It's always amazing to discover new places, either word of mouth, online recommendation, or because you simply stumbled in...usually the best things are discovered by chance, especially food. From a juicy burger with elaborate (or simple) toppings, to crispy fried chicken, and even a five-star restaurant...these restaurants fly under the radar but deserve high praise.

1. Fish Heads Bar & Grill, Nags Head

Unless you venture all the way out to the Outer Banks, it's very possible you never even knew there was a restaurant on the Outer Banks Fishing Pier south of Nags Head. Not only does it offer stunning views, but pretty good food too. Come for happy hour or live music on the weekends. 8901 S Old Oregon Inlet Rd, Nags Head

2. Magnolia 23, Asheboro

For non-Asheboro residents, Magnolia 23 is relatively unknown but worth the detour off Zoo Parkway. From perfectly crispy fried chicken to fixins' that'd make your Grandma proud - Magnolia 23 is souther comfort food at its finest. Speaking of finest, it's also the type of place where the owner will come up to your table, ask how you're doing and even strike up a small conversation. For many Asheboro residents it feels like dining at home. 23 S Fayetteville St, Asheboro

3. The Derby Restaurant, Mount Airy

Speaking of fried chicken, this derby-hat-shaped restaurant might make you wait twenty minutes but that's because all fried chicken is fried to order. More than fried chicken, there's also a wide offering of southern fare and yummy sides.1901 S Main St, Mt Airy

4. The Country Squire, Kenansville

While many pass through Duplin County on the way to the beach many don't the unique, and haunted, restaurant hiding. From the 72 oz. 'Big Kilt' steak to a few lingering spirits...the food is amazing but the ambiance and history is downright interesting. 748 Nc 24 And 50 Hwy, between Kenansville and Warsaw Read all about it here.

5. Flo's Biscuit Kitchen, Wilson

Speaking of driving to and from the beach, a detour to Wilson certainly doesn't disappoint for the best biscuits in the state and possibly the country. Made with a unique recipe passed down by the original Florence, it's hard to find biscuits this good anywhere else. 1015 Goldsboro St S, Wilson More info and directions here.

6. Spoon River Artworks & Market, Belhaven

This incredibly chic restaurant just a stone's throw from the Pungo River offers inventive dishes worthy of a #brunchlife hashtag. The farm-to-fork concept inspires innovative, beautiful dishes that are almost TOO pretty to eat with a menu that changes weekly. Stop by for lunch or dinner. 263 Pamlico St, Belhaven

7. Carolina Burger, Lenoir

No one had really heard of this little hole in the wall burger joint until it took top place in Strange Carolina's Burger Bracket Competition. Carolina Burger offers ten different types of burgers from 'The Firecracker' to 'The Standard.' 606 Blowing Rock Blvd, Lenoir Read more about Carolina Burger and other top burgers in the state here.

8. Saxapahaw General Store, Saxapahaw

This 'five-star gas station' is a true hidden gem in terms of grabbing a bite to eat. It's not only a place to grab fresh produce or snacks, but a full lunch or dinner. With an elaborate assortment of sandwiches, bagels, salads and hearty breakfast options...this is the best-kept secret hiding in a general store.1735 Saxapahaw-Bethlehem Church Rd, Saxapahaw

What delicious little hidden gems, which ones have you dined at before? Any you want to add to the list?