One delightful day during our time in at North River Campground in Shawboro NC we decided to have lunch at Hoppin’ Johnz in Elizabeth City NC. It was a random pick made by Googling outdoor dining in Elizabeth City.
The cool forged metal nameplate for Hoppin’ Johnz in Elizabeth City NC
Hoppin’ Johnz
More whimsical art at Hoppin’ Johnz in Elizabeth City NC
Such a fun group for poker!
The ride to this little waterfront downtown took about 30 minutes and was filled with views of charming farms growing lots and lots of corn. Once we crossed the bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway we were smack dab in the heart of the harbor and downtown. A couple of turns and we were at our destination. The interior of Hoppin’ Johnz was filled with dark wood and felt like an 18th century pub. But it wasn’t at all somber because the walls were peppered with whimsical posters. Our hostess let us to our table outside and we were transported to what felt like an outdoor café in New Orleans.
New South Cuisine
Bon Appetit!
The lovely alleyway at Hoppin’ Johnz
In this alley, cordoned off with black wrought iron fencing, were bistro tables and chairs and market umbrellas for shade. When our server Sonni gave us our menus we felt even more like we were in our beloved New Orleans. Right under the name it read New South Cuisine! There was Gumbo, Shrimp and Grits, of course Hoppin’ John and Oyster Po’ Boys. I’m sure you can guess what we ordered.
Our lunch
Addictive Tobacco Onions
For a starter we had Tobacco Onions. Not really sure why they are called Tobacco Onions. But my guess would be that it’s because, just like tobacco, these crispy, crunchy fried onion straws are addictive. When we asked our serve Sonni why the name Tobacco Onions she described them as similar to Outback’s Bloomin’ Onion, but I disagree. They are waaaaay better. These are thinly sliced from sweet onions, coated in “Harbor Dust” and served with a delicious Smoked Pepper Mayo. And even though our Po’ Boys came with French Fries we kept eating the Tobacco Onions until our plate was empty.
My fabulously yummy Oyster Po’ Boy at Hoppin’ Johnz in Elizabeth City NC
And yes. You were right. We both had the Oyster Po’ Boy. Our sandwiches were made on hoagie rolls that were lightly toasted and filled with lettuce, tomato, remoulade and very large plump fried oysters. The were perfect with the addition of some Crystal Hot Sauce. So yummy that my mouth is watering while typing this.
Exploring Elizabeth City
After lunch we explored a bit which took us to the Museum of the Albemarle and a walk around the first floor to view the artwork of local artists. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, most of the museum was closed. And sadly, many of the other attractions were closed as well.
Moth Boat Park Entrance
Magnificent Crape Myrtle Trees in full bloom at Moth Boat ParkT
So we headed to the harbor for a stroll along the waterway path at Moth Boat Park. This park is dedicated to the tiny moth one man sailing vessels. Moth boats are just 11-feet long with a 75 square foot sail. They are both challenging and thrilling to captain. The first Moth boat was designed by Captain John Van Sant in Elizabeth City and built in the Elizabeth City Shipyard.
We had a really fun day that was highlighted with lunch at Hoppin’ Johnz in Elizabeth City NC.
