Ever since my first bite of lightly battered shrimp in Calabash, I’ve been captivated by North Carolina’s most beloved seafood tradition.
This small fishing town, tucked near the South Carolina border, has rightfully earned its reputation as the “Seafood Capital of the World.”
What makes Calabash seafood special isn’t just the freshness of the daily catch, but the signature cooking style—lightly breaded, perfectly fried, and served in generous platters that invite sharing. Locals, vacationers, and even out-of-state visitors will happily drive hours for the experience. A Calabash meal is more than dinner—it’s a bite of coastal Carolina culture and history.
The Calabash-Style Secret
The magic happens in the batter! Unlike heavy, doughy coatings that mask seafood’s natural flavors, Calabash-style uses a whisper-thin cornmeal mixture that crisps up golden while letting the ocean-fresh taste shine through…