If you ask anyone in Tarboro where to find the best eats in town, chances are their directions will point you toward Highway 64. This vibrant corridor is more than just an artery for commuters—it’s become a crossroads for food lovers seeking everything from homegrown comfort classics to inventive international fare. Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through, this guide serves up the brightest flavors and coziest spots you’ll find along Highway 64 in Tarboro, NC.
Where Local Flavors Come Alive
Highway 64 isn’t just a road—it’s an ever-changing culinary landscape dotted with old-school treasures and new favorites. Just west of Main Street and weaving past bustling intersections like Western Blvd and Howard Avenue, you’ll uncover a smorgasbord of eateries well worth your fork’s attention.
Classic Comforts: The Heart of Tarboro’s Tradition
- On The Square (115 E St James St, 10 minutes from Hwy 64)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Upscale Southern-American; $$-$$$
- *Why Go?* Family-owned and elegance without pretense, this spot is a local legend for steak and the regionally inspired shrimp and grits. The ever-changing seasonal menu and attentive service make it a destination for birthdays and anniversaries.
- *Pro Tip:* Reserve ahead—the fried green tomatoes are a must, and wine pairings here draw rave reviews.
- Abrams Restaurant (609 W Wilson St, just off Highway 64)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Soul Food & Barbecue; $
- *Why Go?* A Tarboro institution for more than 50 years, Abrams draws you in with made-from-scratch fried chicken, barbecue, and classic sides like collards and mac and cheese. Prices are wallet-friendly, and the portions? Bring an appetite.
- *Pro Tip:* Don’t miss the house banana pudding behind the dessert counter.
International Flavors to Savor
- La Rancherita Grill y Cantina (1200 Western Blvd, by the Hwy 64- Western Blvd intersection)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Mexican; $$
- *Why Go?* Beloved for their fajitas sizzling right to your table and a bright, welcoming dining room. The salsa is legendary—fresh, zippy, and endless.
- *Pro Tip:* Ask for the off-menu spicy verde sauce if you like heat.
- China Star (2100 St Andrews St, at the Hwy 64-Howard Ave cluster)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Chinese-American; $
- *Why Go?* Dependable for takeout and weekday lunch specials. Their General Tso’s chicken and crispy egg rolls keep regulars coming back.
- *Pro Tip:* The sautéed green beans are a local favorite—not always listed, but available if you ask.
Hidden Gems: Small Places, Big Flavors
- Dairy Freeze (608 W Wilson St, near Abrams)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Classic American Diner/Ice Cream; $
- *Why Go?* This retro shack delivers nostalgia with thick milkshakes, chili dogs, and hand-cut fries. The walk-up window and picnic tables set a summery scene, especially on Friday nights.
- *Pro Tip:* Try the pineapple milkshake or the “train wreck” burger if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Heavenly Sweet Cakery (3513 N Main St, a quick detour north of Hwy 64)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Bakery/Sweets; $
- *Why Go?* With cupcakes as gorgeous as they are delicious and a rotating menu of pies and cinnamon rolls, this locally owned bakery gets rave reviews from Tarboro’s sweet tooth crowd.
- *Pro Tip:* Arrive before noon for the freshest pastries—the cinnamon buns sell out fast on weekends.
Food Trucks and Local Traditions
- Highway 64 Food Truck Court (Seasonal, near the intersection of Western Blvd & US-64 BUS)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Various; $
- *Why Go?* On Friday evenings from spring to fall, a rotating lineup of food trucks transforms this open lot into a buzzing street food fair. Expect wood-fired pizza, Carolina BBQ, tacos, and the town’s favorite lemonade cart.
- *Pro Tip:* Bring cash and a folding chair—there’s live music some nights, and vendors often run out of popular menu items.
Sweet Spots and Cozy Cafés
- Coffee House on Main (439 Main St, a 10-minute drive from Hwy 64)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Café/Coffee; $
- *Why Go?* Barista-made espresso, local art on the walls, and quiet tables perfect for meeting friends or planning your weekend. House-made muffins and breakfast sandwiches round out the morning menu.
- *Pro Tip:* Their lavender honey latte is a hidden delight.
- Tarboro Brewing Company Taproom (526 N Main St, near Hwy 64 split)
- *Cuisine & Price:* Pub/Brewery; $$
- *Why Go?* Locally brewed beers draw a laid-back crowd, while food pop-ups and local vendors (think: loaded grilled cheese and BBQ sliders) make every visit unique.
- *Pro Tip:* Watch their social media for food truck pairings and seasonal beer releases.
Final Bites: Why Highway 64 Rules Tarboro’s Food Scene
Food on Highway 64 isn’t just about filling up—it’s about discovering the soul of Tarboro in every bite. The diversity here—classic Southern, international flavors, down-home diners, and creative curbside trucks—means there’s something for everyone, every time of day.
So next time you hit Highway 64, come hungry and plan a few pit stops. There’s always a new favorite waiting just around the corner—and if you’re not sure where to go next, just follow the locals. Their plates are your best map!