Business Details
30 Years
experience
Fresh Outer Banks Seafood & Catering
At Basnight's Lone Cedar Cafe, we have dedicated ourselves to preserving the rich culinary heritage of the Outer Banks while delivering an exceptional dining experience. Our family, the Basnights, have been part of this community for generations, and we honor our roots by serving only the freshest local seafood caught daily by Outer Banks fishermen. Our commitment to quality extends beyond our ingredientswe cultivate a chemical-free garden on-site, source produce from North Carolina farms, and prepare every dish with care in our kitchen. As a leader in Outer Banks catering, we bring the same dedication to excellence to events ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations. Our team, including chefs trained at the Culinary Institute of America, ensures every guest experiences the warmth of Southern hospitality and the flavors of our region.Sustainability and community are at the heart of our operations, from our eco-conscious practices to our support of local suppliers. Whether dining in our main restaurant, enjoying the panoramic views from the Osprey Lounge, or attending a catered event, our guests can expect a memorable experience rooted in tradition and quality. We take pride in being recognized by wedding planners and event coordinators as a trusted partner for special occasions. Our wine cellar, curated by certified vintner Vicki Basnight, and our extensive beer selection further enhance the dining experience. For over 25 years, we have welcomed visitors and locals alike to savor the authentic tastes of the Outer Banks in a setting that celebrates our coastal heritage.
Services
Seafood Restaurant
Catering Services
Waterfront Dining
Wine Cellar
Osprey Lounge
Event Planning
Private Parties
Live Music
Gift Cards
Employment Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer over 25 years of expertise in Outer Banks seafood traditions.
- Our chefs are trained at the Culinary Institute of America.
- We source daily catch from local fishermen and ingredients from NC farms.
- We provide eco-conscious dining with a zero-waste kitchen initiative.
- Our certified vintner curates a 2,000-bottle wine cellar for perfect pairings.
What people say
Excellent entrees
Professional and courteous staff
Delicious crab dip
Fantastic section
Best server
Services
Seafood Restaurant
Our restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced Outer Banks seafood prepared using traditional recipes. Diners enjoy panoramic views of Roanoke Sound and seasonal menus featuring daily catches. The family-owned establishment emphasizes sustainability and regional culinary heritage.
Catering Services
We provide full-service catering for weddings, reunions, and corporate events across the Outer Banks. Our team includes two coordinators and CIA-trained chefs who create customized menus. Services include setup, staffing, and equipment rental.
Wine Cellar
The wine cellar houses 2,000 bottles curated by certified vintner Vicki Basnight. Guests receive expert pairings with seafood, steaks, and poultry. The temperature-controlled cellar maintains traditional 55F storage conditions for optimal wine preservation.
Osprey Lounge
This lounge offers 55 beer varieties, eight on tap, and specialty cocktails with waterfront views. The Boat Wall displays 100+ historic Outer Banks fishing vessels. Live music and sports broadcasts enhance the casual atmosphere.
Event Planning
We specialize in off-premises event planning for up to 1,000 guests. Services include menu customization, venue selection, and logistics management. Our team ensures seamless execution of weddings, business meetings, and private parties.
People
Marc Basnight
Founder
Marc Basnight co-founded Basnight's Lone Cedar Cafe in 1996, continuing his family's Outer Banks fishing heritage. He established the restaurant's commitment to local seafood and sustainable practices.
Sandy Basnight
Co-Owner
Sandy Basnight helped launch the restaurant in 1996 and shaped its warm Southern hospitality. She maintains the family tradition of serving fresh, locally sourced meals to every guest.
Vicki Basnight
Managing Partner
Vicki Basnight oversees daily operations and curates the 2,000-bottle wine cellar. A certified vintner, she ensures exceptional food-and-wine pairings while maintaining the restaurant's eco-conscious standards.
Caroline Basnight
Managing Partner
Caroline Basnight co-manages the restaurant with her sister Vicki. She focuses on guest experience and quality control, ensuring every meal reflects the family's commitment to Outer Banks culinary traditions.
Questions
What type of cuisine do you offer?
We specialize in fresh Outer Banks seafood prepared using traditional recipes, complemented by North Carolina produce and all-natural meats.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide full-service catering for events up to 1,000 guests, including weddings, reunions, and corporate functions across the Outer Banks.
Are reservations recommended?
Reservations are strongly recommended for dinner service, especially during peak seasons, to ensure seating with optimal waterfront views.
What wine options are available?
Our temperature-controlled wine cellar contains 2,000 bottles curated by certified vintner Vicki Basnight, with expert pairings for every menu item.
Is parking available?
Yes, we offer complimentary parking for all guests with ample space to accommodate visitors during busy periods.
Do you host private events?
We specialize in private events with dedicated coordinators, customizable menus, and access to our waterfront venue spaces.
