dishes, adding a rich depth of flavor that took Southern classics to the next level. The Poached Grouper was another standout, offering delicate, flaky fish that paired perfectly with a variety of sauces and sides. It was a dish that allowed the fresh, high-quality ingredients to shine, and it became one of the restaurant's signature items.
Of course, Shrimp and Grits is a Southern staple, and The Brine and Bottle made sure to perfect it. Their take on this dish was Southern-style comfort at its finest, with plump shrimp served over creamy, buttery grits that were rich in flavor and texture. It was a dish that embodied the essence of Southern cooking, and it left customers craving more every time. Whether you were a local or a first-time visitor, these dishes were sure to make a lasting impression.
Live Music and Boutique Wines: The Complete Experience
What really set The Brine and Bottle apart from other casual Southern restaurants was its atmosphere. The restaurant wasn't just about great food—it was about creating an experience. To enhance the dining experience, the owners brought in live music on a daily basis. The sound of local musicians playing in the background added a special touch to the meal, making it feel like an evening out with friends rather than just a regular dinner. It was the kind of place where you could relax, enjoy the music, and savor every bite of food in good company.
In addition to the live music, The Brine and Bottle was also known for its impressive selection of boutique wines and local craft beers. The wine list was carefully curated to pair perfectly with the Southern-inspired dishes, while the craft beer selection showcased some of the best local brews in the area. Whether you were in the mood for a crisp white wine or a hoppy IPA, there was something for everyone at The Brine and Bottle. The combination of great food, live music, and carefully selected beverages made this restaurant a true destination for those looking to enjoy the best of Southern hospitality.
A Place That Will Be Missed
It's hard to overstate how much The Brine and Bottle meant to the Nags Head community and to those who had the privilege of dining there. It was a place that combined exceptional food, a welcoming atmosphere, and live entertainment to create an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you were stopping by for a casual dinner or celebrating a special occasion, The Brine and Bottle was a place that always delivered.
Unfortunately, in August 2014, the restaurant was forced to close due to the loss of its lease. This news was a blow to many, as The Brine and Bottle had become a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant's attention to detail, from the creative menu to the welcoming service, made it stand out in an area filled with dining options. It was a true gem, and its absence is still felt today.
The Legacy Lives On
Although The Brine and Bottle is no longer open, the legacy of its incredible food, atmosphere, and commitment to Southern cuisine lives on in the hearts of those who had the chance to experience it. The restaurant was a testament to what can happen when you take traditional dishes, add your own creative spin, and focus on quality ingredients. It was a place that celebrated the best of Southern cooking while also embracing innovation, and it will always be remembered as one of the top spots for Southern cuisine in Nags Head.
For those who were lucky enough to dine at The Brine and Bottle, the memories of the delicious food, live music, and welcoming atmosphere will stay with them for years to come. And for those who missed out, we can only hope that new restaurants will continue to carry the torch of Southern hospitality and creativity that The Brine and Bottle embodied.
Aired on December 17, 2012
Updated March 21, 2025
Pickled Currituck Asparagus
Fried Pickles with Buttermilk Chive Dressing
Grilled Tennessee Ham and Cheese Sandwich
The Brine and Bottle Food
Pan Roasted Elk Strip Loin
Bacon Jam with Saltines
Strawberry Cobbler
Pork Ribs on the BBQ
For menu, hours, delivery, reservations or gift cards please call 252-715-1818.
Diet-friendly, vegan, gluten free or organic meals may be available.
Images courtesy of The Brine and Bottle
City Guide:
Diners Drive-Ins and Dives in Nags Head, NC