John's Drive In
Contact Information
Milepost 4.5
Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
Phone: 252-261-6227
Hours of Operation
Lunch: 11am - 5pm
Dinner: 5:30pm - 8pm
Closed Wednesdays
Meals served: Lunch, Dinner
“Little John, let me get a dolphin (mahi) sandwich with a side of fries and one ‘puppy cup’ for my best friend, Spot.” That’s what you’ll hear customers ordering at Johns Drive-In, located at milepost 4.5 on the beach road. Regarded as a local surfers’ hangout, Johns Drive-In offers a fun family-friendly outdoor lunch hot spot. Just a short walk from the beach, on a hot day, you can enjoy your homemade milkshake while sitting at one of their picnic tables, or while sitting on the beach watching the waves.
Amenities
- Health Department Grade: 99.5
- Credit Cards: MC, Visa
- Attire: Casual
- On Site Parking: Yes
- Serve Safe Certification: Yes
- Green Initiative: Yes
- Take Out: Yes
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Kids Entertainment: Yes
- Samples: Sample
History
On the outside of the Drive-In are pictures of the history of the Drive-In, and the customers that have had the pleasure of tasting the excellent food. John’s Drive-In was featured in North Carolina State Magazine, The Virginian Pilot, Boating Lifestyle, and on Food Networks ‘Drive Ins and Dives.’
So stop on by and take a trip down memory lane. John’s Drive-In window is always open, serving good food, good people, and good times.
Chef Biography
John 'Little John' Tise and his daughter work the kitchen at John's Drive-In.
Owner Biography
Johns Drive-In is a family-owned roadside grill, established 32 years ago by John ‘Big John’ and Pat Jennings, shortly after WWII. John’s Drive-In is currently owned and run by Son, John ‘Little John’ Tise. Truly a family business, you’ll find owner and daughter working side-by-side, any day of the week.
Specialties & Additional Menu Options
- Beverage Specials:
Homemade Milkshakes
- Course Specialties:
Dolphin Sandwich, homemade fresh tuna salad, hamburgers and subs! Ask about a puppy cup for fido!






