Unfamiliar as it may sound to the uninitiated, the shrimp burger is a beloved staple on North Carolina’s scenic Crystal Coast. It’s a treat that consists of a tower of golden-brown fried shrimp, heaped atop a classic hamburger bun, complemented by a drizzle of ketchup and a creamy, tangy coleslaw.
For those who haven’t sampled this regional delicacy, it may remain a mystery, but once you’ve had a taste, it’s likely to become a cherished favorite. And to embark on this culinary journey, there’s no better destination than El’s Drive-In in Morehead City, where this modest coastal delicacy has achieved legendary status.
Our family has cherished visits to Morehead City for years, and my husband and I grew so fond of the place that we decided to make it our home, where our daughter was born. Whenever loved ones visited, our first stop was always El’s—a local gem that’s a must-visit, and once experienced, is hard to forget.
Established in 1959, El’s Drive-In has been a cherished part of the community for over six decades. True to its name, it’s a throwback to the golden age of drive-ins—no indoor seating, no neon signs, and no need for an intercom to place your order. Simply pull up, and a carhop will promptly arrive at your car window to take your order.
Enjoy your meal in the comfort of your vehicle or at one of the quaint picnic tables outside. It’s a nostalgic, unpretentious spot, embodying the warm, welcoming charm of a small town.
In 2024, El’s underwent a significant nine-month renovation, a change that initially caused concern among the loyal regulars. However, rather than demolishing the old structure, the team meticulously deconstructed it brick by brick, reusing the original bricks in the rebuild. The renovations primarily focused on expanding the kitchen to meet the growing demand, but preserving the restaurant’s character was the highest priority.
At El’s, the commitment to tradition is profound. The drive-in has been a family endeavor from the start. Founder El Frank opened its doors in 1959, later handing the reins to his son, Mark, and now Mark’s son, Shelton, is at the helm of most daily operations. Three generations strong, the Frank family continues to serve the comforting food that has made El’s a local icon.
This sense of heritage transcends the Frank family. My husband’s family has vacationed in Morehead City for generations, with El’s playing a central role in their tales. From his grandparents to his own children, each generation has shared in the joy of shrimp burgers under the same sky.
It’s a place that feels like it’s woven into the fabric of family life, tied to memories around every meal. My husband’s grandparents fondly recall their visits, and now our own little one enjoys the laughter of fries from the backseat. El’s is a time machine, a simple shrimp burger uniting generations.
While the shrimp burger is the shining star on the menu, it’s just the beginning. The menu is a treasure trove of coastal favorites, from oyster burgers and cheeseburgers to hushpuppies and freshly spun milkshakes. Each dish is freshly prepared, served swiftly, and tastes even better with the sea breeze from Bogue Sound.
El’s Drive-In is a standout at any time of day or year, but I’ve picked up a few local tips over the years to enhance your visit. Summertime is the peak season, and with everything made to order, waits can be lengthy. A clever trick is to call ahead, and they’ll begin preparing your meal before you arrive, significantly reducing the wait.
Lunchtime is particularly busy, a delightful part of the experience, but keep in mind that it’s best to plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule or have young children in tow.
For a more serene experience, consider visiting outside of peak lunch hours or during the shoulder season or winter, when there are fewer visitors, and the drive-in is still as delightful, minus the bustling crowd.
What sets El’s apart is its profound connection to the community. The Frank family has been actively involved with the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce and supports local initiatives such as animal shelters, the Boys & Girls Club, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. For them, giving back is an integral part of their identity.
El’s Drive-In is more than just a dining spot—it’s a cornerstone of Morehead City, a gathering place, and a delicious testament to how a simple meal can unite families and communities.
