Welcome to Als Drive In: A Coastal Culinary Tradition
Nestled in the heart of Morehead City, North Carolina, Als Drive In stands as a beloved local institution, offering a taste of genuine American roadside dining with a distinct coastal flair. Located conveniently at 3706 Arendell St, this establishment has carved out a significant niche in the local culinary landscape, serving generations of residents and visitors alike. Morehead City, known for its vibrant maritime culture and proximity to the Crystal Coast, provides the perfect backdrop for a restaurant that prioritizes simple, satisfying food served with efficiency and a friendly smile. Als Drive In is more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it represents a slice of local history, maintaining a commitment to quality that has kept patrons returning year after year.
The atmosphere at Als Drive In strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and contemporary casual dining. While the core menu remains rooted in classic American fare—think juicy burgers, crispy fries, and refreshing shakes—the dedication to fresh ingredients elevates the experience beyond the typical fast-food offering. It’s the kind of place where you can pull up after a long day on the water or stop by for a reliable, comforting meal that never disappoints. Understanding the rhythm of coastal life, Als Drive In has perfected the art of serving up delicious food quickly, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the Morehead City area or passing through this beautiful part of North Carolina.
Key Highlights of the Als Drive In Experience
What sets Als Drive In apart in a competitive dining environment? Several core elements contribute to its enduring popularity and reputation:
Commitment to Classic American Comfort Food: The menu is built around time-tested favorites executed with care. Patrons consistently praise the quality of the foundational items, suggesting a focus on sourcing and preparation that honors traditional recipes. This dedication ensures that whether you crave a classic cheeseburger or a perfectly prepared side, you receive a satisfying and authentic meal.
Prime Location and Accessibility: Situated at 3706 Arendell St, the restaurant benefits from excellent visibility and easy access for both local traffic and tourists exploring the Morehead City area. Its location makes it a convenient refueling spot before heading out to the nearby beaches or after enjoying the local attractions that define this coastal town.
A True Local Institution: Als Drive In carries the weight of local history. It is a place where community memories are made, often serving as a familiar landmark for those who have grown up in or frequently visit the region. This deep connection to the community fosters a sense of loyalty and authenticity that cannot be manufactured.
Focus on Efficient, Friendly Service: Recognizing the fast-paced nature of coastal living, the team at Als Drive In emphasizes speed without sacrificing the warmth of genuine hospitality. The service model is designed to get you the food you love quickly, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free dining experience every time you visit.
The menu structure, while familiar, allows for personalization, catering to diverse tastes while maintaining the integrity of the core offerings. Diners appreciate the straightforward approach—knowing exactly what you are going to get, and knowing it will be good, is a significant draw. This reliability is a cornerstone of the restaurant's success in the dynamic North Carolina coastal market.
More Than Just a Meal: A Coastal Landmark
Als Drive In is intrinsically linked to the identity of Morehead City. It serves as a reliable anchor point in a town that constantly evolves with the seasons and the influx of visitors drawn to the Atlantic coast. For those seeking an authentic taste of local life, bypassing the chain restaurants for a spot like Als Drive In offers a richer, more meaningful connection to the area.
When you visit 3706 Arendell St, you are not just stopping for sustenance; you are participating in a long-standing local tradition. The simple pleasure derived from a well-made classic meal, enjoyed in an environment that feels both familiar and welcoming, is what defines the Als Drive In experience. We invite you to discover why this Morehead City staple continues to be a favorite destination for those who appreciate quality, tradition, and the genuine spirit of coastal North Carolina dining.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Outdoor seating
Kerbside pickup
On-site services
Takeaway
Delivery
Dine-in
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Coffee
Late-night food
Quick bite
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Counter service
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Payments
Cheques
Debit cards
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
On-site parking
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed
Dogs allowed outside
Menus
Side Orders
Fries (One Size)US$3.75
Plates
Shrimp Plate (FF Slaw HP)US$17.50
Fried Chicken
1/4 White or DarkUS$12.00
Extras
CheeseUS$0.75
Others
Hot DogUS$3.50
Cheese DogUS$4.00
HamburgerUS$4.50
CheeseburgerUS$5.00
Double CheeseburgerUS$7.50
Double HamburgerUS$7.00
Super HamburgerUS$7.50
Super CheeseburgerUS$8.00
Pizza BurgerUS$5.00
Super Pizza BurgerUS$8.00
Super Double CBUS$11.75
Barbecue with slawUS$5.00
Super BarbecueUS$8.00
Hotdog (no bun)US$2.25
Reg. Burger Patty (no bun)US$3.75
Superburger Patty (no bun)US$4.75
Fries with CheeseUS$4.75
Fries with Cheese/ChiliUS$4.75
Onion Rings (One Size)US$4.75
Chips (Plain or BBQ)US$1.00
SlawUS$1.75
SlawUS$2.50
SlawUS$4.75
HushpuppiesUS$2.00
HushpuppiesUS$4.00
Mozzarella BitesUS$7.00
Grilled CheeseUS$3.50
Chicken Salad SandwichUS$5.50
BLTUS$5.50
HamUS$5.50
Ham and CheeseUS$6.00
Ham with L & TUS$5.50
Ham and EggUS$6.50
EggUS$6.50
Bacon & EggUS$6.50
Western (Ham Egg Onion)US$6.50
Shrimp Burger (Ketchup & Slaw)US$6.50
Super Shrimp BurgerUS$8.75
Oyster Burger (Ketchup & Slaw)US$9.25
Super Oyster BurgerUS$11.50
Chicken Filet w/ L & TUS$7.50
Spicy Chicken Fllet w/ L & TUS$7.50
Steak w/ L & TUS$6.50
Poor Boy (Ham Salami Swiss)US$6.50
Fish Filet (Ketchup & Slaw)US$6.50
Oyster Plate (FF Slaw HP)US$21.50
Shrimp Tray (Shrimp Only)US$12.00
Oyster Tray (Oysters Only)US$16.00
BBQ Plate (FF Slaw HP)US$13.00
Hamburger Steak PlateUS$13.00
1/2 Mixed or DarkUS$16.75
1/2 All WhiteUS$17.75
Whole Chicken (No Sides)
Chicken NuggetsUS$3.25
Chicken NuggetsUS$3.75
Chicken NuggetsUS$4.25
Chicken TendersUS$5.50
Chicken TendersUS$6.00
Chicken TendersUS$6.50
Boneless Hot Honey BitesUS$8.00
Boneless Hot Honey BitesUS$10.00
L & T Small SandwichUS$0.60
L & T Large SandwichUS$0.75
Bacon (Per Slice)US$0.75
Extra Sauce PacksUS$0.50
MilkshakesUS$3.50
Freshly Brewed Sweet Tea or Unsweet Tea, Fountain DrinksUS$2.25
Freshly Brewed Sweet Tea or Unsweet Tea, Fountain DrinksUS$2.50
Ice or WaterUS$0.20
Ice or WaterUS$0.25
Canned Drinks and Bottled WaterUS$1.25
Photos
Reviews Als Drive In
T Thomas
25-09-2025
Have been coming here for years when scuba diving in the area! Great spot for a quick meal, snack, shake or anything. Food is always great as are the staff! Super friendly and the burgers are very good! Highly recommend this local small business! This is a drive in, no inside dining.
Service
Takeaway
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Hushpuppies, Hot Dog, Double Cheeseburger, Hamburger, Super Cheeseburger, Superburger
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free of charge parking lot
Parking
It’s a drive in, lots of area to pull in
Kid-friendliness
Very kid friendly and they’d love the food
Wheelchair accessibility
Very accessible if you need to get out but they come to your vehicle
Marissa Pavia
24-09-2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ El’s Drive-In is a local gem!
El’s Drive-In never misses! Their hot dogs have that perfect snap, the … More
Amanda Deal
20-08-2025
El’s Drive-In is a Morehead City classic for a reason — they’ve been doing it right since 1959! You can roll up, stay comfy in your car, and they’ll come right out to take your order (no need to even unbuckle). The carhops are quick, friendly, and somehow always smiling — even when it’s hotter than hush puppies in July.
Now let’s talk about the food. The Super Burger Carolina Style is next-level — juicy, loaded with slaw, chili, and all the fixings that make you need extra napkins and zero regrets. The chili cheese fries? Pure comfort food magic. And the onion rings… oh my word. Crispy perfection with that golden crunch you can hear. Easily the best I’ve ever had anywhere on the coast.
They’ve also got shaded picnic tables under big old oak trees if you’d rather sit outside, but honestly, nothing beats eating in your car with the windows down and the smell of salt air rolling in.
El’s isn’t just food — it’s a whole vibe. If you’re anywhere near Morehead City, stop what you’re doing and go. Your stomach will thank you.
Service
Takeaway
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Shrimp Burger, Hushpuppies, Hot Dog, Fried Oysters, Shrimp Tray Shrimp Only, Bacon Cheeseburger, Onion Rings
Alexa Chilton
09-08-2025
An impromptu turn took us to El's Drive-In and we loved it! The cheese burger and fries are delicious...and were finished with our meal way too quickly 😋 great service, and a great atmosphere! … More
Kedrick Hawkins
09-06-2025
A shrimp burger and a chili cheese burger and fries hit the spot. The waitress was fast and the food was hot. I gave the atmosphere 1 star due to your outside. No thrills nor frills lol More
Mackenzie McIntyre
03-05-2025
If you’re looking for good fast food (outside of the norm) and great service, this is your place! The fish filet sandwich was great. The fries were good. The server was nice, even though she had to come out in the rain! Highly recommend and will definitely come back when we are in town again. More
Kim Hogan
17-04-2025
I was out this way for work and hungry pulled in and what a surprise! Great food and service! Mary came out to my car as I was getting out to go up to order and I didn't realize I could sit right in my car order pay and eat. I've got a little bit of a drive back home so this was perfect for me this evening. Will definitely be back when I'm back this way
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Amy Reilly
17-03-2025
I was visiting my daughter who is stationed in Cherry Point and my friend who lives in this area took me to some hidden gems. Let me tell you this was one of the highlights of my trip. The food was fantastic!! The employees were equally so, … More
Laurie Lawson (Lalaw)
21-01-2025
This was my 1st and only visit to Eli's. I called Eli's and ordered 2 all the way hot dogs and onion rings. It was during the dinner hour and told 15-20 minutes. I'm not from the area and man was that a trip getting into the very dark, … More
Chip Jackson
06-01-2025
The food is as awesome as it has always been!
I haven't been since the new renovations and rebuild, but it looks great! The flagpole mount was my favorite! More
Reviews Als Drive In