Locals and visitors alike agree Emerald Isle is the quintessential gem of North Carolina's Crystal Coast. That being the case, the Fish Hut Grill is a true gem of the casual dining establishments on Emerald Isle. It's here that local seafood and classic American fare take center stage in the hearts (and taste buds) of folks that keep coming back for more, time and again.

You'll find Fish Hut Grill right on the main drag on the island in a plaza on the corner of Emerald Drive and Mangrove Drive.

And even though Fish Hut Grill is relatively new to the restaurant scene in this locale, it's made quite the impression on those that have ventured into the new place in town. (It opened in the summer of 2019.)

If you want to order the most unique item on the menu, then go straight for the house specialty Whole Fried Fish. It comes with two sides. Then sit back and prepare to get busy devouring this in-demand meal.

Crispy on the outside and always tender and moist on the inside, the Whole Fried Fish (with the head on!) is certainly a popular choice.

You'll easily get a peek at one before you order, as just about every table has one - or more!

During the current pandemic climate, at Fish Hut Grill, you can dine in at this unique open-air restaurant, or as long as there isn't a line of people waiting on a table, you can place a take-out order during business hours. As mentioned, the restaurant is open and airy so you can dine inside, or move your feast outside to one of the many outdoor tables.

If the Whole Fried Fish is just not in your playbook for this meal, then rest assured, there are many, many other flavorful seafood choices on the menu. You won't leave Fish Hut Grill hungry or disappointed!

Especially if you came just for the Whole Fried Fish!

Don't forget the sides. You can choose from French fries, onion rings, cheese curds, or a tomato and cucumber side salad.

And while you wait, grab yourself a drink from the cooler and pay for it on the honor system on the way out. Cool, right?!

Have you dined at Fish Hut Grill? What'd you think of the whole fried fish? Weigh in with a review of your own in our comments on Facebook!

Fish Hut Grill is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. It closes for the season from mid-December to mid-May. Learn more from the official website for Fish Hut Grill and give 'em a follow on Facebook.

Know of another amazing seafood joint we should feature here? Nominate it here!