NC Eatin’: Halifax County

Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Sharky’s Oyster Bar and Grill
1730 Julian R Allsbrook Hwy
Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870

I passed through Halifax County on my way up to Virginia Beach for a meeting. Since I wasn’t sure when (or if) I’d get a chance to stop, I hadn’t done any research about where to go. Well, I did *some* research – it just wasn’t terribly useful. Most of the restaurants in this area of the state don’t have an online presence. I got stuck in traffic on the interstate near Roanoke Rapids and, since I’d been driving for a while and needed a quick break, I decided it was time for a quick break. Luckily I spotted a sign for the Halifax County Visitor Center when I got off the interstate, so I headed there for a bathroom (clean!) and some advice.

The folks at the visitor center were very nice.  Unfortunately I soon learned why I’d had trouble finding anything other than chain restaurants when I’d searched online.  I asked for a suggestion for a local place with a good dessert or snack, and… the lady with whom I was speaking suggested Ruby Tuesday.  *sigh*  I explained my quest, and she said I had just two choices – Sharky’s and Ralph’s Barbecue.  Ralph’s wasn’t due to open for another half hour and I needed to get back on the road, so I headed over to Sharky’s.

There were a few fun drink choices, and I ordered a fun flavored “martini.”  It was awful according to my tastebuds - very very strongly alcoholic.  I could only manage a few sips.  *sigh*  I was hopeful for the key lime pie.  Well, the pie was good, but it was just your standard mass-produced, frozen pie that you’d normally expect from a chain restaurant. The server was super nice, so I really hope Sharky’s does a good job with lunch and dinner! 

Overall I was disappointed, which is especially sad since it’s the first time I’ve been disappointed on my quest.  I suppose it had to happen some time.  If I get to pass back through Roanoke Rapid, I’ll definitely give Ralph’s a try.  I heard the banana pudding is really good – not to mention the barbecue.